Summer shopping spree, version 2006 -> all transfer news and speculations!

Some french news from L'Equipe :

Auxerre : Grichting has signed an extension. Lachuer (Nice, Nancy) and Violeau (retirement) should leave. Berson and Luyindula will come back to their respective teams (Aston Villa and OM) after their loan. Benoit Cheyrou, Akalé and Pieroni should leave.

Bordeaux : Ramé has signed an extension. Laslandes and Faubert as well. Mavuba and Chamakh will stay for the CL run next season. Denilson will leave. Negociations are under way with Darcheville. Planus has received offers form PSG and Monaco and will think about it. Zubar (Caen) and Liedson (Sporting) are on the shopping list.

Le Mans : F. Thomas is in contact with Lens, OM and Auxerre. Yohann Pele is in discussions with Arsenal.

Lens : DMs Keita and Diarra could leave. They are followed by Inter Milan. Cousin could leave for England. Lachor and Thomert as well. Frau will go back to Lyon. Boumsong could come, as well as F. Thomas (Le Mans)

Lille : Makoun is linked with ManU and Lyon. Tafforeau is on Newcastle and Monaco's list. Tavlaridis wants to go to the Rangers. Moussilou will leave. Dosunmu (Anvers) could replace him.

Monaco : Roma could leave for the Rangers. Barthez proposed himself to Monaco apparently. Maicon to Inter is official. To replace him, Monaco likes Seitaridis. Squilacci should leave. Modesto is drawing interest from OM and Rangers (again) but should stay at all cost. On Monaco's list are Bonera (Parma), Bosingwa (Porto), Kanté (Strasbourg), Tafforeau (Lille), Diarra (Lens), Keita (Lens), Zubar (Caen) and Gourcuff (Rennes). Kapo and Vieiri will leave. Cheventon and Di Vaio should stay.

Nancy : Diakhate is followed by Fiorentina and Lille. Nancy will play the UEFA cup next season and would like loans of Rodriguez (PSG), Haddad (PSG) and Benzema (Lyon).

Nantes : Landreau (PSG) and Toulalan (Lyon) are goners. Loaned players (Pujol, Stinat, Caceres) should not come back. Officially signed are Saidou (Galatasaray) and Cubilier (Monaco). Stojkovic (Red Star) should come soon.

Nice : Varrault (OM), Traore (PSG, Bolton) and Balmont (OM and PSG) have drawn interest. Berthod (Lyon), Monsoreau (Lyon), Collin (Ajaccio) and Veigneau (Monaco) are wanted, probably as loans. Lachuer (Auxerre) and Jau (Bastia) are possibilities. Benjani (Portsmouth) could be of interest.

Rennes : Ouaddou (Olympiakos), Barbosa and Frei (Dortmund) should leave. Possibly leaving are Didot, Faty, Mvuemba, Monterrubio, Isaksson and Perrier-Doumbe. Kallstrom is a possibility to leave but Boloni has made him his priority. Gourcuff is obviously a big target (Milan, Lyon, Arsenal, Monaco among others). Mensah's buying option has been taken obviously. Could come : Kerzhakov (Zenith), Wilhemsson (Anderlecht) and Elmander (Brondby).

St Etienne : Sablé, Feinduno and Zokora should leave. Other possbilities to leave are Mazure (Caen), Mendy, Postiga (buying option not taken), Sakho, Tiene and Yahia. Benoit Cheyrou and Lachuer could come.

Sedan : Noro could leave for Monaco or Spain.

Sochaux : Ilan will leave for a big team. Richert could do the same. Diawara should leave as well. Meghni won't be kept (what a failure!).

Toulouse : Aubey still draws a lot of interest (Tottenham, Monaco, OM). Santos could leave. Emana as well.

Troyes : Loaned players like Drouin (Nantes) and Grax (Monaco) will come back to their team. Troyes' president told Grax that he'd be welcomed any time.

Valenciennes : Pujol (Anderlecht on loan from Nantes) could come. Dramé and Haddad could be loaned from PSG.

