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The 2009 European summer transfer window is now officially closed. Here is a day-by-day track of all the rumours and the deals that went down over the course of the summer. For a special look at how the Barcalys Premier League fared do check out our Transfer Updates page.We've covered every transfer, every loan and every club - more than £600 million changed hands and 300 players moved. Read on to find out more.

 

Tuesday, 1st September

The original Tinkerman is back! Claudio Ranieri has signed a two-year contract to take over as Manager of AS Roma.

Four more deals confirmed after the closure - Richard Dunne's move from Man C to Villa is a done deal, Portsmouth's David Nugent has joined Burnley on loan, another David: David Elm from Swedish club Kalmar FF has joined Fulham on a one-year contract and Sunderland midfielder Teemu Tainio has joined Birmingham City on loan for a year.

Some late breaking news from Sky Sports, Matthew Upson is reportedly at White Hart Lane! Surely not!

5:00pm (BST): The Premier League Transfer window is now officially closed, we are still waiting for confirmation on Richard Dunne...please remember that the final transfers will continue to get updated right through the night. There could be deals which took place before the window closed and are yet to be announced by the clubs. A couple of major talking points - the total confirmed spends are £444 million, throw in the undisclosed sums and we could easily be hovering around 500. Of this, Manchester City alone have spent £120 million and I know it is early days yet, but City are yet to concede a goal in the Premiership, has the revolution well and truly begun?

Sky Sports are reporting that the two big deals are done - Kranjcar to Tottenham and Heitinga to Everton. One little deal too - Mike Williamson from Watford to Portsmouth.

David Silva and his agent has just reached Old Trafford according to breaking news from someone texting in from OT on BBC, sounds like a late attempt to keep interest in a sad final transfer day alive. Rumours are also running wild that Pavlyuchenko to Spartak might just be completed before the window closes.

A few confirmed deals - Bolton have signed Croatian striker Ivan Klasnic (who recently underwent a kidney transplant), Burnley have singed 16-year old Scottish striker Joe McKee, Sunderland have sold Grant Leadbitter & Carlos Edwards to Ipswich Town, Jerome Rothen has signed for Rangers from PSG, Aston Villa have completed the signing of defender James Collins from West Ham on a four-year contract, Hull have signed Bacary Sagna's cousin Ibrahima Sonko from Stoke City on a year-long loan.

BBC Sports claims that Man City have called off the David Bentley - Martin Petrov swap.Apparently there is a bottom to that money pit.

A lot of club security guards have suddenly come into the limelight as the core source of rumours - Blaise Matuidi apparently just reached Arsenal for his medical, Nico Kranjcar has passed his at Tottenham and Ever Banega is not going to join Everton, Valencia want to sell him not loan him out.

Unlikely Robinho's move on the last day of the summer transfer window in 2008, it really seems like today is going to be a bit of a damp squib.

The big news of the day - Claudio Ranieri is in talks with Roma to take over as manager.

Arsenal's Mexican striker Carlos Vela could be heading over to Fulham on a season-long loan. Will be surprised if Wenger does this, he doesn't really have that much fire power on the bench, and might need Vela in a 50-60 game season.

Birmingham are in the shop window for full-backs and are looking at the London duo of Gareth Bale and Armand Traore. They are also keeping tabs on Real Betis winger Achille Emana according to the Birmingham Mail.

The Johnny Heitinga move could be back on with Atletico Madrid President Enrique Cerezo claiming that Everton have come back with a better offer.

Liverpool have reportedly lined up a shock loan move for out-of-favour Man City striker Benjani. Notts County though have reportedly offered him a better contract. Sorry, can't stop laughing about Notts outbidding Liverpool.

Portsmouth have rejected a swap offer from Tottenham for David James. Tottenham were reportedly willing to part with Carlo Cudicini.

The summer of the swap continues as David Bentley looks to be headed to Eastlands in exchange for Martin Petrov. Bentley had his best season while playing for Mark Hughes at Blackburn Rovers a couple of seasons ago and would be relishing this opportunity. Petrov would provide much needed cover to Tottenham while playmaker Luka Modric recovers from his broken fibula.

Tony Pulis has told Sky Sports that he hopes to sign 4 more players before the close of the transfer window.

French winger Jerome Rothen is being linked with a late move to Glasgow Rangers.

Torres has joined Getafe! I'm referring to Real Madrid's Miguel Torres who has moved to Spanish club Getafe and penned a five-year contract. The 23-year-old defender will fetch the Los Bloncos €2 million with his sale. Am a little surprised with this decision. Torres was an ideal player to keep at Madrid because of his ability to fit anywhere in the backline, and would have been a useful squad member while not a first team regular.

AS Monaco have swooped for Barcelona and ex-Chelsea forward Eidur Gudjohnsen on free transfer. The Icelandic international has signed a 2-year deal that will keep him at the Stade Louis II till 2011.

A Marlon King (Wigan) - Scott McDonald (Celtic) loan swap is possibly on the cards  according to the Daily Mirror.

Dutch international John Heitinga will be staying with Atletico Madrid after being unable to agree personal terms with English club Everton. The versatile 25-year-old defender can operate in several positions and can be deployed anywhere across the backline.

Diego Arismendi, a 21-year old Uruguayan midfielder, has signed for Stoke City from Nacional de Montevideo for £2.9 million. He is Stoke's sixth signing of the summer.

Fabio Zamblera has moved to Italian giants AS Roma on loan from Newcastle. The young Italian striker looks to provide manager Luciano Spalletti with some attacking options following their disastrous start in the Seria A that finds them at the bottom of the table.

 

Monday, 31st August

Some done deals - Juventus have managed to pull off the £3 million capture of the most hated man in Australia, Lyon left-back Fabio Grosso. Sunderland have signed Michael Turner from Hull City on a 4-year contract for somewhere between £9 and 12 million, why Hull why??? (money vs. premiership survival). Wolves have signed Stefan Maierhofer from the Rapid Vienna team that beat Aston Villa and Segundo Castillo from Red Star Belgrade, Portsmouth have taken Benfica midfielder Hassan Yebda on loan and Fiorentina & West Ham have swapped Manuel Da Costa and Savio. Some other minor loan moves - Manuele Blasi from Napoli to Palermo and Freddy Adu from Benfica to Belenenses (poor kid).

And now some that didn't quite make it - Benjani is not going to Hull City, seems like he would rather play out 5 months with the reserves rather than taking a pay cut, Portsmouth were unable to sign former Wigan striker Amr Zaki, apparently he is happy where he is (why wait till the last day to announce that), Rafael VDV is staying with Real Madrid - seems without Robben and Sneijder, the competition for places on the bench just got that much easier and Marseille midfielder Mathieu Valbuena claims to have rejected the overtures of both Liverpool and Atletico Madrid.

Chelsea have been linked with a late bid for Benfica defender David Luiz...why not just wait till January, it's not like he's going anywhere!

Sky Sports claims that Niko Kranjcar's move to Tottenham is almost a done deal. He'll come into the squad straight away as a replacement for the injured Luka Modric. One of those amazing rumours that makes complete sense.

Real Madrid may make a last gasp £54 million bid for Franck Ribery, but the move hardly seems likely this late. Bayern wouldn't even have any time to do anything with that money (although if they do invest it well they could increase their future funds a lot, but I don't think they would be considering that option especially after their poor start.)

L'Equipe reports on its website that Tottenham have offered Inter Milan Jermaine Jenas + £5 million for Suley Muntari.

The Daily Mail claim Benjani's move to Hull has fallen through after the striker failed to meet personal terms with the club.

Liverpool's reserve goalkeeper Charles Itandje has been loaned to Greek club Kavala FC.

Martin Petrov has not met up with his Bulgarian teammates as he looks to finalise a move away from Manchester City. Tottenham Hotspur seems to be the likely destination.

Last few hours left, and the certain deals may just go through. Such as Roman Pavlyuchenko's reported move back to Spartak Moscow. The Daily Mail believe the Russian club is desperate to resign their former star striker, but may be unwilling to meet the £10.5 million price-tag.

Fabio Grosso's agent has virtually put an end to speculation in the Italian press. Grosso had supposedly attracted the attention of Juventus, but his agent has dismissed the chances of any deals before the transfer window closes at midnight. Football Italia though claims that the Old Lady had agreed a £3 million deal with Lyon.

Chelsea's former Icelandic striker Eidur Gudjohnsen may just be able to move away from Barcelona before the transfer window closes. French club AS Monaco are tipped as favourites, while he has also been heavily linked with West Ham.

Fraizer Campbell may just end up at Hull. Sunderland allegedly are willing to offer Campbell, who snubbed Hull when he left Manchester United earlier this summer, plus £9 million for defender Michael Turner according to the Daily Mirror.

Bolton and Sunderland are competing for the signature of Croatian international Ivan Klasnic.

Tottenham are likely to make a late bid for Portsmouth's David James and Nico Kranjcar; the moves are unlikely to go through as both players seem integral to Pompey's survival and they now once again appear to be a 'buying' club. Tottenham are also interested in Man City's Martin Petrov, but could face competition from Stoke City according to the Daily Star. The Sun thinks that Portsmouth could be buying Aston Villa's 'now extra' left back Nicky Shorey.

Aston Villa seem determined to raid Upton Park, with a move for either center-back Matthew Upson or James Collins still likely. If I were a betting man, I would put my money on Collins, Zola would be daft to let Upson go. According to Sky Sports, Upson is also on the wishlist of Italian side Fiorentina.

Hull are likely to sign the Premiership's only Zimbabwe internatioanl Benjani from Manchester City before the transfer deadline.

Marca are reporting that Manchester City has rejected a €40 million offer from Barcelona for former Real Madrid frontman Robinho! Barca coach Pep Guardiola has since come out and said that Robinho is unllikely to move at present because of the revolution hitting Manchester at the moment.

Another swap deal may be on the cards involving West Ham and Fiorentina seeing German forward Savio head to Italy for defender Manuel Da Costa.

