Much speculation has filled the back pages over the past 3 months with players from all over the globe linked with a move to the premier league’s top sides. But now the dust has settled, are you happy with your clubs business in the transfer window or do you feel your manager should have done more?

Here is a run through of the ins and outs at Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United and Tottenham this summer, then please submit your vote below:

Arsenal:

Players In:

Marouane Chamakh (Bordeaux, free), Laurent Koscielny (Lorient, undisclosed), Sebastien Squillaci (Sevilla, undisclosed)

Players Out:

Luke Ayling (Yeovil, free), Nacer Barazite (Vitesse, loan), Sol Campbell (Newcastle, free), Eduardo (Shakhtar Donetsk, undisclosed), Luke Freeman (Yeovil, loan), William Gallas (Tottenham, free), Fran Merida (Atletico Madrid, free), Philippe Senderos (Fulham, undisclosed), Mikael Silvestre (Werder Bremen, free), Jay Simpson (Hull, undisclosed), Armand Traore (Juventus, loan), Sanchez Watt (Leeds, loan)

Chelsea

Players In:

Nascimento Ramires (Benfica, £16.3m), Yossi Benayoun (Liverpool, £5m), Matej Delac (Inter Zapresic, £2.7m), Tomas Kalac, Sigma Olomouc, undisclosed)

Players Out:

Michael Mancienne (Wolves, loan), Joe Cole (Liverpool, free), Michael Ballack (Bayer Leverkusen, free), Juliano Belletti (Fluminese, free), Miroslav Stoch (Fenerbahce, £2.5m), Tomas Kalas (Sigma Olomouc, loan), Ryan Bertrand (Nottingham Forest, loan), Scott Sinclair (Swansea, £1m), Jack Cork (Burnley, loan), Nemanja Matic (Vitesse Arnhem, loan), Slobodan Rajkovic (Vitesse Arnhem, loan), Franco di Santo (Wigan, undisclosed)

Liverpool

Players In:

Joe Cole (Chelsea, free), Jonjo Shelvey (Charlton, £1.7m), Milan Jovanovic (Standard Liege, free), Danny Wilson (Rangers, £5m), Christian Poulsen (Juventus, £4.5m), Brad Jones (Middlesbrough, £2.3m), Raul Meireles (Porto £11.5m), Paul Konchesky (Fulham, undislosed), Emiliano Insua (Galatasaray, loan)

Players Out:

Alberto Aquilani (Juventus, loan), David Martin (MK Dons, free), Mikel San Jose (Atletico Bilbao, undisclosed),  Robbie Threlfall (Bradford, free), Yossi Benayoun (Chelsea, £6m), Albert Riera (Olympiakos, undisclosed), Krisztian Nemeth (Olympiakos, undisclosed), Diego Cavalieri (Cesena, undisclosed)

Manchester United

Players in:

Chris Smalling (Fulham, £10m), Javier Hernandez (Guadalajara, £10m), Marnick Vermijl (Standard Liege, undisclosed), Bebe (Vitoria Guimaraes, £7.4m)

Players Out:

Ben Foster (Birmingham, £6m), Zoran Tosic (CSKA Moscow, £8m), Tom Heaton (Cardiff, free), Danny Drinkwater (Cardiff, loan), Danny Welbeck (Sunderland, loan), Craig Cathcart (Blackpool, undisclosed), Mame Biram Diouf (Blackburn, loan), Rodrigo Possebon (Sao Paulo, undisclosed), Tom Cleverley (Wigan, loan)

Tottenham hotspur

Players In:

William Gallas (Arsenal, free), Sandro (Internacional, £6m), Stipe Pletikosa (Spartak Moscow, loan), Rafael van der Vaart (Real Madrid £8m)

Players out:

Jimmy Walker (released), David Button (Plymouth, loan), Adel Taarabt (QPR, £1m), John Bostock (Hull, loan)

With the close of the transfer window looming, newspapers are filling their back pages with transfer stories to get the fans excited. Managers are expected to be making some last ditch moves to strengthen their squads in the coming days so here is a round up of the latest transfer gossip doing the rounds.

Gunner’s defender deal delayed

Sebastien Squillaci has apparently flown back to Spain after undergoing his medical at the Emirates….don’t worry Gunners fans, he’s only gone back to tie up a few loose ends before completing his move to Arsenal. Squillaci will not be signed in time to make the trip to Ewood Park to face Blackburn on Saturday, with an official announcement not expected until Sunday at the earliest. The fee is in the region of £6m and some reports claim he will wear the number 18 shirt.

Spurs to miss out on Parker

Tottenham Hotspur manager Harry Redknapp has said that although he remains interested in signing Scott Parker, a deal seems unlikely as the Hammers are refusing to do business according to the Guardian.

Spurs had a bid in the region of £8m rejected by West Ham earlier this month and when asked if he was still tracking the 29-year-old, Redknapp said:

“I am saying nothing. I don’t think anything is going to happen with Scott Parker. They don’t want to sell him so …”

Lassana Diarra is also a player on Redknapp’s radar but his wages may prove to be a sticking point.

United weighing up Defour move

Manchester United are considering making a late move for long-term target Steven Defour, according to Sky Sports News. Sir Alex Ferguson has tracked the Standard Liege midfielder for well over a year and even send him a letter of support when Defour suffered a serious foot injury.

Defour has been linked with several clubs across Europe but United are confident they can lure him to Old Trafford and sources at Sky Sports claim they are considering a late bid in order to secure his signature.

Liverpool make Konchesky move

Liverpool have contacted Fulham about the availability of left-back Paul Konchesky, manager Roy Hodgson has confirmed. Speaking ahead of Thursday’s Europa League tie against Trabzonspor, Hodgson said:

“We had discussions with Fulham about whether they were prepared to sell any of their players,” said Hodgson.

“I’d be lying if I said Paul was not a name we considered,”

“Whether or not there is a chance of business is very much up in the air,” added Hodgson.

Chelsea set to miss out on Argentine

Chelsea have made a £10m offer for Bayern Munich defender Martin Demichelis but are set to lose out on his signature as the player wants to join Sevilla, according to the Daily Mail.

The Argentine is currently at loggerheads with Bayern over a contract extension and apparently club sources claim Chelsea have made their move. As well as Sevilla, Juventus are also keen on the 29-year-old.

**remember these are only rumours and should be taken with a pinch of salt. these stories are taken from several newspapers and were not created by this website – Football-Talk.co.uk**

Written by Football Talk.

Chelsea have hit back at claims they have made an illegal approach for striker Neymar, but have admitted he is one of several young Brazilians the club are keeping tabs on.

Santos are threatening to report Chelsea to FIFA for ‘harassing’ Neymar after they had a £17m bid for the 18-year-old rejected last month. However, the Daily Mail claim the premier league champions will return with an improved £25m bid this week.