Lyon : The priority list features Makoun and Drogba. but Mourinho and Puel don't want to see their player leave. Still Aulas is preparing a "mega offer" for the Chelsea striker. Other possibilities are Ruud and Pauleta. Squilacci could come, and Cris is the big contract extension remaining to sign. Diarra is wanted by ManU, Real and Milan. To replace Govou, targets are Giuly, Joaquin and.... Ribéry. Diané (Strasbourg) could replace Govou as well. Lyon and Paris also like Trabelsi, but Liverpool is intererested as well. Pedretti is liked in PSG circles. Govou is in contact with OM.

PSG : Nonda is a target. Landreau is a done deal. Piquionne (St Etienne) is of interest as well. Diané (Strasbourg) and Le Tallec (Liverpool) could be bought. There have been contacts with Giuly, Castelen, Trabelsi and Traore (Nice). Yepes is still in negociations for an extension. He could leave for a low price (FIFA rule).

OM : Yaya Toure (Olympiakos) would be interesting, but he would cost too much. Zubar is a more realistic target. Marcinho (Palmeiras) should sign. Contacts have been made with Govou, Wiltord, Bosingwa (Porto) and Cousin (Lens). Maoulida's buying option will be taken. Should leave : Ferreira, Andre Luis, Delfim, Gimenez, Meite. Luyindula will come back but won't be kept. Ribery has been deemed "untradeable", and Beye has been denied the possbility of leaving. Barthez could leave.

And a few other rumors :
- Guidolin will leave Monaco after a few months.
- Pires should sign with Villareal.
- Betis has made an offer for Penneteau (Bastia).

Lukas Podolski will join the FC Bayern for next season. Now both teams only have to come to terms (transfer fee.) Right now the fee is around 12 million €, but I don't belive that Bayern will spend that much.

Brøndby is close to signing Aussie youngster David Williams (just shy of 18). DW is doing his second try-out with the Brøndby squad, after a brief stint with the Merseysiders. DW has been touted as the best Australian offensive talent since Viduka.

Couple of transfers have already been arranged in Belgium:

_ Timothy Dreesen, the very talented young CB from Lierse will join Club Brugge (remember this name, he's the next Timmy Simons)

_ Ibrahim Salou, Zulte Waregem's surprise striker has also signed for Bruges, they beat of competition from Anderlecht to get him.
Bruges will loose good but unorthodox goalie Tommi Butina to Trond Sollied and Olympiakos though.

_ Zulte Waregem is going to be even more punished for their surprisingly good season: Frederick Dupre, the 26 year old right back is joining Standard next season.

_Jamaique Van Damme, the exciting attacker from Roeselare will join Willem II, luckily for him they will remain in the Eredivisie.


_ On the big names front there is no news yet. Anderlecht seems almost certain that Kompany won't be there anymore next year and they are probably going to loose Wilhelmsson as well. Balaban seems to be leaning towards a prolonged stay in Bruges. Portillo is likely to head back to Madrid where he will be shipped out to who knows where.

_ Anderlecht will have to fill a lot of holes though:
> Hannu Tihinen is leaving the club as he wanted to learn a different culture. France is his likely destination and given his brilliance he should end up with a pretty good club
> Michal Zewlakov will join Trond Sollied at Olympiakos
> Lamine Traore will join Gencerbirligi
> Zetterberg retired
> Kompany and Wilhelmsson likely flight risks.

Right now only Christian Leiva (Argentinian DM) is certain to come to Anderlecht, but there will be a couple of other names to join him for sure.

And according to some english newspaper (you know what that's worth), ManU have proposed 21M euros+Ruud for Torres.

I'll sort some English team by team rumours later.

- Milan is said to be very close to the acquisition of Gallas and youngster CB Canini from Cagliari.

- It's said that one out of Capello and Del Piero will go.

-i said that one out of Mancini and Adriano will probably go.

i say there are good chances Capello leaves for Inter and if that will be the case, i would expect Cassano to join soon after.