Wolverhampton Wanderers' gaffer Mick McCarthy would still like to bring in a couple of bodies before the transfer window closes tomorrrow night. He was quoted as saying, "We’re trying all the time and I’ve had great support from Steve Morgan and Jez Moxey and when we’ve had a chance to do something we’ve done it."

Hull City are hoping the lure of first team football will convince Manchester City striker Benjani Mwaruwari to move to KC Stadium. Sky Sports is reporting that a fee has been agreed between the two clubs. The Tigers are keen to add the Zimbabwean hitman to their burgeoning ranks. Despite adding the likes of Ghilas and Altidore, Phil Brown would like to further his attacking line with the 31-year-old. This transfer looks likely to go through given the fact that Benjani is yet to make an appearance for Manchester this season.

 

Sunday, 30th August

Spurs manager Harry Redknapp is ready to dip into the transfer market after finding out that Croatian playmaker Luka Modric is out upto 6 weeks with a fractured fibula. Tottenham are readying a bid for Real midfielder Rafael van der Vaart. The former Ajax man was previously linked to Liverpool and Arsenal.

The veteran exodus is set to continue at Portsmouth with goalkeeper David James as the next player seeking an exit. The England international has see over 10 players already walk away from Pompey this summer. A trio of clubs are being linked to him namely Sunderland, Tottenham and Stoke City.

West Ham's Welsh international James Collins signature is being sought by Aston Villa manager Martin O'Neill. The Villans are keen to bolster their defensive options and have identified the 6'4" defender as an ideal candidate.  Villa are also said to be tracking Man City's Richard Dunne.

Hull City have completed the signing of Sunderland central defender Paul McShane on a 4-year contract. The Irish international was on loan at Hull last season and City's boss Phil Brown decided to make his move permanent.

Despite signing a contract extension to stay at Barcelona, Ivorian international Yaya Toure is being linked with a move to Manchester "money-bags" City. Speculation has been rife since his brother moved from Arsenal earlier this month. Toure made these comments to the Sunday Times, "All I would say about it is that I have always said I like English football. You never know what might happen in a few years' time, but for now I'm part of a great team."

Reports out of Britain are claiming that Manchester United tried to lure former Republic of Ireland international, Stephen Ireland from Manchester City. The Eastlands outfit have firmly told the Red Devils that their last season's Player of the Year is not available at any price. Ireland scored a sensational 13 goals in 44 appearances.

Despite Inter Milan's 4-0 win over arch-rivals Milan, gaffer Jose Mourinho would still be interested in strengthening his squad. 24oredisport.com reports that Mourinho is a fan of Lazio hitman Goran Pandev and may look into adding the Macedonian to his squad.

Former Chelsea forward Eidur Gudjohnsen looks set to complete a move to Monaco tomorrow morning after rejecting a deal to English club Manchester City. I guess the Iceland international is sick of warming the bench?

Sven Goran Eriksson is kicking up another storm at Notts County, reportedly his shopping list includes Arsenal legend Freddie Ljungberg, Christian Vieri and Kanu.

A rumour from nowhere - Matthew Upson to Fiorentina. Sorry, guys think this one is complete smoke! Come on Arsenal, put in a bid for him!!!

As predicted yesterday, Andriy Shevchenko has moved back to boyhood club Dynamo Kiev on free transfer. The Ukranian hitman held showdown talks with Chelsea earlier the day and the Blues terminated his contract by mutual consent. The 32-year-old was a monster flop at Stamford Bridge after £30m was paid to Milan for his services in 2006.

Everton are finally adding new players to their ranks. Marca is reporting that the Toffees has agreed to bring over defenderJohn Heitinga from Spainish club Atletico Madrid. The Dutch international will move to Goodison park once he agrees to personal terms with Madrid pocketing about €7.5 million in the process.

Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich are set to beat Juventus to the signature of Brazilian defender Rafinha. Earlier in the week it appeared that the Schalke full-back was all set for a move to the Old Lady but German papers are reporting that Munich have tabled a €11m bid which has been accepted. The transfer has however not been confirmed by either party.

The Latics are on the trail of Celtic forward Scott McDonald. Wigan manager Roberto Martinez is said to be an admirer of the Australian international and might try to bring him to DW Stadium on a year-long loan.

Another saga has finally ended... Wesley Sneijder is now officially an Inter Milan player. Real Madrid website had the following statement, "Real Madrid C.F. and F.C. Inter Milan have reached an agreement for the transfer of the player Wesley Sneijder to the Italian club." The Dutch midfielder was disappointed but made these comments to Marca, "I'm going with my head high. I'm going to a great team, there's no doubt about that. I've been very happy here but now I have to look ahead and focus on my new team."

Barcelona are said to be in the hunt for reinforcement down the left flank. To that end, Pep Guardiola is interested in bringing in Manchester City striker Robinho. It seems unlikely that the Brazilian could be convinced to move but Barca's overtures might just do the trick.

 

 

Saturday, 29th August

A surprising announcement from Fulham manager Roy Hodgson. He can't believe no one has coming shopping for his star center-back Brede Hangeland. That's an invitation for sale if I ever heard one!

Chelsea's striker Andriy Shevchenko is heading back to the club where it all began. The 32-year-old has been signed by Ukranian club Dynamo Kyiv. on a free transfer The Ukranian hitman started his career with Kyiv, his boyhood club and spent 5 years with the senior team scoring 60 goals over that span. Shevchenko moved to Chelsea for a whopping £30 million, but made only 76 appearances for the club, including many as a substitute.

Sunderland have reportedly accepted a bid from Stoke City for defender Danny Collins.

It's been the season of the "cash plus player" swap deals. Another major one of those might be in the works if Real Madrid have their say. The Spanish giants would like to send Rafael van der Vaart plus cash to German giants Bayern Munich in exchange for star playmaker, Franck Ribery. The Ribery saga has been going on all summer and looks to continue until the transfer window closes.

Corriere dello Sport reports that Italian club Parma have swooped for 27-year-old right back Cristian Zaccardo of VfL Wolfsburg. The Italian international had previous spells with Bologna and Palmero.

The latest rumour surrounding Roma's Julio Baptista is linking him with a move back to the Premier league with English giants, Liverpool. The Reds are hoping to strengthen their attacking options and add some muscle to the midfield. A fee in the region of €7 million is being offered to Roma who have already done business with Benitez earlier this summer (when Liverpool signed Aquilani).

 

Friday, 28th August

The papers are refusing to give up on a Franck Ribery move in the summer. The English press believe that the French playmaker will move to Chelsea to sit at the top of the diamond, while the Spanish press insist he's coming to Real Madrid and will operate on the right side of midfield. Our take, they're all blowing in the wind...don't think Franck is going anywhere this summer unless someone puts £60-70 million.

Yesterday we reported Sunderland plotting a capture of Lyon's John Mensah. Today the Black Cats have confirmed that they have signed the centre-back on a year-long loan. The versatile Ghanaian can also play midfield.

A good move for all three parties involved. Tottenham have tied down Jamie O'Hara on a long term deal and then sent him out on loan to Portsmouth. The talented youngster will pocket more money, get some solid first team action and come back to Tottenham next year a better player. Portsmouth get a quality player in the middle of the park.

Stoke seem to be the club most busy in the transfer market these days. The Sun has reported that Tony pulis has had a £10 million bid rejected for Sunderland's in form striker Kenwyne Jones

News just in... Pompey have signed 22-year-old midfielder Kevin Prince-Boateng from Tottenham on a 3-year-deal. Amazingly that transfer actually takes big spending Tottenham back in the black. They've spent about £25 million and made about half a million more from getting rid of some of the bulk.

It's 'Double Dutch' on the continent with Wesley Sneijder passing his medical and completing his move to Inter Milan, and compatriot Arjen Robben wrapping up his move to Bayern Munich. Unlikely the Sneijder saga, must say the Germans did a fantastic job of keeping quiet about the move for Robben. Well done to all involved.

Portsmouth are being linked with bids for former Wigan striker Amr Zaki and Tottenham extra Kevin Prince-Boateng. They have already swooped for former Wigan midfielder Micheal Brown. Pompey website is also reporting the loan signing of Lens striker Aruna Dindane. The 28-year-old Ivorian will give manager Paul Hart's side an offensive boost.

Sanli Tuncay becomes the second player to leave Boro in a couple of days as he joins former teammate Robert Huth at Stoke City. The transfers together cost Stoke 10 million quid, and I must say they seem to be a pretty nifty piece of business.

Sylvain Distin has passed his medical too and has completed his move to Everton. Honestly though he was looking past his prime at Portsmouth so far this year, and will need to work hard to be worth that 3-year contract.

The Sun claims Harry Redknapp is mulling a move for Sulley Muntari, a player who served with him at former club Portsmouth. Jermaine Jenas is again being rumoured to be part of a swap deal with Jose Mourinho reportedly a long time admirer of the England international.

Everton have been linked with moves for Dutch international Johnny Heitinga and Scotland's Scott Brown in the Times.

Aston Villa have reportedly agreed a £6 million fee for Manchester City captain Richard Dunne. While Mark Hughes is quite happy selling the central defender now that he has his preferred center-backs at the club, the big decision point is who should he appoint as the new club skipper.

The Daily Mail has a huge host of rumours that they have collected for today's edition - Pompey are targetting 5 basement buys before the window closes (Al Fahim is not going to splash the cash yet), Birmingham are lining up a bid for Jamie O'Hara, Steve Bruce wants his former left-back at Wigan Maynor Figueroa to join him at Sunderland while Stoke reportedly have £22 million to spend before the transfer window closes.

The Arjen Robben to Bayern Munich deal is now official with the Dutch midfielder putting pen to paper in a 4-year deal. FCB.tv reported Robben making the following comments, "It all happened very fast. There were a couple of things I wanted to think over, but in the end I decided I really wanted to move to a huge club like Bayern."

It's been an excessively busy late night / early morning in football-ville. With a host of transfers completed. German defender Robert Huth has completed the move from relegated Boro to stuttering Stoke, French right-back Pascal Chimbonda has completed his 3rd transfer in 13th months, moving from Tottenham to Blackburn where he will probably slot in at left-back (Salgado signed earlier), Sylvain Distin has signed on a three-year deal for Everton - he still needs to undergo a medical, but considering he played against Arsenal last weekend that is surely just a formality and Stephen Warnock completed his move from Blackburn to Aston Villa reportedly to play European football, too bad Villa got knocked out before he could feature for them this season. Check out how this has affected each club in our transfers bazaar.