However, Santos will refuse to sell unless they receive almost £30m – the amount stated in the players release clause – and are also reluctant to deal with Chelsea due to the way they have behaved during their pursuit of Neymar.

But Chelsea chairman Bruce Buck has denied any wrong doing and revealed the player is simply one of many the club are tracking.

‘There was no tapping up from Chelsea and I want to be clear on that,’ Buck told talkSPORT. ‘We are looking at several young Brazilian players and he is one of the players we have been looking at.

‘Whether he becomes a Chelsea player at some point, who knows?

‘We are still looking at some things, whether they happen or not I don’t know. Carlo is happy and confident with the squad we have. If there is another player or two, great – if not, we’re fine with what we have.’

Written by Football Talk.

Chelsea have been told by Benfica that they will have to pay an amazing £33m for defender David Luiz, according to the Daily Mail.

The premier league champions are on the look-out for a centre-half after selling Ricardo Carvalho to Real Madrid for £6.7m and the highly-rated Luiz is believed to be high on Carlo Ancelotti’s wish-list.

Manchester City have also been linked with a move for the Brazilian and Benfica president Luis Filipe Vieira has stated that it would take a bid of £33m to force them into a sale.

He said: ‘We would only begin talks over an offer of about €40million.

‘It would be impossible to consider any offer less than that because it would be bad business for us. I want David Luiz to stay at the club for this season.’

]]> http://football-talk.co.uk/7181/transfer-talk-chelsea-priced-move-defender/feed/ 0 http://football-talk.co.uk/7133/premiership-clubs-left-disappointed-ozil-seeks-madrid-move/ http://football-talk.co.uk/7133/premiership-clubs-left-disappointed-ozil-seeks-madrid-move/#comments Sun, 15 Aug 2010 11:11:32 +0000 Football Talk http://football-talk.co.uk/?p=7133 More >]]>

Written by Football Talk.

Mesut ozil has disappointed a host of premier league clubs after expressing his desire to join Real Madrid. Ozil was one of the stars of this summers World Cup and was nominated for the Golden Ball after putting in some fine performances for Germany.

Chelsea, Manchester United, Tottenham and Arsenal have all been linked with the 21-year-old in recent weeks after it emerged Ozil only had one year left on his contract and had no intention of signing an extension.

A move to Old Trafford seemed on the cards after Sir Alex Ferguson was spotted at Craven Cottage two weeks ago watching Ozil play for Werder Bremen against Fulham and it was believed he had held talks with Bremen officials.

Real Madrid were the first club to table a bid but their £8m offer was rejected, but after learning of the Spanish giants interest Ozil has his heart set on a move to the Bernabeau.

“When you have such an opportunity like this, then you want to take it,” he said after his side’s 4-0 win over Ahlen in the DFB-Pokal on Saturday.

“It is any footballer’s dream to play for the biggest teams in Europe.”

The attacking midfielder learned of Real’s offer while watching TV and has expressed his disappointment that his club failed to inform him of the bid.

“I was very sad about that,” he said.

“I have said that to (director of sport) Mr (Klaus) Allofs.”

]]> http://football-talk.co.uk/7133/premiership-clubs-left-disappointed-ozil-seeks-madrid-move/feed/ 4 http://football-talk.co.uk/7066/carvalho-en-route-madrid/ http://football-talk.co.uk/7066/carvalho-en-route-madrid/#comments Thu, 12 Aug 2010 08:06:00 +0000 Minal Vachheta http://football-talk.co.uk/?p=7066 More >]]>

Written by Minal Vachheta

Real Madrid are on the brink of signing Ricardo Carvalho from Chelsea. The 32-year-old centre back joined Chelsea from Porto in 2004 for £19.8m when Mourinho was the manager. Carvalho has had a successful run at Chelsea winning three league titles; the FA cup three times, the League cup twice and the Community Shield twice. He has scored 11 goals and made more than 200 appearances for the Blues in the League, Champions League and all other competitions.

Carvalho who worked with Jose at Porto and Chelsea is now joining him once again at Real Madrid. The Spanish giants have agreed a fee of £6.7m with Chelsea and are now awaiting a medical to go through and for personal terms to be agreed between both club and player.

Ricardo is the fifth player to be leaving Stamford Bridge during the summer break after Joe Cole, Michael Ballack, Juliano Belleti and Deco have all departed. The Portuguese international told a Spanish newspaper that it would be a dream come true to play for Mourinho at Real.

“It would be a dream to be able to play for Madrid, which I consider to be the best club in the world, and follow the orders of the best coach in the history of football.”

“With Mourinho I experienced two marvellous stages at Porto and Chelsea. To have the opportunity to win another Champions League with him at Real Madrid would be tremendous

Are Real Madrid strong contenders to win the Champions League this season? Will competition from Barcelona, Manchester United or Arsenal be too much?

Written by Ross Mackiewicz

Chelsea centre-back Ricardo Carvalho is set to end his six year stint in West London as Chelsea agreed his £6.6million sale to Real Madrid.

The 32 year old has been one of the Premier League’s standout defenders since his arrival from Porto in 2004 where he reunited with former boss Jose Mourinho following his appointment to build Roman Abramovich’s empire.

His future had been a subject of debate during the course of the summer following his public declaration of wanting to link up with his compatriot at Madrid for a third time. Both endured unprecedented success together at FC Porto and Chelsea before Mourinho departed The Blues in September 2007. Now the Portuguese defender is set to get his wish of one last hurrah with ‘the special one’ as the Double winners released a statement confirming his departure.

“Chelsea Football Club can confirm it has agreed terms with Real Madrid for the transfer of Ricardo Carvalho.

“The transfer is subject to a medical and the player agreeing personal terms.

“Chelsea would like to thank Riccy for his six years of service, and we wish him well in his future career.”

Madrid also released a statement on their official web-site confirming the news. Carvalho made 210 appearances for Chelsea where he won a hat-trick of Premier League titles and FA Cups. He also won two League Cups and two Community Shields.

His sheer dedication and outstanding defensive ability worked in conjunction brilliantly. His tireless work ethic never went unnoticed by his peers as he picked up the ‘Chelsea player’s player of the year in 2008.’ The club’s support held ‘Riccy’ in high esteem and will wish him all the best in the Spanish capital.

Written by Football Talk.

It looks like Manchester United and Chelsea have missed out on Germany midfielder Mesut Ozil after reports in Spain claim that Barcelona have struck a deal to sign the talented 21-year-old.

Rumours were rife that United were closing in on Ozil after Sir Alex Ferguson was spotted at Craven Cottage watching him play for his club Werder Bremen against Fulham at the weekend. Chelsea’s name was quickly thrown into the ring with reports last night suggesting they were the new front-runners but now it seems both Premier League giants have been gazumped by Barca.

Spanish publication Sport claims Barcelona have sealed a deal with Bremen for the signature of Ozil after missing out on Arsenal’s Cesc Fabregas. The report claims a fee has been agreed in the region of £10-£11m and all that’s left is for the deal to be formally ratified.