I've already forgot about the rest. :o

i say there are good chances Capello leaves for Inter and if that will be the case, i would expect Cassano to join soon after.


So Zebina as well to Inter then :biglaugh:

So Zebina as well to Inter then :biglaugh: :biglaugh:

good for Inter that there is J.Zanetti there and that Zebina is used to play on the right flank.. but still.....

Chelsea is likely to not let Fulham permanently keep Wayne Bridge. With William Gallas likely departing, Mourinho wants to have more at left back besides Del Horno.

Tottenham and Arsenal may get into a bidding war over Dimitar Berbatov.

Chelsea may sell SWP to Liverpool for 14m pounds so that Gerrard could move back into the center of midfield.

Wigan are asking for 6m pounds for Chimbonda.

More later...

Chelsea rumoured to be very close to agreeing a £3m deal for Salomon Kalou. Work Permit issues might mean he stays in Holland for a bit though, I'm not certain how they'll handle it.

Tottenham and Arsenal may get into a bidding war over Dimitar Berbatov.Whoever makes the CL will have a huge advantage for his signature.

Chelsea rumoured to be very close to agreeing a £3m deal for Salomon Kalou. Work Permit issues might mean he stays in Holland for a bit though, I'm not certain how they'll handle it.
I thought that he was on the road to being Dutch, therefore it wouldnt matter would it? In England I thought there was no limit on EU players.

There aren't any limits, but any non EU players need to qualify for a WP by meeting certain criteria, two of them are playing 70% of international games in the 12 twelve months for his nation, and that nation needs to be in the top 70 FIFA ranked nations.

I'm not clear on it really, but Kalou was denied a fast tracked Dutch passport, and I thought he then can't re-apply for some years?

There has been a solid list of supposed targets for Chelsea. Taye Taiwo, Younes Kaboul, Michael Ballack, Jefferson Farfan, Salomon Kalou, Andriy Shevchenko, Carlos Tevez, Ruud van Nistelrooy, Jermain Defoe, Rafael Marquez, Joseph Yobo, and Ledley King. Not all of them to sign, but the signings to come from them.

There has been a solid list of supposed targets for Chelsea. Taye Taiwo, Younes Kaboul,
No word of that here.
With that said, Taiwo is not good enough yet, and Kaboul needs some playing time after this year (was injured almost the whole year).
It makes no sense for them to move.

I think the names have come up because we signed Guy Hillion from Rennes to scout for us.

And according to some english newspaper (you know what that's worth), ManU have proposed 21M euros+Ruud for Torres.

Which one? Tabloids like The Sun are worthless but papers like the Observer, Guardian, Independent, Telegraph are respectable. The Times less so.

Andy Johnson of Crystal Palace threw his boots into the crowd. It seems certain he'll be moving on.. most likely to Everton for £5-6M.

Sorry can't remember where I read it.

Juni : yes I read that, and you got a great eye for talent there (though I'm not a fan of Taiwo BTW). Hillion brought a lot to Rennes, and he'll no doubt circle some nice targets for Chelsea.

Juventus really wants Cris.

Good for them.
Lyon really wants to keep him as well. ;)

Would Cris be really interested in playing in the minor leagues? :sarcasm:

I´ll give a bigger Bundesliga-Update later...just some small tidbits:

Nürnberg has agreed to loan contracts for one year with Dean Heffernan and Michael Beauchamp (both Central Coast Mariners - Australia).
Striker Leon Benko (Varteks Varazdin) has signed a 4 year contract.

Stuttgart has won the race for Roberto Hilbert (Greuther Fürth). Hilbert signed a contract until 2010 and Stuttgart paid € 1,3 Mio to get him. Could end up with the national team in a few years.

Mainz 05 signed Bakary Diakate of Wehen (has been with Nizza before for example). Active striker, scored a lot for Wehen in the 3rd tier Regionalliga and still has the talent to become a solid Bundesliga player.