 

Thursday, 27th August

Andriy Shevchenko seems set to finally leave Chelsea, at least according to The Times, who report that the third highest goal scorer in Champions League history may not even be named by the Blues in their squad for this year's competition.

Arsenal are tracking the next-next-Maradonna, or rather the next-Messi as the Daily Mail call Veljko Batrovic. He has reportedly had training spells with the Gunners and also Atletico Madrid, and looks set to be yet another starlet joining the Arsenal ranks.

Wesley Sneijder is quite angry with Real Madrid as he leaves for Inter Milan, saying the club treated him "very badly" and that Manuel Pelligrini wanted to keep him at the Bernabeu, but the decision was not left to him by his superiors. He is however happy to be trading "one great club for another."

Funniest quote of the day: Mark Hughes calling Joleon Lescott the best centre-back in England. Yeah right.

Everton boss David Moyes is close to completing the first of a number of signings he needs before September 1. Portsmouth have accepted a bid for Sylvain Distin, who would sign a 3-year contract with the Toffees. Moyes has quite a bit of cash on hand, after the sale of Joleon Lescott.

Stoke were reported to have completed a double-swoop of Robert Huth and Tuncay from Middlesbrough. No confirmation on their official site yet, though.

Barcelona have completed their €25 million acquisition of 22-year old center-back Dmytro Chygrynskiy from Shakhtar Donetsk.

Sportmediaset reports that Juventus have signed Schalke 04 right-back Rafinha. The Brazilian was out-of-favour with the German side following his departure to play at the Olympics without permission. The Old Lady are said to have paid a fee in the region of €8 million to secure his services. Juventus' transfer chief meanwhile has completely rubbished the news, claiming that not only has he not joined, they aren't even remotely interested in him! What is this rumour world coming too.

Double medicals pending - Aston Villa are a medical away from signing Blackburn left-back Stephen Warnock, while Blackburn themselves are a medical shy of signing Spurs' Pascal Chimbonda.

Harry Redknapp has ruled out the sale of Russian striker Roman Pavlyuchenko, atleast not for the paltry sum of £10 million.

Bolton are considering re-signing former skipper Kevin Nolan from relegated Newcastle United.

Fulham have confirmed the signing of South African international Kagisho Dikgacoi. Dikgacoi has spent almost the entire summer on trial at the London club.

Sunderland expect to complete the long protracted transfer of defender John Mensah by the weekend. The Ghana international is expected to cost about £7 million.

Bayern Munich have reportedly made a bid of €25 million for Real Madrid's Dutch winger Arjen Robben. The move is widely tipped to go through, with rumour mongers believing that this will also increase the possibility of Franck Ribery heading in the opposite direction next year.

Portsmouth have signed Watford forward Tommy Smith for £1.8 million on a four-year contract.

Emmanuel Eboue is believed to have told the Daily Mail that he is in love with life at Arsenal, and would like nothing better than to sign a new deal to keep him at the club longer. Eboue has started this season in excellent form, and one wonders if Wenger too will have second thoughts about getting rid of the Ivory Coast international.

The Daily Mail claims that Manchester United are keeping a track on the progress of 18-year old Belgian international Eden Hazard, currently plying his trade on the wings at French Lique 1 side Lille.

Sanli Tuncay is being tracked by both Birmingham & Stoke City. Middlesbrough are keen to sell the Turkish forward and remove his wages off their books. Gareth Southgate has slapped a £5 million price tag on Sanli and Alex McLeish looks set to match that fee. The 27-year-old scored scored 8 goals last season in all competitions. Another Boro boy Robert Huth has also been linked with a move to Stoke City.

Blackburn and Tottenham have reportedly agreed a £2 million fee for French right-back Pascal Chimbonda.

Everton's David Moyes told reports that he would like atleast four new signings before the transfer window closes next week. Toffee's website reported Moyes as making the following comments, "I would be disappointed if we didn't get at least four, maybe more. We've made quite a bit of progress I feel and maybe I'll be able to announce something shortly, but not yet."

 

Wednesday, 26th August

Arabian tycoon Sulaiman Al Fahim claims that he has completed the purchase of Portsmouth. Hope Pompey get an instant injection of cash and sign some players quick or they could be in for a long hard season.

Sky Sport 24 report that Inter Milan have signed Real Madrid's Dutch midfielder Wesley Sneijder for €15 million. Neither club has made an official announcement as yet.

Lazio forward Goran Pandev has dismissed linking him to West Ham United. He also hinted rather strongly that such a move would not even interest him.

Barcelona look set to complete their acquisition of defender Dmytro Chygrynskiy. Sport reports that Shakhtar Donetsk have accepted a €25 million offer from the European champions, and the 22-year old center-back will shockingly take a wage-cut for an opportunity to plan with the Catalan giants. Dmytro will move on a five-year deal.

Czech superstar Pavel Nedved has crushed rumours of a move to Emirates champions Ali Ahli, reconfirming his decision to retire from the world's greatest game.

Luca Toni will not be moving to Roma according to the player's agent. Roma just can't afford his wage demands. Wonder if anyone in the Premiership might want to make a late bid for the Italian strongman.

Aston Villa have confirmed that they are in talks with Blackburn to sign left-back Stephen Warnock. A bit of a surprise considering they have a very able player in Nicky Shorey already in that position with Wilfred Bouma still to return from injury as cover. Shouldn't Villa really be shopping for center-halves? Blackburn meanwhile are mulling making a move for part-time Tottenham right-back Pascal Chimbonda.

A couple of non-rumours, and pretty obvious ones at that - Manchester United's young Brazilian midfielder Anderson has stated that despite being disappointed at not being picked for the Community Shield match against Chelsea, he is prepared to battle it out for a place at Old Trafford. While over at White Hart Lane, Russian striker Roman Pavlyuchenko looks resigned to warming the bench at Tottenham till the winter, as he is yet to receive a concrete offer from any club.

Joleon Lescott is offically a Manchester City player. The England international completed his medical and has agreed to a 5-year-deal that will keep him at the Eastlands till 2014. City manager Mark Hughes was over the moon when he made the following statement, "I am absolutely delighted to welcome Joleon to Manchester City. He is an England international who has proved his Premier League ability during his time at Everton."

With the Lescott deal done and dusted, current centre-back Richard Dunne may find himself down the pecking order. Reports indicate that Aston Villa have bid £6m for his services. With the transfer window barely a few days away from closure, this deal could happen very quickly.

The beast heading to Inter? With the move for Sneijder at a standstill, Jose Mourinho may turn to Roma's midfielder turned striker Julio Baptista. It remains to be seen though if the Italian giants would do business with one another. Despite reports yesterday of Sneijder reaching Milan in the morning and proceeding with negotiations, Marca in Spain claimed that the Dutch International never got on the plane. Did he or didn't he?!

 

Tuesday, 25th August

And it's official, 34-year old Sol Campbell has put pen to paper on a five-year deal with League 2 side Notts County. The 'Sven' factor seems to still be able to work its magic as the club have managed to attract a former England international and Premier League and FA Cup double winner of the quality of Campbell. Though the club have ambitious plans, the idea of a 39-year old Campbell heading back to Tottenham to be called 'Judas' by the Spurs fans in Notts County colours does present a funny picture.

A couple of end of day Pompey rumours, the good news is that Watford's striker Tommy Smith's move to Reading has been put on hold because of a late offer from Portsmouth believed to be in the region of £1.5 million, the bad news is Aston Villa are lining up a move for their best central defender Sylvain Distin.

A chapter closes on the Tottenham rumour mill. Redknapp has gone public with some reality checks which should slow newspaper sales in the UK - No Carrick in, no Modric sale, no Cole bid, no James bid, yes Chaves is on trial at White Hart Lane Tottenham, no decision yet. Are they looking for someone - no, but wait he has the thrown the media a lifeline - he is still open to strengthening his squad.

A couple of pieces of business today, all involving Merseyside - Liverpool have sent out a couple of youngsters on loan - Nemeth to AEK Athens and Andreas Simon to Cordoba, while Everton have signed some offensive reinforcements in the person of Russian winger Diniyar Bilyaletdinov for reportedly £10 million. Something tells me that the Lescott money has come into the bank!

The Daily Mail believes that Arsenal's one more 'defensive signing' is likely to be Saint-Etienne midfielder Blaise Matuidi.

Sportsweek reports that Ajax are about to dip into rivals PSV's bench to sign striker Danny Koevermans, though PSV may not wish to sell Koevermans to Ajax, they are interested in making space for Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink.

Staying in the Netherlands, Feyenoord could be tempted to sell Jonathan de Guzman should Valencia come up with a good offer for the 21-year old midfielder according to reports in De Telegraaf. Wonder where Valencia is suddenly finding cash???

Funniest transfer news of the day: Michael Carrick to Liverpool, £10 million, so say the Guardian's Rumour Mill. Seriously, have they forgotten Fergie's stance when Liverpool wanted Gabriel Heinze? And don't even get me started on the price-tag.

Manchester United are suddenly expected to be busy in the transfer window. Luka Modric has been linked with a move to Old Trafford, that would see Michael Carrick head back to White Hart Lane, gift wrapped along with some bundles of cash for Harry Redknapp. Can't see that happening this window, though, with Tottenham having started well and Modric insisting he wants to stay. Arjen Robben was linked yesterday, and today it's the turn of yet another Dutch Real Madrid reject, Wesley Sneijder, to be linked with the English champions.

Rumours of a couple of shock moves are hitting the air waves today, former England international Sol Campbell is reportedly about to sign for League 2 side Notts County, and former Juventus superstar Pavel Nedved is reportedly expected to instantly come out of retirement to play for UAE champions Al Ahli.

In the wake of speculation that Tottenham are keen to sign oft-injured England international Joe Cole, People Sport report Chelsea have decided to offer the midfielder a new contract worth £90,000 / week!