It is no secret that Barca wanted to sign Fabregas this summer but after Arsenal’s refusal to do business, Pep Guardiola has turned his attention to Ozil and the deal could be announced in the next 24-48 hours.

Written by Football Talk.

Chelsea will allow Ashley Cole to join Real Madrid as long as they can secure the signing of Fabio Coentrao as his replacement, according to the Mirror.

The report claims that Cole has his heart set on a move to Madrid and has been begging Carlo Ancelotti to let him leave Stamford Bridge. Apparently Chelsea have decided to allow Cole to move on and have began talks with Benfica about Coentrao who was a star performer for Portugal during the World Cup and would cost the blues around £16m.

Real Madrid are poised to offer £25m for Cole after Jose Mourinho made it clear he was his number 1 transfer target this summer, and although Chelsea have tried to persuade the full-back to stay in London, Cole wants to get away from England and link-up with Mourinho once again.

Reports in Portugal are also claiming that Chelsea are in talks with Benfica about David Luiz, who they see as a potential replacement for want-away centre-back Ricardo Carvalho who also wants a move to Real Madrid.

Written by Football Talk.

Chelsea have agreed a fee with Benfica for midfielder Ramires, according to Sky Sports News sources.

The premier league champions have been strongly linked with a move for the dynamic utility man with some suggesting he had already completed a medical. But sources at Sky Sports have now claimed a fee has been agreed between the two clubs in the region of £17-£18m.

The formalities of the transfer should be concluded in the coming days.

Written by Ross Mackiewicz.

Brazilian international Ramires is edging ever closer to his move to Chelsea. The Benfica ace has been heavily linked with a number of clubs since the conclusion of his debut season for the Portuguese giants where they captured the domestic league championship.

Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed that he is anticipating a deal to be concluded for the 23 year old but insists that nothing is set in stone as yet.

“I will speak about Ramires when Ramires will be a Chelsea player.” Ancelotti told Sky Sports News.

“Until now, he is not a Chelsea player. We hope, but until now nothing is decided.”

The domestic double winners are looking to bolster their squad after the departure of Michael Ballack and see Ramires as a readymade replacement. He figured four times for his country in South Africa’s World Cup and picked up two yellow cards.

It is believed that the deal to take the Brazilian to Stamford Bridge is around £17million. A potential stumbling block however is that he is owned 50% by a third party. Due to Premier League rules, all twenty football clubs in England’s top flight must have sole ownership of their players.

Benfica’s president  Luis Filipe Vieira reiterated the decision over a deal doesn’t solely rely on the football club:

“Ramires staying doesn’t depend solely on us. There is a partnership and we must respect that. If there is a good proposal, we will do everything we can to make it work for us. We are prepared for everything and have options to fill all the positions to make sure we strengthen.” said Vieira.

What do you think of the potential move? Is Ramires ready for the step-up to the English champions? Let us know.

Written by Football Talk.

Ajax have slapped a £20m price tag on the head of Gregory van der Wiel, amid reported interest from Chelsea, according to the Sun.

The premier league champions are the latest team to be linked with the defender, who was part of the Dutch side that reached the World Cup Final in South Africa this summer. Previously Arsenal were credited with interest before a potential move to German outfit Bayern Munich broke down.

Van der Wiel is usually deployed at right-back but can also play in a more central position and this versatility is attractive to Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti who is looking to bolster his defensive options ahead of the new season.

But it remains to be seen whether the Blues will be willing to meet the valuation Ajax have for the 22-year-old, although there may be room for maneuver as Ajax manager Martin Jol has been told he must sell before he can buy and Van der Wiel is an asset the Dutch club are willing to sacrifice.

Written by Football Talk.

Here is a round-up of all the latest transfer news doing the rounds in today’s papers. Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Man Utd and Tottenham all feature as they try and finalise their squads ahead of the new season.

Young Liverpool Move Collapses

Luke Young’s move from Aston Villa to Liverpool has collapsed, according to the Sun. A deal looked almost certain after the two clubs agreed a cut-price £2.5m fee, and the 31 year-old full-back remained in England as the Villa squad flew out to Portugal to continue their pre-season preparations. But Young and Liverpool boss Roy Hodgson couldn’t strike a deal and the transfer now looks dead.

Tottenham To Make £4m Bellamy Bid

The Daily Mail claims that Tottenham will table a £4m bid for Manchester City striker Craig Bellamy. Harry Redknapp is a known admirer of the Welshman’s and is keen to add to his strikeforce ahead of next season, and with Manchester City having to offload around 10 players to meet the new 25-man Premier League squad rules, wheeler-dealer Harry smells a bargain.

United Keen To Land Next Schmeichel

Manchester United are reportedly looking to strike a deal for goalkeeper Anders Lindegaard, according to Sky Sports News. Lindegaard currently plays for Norweigen side Aalesunds and has been in fine form, prompting some to name him the next Peter Schmeichal. The 26-year-old is expected to move on to bigger and better things soon and United are believed to see him as a long-term successor to Edwin Van der Sar.

Schwarzer Still Gunners No.1 Target

Fulham goalkeeper is still Arsenal’s main target, despite rumours the Gunners had turned their attention to other players. Several sources claim Arsene Wenger will make a move for Caliari’s Federico Marchetti, while others suggest a move for Ajax’s Maarten Stekelenburg could be on the cards. But the news today is that the Gunners still want to strike a deal for Schwarzer and are prepared to go as high as £3m to get their man.

Chelsea Close-In on Ramires

Chelsea are believed to be close to wrapping-up the signing of Benfica midfielder Ramires in a £17m deal, according to the Daily Star. Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti is keen for the deal to be concluded before his squad fly out to Germany on Saturday as part of their pre-season tour and officials are doing all they can to make it happen.

So there is your latest dose of transfer rumours. Please take them all with a pinch of salt and remember it’s just speculation at this point!

Written by Football Talk.

Chelsea have suffered a set-back in their pursuit of defender David Luiz after Benfica told the premier league champions they must pay £33m to secure his signature, according to a report in the The Daily Mail.

Luiz is the man Carlo Ancelotti has identified as the player to solve his defensive headache, after it emerged that Ricardo Carvalho want’s to leave Stamford Bridge this summer and Brazilian Alex will miss the start of the season through injury.

Chelsea are believed to be ready to bid up to £27m to secure the player, amid interest from both Real Madrid and Manchester City. But Benfica are determined not to lose their man without a fight and have slapped a £33m price-tag on one of the most highly-rated young defenders in Europe.

Written by Football Talk.

Chelsea are closing in on the signing of Benfica midfielder Ramires and hope to complete a £16.8m deal when he returns to Lisbon this week, according to the Guardian. Ramires will talk the proposed transfer over with Benfica directors which is also expected to include performance-related bonuses.