Alvin Cecolli and Simon Colosimo are on a try-out with Kaiserslautern. Benjamin Auer (Mainz 05) is rumoured to join his 'love' if they´re avoiding relegation.

Mehmet Scholl signed a contract extension of 1 year with Bayern Munich.
Albert Streit has left Cologne and signed with Frankfurt for next season.

Ali Günes of Besikats Istanbul is linked with Mönchengladbach and Kaiserslautern (but some turkish teams are interested too).

I´m happy that Jan Schlaudraff of Alemannia Aachen has decided to stay with his team and turn down all other offers. Good for Aachen since he´s been an impact player in the race for the 1st spot in the 2.Bundesliga.

Chelsea rumoured to be very close to agreeing a £3m deal for Salomon Kalou. Work Permit issues might mean he stays in Holland for a bit though, I'm not certain how they'll handle it.

That seems an awfully low number. Feyenoord didn't play ball on lowball offers for Kuijt, why would they for Kalou then? Unless some of those rumours about Kuijt and Kalou being owned by an investment company are true

That seems an awfully low number. Feyenoord didn't play ball on lowball offers for Kuijt, why would they for Kalou then? Unless some of those rumours about Kuijt and Kalou being owned by an investment company are true

Awfully low number indeed, especially considering we're talking about Chel$ki here. Either way, Dutch teams get tend to get lowballed, I'm sure Chelsea will raise the bid once Feyenoord make their demands clear (15 mill). Still, Chelsea will stall him with Feyenoord him untill he has a Dutch passport, maybe that's why they aren't offering high right away.

And Kalou hasn't been in Holland for 5 years yet; which is the minimum for one to get a Dutch passport. He will be wearing the Orange at the next tournament and will likly already start at RW for us during the EC qualification series.

Kalou's out of contract in 12 months, that's why the low fee, and that's the same reason behind Milan bidding £4m for Gallas (which was rejected).

Well, well. Lyon has been in contact with Ribery's agent. The guy says you have to listen to a big team like Lyon and said Ribery would like to stay at Marseille, but -obviously, we saw that coming- with a different salary. He says some huge teams have called (no kidding?) and Ribery would definately consider Lyon.
Man I just wish he'd leave Marseille.
Anywhere else I'd be happy.

BTW, in the same article, it's said Lyon has a 45M euros budget for this offseason. That's without a rumored huge ManU offer for Diarra.

http://www.tsn.ca/soccer/news_story/?ID=165453&hubname=soccer

Lyon prepared to "break the bank' for Drogba

Also rumours from Portugal:

-Man United assistant Carlos Queiroz and current England coach Sven Goren Erikkson considered front runner for Benfica coaching job after Koeman went to PSV

-Simao Sabrosa seemingly will be sold to either Liverpool or Chelsea. "Young Makalele" Manuel Fernandes gaining alot of interest. Rui Costa to Benfica seems like a possibilty, Benfica pres predicts he will get it done

-Porto Midfielder Diego off to Spain will not remain at Porto

A few Uefa Cup winners have been linked with Barça recently. Dani Alves of course, who's been linked with us for a year now. Supposedly Del Nido told him we have an offer on the table. The other, Jesus Navas. I don't put much into the Navas rumour considering Del Nido would ask for a king's ransom. Of course I should mention that if either of these deals goes through, Saviola will be in Seville for at least another season.

I read here that Chelsea here was after Marquez. Not a "World Class" guy, but a B defender that can play multiple positions that Mourhino should be able to utilize.

Never understood this rumour. Why do Chelsea want him, and more importantly why on earth would we ever sell him? He's also at minimum a "B+". You heard the final word here, Marquez isn't leaving the Camp Nou.

-Simao Sabrosa seemingly will be sold to either Liverpool or Chelsea. "Young Makalele" Manuel Fernandes gaining alot of interest. Rui Costa to Benfica seems like a possibilty, Benfica pres predicts he will get it done

-Porto Midfielder Diego off to Spain will not remain at Porto

Simao's still priced ridiculously high? I'd be careful what I pay for him if I'm Liverpool.

