Chelsea ‘expect to complete transfer signing of £22m Barcelona winger Pedro next week’

After signing a contract extension with Barcelona earlier in the summer, the  World Cup winner is expected to leave the Nou Camp in this transfer window.

Manchester United had expressed an interest in the securing his signature, but the Daily Star report that Chelsea have won the transfer race and are set to announce the signing as soon as next week.

The Premier League champions are thought to have agreed to meet his release clause and have offered the Spain World Cup winner a four-year contract.

With Liverpool and Juventus also reportedly interested in Pedro, the play-maker has his choice of clubs, but Stamford Bridge is said to be his preferred destination.

Manchester United winger Angel Di Maria ‘has told PSG he will make £50m transfer switch this summer’

The Argentine signed a five-year contract with the Red Devils last summer in a British record £59.7m deal, but struggled to settle in to Premier League football.

He was said to favour a move back to former club Real Madrid, but French outlet Le Parisien claim the 27-year-old has told PSG that he will join the club in this transfer window.

Discussions between the two European heavyweights are believed to be ongoing, with a deal worth around £50m, plus a £200,000-a-week wage bill, close to being agreed.

Is Di Maria world class? Leave your comments below……

Arsenal unevils new away jersey

Arsenal release new gold and navy away strip at Singapore kit launch

 

I am not angry with Henry - Giroud

Olivier Giroud does not want the No 9 shirt but he does want a man-to-man conversation with Thierry Henry.

He insisted a 'top, top quality striker' was required but Arsene Wenger hinted on Tuesday that he was preparing for another season with the same strike-force.

'To be honest, when you are a footballer you don't have to listen to people commenting about your performance,' said Giroud.

'The main thing is not to have any doubt when you miss a chance or miss a game. It can happen sometimes.

'The best thing is to forget about the comments straight away and to keep the head up and not let it affect your qualities

'I know Thierry and I knew what he wanted to mean. If I see him we will have a conversation between two men.

'I'm not angry against him but it's true that I didn't understand at first. I think he reacted about his words and explained them more.

'But it's alright. I'm not going to be upset about that. I'm sleeping well and as long as my family is OK that's the main thing. It doesn't affect me too much.'

Giroud scored 19 for Arsenal last season, despite missing three months with a broken angle

I was jealous of Mourinho

Roberto Mancini admits he was jealous of Jose Mourinho winning the treble with Inter and concedes it was a “daft” decision to rejoin the Serie A club for a second spell.

Despite winning three consecutive league titles in his first stint at San Siro, the Italian was sacked and replaced by Jose Mourinho in the summer of 2008.

The Portuguese subsequently steered the Nerazurri to glory in Serie A, the Coppa Italia and the Champions League during a historic 2009-10 campaign  and Mancini has confessed that Mourinho's success grated with him.

While speaking with Gazzetta TV, Mancini said ; “I didn’t expect to be fired,”

“I read the article in the morning and some doubts emerged in my mind. [Massimo] Moratti called and told me he’d made this decision.

“Did he mention Mourinho? No. I must thank Moratti anyway, because he gave me the opportunity to be the coach of Inter in an important moment of my career.”

When asked about Mourinho, Mancini replied: “I think he’s a good coach. Am I jealous about the treble? That’s a natural emotion, but I believe things happen because they were meant to happen.”

Mancini led Manchester City to their first Premier League title in 44 years in 2012 but was sacked the following season after finishing second.

The 50-year-old then spent a campaign at Galatasaray before agreeing to a surprise return to Inter as Walter Mazzarri’s replacement last November.

“I was waiting for a call from abroad more than a return to Italy,” said Mancini.

“Above all, I never would’ve thought of a return to Inter. People do a lot of daft things in life and I did this, because it seemed unthinkable to go back where you have already won so much.

“It’s true, I thought we’d have a better final result that season, but I still believe this is my only side to have improved so much in five months. 

"It didn’t happen so quickly at Galatasaray, Manchester City or even my first Inter.”