According to the Daily Mirror, Sir Alex has told Anderson that he can leave United after the Brazilian midfielder did not react well to being omitted from the Community Shield starting line up

Staying with United, Nemanja Vidic has said in an interview to Sky Sports News that he has no intention of leaving Old Trafford, now or in the future! Finally some good news for Red Devils fans.

West Ham manager Gianfranco Zola is tracking AC Milan right back Massimo Oddo and might just delve into whatever little bit of money he can spend, to sign the 33 year old should a swap deal with Julien Faubert not work out.

Moyes is trying to see if he can pry Sylvain Distin from Portsmouth. Pompey's manager Paul Hart has previously stated that he has no intention of selling the French defender.

Barcelona have been linked to Shakhtar Donetsk's Dmytro Chygrynskiy for some time now. Reports from Spain are claiming that a deal is in the works and will hopefully be completed by the end of the transfer window.

T he Lescott saga is finally drawing to a close - pretty sure David Moyes wants to be over with it now! Sky Sports has reported that the England international has passed his medical. Once the I's are dotted and T's crossed, the defender will be taking home close to £80,000 a week. Not a bad pay raise?

Real Madrid's Dutch midfielder Wesley Sneijder has stated that he's not interested in leaving the club and would like to fight for a first team spot. The former Ajax hitman has been a transfer target of Inter all summer. Sneijder told the media, "I continue thinking that this is the best club in the world, even though they want to transfer me. My intention is to continue until I am told to leave."

I feel like a broken record... contrary to what Chelsea have claimed time and time again, People Sport is claiming that the English giants are back in for Sergio Aguero. A fee of £42m is being mooted for his services.

Fulham gaffer Roy Hodgson is looking to add depth to his central defence pairing with the signing of Gregory Cerdan from Le Mans. The Mirror is claiming that Hodgson is preparing a fee in the region of £2 million to prise away the lanky 27-year-old defender.

Dutch Giants Ajax are tracking Blackburn Rovers striker Benni McCarthy. Its hard to imagine Rovers manager Sam Allardyce letting the South African international go though as he's already lost the services of Roque Santa Cruz to Manchester City. The Rovers have also recently sold forward Paul Gallagher and have lost both their games scoring only a solitary goal in the process.

 

Monday, 24th August

It's official Sylvinho is now a Citizen! Must say this is one that we never really expected. Mark Hughes has signed the 35-year old left-back on a one-year contract as cover for Wayne Bridge. Sylvinho was available on a free transfer after Barcelona didn't offer him a new deal at the start of this season. The Brazilian's move to England comes almost 10 years after he made his debut for Arsenal in 1999.

Sky Sports reports that Joleon Lescott has arrived in Manchester to undergo a medical. He is widely expected to complete the transfer, now reported to be for £24 million (just 1 less than Adebayor and double Barry) tomorrow. I can just imagine Martin O'Neill calling Arsene Wenger to check if they should have held out longer for more dough.

Sky Sports seems to have all the good news today - Lens striker Aruna Dindane has passed his medical at Portsmouth, and the Ivory Coast international (Drogba's strike partner in fact) will complete his move within the next 24 hours.

Another big story doing the rounds in England is a major midfield reshuffle with Manchester United reportedly offering Michael Carrick + cash to his former club Tottenham in exchange for the creative services of Luca Modric, this story was published by Goal.com this evening, but has since been deleted. It is still visible in Google News Archives!

That story has finally been traced to this article in the Metro, which also has some other funky-chunky rumours. Tottenham could have a completely new-look middle third by the end of the day if one believes all the stories floating around, with Jermaine Jenas heading to Aston Villa and Scott Parker coming in from West Ham as a possible replacement according to The People.

Eidur Gudjohnsen could be heading to West Ham after all if the Sun is to be believed. After being unable to come up with the cash for the transfer, West Ham hope to be able to pursuade the former Chelsea striker to join on a season long loan.

Sky Sports also believes that Spurs are looking at further defensive reinforcements with Platense's Osman Chavez top of their shopping list after being recommended by Honduran teammate Wilson Palacios.

According to a report on Sportmediaset.it, Milan are so keen to get rid of Massimo Oddo that they are offering West Ham a swap for Julien Faubert. Faubert raised eyebrows when Real Madrid took him on loan in the winter transfer window last season, but played him for a grand total of 56 minutes in about 5 months. With due respect to the player, he put in a tremendous shift at right-back (not his natural position) over the weekend against Tottenham.

With money aplenty expected from the Joleon Lescott transfer, the Everton rumour mill has kicked into overdrive.The Daily Mail reckons that £10m worth of Lokomotiv Moscow skipper Diniyar Bilyaletdinov could be heading to the Toffees.

The Daily Mail also seems to have had a glance at the rest of City's shopping list, indicating that former Arsenal and Barcelona left-back Sylvinho could also be heading to Manchester. Now that is surely one that nobody expected.

Blackburn manager Sam Allardyce has confirmed that defender Stephen Warnock has been subject of bids and may be leaving before the transfer window closes on August 31. Warnock was not in the squad when the Rovers played Sunderland on Saturday. Allardyce told Blackburn's official website the following, "Stephen's head wasn't right so we left him at home. Thats the bottom line. We know the Aston Villa scenario and it would have not have been right playing him because his mind is not on performing at his best so we left him back at Ewood."

Le Havre midfielder Kévin Anin is apparently being tracked by English clubs Stoke City and Tottenham. The 23-year-old Frenchman is currently on trail with the Spurs increasing the likelyhood that he will join with them. Anin has been with Le Havre since 2006 making 36 appearances in that span.

Wigan are keen on Bristol City's Marvin Conrad Elliott. News of the World reports that the Latics are willing to part with £3.5m to sign the former Bristol City's 'Young Player of The Year' for 2007. The 24-year-old midfielder would compete with new signing Mohamed Diame for first team action.

Liverpool are ready to do business again with Greek club AEK Athens. This time around though the Reds might send striker Krisztian Nemeth to them on loan. The 20-year-old is unlikely to get a chance to impress with several players ahead of him in the pecking order. The fact that he's signed till 2012 is also an indication that Benitez sees him as 'one for the future'.

Redknapp's Spurs are currently on top of the table with impressive wins over Liverpool, Hull City and West Ham. The gaffer is keen to keep up the momentum by signing Celtic duo Aiden McGeady and Scott Brown. Tottenham are said to be preparing a £16m bid for their services. At 23, McGeady has already won both the SPFA Player of the Year and Young Player of the Year in the same year in 2008. The winger played 40 games last season scoring 7 goals. Brown was SPFA Players' Player of the Year for last season and is an influential and integral part of Celtics midfield. The 24-year-old was the subject of a £9 million bid from Portsmouth last season which was rejected. The Scottish international compiled 7 goals and 9 assists in 47 games last year as the Rangers topped the league.

 

Sunday, 23rd August

Arsenal legend Patrick Vieira has revealed that he would never join cross-town rivals Tottenham Hotspurs. The former talismanic captain of the Gunners told Sunday People, "I like Harry Redknapp a lot but I did not want to spoil nine years at Arsenal for the sake of two or three at Spurs.” He also mentioned that he spoke to Gunner's manager Wenger, "I talk from time to time with Arsene but there was never anything concrete in me going back there."

I guess Manchester City took a page out of the storybook 'incy-wincy spider'. Their persistence in pursuing Everton's Joleon Lescott looks to be paying off. After unsettling the England international, Moyes for forced to banish Lescott from the squad. Sky Sports News is claiming that the two clubs have agreed a fee of £24 million pending a medical. The Toffees were earlier linked to Steven Taylor of Newcastle. Surely, Moyes will move for the 23-year-old to strengthen his defensive prospects. Everton are bottom of the table with no points in 2 games and a -6 goal differential.

Wow - rumours never seem to die despite what managers and teams say. Manchester United are said to be tracking Real's Arjen Robben. I guess no one wants to listen to what Sir Alex has to say? Marca claims that United are looking for more attacking flair following their loss to Burnley. It has been well documented that Real Madrid are looking to offload some players including Robben. A fee around £20m would easily convince the Spanish giants to let him go. Robben would also relish the opportunity to come back to England should Ferguson offer him first team action.

Apart from mentioning a brawl on the Chelsea training ground, the News of the World does throw in a transfer update today. They claim that Brede Hangeland is not going to be Arsene Wenger's 'one more defensive signing' with the Norwegian center-back saying he is going nowhere.

Tottenham have once again been linked with a move for Chelsea's Joe Cole. Despite Cole and Chelsea both coming out in the press and insisting that he is not interested in a move away from Stamford Bridge, that does not seem to deter the Sunday Mirror from saying that Harry Redknapp is tabling a £10 million bid for the midfielder.

Everton were reported to have obtained a work permit for Argentine Ever Banega. His club, Valencia claims that this is news to them. Los Che's Damia Vidagany said the following, "No negotiations with Everton exist or any other club for the loan of Ever Banega. This news is not true." Banega has echoed the words of his club stating, ""I cannot say anything about Everton. For me the only news is that I will leave Valencia this season." If Moyes is to strengthen his side he must do it soon as the transfer window closes in about a week.

Burnley have been linked with a move for former Manchester United midfielder Nicky Butt. Newcastle could be willing to sell the former England international as his departure would reduce the wage bill significantly.

Despite having given up in the battle to keep Joleon Lescott, Everton still want to keep their war with Manchester City alive as the Sunday Mirror reports that Everton are lodging an official complaint as to the manner of the approach and are requesting that a points penalty be imposed.

The Daily Mail asserts that Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti has said in no uncertain terms that the London club are through with their business transactions for the summer, indicating that the bank is now well and truly closed.

Sad news coming in from Upton Park seems to indicate that Dean Ashton is likely to announce his retirement at the age of just 26 after failing to recover from a degenerative ankle condition.

 

Saturday, 22nd August

It's been a lazy day for rumours, with very little 'fresh' stuff hitting the back pages of the leading papers.