Diego to Spain huh. Depor?

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/t/tottenham_hotspur/4761177.stm

Looks like Berbatov will be off to Spurs. £10.7M.

If he adapts well he could end up being a great singing.

This will probably also mean the end of the Cissé to Spurs rumours.

The rumored transfer of Dimitar Bertatov will finalized in the near future. Tottenham is the most likely destination and the Spurs would transfer 15,6 Million € to Bayer 04.

Another transfer that is about to be finalized is the one of Alexander Farnerud from Racing Strassbourg to the VfB Stuttgart.

Sad to see him leave Strassbourg but i´m glad that he might play in the Bundesliga.

Jens Nowotny is linked with Fenerbahce Istanbul.

Well, Strasbourg should have sold Farnerud last year, he would have fetched more money.
An awesome talent, but incredibly inconsistant. A real waste.

An awesome talent, but incredibly inconsistant.

Then he´s joining the right team....*cough Gronekjaer & friends *gough


btw: he didn´t look too inconsistent with Strassbourg when i was there, though.
Isn´t he just 22 years old ?

He is young, but Strasbourg have tried to put him in the best conditions to succeed. They brought his brother, he didn't pan out. They sold his bro to Monaco, he had some good stretches, but asked his brother to come back. Strasbourg takes Pontus back, and it's even worse.
The guy could really be among the best young players in the game.
Seriously, what does a guy like Van Der Vart has on Alexander Farnerud, talent wise?
But the guy is a waste. He doesn't work hard enough, he doesn't have the mental fitness to play well for more than a 10 minute stretch.
I remember last season, he sucked "monkey balls" (as a certain dtuch poster would say), and weirdly enough he was scoring in EVERY cup game. Not just a late goal. But seemingly always the game winner and he added assists too.
He continued that streak to the final, and was the sole reason Strasbourg went to the Stade de France. Unfortunately, he could never find the same form in the league games.
The guy just seems uninterested.

Seriously, what does a guy like Van Der Vart has on Alexander Farnerud, talent wise?

Where to start?

Maybe by you're saying you have no idea of Alexander's talent? :sarcasm:

Maybe by you're saying you have no idea of Alexander's talent? :sarcasm:

Actually, quite some Ere Divisie teams want his signature so I know enough about him. I don't see how he is even close to van der Vaart's talent level.

Well then, you don't know enough of him.
So teams wanting to sign him doesn't make you more knowledgeable on the player I'd say...:amazed:

:lol:
Really, I don't know how many minutes O=S has seen Farnerud, but I sure have seen him a lot over the years, and I can tell you he's supremely gifted.
Apparently, O=S can't believe I compare his talent to VdV's, but they're very comparable (position on the field, big shot, dynamic counter attacker, good passing).
Except one takes advantage of his talent, the other is a huge underachiever.

Well then, you don't know enough of him.
So teams wanting to sign him doesn't make you more knowledgeable on the player I'd say...:amazed:

Maybe you aren't aware what van der Vaart had already accomplished before the age of 22 (what Farnerud is now). Van der Vaart was deemed as one of the biggest talents of the past few years. He confirmed so by nearly averaging a goal a game for Ajax when he was 19 years old *as a midfielder*. He's a starting player on one of the deepest national squads in the world ever since his 19th birthday. This season he carried HSV to the 2nd place in the Bundesliga after carreing Ajax to two Dutch title's, and a more than decent CL run in 2003..

He might be argued as the second best, if not the best player in the Bundesliga. A league every bit as strong as L1. I wonder if Farnerud would be a high on the charts..

Farnerud? He isn't even a starting player on a horrible team. He isn't near the scorer or set up man van der Vaart is. I don't see how Farnerud is even near his ballpark. Skills, sure.. so has Owusu-Abeyie.