Although a deal is thought to be close, Benfica would like to discuss Chelsea including players as part-exchange. Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti has seen his midfield options dwindle this summer after Joe Cole and Michael Ballack left the club, Deco is expected to return to Brazil shortly, while utility player Juliano Belletti has also been released. So far Yossi Benayoun has been the only addition so Ancelotti is keen to bolster his squad as soon as possible.

Brazil midfielder Ramires, 23, is versitile and competitive and should fit in well with the physical nature of the premier league. Benfica would like any deal finalised quickly so they have time to find a replacement.

Written by Football Talk.

Real Madrid midfielder Rafael Van der Vaart has claimed that he would find it ‘impossible to turn down’ the offer of first team football from either Chelsea or Liverpool, and describing reported interest from the Premiership duo as ‘very flattering’.

The Dutch playmaker has been linked with a move away from the Bernabeau for over two years now, with the likes of Arsenal, Tottenham and Manchester United all credited with interest in the past. However, more recent reports have linked Chelsea and Liverpool with moves for the 27-year-old and Van der Vaart has hinted now may be the time for a move in order to secure first team football, something that he has failed to find at Madrid.

Van der Vaart has pledged not to play for another Spanish club, so a move to the Premier League could be on the cards and the player has opened the doors to either Chelsea or Liverpool should they offer him first team opportunities.

Van der Vaart told the Daily Star Sunday: “I have heard of the interest from Liverpool and Chelsea – and that is very flattering,”

“If either of them were willing to offer me first-team football, I will be honest that it would be very hard for me to not listen to what they had to say.

“I think I have the relationship with Madrid where they understand my position and would let me hold talks.

“I expect the majority of transfers to be concluded in the next two weeks, and if Chelsea or Liverpool wanted to talk with me I would at the very least listen to what they have to say.

“They are both giants, and if they could offer first-team football it may prove impossible to turn down.

“I wouldn’t be willing to play for any clubs in Spain out of respect for Madrid, so in my eyes the only other place to go would be the Premier League.

“It’s the only league that competes with the standard of La Liga.”

Written by Football Talk.

Chelsea have been linked with a £20m move for Benfica and Brazil midfielder Ramires, according the the Daily Mail. The Blues are hoping to tie-up a quick deal for the 23-year-old to head off interest from Bayern Munich and Barcelona.

Ramires enjoyed an impressive first season with Benfica, winning a league and cup double, and earned himself a surprise call-up to the Brazilian World Cup squad after his dogged displays and tireless work ethic caught Dunga’s eye.

Chelsea made initial enquiries about him before the World Cup and have apparently followed up with a firm offer. Ramires claims he is aware of interest and it would be a ‘dream’ to play for a club like Chelsea:

Ramires said: ‘My agent has told me that a number of clubs are interested in signing me. We all know that the World Cup is the perfect stage to prove your worth. It would be a dream for me to play for a big club such as Barcelona, Real Madrid or Chelsea.’

Carlo Ancelotti is desperate to strengthen his midfield after losing Joe Cole, Deco and Michael Ballack over the summer. His only addition so far has been Yossi Benayoun and Ramires would provide the Italian with options as he can play in various positions, although he was predominantly a right-sided midfielder for Benfica last season.

It remains to be seen if these reports have any substance, but as always, take transfer rumours with a pinch of salt as they can be hazardous to your health!

See more Chelsea news here

Written by Ryan Kane.

On Tuesday last Sky Sports reported that Manchester City were planning a £20 million bid for Didier Drogba. A Chelsea spokesman has since claimed that the hype surrounding the striker is “irrelevant” after stating that he was “not for sale”. Who knows what to believe.

As yet another transfer tale unfolds we are left to sift through the tittle-tattle, separating what we believe to be genuine news from the plentiful supply of fabricated rubbish. Didier Drogba has been Chelsea’s goal scoring hero for the last six years and for many “Blues” fans keeping him at Stamford Bridge goes down as an absolute must. His outstanding speed, strength and power makes him one of the world’s greatest strikers. With this label comes an understandable interest from Europe’s élite. Real Madrid, Barcelona, Inter Milan and the likes – You can’t blame them, who wouldn’t want Didier Drogba in their side.

Albeit this summer the interest comes from an ostensibly new face at the billionaire transfer checkout, Manchester City. The oodles of cash being pumped into Eastland’s has bolstered City to new heights. Already linked with an audacious move for Inter Milan striker Mario Balotelli, Roberto Mancini will add further names to his transfer market shopping basket before the new season starts. The Italian has already delved into his supposedly infinite transfer kitty following the signings of David Silva and Toure. Ivory Coast midfielder Yaya Toure linked up with brother Kolo at City in June following his apparent £28m move from Barcelona, fans will hope the duo can now persuade international teammate Drogba to join them at Eastland’s.

Drogba’s agent, Thierno Seydi, has recently claimed that a move to Manchester City was a possibility. The cash-strapped club will be expected to fork out in the region of £20 million for the 32-year old striker. Bargain if you ask me. Given the choice between Didier and David Villa, who Barcelona paid a staggering £34.2 for in May, I would gladly choose Drogba. Yes, even despite the Spaniards outstanding World Cup campaign! The reason simply being that Drogba’s goal scoring record speaks for itself, a monstrous 131 goals since his move to Stamford Bridge in 2004. The ex-Marseille man has played an instrumental part in the club’s success over the past six years. The three time Premier League winner was crowned Chelsea 2010 Player of the Year in May – No surprises there, even in spite of Drogba’s questionable 2009/10 form.

Didier Drogba is a Premier League prodigy who seemingly City will do anything to get their hands on. However it will clearly take something special to prise him away from Stamford Bridge, after all Chelsea are the best team in the country, aren’t they?

See more Chelsea news here

By Ross Mackiewicz.

Santos has rejected a £15million bid from domestic double winners Chelsea for their highly talented teenage star Neymar.

The 18 year old Brazilian is one of world footballs most sort after youngsters after netting 27 goals in just 29 appearances for ‘The Peixe’ since the turn of the year. A staggering return from such a novice to the professional game.

London rivals West Ham United also expressed their interest in the wonder kid last month and firmed it up with a concrete offer of £12million which was subsequently rejected.  It is believed that the Brazilian club is haggling for an offer within the region of £20million despite him having a release clause which can be triggered with a £29.6million offer.

Santos released a statement thanking the English champions for their interest but they have no intention of entering negotiations. The statement read:

“Late on Tuesday morning, Santos FC received an official offer from Chelsea for the economic rights of Neymar.”

“President Luis Alvaro de Oliveira Ribeiro has sent a response to the English club thanking them for their interest and reiterating the fact that Santos FC have no interest in opening negotiations.”

Interestingly Manchester City have first refusal on Neymar after negotiating the clause in Robinho’s loan to the Brazilian outfit back in January. City if they wish can match any accepted bids as well as having the option to trade Robinho in a permanent swap.