The Marouane Chamakh saga has ended for now with the player claiming that he will be remaining with Bordeaux for another season. Arsenal was his destination of choice but the England giants were unable to agree a fee for the Moroccan hitman. It is believed that Sunderland also had a bid rejected. West Ham's Zola was keen to add a striker of his quality to their ranks but Chamakh stated, "I’d prefer to stay with Bordeaux than go to West Ham." For now his dream move to the Premiership is on hold but we haven't heard the last from this talented striker.

Roma have completed the signing of Internazionale defender Nicolas Burdisso on a year-long loan. The Argentine international began his professional career with Boca Juniors in 1999 before moving to Inter in 2004 for €3.5 million. The 28-year-old made 93 appearances for them before his move. Last year he won the Serie A title taking his personal title tally to 19 and making him the 2nd most titled Argentine behind Alfredo di Stéfano.

Arsenal's Russian rocket, Andrey Arshavin has come out and stated that Wenger needs to bring in more quality recruits despite the Gunners winning all their games this season. Arshavin was quoted as saying, "We should buy first-class players, regardless of their age. We should buy the ones who should improve our game. The top teams have much bigger squads than ours and that is why we have to buy." Wenger had earlier suggested the need to add one more player (defensive midfielder) ahead of the transfer window closure on August 31, 2009. Wenger said, "I've spoken to 10 managers and all 10 are looking for centre-backs or defensive midfielders. It looks like the offensive players are the most-paid but at the end of the day, in the modern day, all the managers I speak to ask me the same thing. ‘Do you know a player somewhere?'"

Real Madrid's Wesley Sneijder has been constantly linked to Italian giants Inter Milan. A fee between the two clubs in the region of €15 million has also been agreed. However, it appears the the Dutch international is not keen on a move to the Nerazzurri. AS reported, "Sneijder is a player of Real Madrid and he wants to stay here." This could be a problem for Real as they were looking to offload the midfielder to raise funds to offset their spending on top stars Kaka and Ronaldo.

Finally a fresh name to speculate on! Just when we thought that Manchester "Money bags" City might be done with their summer spending they are being linked to former Barcelona and Villarreal star Juan Roman Riquelme. The Argentine is plying his trade with Boca Juniors and Mark Hughes is reportly preparing a €17m bid for the gifted playmaker. City's Carlos Tevez might be salivating at the chance to hook up with the former Argentine captain. The 31-year-old midfield maestro is a former nominee for the FIFA World Player of the Year and also captained the side that won the Olympic Gold medal in the 2008 in Beijing.

Ever Banega is all set to complete his move to Everton with the Toffees having received a work permit for the young Argentine defensive midfielder. There are already rumours that Moyes will also be looking at strengthening his offensive third of the pitch with a bid for Spartak Moscow winger Vladimir Bystrov.

Former Arsenal skipper Patrick Vieira has quashed all rumours of a return to the Premiership by reportedly telling L'Equipethat he will spend the season at Inter Milan and fight for a place in the side.

Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti says that former Ukranian goal machine Andriy Shevchenko has a future at the club. Wonder how many Chelsea fans groaned when they heard that!

Jonas Gutierrez's dream move to Barcelona could still be on as the Catalan club continues to be involved in protracted negotiations with Newcastle.

The Daily Mail believes that the Lescott saga is finally over with Everton having accepted a £22 million offer from Manchester City for the England defender.

 

Friday, 21st August:

Sotirios Kyrgiakos has completed his transfer from AEK Athens to Liverpool today. The 30-year old Greek defender has signed a 2-year contract.

Three minor transfers today with former Arsenal youth product Anthony Stokes heading back to the Scottish Premier League to Hibs (from Sunderland), Mohamed Diame finally completing his transfer from Rayo Vallecano to Wigan and Sam Allardyce continuing his Blackburn clearout by selling striker Paul Gallagher to Leicester City.

Everton's David Moyes is resigned to losing defender Joleon Lescott to Manchester City. He is however tracking his replacement - Steven Taylor of Newcastle. The England U-21 international has been with United since 2003 making 152 appearances in that span.

If you thought Owen to Manchester United was ridiculously, how about Sol Campbell to Notts County!!! Apparently the former England international is in talks with Sven Goran Eriksson.

The Metro reports that English clubs Liverpool and Arsenal are set to battle for midfielder Rafael van der Vaart's signature. Not sure if there is any truth to this as Arsenal's manager Arsene Wenger has stated that he thinks the Gunner's are good enough. His counter-part at Liverpool, Rafa Benitez is unable to make a run at a player of Van der Vaart's calibre given the lack of funds available to him. Van der Vaart has been deemed surplus to requirements at Real Madrid following the arrivals of Kaka and Ronaldo this summer.

Yesterday we reported that West Ham's James Collins might be on his way to Stoke City however Aston Villa are said to be closely monitoring the situation. The Birmingham Mail claims that Martin O'Neill might be able to swoop for the defender after Collins was unable to reach personal terms with Stoke. It is believed that West Ham gaffer, Zola needs those funds to put in an improved bid for Moroccan hitman Marouane Chamakh. Villa though were yesterday also linked to West Ham skipper Matthew Upson, throwing further suspicion as to whether there is any truth in these rumours.

Winger Pedro Rodriguez has signed professional terms with Barcelona just days after scoring against Atheltic Bilbao in the first leg of the Spanish Super Cup. Goal.com report that Pedro has a €75 million release clause in his five-year deal.

AS reports that Atletico Madrid will line-up a bid for Valencia's talented midfielder David Silva if they are able to qualify for the Champions League next week. The 'other' Madrid club are keen on strengthening their squad for the 2009 season in the wake of how far ahead Real and Barcelona appear to have pulled ahead, and will see an influx of cash coming into the club coffers if Champions League qualification becomes a reality.

Sportal says 33-year old Australian striker Mark Viduka has decided to retire from football, after turning down offers from a few second-rung Premier League clubs. The player himself is yet to confirm these rumours.

Arsenal have been linked to Newcastle defender Steven Taylor. The news is unlikely as manager Arsene Wenger has never had any nice things to say about the hard tackling and now big talking center-back, who has aimed his fair share of reckless tackles against Wenger's young guns in the past.

Jonathan Greening is set to provide competition to Damien Duff on the Fulham left wing as the Cottagers have signed Greening on loan with the possibility of making the switch permanent at the end of the season. Greening, a former Manchester United Champions League medal winner has had stints at Middlesbrough and captained West Bromwich Albion, for whom he played 191 games over 5 seasons.

With back-to-back losses and no goals scored this season, Portsmouth are looking for more attacking options. They hope to sign Watford's Tommy Smith. The striker turned right winger had his best season last year scoring 17 goal and assisting on 9 others in 43 league appearances. He was named the Championship's top midfielder and won player of the season for the second year running. Smith already has a goal along with 4 assists in 3 games already this season.

 

Thursday, 20th August:

Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez has rubbished rumours that he had another fall-out with the board and threatened to resign. He is reported to have told the media that he is "100% committed". The club's managing director Christian Purslow felt the need to also have his say on the matter, multiplying Benitez's confidence by 10, "It's 1000% rubbish," he said to the Sun.

West Ham defender James Collins seems to be on his way to Stoke City, with the London club reportedly having accepted a £5 million for the 25-year old Welshman.

West Ham could be set to lose a second central defender with Sky Sports claiming that Aston Villa are readying a £12 million bid for Matthew Upson. Wonder if Gianfranco Zola is thinking why Alan Curbishley left the club in the first place!

Fred's decision to say with Fluminense prompted Sevilla to enter the race to sign Alvaro Negredo yesterday. Today the player put pen to paper in signing a 4-year-deal with the Spanish outfit. As we predicted, the chance to play Champions league football was too great to miss out on. Real have however added a buy-back clause which can be activat ed after two years.

The Joleon Lescott newspaper selling transfer saga seems to be reaching its climax with Everton reportedly willing to sell the England defender for £30 million. Poor Arsene Wenger must be thinking he got robbed by selling Adebayor and Kolo Toure for less!

'Swaps' appear to be the flavour of the season in Italy, with Roma's Julio Baptista and Inter's David Suazo reportedly the two currencies on offer.

Argentine international Sergio Aguero has come out and reaffirmed his commitment to Atletico Madrid telling the press, "I have always said that I wanted to stay here and it has happened."

Bolton are keen on reducing their wage bill, with Danny Shittu and Gavin McCann reportedly on the chopping block. Wonder if Big Sam will come and pick up some of his old friends.

Rafa Benitez has imitated remarks by Greek international Sotirios Kyrgiakos that the AEK Athens player is close to being a Red. Liverpool are short on defensive cover following injuries to some key players forcing Benitez's hand. The 30-year-old defender's switch is still pending a medical which is likely to take place before the weekend, to enable him to play in Liverpool's next game against Aston Villa.

The Wesley Sneijder saga is finally drawing to a close. Sky Sports is claiming that Inter and Real Madrid have reached a deal that will see the Dutch international move to the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza. Inter are shelling out €15 million for the playmaker.

 

Wednesday, 19th August:

Despite speculation linking Chelsea to Sergio Aguero, Atletico Madrid's Abel Resino has claimed that 'Kun' is not for sale. Resino told AS, "Aguero travelled with us [to Athens] to play and there is no chance of a sale. This rubbishes all the rumours that have been in the newspapers."

Everton have reportedly asked for a work permit for Argentine defensive midfielder Ever Banega. Banega is currently on the books of Valencia, but spent most of last season on loan at Atletico Madrid. Wonder if this means that Phil Neville go back into the right-back slot with Tony Hibbert moving into center-half to cover for Joleon Lescott (who is no longer training with his Everton team-mates).

Greek international Sotiris Kyrgiakos says that he is heading to Liverpool this week. The 6 foot 4 inch defender has been capped 49 times by his national side, with some over indulgent football fan already changing his club to Liverpool on Wikipedia. However there is still some mystery surrounding the move with his club AEK Athens first denying and then concuring with the rumours, while a lot of Liverpool supporters see the signing of the 30-year old as a very short term measure, and not something they approve.

Blackburn today announced the capture of former Real Madrid defender Michel Salgado.