Lampard looking forward to face Gerrard

Frank Lampard is already plotting how to upset former England team-mate Steven Gerrard following his second introduction in New York on Tuesday night.

The Chelsea legend will make his MLS debut on Sunday against Toronto almost 12 months since being initially unveiled as a New York City FC player.

They will meet for the first time on August 23 and Lampard, for one, cannot wait.

'I played against Steven so many times, it’s great that he is in MLS. As soon as I saw that date I penciled it in and I can’t wait,' he said.

'After all those times playing for England with him and against him for Chelsea, I never envisaged this would happen. But I am pleased it has

"Every player has his price" - Koeman on Schneiderlin

United have offered £20million for Schneiderlin and been told to come back with a fee closer to £30m if they are serious about landing the France midfielder.

While speaking to the press, Koeman said; 'every player has his price and we have a good experience of selling players. If there is interest in Morgan Schneiderlin, then okay, but it has to be at a price that the club wants.

He is one of the key players of our team. He is an international player. But I don’t think that is a problem for Man United.'

Koeman said: 'Two weeks ago we had a bid from Manchester United. It wasn’t enough. It wasn’t serious. And no more bids up to today.

'I know the situation. I spoke a lot with Morgan. Last season we said stop all this business with Morgan because we are not selling any more players.

'That was difficult but he came back after a few days with good motivation and he had a great season. But we know the situation. There is a lot of interest in the player.

'With a club like Man United, we know it is difficult to keep the player. If they pay, okay, he can make the transfer. But I hope if there is any business that it’s soon, because that’s best for the player and for us.

'It is important for the player to do a good pre-season. We have to prepare for what we’d have to do if we sell the player. We will see what happens in the next few days.

'I don’t talk about money, about numbers. It’s not my business. It’s up to the club.'

Dzeko agrees Roma switch

According to reports, Edin Dzeko has agreed a four-year contract worth €4.5 million per season with Roma but the Serie A club have not yet met Manchester City’s €25 million valuation.

Balotelli misses pre-season training

Mario Balotelli missed the first day of Liverpool's pre-season training after he was granted compassionate leave following the death of his adoptive father.

The Italy striker was due back at Melwood alongside his team-mates on Monday, but he was allowed extra time off following the sad news, according to the Telegraph.

Balotelli, who grew up in Brescia, northern Italy, was in the care of foster parents from the age of three, and his adoptive father Francesco died at the weekend.
According to reports, the club still expect the former Manchester City forward to be able to join the club on their pre-season tour, which begins at the weekend.

The Reds leave England for the Far East and Australia on Sunday, where they will play four matches, against Thai All Stars, Brisbane Roar, Adelaide United, Malaysia XI. 

Following that, they return to Europe to face HJK Helsinki in Finland on August 1, a week before they make their Premier League bow against Stoke on August 9

Chelsea and Man City to rival Roma over Rahman

Chelsea and Manchester City are expected to make their moves for Augsburg left-back Baba Rahman after Roma opened the bidding.

Roma made an offer totalling £11million on Saturday however the 21-year-old Ghana international is keen to see what the Premier League duo offer as England is his preference.

Chelsea are aware of Roma's offer and will step up their interest this week while City are expected to follow.

Nani completes Fernabache move

Fenerbahce have announced the signing of Nani from Manchester United.

He will be officially presented as a Fenerbahce player at the Sukru Saracoglu Stadium at 16:00BST.

"I'm very happy for being here," Nani told Fenerbahce's official website upon arrival. "I think that there is a big chance to prove myself again. I'll try to do my best to make Fenerbahce fans happy. I hope everything goes well.

"I know Fenerbahce very well. The club's aims have always been high and playing with [Raul] Meireles and Bruno Alves will be exciting. With their help, I'll feel like I'm with my family. I want to be successful with my new team-mates."