Neymar is also partly-owned by an investment group who would have to relinquish their share on him to abide by the Premier League’s rules of clubs having sole ownership of their players. This rule was implemented following Carlos Tevez’s and Javier Mascherano’s arrival to English shores four years ago thanks to Media Sports Investments.

More Chelsea transfer news here

By Football Talk.

Manchester City have moved to deny speculation linking them with a £20m move for Chelsea striker Didier Drogba.

Reports this morning claimed that City were in discussions about a spectacular move for the Ivorian with Drogba’s agent naming the Manchester outfit as the only club he had held direct discussions with.

“Didier has always said he dreams of finishing his career at Marseille but, between his dreams and reality, there is a gap,” Seydi told Radio Monte Carlo. “What is certain is that, for now, he is very happy at Chelsea.”

Asked if he had received a lot of offers, he replied: “Strangely, that is not the case. There are only two or three clubs that could interest Didier. We speak about Marseille a lot because they are in his heart. If Marseille want Didier, maybe they can call me, but nobody has done yet.”

“Today he’s at Chelsea. Maybe there will be surprises before August 31. The only contact I’ve had directly was with City, but getting Drogba out of Chelsea is not an easy task because he has all the conditions he needs to flourish there.

“At his age, I can no longer hide the financial aspect. The club that want Didier will have to meet the price.”

But Manchester City have moved to deny their interest and director of communications Vicky Kloss told The Times:

“We can categorically state we have no interest in signing Didier Drogba and any suggestion of an approach is entirely without foundation.”

See more Chelsea transfer news here

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By Football Talk.

Premier League clubs have been alerted by the news that Werder Bremen are prepared to listen to offers for World Cup sensation Mesut Ozil. Arsenal, Chelsea, Tottenham and Manchester United have all been linked with a move for the German playmaker in recent weeks, with bids in the region of £20m being suggested after he put in some eye-catching performances at the World Cup.

Ozil has only 12 months remaining on his current Bremen deal and it was thought he would stay and see out the final year before leaving on a free next summer. But now Werder Bremen general manager Klaus Allofs has admitted the Bundesliga club will listen to any offers that come in for Ozil.

He said: ‘I can already think that we will have offers in the next few weeks or just before the transfer deadline from a number of clubs.

‘If something concrete comes, we have a duty to talk to Mesut and his advisors and to see what they want. We will not change our policy. We cannot afford it.’

Allofs confirmed the club had met with Ozil to discuss extending his contract, but no deal could be struck between the two parties.

‘We had arranged a meeting with Mesut, however we found no solution during our discussions.

‘We presented our our options, but the issue was not brought to an end.’

]]> http://football-talk.co.uk/6443/transfer-talk-bremen-admit-20m-ozil-is-available/feed/ 8 http://football-talk.co.uk/6328/lukaku-set-to-snub-chelsea-switch/ http://football-talk.co.uk/6328/lukaku-set-to-snub-chelsea-switch/#comments Thu, 15 Jul 2010 08:10:40 +0000 Ashley Mann http://football-talk.co.uk/?p=6328 More >]]>

By Ashley Mann

Belgian wonderkid Romelu Lukaku has been stongly tipped to join the Ancelotti revolution at Stamford bridge this Summer, since it emerged that Didier Drogba had called the Anderlecht teenager earlier this week. Drogba told Dutch magazine Voetball,

“Yes, I called him,

“I received his phone number from Vincent Kompany. ‘You should sign for Chelsea,’ I told him.”

What FIFA will make of Drogba’s comments in light of Chelsea’s recently overturned transfer ban, imposed originally due to the ‘tapping up’ of french winger Gael Kakuta, remains to be seen. Any chance of a transfer, however, has seemingly been scuppered by Lukaku’s father Roger, who is also his agent. At least for now.

He has stated that 17 year old Lukaku will stay at the Constant Vanden Stock Stadion until he is 18, by which time he will have completed his final school exams, a stance revealed by Anderlecht’s General Manager Herman Van Holsbeech,

“‘We have a very good relationship with Romelu’s father, and he is as keen as we are for him to finish his schooling here,

“He has another year to go, and that is another reason why we have no intention of selling him this summer. All parties agree it is in his best interests to continue as an Anderlecht player next season.”

A move to Chelsea must have been tempting; Lukaku’s father had reportedly been offered ‘help settling in the area’ and employment, and Lukaku himself the chance of playing alongside his idol Drogba in a title winning side, in addition to a considerable financial package. Lukaku is also known to be a Chelsea fan, having been pictured wearing the clubs strip in the Chelsea conference room.

Nonetheless, it now seems that any transfer will have to wait another 12 months, by which time 6ft 4in Lukaku will have spearheaded Anderlecht’s Champions League campaign and potentially added millions of pounds to an already hefty £10m price tag.

Chelsea fans, would you like to see Lukaku in blue? Will he be the man to replace Didier Drogba? Let us know in the comments.

By Football Talk.

Real Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas believes the signs ‘look good’ that Chelsea’s Ashley Cole will join him at the Bernabeu this summer. Cole has been heavily linked with a £30m move to Real after former Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho took over at Madrid, and according to the clubs captain the move could go through in the coming weeks.

“From what I am hearing the signs look good,” Casillas is quoted by The Sun.

“I have only briefly spoken to people at the club, but I am confident that he can be a Real Madrid player next year.

“I think it will be the right move for him both professionally and personally.”

Chelsea are determined to keep hold of Cole but Casillas is confident that the chance to work under former coach Mourinho will persuade the full-back to join Real, while taking the time to praise Cole calling him the best left-back in the world.

He added: “A clean break from England is hopefully something he is very interested in.

“It will be his last big contract and who better to sign for than his old coach Mourinho at Real. He will know better than anybody this club will be successful under Jose.

“Jose has proved he buys players and makes them the very best in the world in their position.

“With Ashley he doesn’t need to do that because he’s already the best left-back in the world. Jose knows all about him and it comes as no surprise to me he is very much on Madrid’s radar.”

By Ross Mackiewicz.

Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti believes that Mario Balotelli would be ideal for Manchester United. The 19 year old Inter Milan star has been linked with United’s local rivals Manchester City for the past few weeks after Roberto Mancini publically expressed his admiration for the talented youngster. However it has now emerged that The Red Devils are also in the hunt according to Balotelli’s agent.

Ancelotti who managed AC Milan countless times against The Nerazzurri during his time in Italy is a keen admirer himself of the gifted Italian. He believes that his abilities may excel more so in The Premier League than they currently do in Serie A.

“They (United) are a team with great tradition, which helps that type of player. Here, the environment is different and I think a player with his character could find it better than in Italy.” He told SkySport24.

“It’s difficult to find a player so young with his quality, and England has a lack of players at that level.”

The Chelsea boss was also asked if he would like to coach Balotelli where he responded by saying “Yes.” Surely this will now spark whispers of a potential move to Stamford Bridge.