Please read what I've written O=S.
You're comparing achievements and success. I'm comparing talent.
What's so hard to understand? :shakehead

Please read what I've written O=S.
You're comparing achievements and success. I'm comparing talent.
What's so hard to understand? :shakehead

It takes talent to reach achievements and succes. If Farnerud was as talented as you say he is, he wouldn't be playing on a relegated team.

Yes because HE DOESN'T MAKE THE MOST OF HIS TALENTS!

Which the WHOLE f'in point of my post!

Yes because HE DOESN'T MAKE THE MOST OF HIS TALENTS!

Which the WHOLE f'in point of my post!

Okay, fair enough.. I'm too tired anyway. First time I've seen you use the "f" word though ;)

Guys, guys. I'm sure we can all agree that Messi is better. So take it easy. :D

Okay, fair enough.. I'm too tired anyway. First time I've seen you use the "f" word though ;)
lol, that tells you how you angered me!

lol, that tells you how you angered me!

:p:

Seriously, we're both passionate about our teams and we are both probably the biggest homers on this other sports board, but I still enjoy our discussions.

lol, no love for Farnerud form me...


Anyway, Diouf has answered Aulas, who said he'd like to sign Ribery :
"Aulas says he has a 45M euros budget for this summer. It won't be enough. Now, if he adds Juninho and Cris, we may think about a negociation"... :lol:

Simao's still priced ridiculously high? I'd be careful what I pay for him if I'm Liverpool.

Diego to Spain huh. Depor?

Deportivo does look like the prime destination and yes, Simao is still priced high but Benfica seemingly want 21 million for Fernandes so as you can see their nuts

Chelsea Needs:

1) The Defense... if Gallas departs, we'd have one grade A CB (Terry), one B RB (Paulo), one B- LB (Del Horno), one B- CB (Carvalho), one C+ LB (Bridge) (who has not played for Chelsea in a while), and one F CB (Huth). Glen Johnson should be good enough to be the backup RB next season.

If Gallas doesn't leave, I wouldn't bother buying a defender, because he can play both LB/CB. If he DOES leave... we'd need to overhaul the defense with at least another one grade A defender. Nobody flashy, but they need to be big, tough, fast, and smart without the ball. As long as they can string a 5 meter simple pass and can cross occasionally, it's cool with me, but somebody nearly impossible to beat one-on-one with a good team-game

Possible Acquisitions: If Zambrotta is available, I say we buy him. Definitely a top 15 World-Class Fullback who can play both sides. I'd like to see Huth put out of his misery, that would upgrade the defense for sure. I read here that Chelsea here was after Marquez. Not a "World Class" guy, but a B defender that can play multiple positions that Mourhino should be able to utilize.

2) Midfield: I just want to see Ballack signed and Lampard retained. That's all I care about for the midfield. Maniche is going back to Porto (he didn't get many minutes here)... Ballack and Lampard with attack down the middle, Robben/Duff/Cole the primary wingers being rotated, and Makalele will be back in front of backline making people's lives miserable.

Essien will be rotated in and out of the lineup... hasn't been worth the pricetag, and had some booking issues, but he's done well without the ball in the midfield that he justifies his place in the rotation. SWP should be sold for his sake. He's just not getting playing time here. Eidur Gudjohnsen is in a weird situation. I like him in that he can play both midfield and striker, but he's a "B" player at either position, which means he's still better than half the bums that are backup attacking players in the EPL. He also probably wants to start and wants out. So we'll see what happens.

3) Forwards: Didier Drogba had a damn fine season IMO. Filled with controversy (diving, cheating, handballs, missing open nets...), but his passing has been good, his hold up play fantastic, and his defensive responsibility clearly evident. I don't care who we manage to bring in next season, Didier Drogba should play for Chelsea next year.

Is Hernan Crespo's contract up? I'm not sure. He was good this year, but I'd like to see somebody better up front. Crespo is a skilled player and a good player, but he's just not "English Football".

Targets: "The three hundred gabillion dollars for a striker" rumours I'm just sick of, so we'll see what happens. I still want to see Ruud in Blue, just to stick in Ferguson's face.