Hull City and Real Zaragoza's battle for Alvaro Negredo just took a huge turn for the worse, with Sevilla reportedly joining the race to sign the Real Madrid striker. Sevilla will be playing in the Champions League, and it seems highly unlikely that Negredo will reject the opportunity to impress on Europe's biggest stage.

On the subject of Real Madrid, striker Ruud van Nistelrooy has ben linked with a shock move to the Vietnamese football league. No offence intended to our friends over in Vietnam, but does no one in Europe want the former Manchester United hitman?

A couple of big swap deals are reportedly brewing in Italy with Corriere dello Sport saying Inter want to swap Nicolas Burdisso for Roma's Marco Andreolli and Milan want to exchange Massimo Oddo with Lazio's Lorenzo de Silvestri.

Bordeaux's Moroccan international Marouane Chamakh is set to remain with the French champions. The striker was hoping to move to a bigger club with Arsenal as his preferred destination but the two clubs were unable to agree on a valuation for the player.

Manchester City defender Javier Garrido is ready to leave the Easlands with first-team opportunities hard to come by. The mega-rich Manchester outfit have been attracting and targeting big signings and the Spanish player does not fit the Sky Blues plans for this season.

Wigan's Roberto Martinez is hoping to link-up with former player Ferrie Bodde of Swansea. The Dutch midfielder had an excellent season in the Championship last season scoring 7 goals in 17 league games before being sidelined with a knee injury.

Reports have indicated that Arsenal have been tracking Fulham's Brede Hangeland all summer but Cottagers manager Roy Hodgson claims that they have yet to receive a bid from any club. Strangely, Hangeland's wikipedia page shows that he has transferred to Arsenal for a club record fee of £15M and he will wear number 24 - true??

 

Tuesday, 18th August:

Eurosport believe that Pizarro's transfer from Chelsea to Bremen is complete, with the Blues also having purchased 20-year old Serbian midfielder Nemanja Matic from MFK Kolsice for £1.5 million.

Damien Duff has completed a move from Newcastle to Fulham for a sum rumoured be about £4 million. It was Duff's unfortunate own-goal in the last game of the season that saw Newcastle get relegated.

Atletico Madrid have reportedly told Chelsea to up their offer for Sergio Aguero to £50 million else they will play the little Argentine in their Champions League qualifier against Panathanaikos. The clock is ticking for the Russian billionaire...we should know where this rumour is heading within the next 24 hours.

Hull have reportedly invited Real Madrid striker Alvaro Negredo to watch them play in midweek against Tottenham Hotspur. Negredo was all set to complete a move to Hull last week, before the striker started developing cold feet about a move to England. Wonder if asking him to come for such a match however is that good an idea, Hull might just end up getting hammered by an in-form Spurs!

Former Lyon striker Fred has changed his mind about a move back to Europe, and plans to spend another season back home with Fluminense.

Birmingham are believed to be hot on the trail of Sporting Gijon defender Michel, while Sunderland are also suspected to bolster their defensive ranks after expressing an interest in Bakary Kone.

Nemanja Vidic's agent is trying to stir up a hornet's nest by linking the Manchester United defender to Barcelona. If I know Sir Alex, there is no chance he is going to sell anymore of his star players this season, irrespective of the money on offer. Knowing agents (as well as I do Sir Alex), this is probably just another attempt at getting Vidic an improved contract.

Wigan boss Roberto Martinez says he wishes to strengthen the squad further by bringing in 2-3 more players. First up on that list is likely to be Rayo Vallecano's Mohamed Diame. Diame's transfer has been held up for over a week due to some medical concerns.

AC Milan's top bosses have indicated that their transfer business for the summer is over. Sorry David, doesn't look like they are going to come and get you this year.

The Daily Mail is convinced Aston Villa are lining up a 'double swoop' for the talented midfield due of David Bentley and Jermaine Jenas. Should this be true however, I wouldn't be surprised if a number of Europe's top clubs wouldn't enquire about JJ's asking price.

Werder Bremen sporting director Klaus Allofs has reaffirmed his desire to bring Chelsea striker Claudio Pizarro back to the club. Pizzaro had a fantastic season at Bremen finding the back of the net on no less than 28 occasions.

 

Monday, 17th August:

Franck Ribery has confirmed that he will be staying on at Bayern Munich this season. But the French winger did admit that Real Madrid, Barcelona, Man United and Chelsea were all interested in signing him this summer, not ruling out a future move.

Rafa Benitez is considering making a move for Athletic Bilbao's Fernando Amorebieta to provide cover in the central defensive position. Dynamo Kiev's Pape Diakhate's name has also reportedly surfaced in discussions.

Burnley's first game against Stoke City saw them dominate possession but allowed 2 goals from just 4 shots on target. Following that loss, Owen Coyle admitted that he needs to bring in defensive reinforcements if they were to avoid the drop this season. Sky Sports reports that Reading's Andre Bikey is likely to come in to solve that problem later this week.

Tottenham's Roman Pavlyuchenko came on as a substitute against Liverpool in the 90th minute and barely played got any playing time under his belt. Despite that the Russian international is keen to say in London and fight for first team football. The arrival of Peter Crouch earlier this summer has pushed the 27-year-old striker further down the pecking order and he has been linked to Italian giants Roma in recent days.

Barcelona are reportedly looking for some cover for Thierry Henry on the left wing, and have been linked in the press with Liverpool midfielder Albert Riera.

Everton's David Moyes is looking to snare Steven Taylor from Newcastle. Moyes took full responsibility for the loss against Arsenal on Saturday and hopes to rectify the situation by bringing in reinforcements to strengthen his squad. Taylor had a breakthrough season in 2006-07 when he played 44 games in all competitions. He is still just 23 years old and is a former England under-21 team captain.

Hull City are hoping to wrap up a deal for Real Madrid's Alvaro Negredo who was on loan to Spanish club Almería last season. The Tigers have been linked to the 23-year-old for some time now and reports reveal that he will discuss personal terms this week. A fee of £12 million is being mooted which would make him Hull's most ex pensive signing to date. The Spanish hitman netted 19 goals in 35 games last season for Almería.

Stoke City defender Ryan Shawcross has refuted claims in the press yesterday linking him with a move back to Old Trafford. The former Man United youth player states that he has heard nothing from his ex-club, and he is more than happy at the Britannia Stadium.

Sunderland expect to sign Lyon defender John Mensah before their next outing in the Premiership against Chelsea.

Sunday, 16th August:

Following the thrashing they received at the hands of Arsenal on Saturday, Everton's David Moyes may have realized that he is short on attacking options. The Toffees have remained inactive this summer but are now tracking Real's José María Gutiérrez aka. Guti who could be available for €10m. The 32-year-old midfielder has spent his entire career with the Blancos amassing 360 games since 1995.

Last season's PFA Player of the Year nominee Nemanja Vidic is being linked with Spanish champions Barcelona. The Daily Mirror reports that Barca are turning to the Manchester United stalwart following failure in negotiations with Shakhtar Donetsk's defender Dmytro Chygrynskiy.

The Daily Mail reports that after their terrible performance in the opening fixture of the Barcalys Premier League, Aston Villa are making a £7 million bid for Blackburn left back Stephen Warnock.

Franck Ribery has finally broken his silence, saying that he never asked for a move away from Bayern Munich, and unless he has an offer on the table, doesn't wish to indulge in any speculation.

Arsenal are the latest club said to be linked to Dutch midfielder Rafael van der Vaart. Inter Milan and Aston Villa had both earlier gone public in their inquest into the future of the Real Madrid outcast.

Pep Guardiola has come out in the press and indicated that Cesc Fabregas will not be moving to Barcelona. Atleast not this summer, he does however indicate that Barcelona are far from done spending, as he attempts to make the European Champions even stronger for the challenge of the new Real Madrid.

Andriy Voronin has been linked with a move back to Germany with Hertha Berlin according to News of the World, despite all the pre-season talk, it seems that Voronin has failed to sufficiently impress Rafa Benitez.

After interest in the run-up to the weekend from Aston Villa, Manchester City are the latest club to be linked to Tottenham midfielder David Bentley according to The Daily Star.

The People report that former Manchester United youth product Ryan Shawcross, currently plying his trade at Stoke City, could be headed back to Old Trafford with Sir Alex Ferguson reportedly interested in re-signing the 21-year old.

 

Saturday, 15th August:

The three apparently ridiculous rumours of the day are Cesc Fabregas being linked with a 'Monday move to Madrid', Sergio Aguero a day later to Chlesea and Adrian Mutu to Zenit in Russia!

After releasing Michel Salgado, another Real Madrid veteran could be on his way out of the Bernabeau with former Barcelona manager Frank Rijkaard, now with Galatasaray, reportedly expressing an interest in Guti.

Barcelona themselves meanwhile have been linked to a bunch of players who rather surprisingly are very good in the right-back role. Emmanuel Eboue, Zdenek Grygera and Cicinho all appear to be targets. Wonder whether they plan on playing any of them though, or are they simply looking for cover for Dani Alves. Grygera's agent meanwhile has rubbished the proposed move.

Juventus are apparently looking for a defensive partner for Grygera, and are linked to Australia's least favourite Italian Fabio Grosso. The Lyon left-back could be one of two defenders headed away from the French giants with John Mensah apparently incredibly close to signing with Sunderland.

Staying in France, Monaco are the latest to be linked to Bayern Munich's Italian frontman Luca Toni. The move would come as a huge shock, considering Toni is likely to find many suitors at home in Italy should he wish to leave Germany.

David Beckham is all set to get the LA boo-boys back out in full force, indicating his desire to move back to AC Milan according to Gazzetta dello Sport.

Corriere dello Sport has some gossip of their own, indicating that Inter Milan winger Mancini looks set to return to former club AS Roma on a one-year loan.

Everton could be set to end their quiet summer of solitude, being linked to no less than three players in The Daily Mail. Those 3 players are hypothesized to be Spartak Moscow winger Vladimir Bystrov, Argentine midfielder Ever Banega and Hoffenheim defender Isaac Vorsah.