Known as “Super Mario” by his peers, Balotelli has endured an indifferent rein at the San Siro where his personality seemed to constantly clash with former coach Jose Mourinho. This also sparked unrest within the Inter camp as Captain Javier Zanetti along with Marco Materrazzi publically criticised the Under-21 international for his lack of professionalism.

He has netted 28 goals in 86 appearances for the Italian giant’s as well as contributing with 14 assists.

By Football Talk.

Germany World Cup star Mesut Ozil is set to disappoint several Premier League clubs after doing a u-turn on his future and will now stay at Werder Bremen and see out the remaining year of his contract.

Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United have all been linked with the 21-year-old creative midfielder in recent weeks with bids of £20m being lined up. The player was quoted last week as describing Chelsea and United as the type of team he would like to play for. It seemed certain Ozil would leave Bremen after he made it clear he had no intention of signing a contract extension but now both parties are happy for him to run down his contract which expires in 2011.

“Bremen want me to fulfill my contract and so do I,” Ozil told the Bild. “I have always said that I want to fulfill my contract, for me that is the natural thing to do.”

]]> http://football-talk.co.uk/6200/ozil-rejects-premiership-giants-to-stay-in-germany/feed/ 3 http://football-talk.co.uk/6156/united-look-to-beat-rivals-to-25m-mesut-oezil/ http://football-talk.co.uk/6156/united-look-to-beat-rivals-to-25m-mesut-oezil/#comments Fri, 09 Jul 2010 08:50:16 +0000 Football Talk http://football-talk.co.uk/?p=6156 More >]]>

By Football Talk.

Manchester United are lining up a £25m offer for Werder Bremen midfielder Mesut Oezil, according to The Daily Express. Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham are also said to be interested in Oezil, but it seems United will strike first in an attempt to snap-up the highly rated youngster.

United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is keen to add some creative flair to his midfield and Oezil would fit the bill perfectly as well as be a long-term replacement for the ageing Paul Scholes and Ryan Giggs.

Fergie will make his move after being knocked back it his attempt to sign Wesley Sneijder from Inter Milan, after the Dutchman stated yesterday he would remain at the San Siro next season. United have now set their sights on Germany’s creative star who was a key member of the team that reached the World Cup semi-final in South Africa.

Werder Bremen have come to terms that they will lose Oezil this summer as he has only one year remaining on his current deal and is refusing to sign an extension, meaning the club would lose him for nothing next summer. The player himself has expressed his desire to play in the premier league and named United as well as Chelsea as clubs he would like to play for.

Please remember, Football-Talk did not create this story, we are simply passing on the information. Don’t shoot the messenger!

See more United transfer news here

By Football Talk.

Manchester City are preparing an audacious £20m bid for Chelsea striker Didier Drogba, according to The Sun. Roberto Mancini has been a long-term admirer of the Ivorian hitman and is keen to add to his strike-force despite having Carlos Tevez, Emmanuelle Adebayor, Roque Santa Cruz, Craig Bellamay and Robinho at his disposal.

City are willing to offer Drogba a three-year deal worth £18m and The Sun claim to have a ’source’ who says the 32-year-old may consider City’s offer due to his age;

“Chelsea will have to decide whether they want him to stay. City’s offer will be tempting considering Didier’s age.”

Drogba was the premier league’s top scorer last season winning the Golden Boot with 29 goals helping Chelsea to a league and FA Cup double. He has 2 years left on his current deal at Stamford Bridge but if Carlo Ancelotti does decide now is the time to cash-in on Drogba then they would up their pursuit of Liverpool’s Fernando Torres.

Please remember, Football-Talk did not create this story, we are simply passing on the information. Don’t shoot the messenger!

See more Chelsea tranfer news here

By Football Talk.

Bayern Munich have sent a clear message to any clubs thinking of trying to snap up their World Cup stars, telling any potential suitors they are not interested in selling. Both Manchester United and Chelsea have been linked with moves for some of Germany’s World Cup stars, particularly Bastian Schweinsteiger who has been hugely impressive in midfield.

Phillipp Lahm and Thomas Muller have also been stand out performers in a German team that will play Spain in tonight’s World Cup Semi Final. However, Bayern are determined to keep hold of their prized assets and sporting director Karl-Heinz Rummenigge told Sportinformationsdienst:

“Whoever is thinking of Schweinsteiger, Lahm or Muller can forget about calling us.”

“We already said after the final of the Champions League that we weren’t going to let anybody leave, and we have shown that with Ribery.”

By Football Talk.

Chelsea’s pursuit of Fernando Torres has filled the back pages today, with Soccernet claiming to have a ’source’ that tells them Roman Abramovich has flown out to South Africa to try and complete a deal, while the Daily Mail believes Chelsea have tabled an opening bid of £40m for the Spanish striker. Either way, it’s not encouraging reading for the Anfield faithful.

Roman Flies to South Africa for Torres

Soccernet claim to have a well-placed source who says Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich has flown to South Africa in a bid to push through a deal to sign Fernando Torres from Liverpool, with the Russian willing to pay up to £55m to get his man.

Liverpool value Torres at nearer £70m and new manager Roy Hodgson is currently evaluating the futures of several big-name stars at Anfield. The player is focusing on the World Cup with a Semi-Final to look forward to on Wednesday, but with the tournament drawing to a close, Soccernet believes talks are already underway. Their source said:

“Abramovich has authorised the bid of £50 million, and he’s not expected to go much higher than that … [but] I would think he might go to £55 million.”Without any other creditable bidder, he sees no reason to go any higher. It’s quite clear that Liverpool could get more from Manchester City, and the player could earn more from Manchester City, but the player doesn’t want to go there. He wants Champions League football and the chance to win the major honours which he can do at Chelsea.”

Chelsea submit £40m Torres bid

However, the Daily Mail claim that Chelsea have already tabled their opening bid for Torres, believed to be £40m. Liverpool are likely to demand far more for their star man but Roman Abramovich is willing to back Carlo Ancelotti to land his top target, and would pay anything up to £70m.

New Liverpool boss Roy Hodgson has already admitted he can not guarentee either Torres or Gerrard will remain at Anfield this summer and due to their financial state, Liverpool would find it hard to resist a substantial offer from Chelsea for Torres.

]]> http://football-talk.co.uk/6061/transfer-talk-chelsea-table-40m-torres-bid/feed/ 3 http://football-talk.co.uk/6042/fernando-torres-set-for-the-exit-door-as-his-agent-questions-his-future/ http://football-talk.co.uk/6042/fernando-torres-set-for-the-exit-door-as-his-agent-questions-his-future/#comments Mon, 05 Jul 2010 07:50:00 +0000 Ross Mackiewicz http://football-talk.co.uk/?p=6042 More >]]>

By Ross Mackiewicz.