“I literally don’t know how I feel'' - Amy Wambach

Wambach, who missed out on a place in the starting XI for the final but came on for the final 10 minutes, said she was always confident her side would win the tournament, but was struggling to come to terms with how "bizarre" the final match was.

“I literally don’t know how I feel,” Wambach told reporters. “It’s a bizarre thing that’s going on right now because of the way it kind of happened.

“I’m just so proud to be on this team and proud to be a part of, in my opinion, what is something really special. It wasn’t just Carli Lloyd who won us this World Cup, although tonight she showed us that she’s a huge reason why we have this World Cup title.

“It’s not easy to not start one of the most decorated goalscorers in the world, but coach Jill Ellis and the staff were confident, as was I, in the players that were starting ahead of me.

“I would never imagine the final would go as wildly, dramatically, smoothly as it just did for us. Seven goals in the final is a little bit outrageous in my opinion, but the first 16 minutes, it seemed surreal, it seemed fake.

"I think I died and this is what my heaven looks like because I could not put together what was going on.”

Wenger targets Higuain

Arsenal are ready to sign Gonzalo Higuain for £42.7million this summer with Napoli ready to cash in, according to reports.

Higuain has been strongly linked with an exit from Napoli all summer, having apparently grown frustrated with life in Italy.

Arsenal are keen on a deal, and while the transfer looked impossible a few weeks ago, Sportmediaset say Napoli are now ready to sell the striker.

It’s claimed that they value him at £66.9m but Arsenal could see the deal for just £42.7m.

Source: Metreo Sports

"I do this every day. This is why I have been at the top level for many, many years''. - Ronaldo

Real Madrid star, Cristiano Ronaldo is known for his physique and the three-time World Footballer of the Year has explained why he had to hit the gym. He said;

"You have to work so hard," the forward stated in a promotional video. "I do this every day. This is why I have been at the top level for many, many years.

"It's not a coincidence. I do so much extra work outside of the pitch.

"When I was younger most people told me: 'Cristiano, you are a very talented player but you are too skinny.'

"So I put it in my mind that my body can improve. With dedication and hard work in the gym I improved a lot on that - at the end of the day it's down to the person's mindset.

"Athleticism also means a huge amount - these small details make a huge difference. So it's very important to do this work and it's going really well for me.

"That's why I'm always in good shape all year round. I do that kind of work because I have to, it's part of me."

Could Ronaldo be heading out of Madrid?

Manchester United have been given a huge boost in the hunt for Cristiano Ronaldo with Real Madrid actively looking to sell him, according to reports.

Ronaldo is facing an uncertain future at Madrid with new manager Rafael Benitez planning to build his team around Gareth Bale – with the Welshman set to take prominence.

United have been linked with a £71.1million deal for Ronaldo, along with French club Paris Saint Germain, and now France Football says Madrid are trying to offload Ronaldo.

Though reports have it that Madrid would prefer to sell to PSG as part of a partnership which could see several players change clubs.

Nigeria sack Keshi

The troubled relationship between the Nigeria Football Federation and their coach Stephen ''big boss'' Keshi has ended with the NFF sacking him because 'he is not committed enough' to the job.

The ''big boss'' has been replaced by Shuaibu Amodu, who was appointed Nigeria's technical director last week.

The statement issued by the NFF said it had reviewed Keshi's 'actions and inactions' and found he lacked 'the required commitment to achieve the federation's objectives as set out in the coach's employment contract'.

It added it had 'decided to exercise its option to summarily terminate the employment contract of Mr. Stephen Keshi with the federation with immediate effect'.

An NFF disciplinary committee headed by Chris Green has been investigating allegations that Keshi applied to coach Ivory Coast while under contract with Nigeria.

Keshi, 53, took over the national side in 2011 and led them to a long-awaited third African title two years later.

Aston Villa signs Idrissa Gueye

According to L’Equipe, the Villans have agreed a fee of around £6.5m for the defensive midfielder, who has signed a four year deal.