The Times believes that Aston Villa are considering adding more options on their ever burgeoning wings, linking them with a move for Tottenham's out of favour midfielder David Bentley.

Leafing through The Sun could explain Aston Villa's interest, with their versatile midfielder James Milner linked with a big money move to Liverpool.

Arsene Wenger has reportedly 'threatened' to make a bid for Lionel Messi if Barcelona continue getting into the mind of Arsenal skipper Cesc Fabregas.

Nigerian striker Nwankwo Kanu, out of contract at Portsmouth has signed a one-month extension, as he looks to pitch in while the club sort out their financial turmoil.

 

Friday, 14th August:

Newcastle winger Damien Duff could be headed back to the premiership with The Sun linking the former Chelsea and Blackburn star with a move to Fulham, Wolves or Hull City. Fulham appear to be the favourites to sign him at the moment, but the Mail believe that the player himself would rather move to Wolves to link up with former manager Mick McCarthy.

The Daily Mail reports that Everton have lost interest in signing Philippe Senderos, after successfully averting Manchester City's overtures for Joleon Lescott. Sunderland are the new front runners for the Swiss defender's signature. However The Daily Star rubbishes the suggestion, indicating that Everton seem to have simply turned their attention to Newcastle's outspoken defender Steven Taylor.

Staying with the troubled Toon, The Daily Express believes that Joe Kinnear will be back at the helm of affairs next week.

After failing to ignite interest in Jonny Evans, Vincent Kompany and Cesc Fabregas, Barcelona have reportedly turned their attention to Arsenal wing-back Emmanuel Eboue.

Another player plus cash deal seems to be brewing. Real Madrid are preparing a final offer as a last ditch effort to sign French international Franck Ribery. The Spanish giants are apparently willing to part with both Dutch midfielders Wesley Sneijder and Arjen Robben plus €30 million in cash in hopes of acquiring Ribery. The total deal looks to be worth approximately €60m. It will however still be some ways short of Bayern's €80m valution of the player.

Bolton's Gary Megson has admitted that he is short on striking options ahead of the new season. Kevin Davies and Johan Elmander are the only senior strikers in the squad with Elmander being particularly injury-prone. Megson is hoping to rectify the situation but the transfer window is closing rapidly. He is though willing to let go of former Watford man, Danny Shittu. The defender failed to cement a spot in the Trotters line-up last season playing all but 10 games and has fallen down the pecking order thanks to the arrival of new-boy Zat Knight.

Real Madrid's Dutch midfield Wesley Sneijder has distanced himself from a move to English club Aston Villa. The former Ajax man would like to stay with the Spanish giants and fight for first team football. ATP quoted him as saying, "I want to fight for my place at Real Madrid despite there being a lot of rivalry."

Fulham are inching closer to signing former Leeds and Newcastle striker Mark Viduka. The 33-year-old was close to signing with Portsmouth but was unable to agree on personal terms. Sky Sports claims that the Australian underwent a medical with the Cottagers.

Burnley are closing in on their seventh signing of the summer in the form of defender Andre Bikey from Reading. The Clarets would be looking to avoid the drop this season and are hoping that the Cameroon international will add more depth to the back four.

Portsmouth have lost yet another player - this time to Coventry City. Defender Martin Cranie becomes the 12th casuality this summer as he signs with the Sky Blues. Pompey did manage to sign Belgian international defender Anthony Vanden Borre On loan from Genoa making him their 5th signing this summer. All their signings have either been off free transfer or on loan.

German club Hertha would be interested in taking Liverpool striker Andriy Voronin on loan again this season following his successful spell with them last season. Voronin was their top scorer with 11 goals in just 20 games. The Bundesliga team were hoping to sign the Ukrainian forward but were unable to meet Liverpool's valuation of the player. Hertha is in dire need of frontmen following the departures of Marko Pantelic and Amine Chermiti leaving the Berlin side with just one recognized striker.

 

Thursday, 13th August:

According to the Daily Mirror, Arsene Wenger has ended his pursuit of Bordeaux striker Marouane Chamakh, leaving West Ham and Fulham to fight it out for the Moroccan's signature.

The Daily Star has reported that Portsmouth are about to complete the signing of former Chelsea and Liverpool winger, Boudewijn Zenden. Considering the financial situation at Pompey, there are no prizes for guessing that the player is availaible on a Bosman.

Liverpool fans were sent into shock yesterday night when Benfica's official website said that they has agreed deals to sign Yossi Benayoun and Steven Gerrard from the Reds. But a few hours later it became known that the Benfica website had been hacked. It's a fair bet that the hacker would be a Manchester United fan! (Click here to read more about this)

Just a day after selling midfielder Lee Cattermole to Sunderland, Wigan have found a replacement in Rayo Vallecano's Mohamed Diame. The Latics have also decided to swoop for Antonio Amaya from the same club. The Wigan Evening Post reports that a fee has been agreed to for both players but personal terms were pending.

Following Ben Foster's poor performance against Chelsea in the Community Shield, Manchester United are thinking of pursuing Schalke Goalkeeper Manuel Neuer. Red Devils star goalkeeper, Edwin Van der Sar will be out for a couple of months with injury and Sir Alex does not want any hiccups in his pursuit for a 4th consecutive domestic trophy. It is believed that Schalke could be convinced with a bid in the region of €20 million.

Barcelona have been quoted a price of €45M should they be interested in acquiring the services of Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas. The Spanish giants have adequate midfield cover and are looking for an additional player to supplement their dynamic duo of Iniesta and Xabi. That being said, manager Josep Guardiola would not want to pay over €30M for Cesc.

After being shunned by the likes of Bobby Zamora and Fraizer Campbell, Hull City are trailing Real Madrid striker Alvaro Negredo? You read correctly - the Tigers are hot on Negredo's trail following the strikers admission that he likes the team. It is believed that Phil Brown is willing to splash a club record fee of €11 million in a bid to reel him in.

Portsmouth has lost the lions share of its players this summer. However, they will not allow Frenchman Sylvain Distin to be the next casuality. Pompey chief Peter Storrie was quoted by The Portsmouth News, "We have turned down offers and will continue to turn down offers. He's been one of our best players for several seasons now and we want him to stay." The 31-year-old defender started every premier league game and played 48 games in all competitions.

A trio of English clubs are trailing Lens striker Aruna Dindane. The Ivory Coast international recently turned down a move to Monaco as he's hoping to ply his trade in the Barclays Premier League this season. Sky Sports speculates Hull City, Blackburn Rovers and Stoke City are the clubs interested in acquiring him.

Wednesday, 12th August:

It looks like Carlo Ancelotti is destined not to make any major signings in this transfer window. His latest attempt was a £22 million bid for Roma midfielder Daniele De Rossi which was turned down.

Jose Reina says Liverpool may struggle without Xabi Alonso, for he was a 'fabulous conductor'. Let's see which paper turns out to tbe the first to take this as a cue that Reina wants to leave Anfield.

Some papers still link Blackburn to former Monaco player Jerome Rothen, despite Big Sam Allardyce indicating he didn't want to reinforce the left side of his midfield. Rothen was part of the Monaco team that lost to Porto in the Champions League final in 2004.

Sunderland boss Steve Bruce will be a happy man after capturing Lee Cattermole from Wigan Athletic. Bruce had wanted Cattermole ever since he left Wigan for the Sunderland manager post himself, but had to up his £4 million offer to £6 million to sign the England U-21 midfielder.

Alvaro Negredo could be on his way to Hull City. His agent has said that Negredo likes the team, and the deal could be on the cards. Did he only see them uptil October of last season? Or did he see see something we didn't the rest of the time?

The Daily Mail has reported that Arsenal are back in the hunt for 20 year old Serbian defender Neven Subotic. Arsene Wenger is ready to offer £12 million to Borussia Dortmund for his services.

Blackburn are giving a trial to former Real Madrid right back Michel Salgado. Their manager Sam Allardyce has also told Aston Villa to treble their bid to £12 million if they want to sign former Liverpool left back Stephen Warnock.

Aston Villa's Martin O'Neill has barely strengthened his side despite securing UEFA qualification this year. According to The Guardian, the Villans are being linked for a double swoop for Tottenham midfielders David Bentley and Jermaine Jenas. As usual, the transfer fee remains the primary issue. Bentley who had a superb year with Blackburn a couple seasons ago moved for £15 million but has been unable to justify his price tag. Jenas on the other hand, faired much better starting in 35 games for Spurs in all competitions in 2008-09.

Yesterday we reported that Chelsea was in for Franck Ribery. Today however it appears that Bayern Munich are hot on the heels of Chelsea right-back José Bosingwa. Perhaps the two teams could workout a player swap plus cash deal similar to the one between Inter and Barcelona? For now though The Daily Mail reports that the Bundesliga giants are ready to pay €17.5 million for his services.

Aston Villa are keenly watching developments between Inter and Real regarding the future of Dutch international Wesley Sneijder. It appears that the Italian outfit would be the player's first choice but reports have emerged that Inter might not be able to pay Real's asking price. If Aston Villa match the Spanish club's £21 million valuation they would be favourites to sign the former Ajax hitman.

Tuesday, 11th August:

Pavel Nedved could return from retirement to play in the MLS. Well at least he's going there after he's given up hope of ever playing for a top-notch European team or the Czech national side.

Sven Goran Eriksson has been handed the duty of seducing free agent Sol Campbell to Notts County. The former England manager had been named the clubs Footballing Director some time back, and pockets a cool £40,000 a week.

Joleon Lescott put in a formal transfer request, but unfortunately for him all he managed to do was further infuriate David Moyes. Nopes, he's clearly not going, especially not at just £20 million which is said to be the latest offer from Man City. Strange, I thought when they had a £22 million offer turned down (at least reportedly), City'd offer more to get their man, instead of less!

Bordeaux have rubbished rumours that Arsenal have upped their bid for Maroune Chamakh. Some papers also linked West Ham with the French striker, but surely they don't consider themselves a much bigger club than Sunderland?

Spanish newspaper Marca claims Man City still want Lionel Messi. Well who doesn't?