Fernando Torres’s future at Anfield looks in doubt after his agent admitted that it is more than likely that the Spaniard will be seeking pastures new. The Liverpool front man who has endured a torrid World Cup on a personal level during Spain’s quest to the last four has been the subject of speculation for the past six months due to his clubs crippling debts.

As Roy Hodgson marked his arrival as the Merseyside’s new manager this week it seemed as if some of the doom and gloom that has harrowed the club for the past ten months was beginning to shift as the clubs loyal faithful begin to grasp at a new dawn under the former Inter Milan coach. Torres himself publically stated that he was delighted with the appointment and announced he will be seeking a chat with his new boss after the World Cup. However his agent Jose Antonio Martin has thrown a spanner into the works by suggesting that his client may be on the move to another Premier League outfit.

“It is very likely that Fernando Torres will stay in the Premier League, but I cannot say that it will be with Liverpool.” said Martin.

“We are working on his future but right now you cannot guarantee that he will stay with the English club.”

Martin also went onto to say that there is no chance of the 26 year old reuniting with his international striker partner David Villa at the Nou Camp. Villa signed for Barcelona prior to the finals in South Africa from Valencia for just over £27million and has been in scintillating form for his country thus far unlike his team mate who has failed to find the net as well as offering little influence during his playing time.

Chelsea and Manchester City have been heavily linked with big money moves for the former Atletico Madrid man and are the only two premier league club who could realistically afford his transfer fee. Liverpool’s chairman Martin Broughton revealed during Hodgson’s inaugural media conference last week  that Torres would not be sold along with club captain Steven Gerrard. However with the clubs debts in such a catastrophic state it will be interesting to see what the owners stance will be if a huge offer is indeed to arrive from one of their rivals.

By Football Talk.

Germany star Mesut Ozil has revealed he would be keen on a move to either Manchester United or Chelsea this summer. With only one year remaining on his Werder Bremen contract, he could be snapped up for a bargain price of £15m and the play-maker has made it clear he would be open to a switch to the premier league, but will concentrate on the World Cup before deciding on his future.

“The World Cup is all that matters at the moment,” he told the Sun. “When I get back we can think about my future, but for now it’s not something I want to give a lot of thought to. To the top players, the Premier League is attractive.

“You look at what Manchester United and Chelsea have achieved over the last five years and you see it would be easy to be successful at two clubs like that. I see what Michael Ballack achieved at Chelsea and the quality of players he played with and the temptation becomes obvious.

“Trophies are what matters to me. There are two teams in England always at the top and of course that’s attractive, but the same is true for La Liga. They’re the strongest leagues in the world.”

Ozil has been one of the stand-out players at the World Cup so far and has been linked with a move to several of Europe’s elite, including Premier League trio Arsenal, Chelsea, and Manchester United. But it seems Ozil’s comments have ruled out a move to the Emirates leaving Chelsea and United to do battle for his signature.

By Football Talk.

Joe Cole’s agent has denied his client is bound for Italy and hinted that his likely destination will be either Arsenal or Tottenham. Speculation today suggested Cole could be on the verge of joining AC Milan but speaking to ESPN Soccernet, Cole’s agent David Giess says a move away from England was “pure speculation” and claims champions league football is still of vital importance to his client.

“Football is the most important thing to Joe and continuing to play in the Champions League is high on his priorities.”

Given that Cole has just been released by premier league champions Chelsea, and Manchester United appeared to withdraw from the race last week, it leaves only Arsenal and Tottenham able to offer Cole champions league football.

Several media reports have also suggested that Cole and his wife Carly are keen to remain in London to keep their new baby near their families, so everything now points to a head-to-head battle between North London rivals Arsenal and Tottenham for Cole’s signature. Cole and his family are away on holiday leaving David Giess to negotiate transfer dealings.

By Football Talk.

The Premier League’s ‘top-four’ look set to miss out on Danish defender Simon Kjaer after Palermo’s director of football Walter Sabatini claimed Steve McClaren’s Wolfsburg is his most likely destination.

The 21-year-old has been linked with several premier league clubs including Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United in recent weeks, but it was Tottenham who were thought to be closing in on a deal after claims of a £29m double bid for Kjaer and Cavani surfaced only days ago. Those reports were quickly denied by Spurs, but their interest in the pair remained as Harry Redknapp looked to bolster his squad ahead of next season.

But it now seems that the Bundesliga outfit Wolfsburg, managed by ex-England manager Steve McClaren, are set to beat the Premiership clubs to Kjaer’s signature.

Sabatini told reterete 24: “For Simon Kjaer there could well be a real deal. I believe that Wolfburg will be his likely destination.”

By Football Talk.

Manchester City have made the first major transfer move of the summer after agreeing a deal to sign Valencia winger David Silva. The transfer fee has not been finalised but will be in the region of £25m and Silva will sign a 4-year-deal and complete a medical when he returns from South Africa.

This is something of a coup for City as many of the top clubs in Europe have been linked with the talented winger. Manchester rivals United have been long-term admirers, while both Arsenal and Chelsea have been credited with interest in recent weeks. But City have snapped him up as they look to strengthen their squad after narrowly missing out on Champions League football next season.

Speaking to the clubs official website, Silva thanked Valencia after enjoying 6 years their and expressed his delight at coming to England and challenging for trophies at City.

“Firstly I would like to thank Valencia as a club and all of their loyal fans, and my team-mates there and staff,” Silva told City’s official website.

“I have enjoyed six years at Valencia, they discovered me as a footballer and they will always be a special club for me.

“The time is right for me to seek a new challenge, and I am thrilled about playing in England with Manchester City.

“I believe the Premier League is one of the best competitions in the world and I want to bring success to City and win trophies for them.

“There has been a lot of speculation about me in the British and Spanish media, and I need to fully concentrate on playing for Spain in the World Cup.

“That is why my advisors have been dealing with City for me so that I can have my attentions only on South Africa and playing well for my national team.”

Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini was delighted to announce Silva’s signing and backed him to make an immediate impact next season.

He said: “I think that David Silva is one of the best midfielders in Europe, and I hope he will be a very important player for Manchester City.

“I am so pleased he is coming to us, I think he can make a big, big impact for Manchester City.

“In signing David, we are showing the World that we are bringing the best players here and that we hope to compete to win the Premier League.

“When players see what is happening at Manchester City and the ambition they are attracted to what we are building and want to be a part of it.

“I hope he does very well for Spain in the World Cup and then joins us for our pre-season, ready to compete in the Premier League.

“I am very excited about seeing him playing for Manchester City.”

There is no doubt Silva’s signing will be seen as a sign of intent from City, who are also believed to be close to capturing Yaya Toure from Barcelona, another player who has been linked with moves to Arsenal and Chelsea.

By Football Talk.

Chelsea are trying to hijack Manchester City’s move for Valencia winger David Silva, according to the players agent. City have been given permission to speak with the 24-year-old after agreeing a fee believed to be in the region of £28m with Valencia. But Chelsea are one of three clubs who have also submitted offers for the Spanish international, as they look to scupper City’s move for the highly rated winger.