Sherwood is looked to strengthen his squad after a poor showing last season, and has already brought Scott Sinclair and Micah Richards to Villa Park on permanent deals.

Galatasaray complete Poldoski move

Galatasaray have signed Lukas Poldoski on a three year deal from Arsenal .

"Galatasaray also made proposals in the past year," Podolski said. "But this year there was more intense interest. My parents wanted me to come here.

"Galatasaray were champions last year. We will play to be champions in the coming years, we're looking to get to the next level.

"I've followed Galatasaray for a long time. I know there's a great atmosphere in the stadium.

"Galatasaray fans have given me so much attention and are excited about me. This is a big factor in my decision-making."

Ryan Babel tips Firmino to succed at Anfield

Former Liverpool star, Ryan Babel has tipped Liverpool's new signing to shine at Anfield this upcoming season.

"He is a tricky player," the Dutchman told the club's official website. "He can dribble, shoot, he has a great shot, he can play a lot of through balls and his assists are very good.

"He is actually also great at heading, which maybe you wouldn't think because he's not that tall, but he's very good at it.

"He's the kind of player that likes the ball at his feet and to do nice things with it, but something he learned in Germany was how to work without the ball and defend. 

"I know how important that is in England, what you do without the ball. It was something he had to learn in Germany.

"I'm very happy for him. He's very talented and now it is down to him. He is the kind of player that can give a lot of joy to Liverpool fans because he's a very skilful player."

Laporta unhappy over Deulofeu sale

Former Barcelona president, Joan Laporta who hopes to take over once more in the upcoming elections, has criticised the club for selling Gerard Deulofeu to Everton.

Everton paid he Spanish giants £4.2m to secure the signature of the young Spainard though they included a buy-back option at the end of the first two years.

While speaking to Liverpool Echo, he said; ''I have a bad feeling about what the interim management board are up to. It is an improper way for an outgoing board to act. I hope they do not continue along this path. They have sold Gerard Deulofeu and now they want to sign players who are worth large amounts. He further stated, it is abnormal that a management board not elected by members do these things. It may upset members''.

Cafu: Brazil have lost their fear factor

Former Brazil defender Cafu believes that his nation are no longer able to strike fear into the hearts of opponents after they bowed out of the Copa America quarter-finals.

Cafu, who won two World Cups and a pair of Copa America titles during a glittering 16-year international career, believes that those chastening defeats have not only negatively affected the players' confidence - but also their standing within the global game .

"[Brazil] are lacking commitment and desire. They lost respect. Due the football we're playing the rivals no longer fear us,” the 45-year-old said at a press conference.

"We went through a transition period but Brazil will be a team that imposes fear again. Those who despise us may be surprised."

The former Roma and AC Milan right-back commended Copa America hosts Chile ahead of their final against Argentina on Saturday, singling playmaker Jorge Valdivia out for special praise while at the same time warning La Roja about conceding chances to Lionel Messi.

"I like [Chile] very much. They are surprising, and reached where no one could imagine,” Cafu added. "Chile's strength is the group, and [Jorge] Valdivia, who is in good form.

"The team knows their virtues and their limits. Today football is globalised, with players acting outside their countries. So there is an exchange of information, and this competition has shown that. 

"To monitor Messi is almost impossible today. But Chile will not easily accept a defeat, even more playing here [at home]. They are in very good form, even more consistent than Argentina, who have a differential, that little piece called Messi.

"But it's the final and anything could happen. A free kick, a bad pass or a penalty can define the game."

Source: Goal

Lebron James shows his support for Liverpool midfielder

Get ready to see Jordan Henderson's face on your copy of FIFA 16 when it's released later this year.

Because the Liverpool midfielder has been given a huge boost in the vote to become one of the faces of the uber popular football simulation game.

And that boost has come from none other than basketball legend and huge Liverpool fanLeBron James.

King James has urged all of his 21 MILLION Facebook followers to vote for Henderson to be on the UK cover of FIFA 16 with Lionel Messi.