Sky Sports has reported that Patrick Vieira has decided to stay on at Inter Milan for another year before moving back to England with either Arsenal or Tottenham. So Wenger's 2nd attempt to buy a holding midfielder has also failed after being unable to lure Felipe Melo to the Emirates.

Barcelona have apparently been told that they have a week to complete the deal to bring Cesc Fabregas back to the Nou Camp. But Arsenal will not sell for less than €50 million as Arsene Wenger is not interested in players like Eidur Gudjohnsen as part of the deal.\

Liverpool's Rafa Benitez will need to improve on his bid if he's to land Hull City defender Michael Turner. The former Brentford Supporters' Player of the Year made all 38 starts for the Tigers last season. The Reds have lost Daniel Agger and Martin Skrtel to injury and are sweating on the fitness of super-stalwart Jamie Carragher.

Hull City are ready to swoop for Algerian international Kamel Fathi Ghilas currently plying his trade at Celta Vigo. The 25-year-old striker who failed a physical at Blackburn last month will hope for better luck with the Tigers. Last season with Celta he netted 13 goals in 33 games.

Roma's sporting director, Daniele Pradé has claimed that they turned down an offer for midfielder Daniele De Rossi from English giants Chelsea. The 26-year-old Italian international played 32 games for the Giallorossi last season and is an integral part of Roma's midfield. Its hard to imagine why the Blues would bid for a central midfielder with their embrassment of riches in that area including the likes of Ballack, Deco, Essien, Obi Mikel and Lampard.

Despite continuously denying that any new players will be moving to Chelsea this summer, the billionaire owned English club is now sensationally being linked with Bayern Munich star Franck Ribery. Reports claim that the Blues are willing to drop a cool €47 million for the French international. That price however falls way short of the Bundesliga giants' evaluation of their prized asset.

Arsenal fans hoping that manager Arsene Wenger would sign more players this summer are in for disappointment following Wenger's claim that he is happy with his squad. The French tactician was quoted as saying, "We work always but it would be pretentious to say that we signed anybody now before the season starts." This marks a U-turn for the Gunners boss as he was looking for defensive cover when the summer started. Why else did Arsenal bid for Felipe Melo?? After losing out in the race for his services to Juventus, the English giants have not made any midfield signings despite losing Rosicky and Nasri to injuries.

Hull City are closing in on their fourth signing of the summer after they reportedly agreed a fee for Reading's Stephen Hunt. The Irish midfielder was a key first team member last season for the Royals starting 41 games while scoring 6 goals and assisting on 17 others. The report also claims that personal terms have been agreed but a medical is pending.

West Ham have been tracking Barcelona's fringe striker Eidur Gudjohnsen all summer long. Their efforts to sign the former Chelsea front-man have left them frustrated however. Gianfranco Zola is keen to resolve this situation as soon as possible but the Icelandic international's future remains unclear as he could be still be part of manager Pep Guardiola’s squad since he was involved in Barca's pre-season preparations.

Monday, 10th August:

Barcelona still want to get their hands on Cesc Fabregas, but will only do so at a "fair price". And although Arsene Wenger is hardly a person who'd get in the way of a sound business deal, he would probably be aware of the repercussions from the fans point of view if he sold yet another key member of the squad. Especially Fab.

Good news for Manchester United fans, although not transfer related. Nani has said he should be fit to play on the opening weekend after suffering an injured shoulder during the Community Shield match against Chelsea.

Aston Villa manager Martin O'Neill has now reportedly added Robert Huth to the list of possible defensive signings. O'Neill admitted that he wants to add some experience to his side, and Huth has spent a number of seasons in the Premier League with Chelsea and Middlesbrough, However, his erratic form last season that saw Boro relegated, coupled with his injury problems, may see O'Neal overlook him for the other options (Huth's defensive partner David Wheater, Portmouth's Sylvain Distin, and free agent Sol Campbell).

Everton's David Moyes seems to have been impressed with Paris Saint Germain playmaker Stephane Sessegnon's performances in the Emirates Cup.

Stoke's 21-year-old defender Ryan Shawcross is the latest defender to be linked with a move to Liverpool, with the Anfield side suffering an injury crisis at the back. Rafa Benitez admitted to having approached Hull City for Michael Turner last week, but it looks highly unlikely he's stump up £12 million for a 4th choice centre-back. Shawcross, a former Manchester United reserve player, is said to be weighing up whether he would like to move to a bigger club, despite the scarce number of games he'd get.

Chelsea's central defender Ricardo Carvalho had been once again linked with a move away from Stamford Bridge however the Portuguese international has now claimed the following, "Of course I'm staying. But first I have to get fit and try to help my team-mates."

Following reports yesterday that Chelsea were preparing a mega-bid for teenage star Alexandre Pato, AC Milan have swiftly moved to issue a "hands-off" statement for the Brazilian star. Chelsea manager, Carlo Ancelotti immitated those sentiments by issuing this statement, "It is not true about Pato. He is a Milan player. Milan believe a lot in Pato, because they have sold Kaka, and so he is now a very important player."

After being linked to Real's Wesley Sneijder yesterday, Inter are now apparently tracking another out-of-favour Real midfielder, Rafael van der Vaart. The news comes following Inter's 2-1 loss to Lazio in the Supercoppa yesterday.

Tottenham continue to be linked to Bayern Munich striker Luca Toni. The Lilywhites seems to be following Manchester City's model of collecting strikers - perhaps someone forgot to inform them that strikers don't make good defenders? The Spurs already boast a front line that includes Peter Crouch, Roman Pavyluchenko, Jermain Defoe and Robbie Keane.

Everton manager David Moyes, remains bullish ahead of the new season that the Toffees will not be losing any players this summer. Defender Joleon Lescott has remained on Manchester City's radar for much of the summer but Moyes has managed to resist their advances for the 26-year-old England international.

Tottenham are readying an improved bid for Aston Villa winger Ashley Young. The Spurs manager, Harry Redknapp has had a £18 million bid rejected already but is hoping that Villa can be convinced to let Young go if they sign Wesley Sneijder from Real Madrid. Villa manager, Martin O’Neill has insisted however that the winger is not for sale at any price.

Sunday, 9th August:

David Moyes has told Man City they must pay at least £30 million for Joleon Lescott, a price tag that could make tie him with Rio Ferdinand as the most expensive defender in the world. Surely that's not going to happen!

Manchester United and AC Milan are in a tussle for 15-year-old Swedish midfielder Linus Sjobeg.

Gareth Bale's agent has said the young Welsh defender would be interested in a move to AC Milan. Hopefully Bale, who's never won a Premier League game (Tottenham just can't seem to win when he plays), has better luck in Serie A.

Newspaper reports in England suggest that Aston Villa are the favourites to sign Real Madrid midfielder Rafael Van Der Vaart, who is also wanted by Manchester City, Tottenham and Everton. That deal may depend on whether or not Ashley Young is sold. Young is said to be wanted by a number of clubs, including Manchester United, Chelsea and Barcelona.

Rafa Benitez has hinted that he might just make an offer for Hull City defender Michael Turner as both Daniel Agger and Martin Skrtel are injured for the start of the new season.

Despite reports to the contrary, Chelsea have re-ignited their interest in AC Milan striker Alexandre Pato. News of the World is reporting that the Blues are willing to part with €52.5 million for the teenager. Furthermore, Chelsea would loan the Brazilian back to the Rossoneri for the 2009-10 season.

Arsenal's captain Cesc Fabregas continues to be linked with European champions Barcelona. The latest reports claim that Barca would like to strengthen their midfield options. However, the Gunners chairman, Peter Hill-Wood has already issued a hands-off warning to any suitors for the Spanish international.

Real Madrid's out of favour midfielder Wesley Sneijder can move to Inter if the Nerazzurri are willing to shell out €25 million for his services. Inter recently tried to sign Alexander Hleb to boost their attacking options but were unable to convince him to move to Milan. Manager Jose Mourinho should have some cash at his disposal following the sale of Ibrahimovich to Barcelona.

After increasing his attacking options it seems that Sunderland manager, Steve Bruce is now concentrating on shoring up his defense. To that end, Bruce is hoping that a bid for Portsmouth's Sylvain Distin will be accepted. Distin started all 38 premier league games for Pompey last season. The Black Cats allowed 54 goals against last season which was 8th worst in the league.

Saturday, 8th August:

Arsenal will not let French defender Armand Traore join Birmingham on loan in time for the opening weekend. Birmingham are suffering from serious injury problems, which could result in Alex McLeish having to pencil in players from the academy to complete the 18-man squad.

Rafa Benitez is shouting as loud as he can that new signing Alberto Aquilani will excite fans, but as it turns out they'll have to wait 2 months to see him in action due to an ankle problem.

Yet another player has rejected a move to Hull City, with Newcastle's Habib Beye signing on the dotted line with Aston Villa instead. Villa are also linked with Sol Campbell, who is currently a free agent, after refusing to meet Portsmouth's £4.5 million valuation of Sylvain Distin.

Bordeaux manager Laurent Blanc has said Arsenal can have Maroune Chamakh if they really want him. He revealed that he had promised the young French striker last year that if he did well he would be allowed to leave. Blanc however is not willing to let him go to a French rival, nor to a club lacking the greatest of statures. Arsene Wenger has acknowledged he would like to have Chamakh, but has so far complained that the asking price is too high.

According to The Mirror after having numerous bids for Joleon Lescott rejected, Mark Hughes has turned his attention to West Ham's Matthew Upson,.

The Daily Mail has reported today that both Everton and Tottenham are fighting it out for the signature 22 year old Inter Milan striker Victor Obinna. Harry Redknapp is prepared to offer £3 million for the Nigerian who is also on the wanted list of Parma and Schalke.

Reports suggest that Real Madrid President Fiorentino Perez has already sealed a deal with the highly in demand Bayern Munich winger Frank Ribery on a five year contract starting in 2010.

Liverpool have had a £6 million bid for Hull City's Michael Turner rejected. Phil Brown is demanding double that price for the defender.

Sunderland manager Steve Bruce is closing in on Portsmouth defender Sylvain Distin after being priced out of a move for Manchester City's Richard Dunne.