Silva’s agent, Julio Llorente, has named Chelsea as one of the interested parties and hinted that if his client didn’t want to go to City then a move to Stamford Bridge could be on the cards.

“We’re weighing up offers from three clubs and one is Chelsea,” Llorente told the Daily Mail.

“If Silva doesn’t want to go to City, the transfer isn’t possible.”

These latest developments may alert fellow premiership big-boys Arsenal, Manchester United and Liverpool as all three have been linked with a move for Silva in the past. The Gunners have him down as a potential replacement should Cesc Fabregas leave for Barcelona, but any move for Silva is unlikely until their captains future is sorted out. Manchester United and Liverpool both remain keen but may be put off by his £28m price tag, and won’t want to enter a bidding war with the likes of Chelsea and Manchester City.

By Football Talk.

David Silva has said the Premier League is ‘the place to be’ and has talked up a move to champions Chelsea. The much sought-after Valencia winger is away in South Africa with the Spanish squad, but took time out to discuss his future as reports circulate that he may be leaving Los Che this summer.

Silva has attracted interest from Manchester United, Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester City and Chelsea in recent times and boosted the premiership big-boys with the admission that he would like to play in the Premier League, but took the time to praise the West Londoners.

“Chelsea have established themselves as one of the best clubs in Europe over the last five years. They might not have the history of Real Madrid or AC Milan but they are creating their own history now. There is no reason why in the future Chelsea can’t be as decorated as Real Madrid.

“Chelsea probably have, along with Barcelona, the best squad in football and if any player joins Chelsea he knows he is going to win things.

“In players like John Terry, Frank Lampard and Didier Drogba they have players who would get into any team in the world and it would be a pleasure to play with them.

“There is no doubt in my mind that Chelsea would be a great club to play for – and a club where I could fulfil my ambition of league titles and the European Cup.

“The Premier League is still the place to be, no other league in the world has six or seven Champions League quality teams.”

It is thought that it would take a fee in excess of £25m to secure the services of Silva, who started in Spain’s shock 1-0 defeat to Switzerland in their World Cup opener.

By Fab4.

It seems Arsenal have got one over their local London rivals Chelsea, after it has been revealed that Feyenoord’s highly rated youngster Kyle Ebecilio has chosen to join the Gunners and turned down a move to Stamford Bridge.

The 16-year-old midfielder is available on a free transfer, with only £500,000 in compensation being awarded to Feyenoord, and will leave the club on July 1st after being tracked by a number of clubs in recent months, with Arsenal and Chelsea leading the race.

However, it seems Arsene Wengers record of bringing through young players into the first team has persuaded the Dutch under-17 international to chose Arsenal ahead of their rivals. Feyenoord technical director Leo Beenhakker admitted there was very little he could do to hang on to their starlet with so many big clubs interested in him, and revealed that the player is on his way to Arsenal.

We did what we could do by offering the kid a contract on time,’ he said.’But he wanted to wait, again this is his right. That he now goes to Arsenal means we only get a training allowance.’

This may not be the high-profile signing Arsenal fans have been waiting for, but most Gooners will be happy to beat their rivals to another sought-after youngster.

By Football Talk.

Premier League big-boys Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester United have been alerted by the news that Valencia’s Juan Mata would consider a switch to England should his current club decide to sell him.

Valencia are crippled by mounting debt and have already sold David Villa to Barcelona for £35m, and it’s expected they will be forced into selling further star players to balance the books, with David Silva as well as Juan Mata being touted as possible casualties. In an interview with FourFourTwo, Mata confirmed that the financial situation at the Spanish club is looking pretty bleak:

“I don’t know if I’ll be sold, it depends on the economic situation of the club, which right now isn’t so good. In the summer we have to raise a lot of money, and there is a possibility that they may have to sell players.”

The 22-year-old attacking midfielder has attracted interest from all over Europe after scoring 14 goals in 44 appearances last season for Valencia and would command a fee in excess of £15m. Although he maintains he is happy in Spain, if his current club decided he had to be sold, Mata believes a move to the Premier League could be on the cards, and he stated his admiration for both Arsenal and Liverpool while also comparing Manchester United and Chelsea to La Liga giants Barcelona and Real Madrid:

“In Spain they show many Premier League games on TV and it is an inspirational league. Maybe I would like to play in the Premier League.

At the moment I’m here, I love living in Valencia and playing in the Spanish league, but in England the league is also top class and there are many big teams. Who knows?

I admire Arsenal and the philosophy that the young players have. Liverpool, with their Spanish players – they also have an incredible squad.

And Manchester United and Chelsea are teams that are very big, like Real Madrid and Barcelona, with money and incredible players.”

By Football Talk.

Italy defender Giorgio Chiellini would be interested in joining Manchester United, according to his agent. Chiellini has attracted interest from the likes of Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester City as well as Manchester United in recent weeks, after putting in some impressive displays for Juventus this seasons.

Sir Alex Ferguson is reportedly keen on bringing in the Italian international to strengthen his defence after the Red Devils suffered terribly from injuries last season, with Rio Ferdinand missing large parts through various injuries. To make matters worse, fellow first-choice centre-back Namanja Vidic is rumoured to be considering a move away from Old Trafford this summer.

Reports in recent days have claimed United are set to beat their premier league rivals to the  signature of £25m rated Chiellini and the 25-year-old’s agent Davide Lippi say’s the defender is honoured to be linked with a club like United and that he will discuss the players future after the World Cup.

“United is a club and England is a country of great importance to us. We like them a lot,” Lippi is quoted as saying in The Sun.

“With Giorgio, we’ve decided that during the World Cup we won’t think about the transfer market. But after the World Cup, we will think about everything. He is honoured to be of interest to United.”

Would United fans like to see Chiellini at Old Trafford next season?

By Football Talk.

Germany’s attacking midfielder Mesut Ozil is being tracked by Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester City. The German international is one of the most exciting youngsters in world football and now the Premier League trio will battle it out for his £20m signature.

21-year-old Ozil plays for Werder Bremen after joining them from Schalke two years ago and only has 12 months remaining on his current contract after refusing to accept a new deal from the Bundesliga club. Last year he scored an impressive 10 goals in 38 games and was a key figure in helping Bremen clinch third place and secure Champions League football next season.

Arsenal are keeping a close eye on Ozil and Arsene Wenger sees the talented play-maker as a possible replacement for Cesc Fabregas should he join Barcelona this summer. Manchester City are also interested (shock!), but it’s thought Chelsea are prepared to move quickly for Ozil as they look to replace the departing Deco, Joe Cole and Michael Ballack.

Ozil was intrumental in Germany’s 4-0 demolition of Australia in their opening World Cup match, where he operated in an attacking midfield role just behin the strikers, and is set to be one of the tournaments star players. Interested clubs are keen to act fast and try and secure his signature before his value soars any higher.