Henderson is up against Spurs star Harry Kane, Chelsea keeper Thibaut Courtois and Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero but to be honest we can't see any of them getting the sort of support HenDog has.

So congrats, Jordan. The final vote hasn't been announced but you've pretty much got it sewn up.

Atletico Madrid star would prefer Chelsea move

Atletico Madrid midfielder Arda Turan wants to join Chelsea - despite Manchester Unitedreportedly making an official approach for his services.

The Turkey international is understood to favour a move to the Premier League, despite reports linking him with a move to Barcelona.

Earlier this week he moved to quash speculation surrounding a move to Barca, tweeting: “Much is being said about me, but the information published is not correct.”

According to Spanish radio station Cadena SER, Barcelona have backed down with their interest, with the club postponing negotiations until after the club's presidential election on July 18.

PSG were also interested in Turan, but their interest, like Barca's, has cooled as the player isn't keen on Ligue 1.

During Atletico's last meeting with Turan and his agent, the two parties agreed that his future would be decided by July 8 if the club received an offer close to his €41m (£29.3m) release clause.

Chelsea striker Diego Costa is keen on his former Atleti teammate joining him at Stamford Bridge.

"It would be fantastic. Arda makes everything so much easier out on the pitch," Costa said.

"Arda, Filipe Luis and I function perfectly. And Arda is such a great person. He invited us to eat at his house many times, I really liked his kebab. The whole team would go round to his house for dinner."

Manchester United ‘line up £25million transfer bid for Morgan Schneiderlin

United had a £20million bid rejected, but Louis van Gaal is lining up a an even bigger sum to tempt the Saints into selling their prized possession, according to the Guardian.

Southampton are determined to get £30million for the defensive midfielder, but the Red Devils believe they can complete the deal for £25m.

Arsenal were also in the race to sign the Schneiderlin, but appear to have pulled out after discovering the France international’s wage demands.

Source: Metreo Sports

Roma confirms interest in Dzeko

Walter Sabatini Roma sporting director, has confirmed that the club are trying to sign Manchester City striker Edin Dzeko.

He told Football Fest in an event that ''Dzeko is not very close, but Roma are trying to get him. He further stated, he is the right man for us, but tough to get, as he's expensive''.

Sabatini has also ruled out Gervinho leaving the club despite rumours of the Roma forward leaving the club for Al Jazira being accepted. He added: ''no Gervinho doesn't want to leave, he has changed his mind and wants to stay with us now.

Tomas Ufjalusi urges De Gea to not leave Man United

David de Gea has been told that he will not be forgiven by fans of Atletico Madrid if he agrees to join fierce city rivals Real.

The Manchester United keeper, who insisted he was just in the Spanish capital to "relax"when he was spotted at an airport in the city earlier this week, is keen on a move to the Bernabeu this summer.

He has spent four years at Old Trafford since leaving Atletico, whose academy he joined in 2003, but is keen on a return to Madrid to be closer to his girlfriend and family.

Tomas Ufjalusi was part of the Atleti defence to shield De Gea during the pair's time together at the Vicente Calderon, and he has urged the 24-year-old to think twice about his desire to join Los Blancos.

"No, no, no. They are not going to forgive him [if he joins Real Madrid], for sure," said Ufjalusi. "It's not going to be easy for him to make this decision.

"It's also a surprise for me because he's an Atletico Madrid fan – when he was young his heart was with Atletico Madrid."

Ex-Czech Republic star Ufjalusi played alongside De Gea, Thibaut Courtois and Petr Cech during his career, and he believes the Manchester United man is currently at the top of the pile.

"I have to say De Gea [is better than Cech and Courtois]," Ujfalusi said. "I was working with him for more than two years, and he was playing really well.

"It's difficult to say, but Petr Cech is 10 years older than De Gea and Courtois.

"The beginning in Manchester United wasn't so easy for him, but I think now he' s back in his old form and playing very well."