Why is that? He came from Dynamo not Porto

http://www.wldcup.com/news/2006May/20060511_36041_world_soccer.html

Frenchie Lauren Robert set to join Rangers. He was the highest paid player in the Portuguese league and netted 3 goals in 20 games. Benfica's worst signing in a long time :shakehead . Almost as bad as Luis Fabiano with my team Porto

Very probably, national team member Fabio Grosso will leave Palermo to join Inter.
The sicilians could use the money to buy the other half of Canini from Atalanta (so beating Milan)

Shevchenko could indeed leave Milan this time. This will be almost sure if he won't extend his current contract. The destination would be Chelsea, of course (that makes me think about Gallas btw).
Wild (probably crappy) rumours would bring in Eto'o as a replacement, while Henry would join Barca (this last part is probably not crap)

17yrs old Mexican Alexis Sanchez from Cobreloa should sign very soon a 5yrs deal with udinese.

http://www.wldcup.com/news/2006May/20060511_36041_world_soccer.html

Frenchie Lauren Robert set to join Rangers. He was the highest paid player in the Portuguese league and netted 3 goals in 20 games. Benfica's worst signing in a long time :shakehead . Almost as bad as Luis Fabiano with my team Porto
I was wondering where he disappeared after leaving the EPL.

Very probably, national team member Fabio Grosso will leave Palermo to join Inter.
The sicilians could use the money to buy the other half of Canini from Atalanta (so beating Milan)

Shevchenko could indeed leave Milan this time. This will be almost sure if he won't extend his current contract. The destination would be Chelsea, of course (that makes me think about Gallas btw).
Wild (probably crappy) rumours would bring in Eto'o as a replacement, while Henry would join Barca (this last part is probably not crap)

17yrs old Mexican Alexis Sanchez from Cobreloa should sign very soon a 5yrs deal with udinese.

Losing Gallas and gaining Shevchenko would be a net loss for Chelsea in my opinion, especially when you consider the fact that Gallas is younger and we'd probably have to add in an 8 figure sum. Man, I really hope these Gallas rumours are just a ploy by his agent to get a bigger contract. He's one of our core without a doubt.

Simao's still priced ridiculously high? I'd be careful what I pay for him if I'm Liverpool.




Agreed on Simao. Last summer I was a little lukewarm on him at the price that was rumored. After the dip in his performance this year, I don't think i'd be willing to pay anywhere near that amount. I'd much rather pick up Shaun Wright Phillips, Franck Ribery or Joaquin. To me, they seem unrealistic, but Liverpool are a big club in my mind and I think the board will back Rafa this off-season, so who knows.

I know Van Der Vaart just transferred to Hamburg last year but i'd love to see him on our right flank. I'm not too keen on the guy we seem most likely to get, Victor. He is more of a winger than Luis Garcia, but i'm not sure if hes a much better player than him. I haven't see enough of his to judge whether he is a safer distributer of the ball. That is the only thing holding Garcia back from being an elite player and our long term solution on the right. To be honest, I wouldn't mind trying out Kewell or Gonzales on the right. Kewell had a brilliant season and Gonzales has been dominating La Liga. He seems to have blistening pace and a great eye for goal, two things which are prized in any league. They also can both switch wings, so I wouldn't mind making our big buy of the summer a striker.

Agreed on Simao. Last summer I was a little lukewarm on him at the price that was rumored. After the dip in his performance this year, I don't think i'd be willing to pay anywhere near that amount. I'd much rather pick up Shaun Wright Phillips, Franck Ribery or Joaquin. To me, they seem unrealistic, but Liverpool are a big club in my mind and I think the board will back Rafa this off-season, so who knows.

I know Van Der Vaart just transferred to Hamburg last year but i'd love to see him on our right flank. I'm not too keen on the guy we seem most likely to get, Victor. He is more of a winger than Luis Garcia, but i'm not sure if hes a much better player than him. I haven't see enough of his to judge whether he is a safer distributer of the ball. That is the only thing holding Garcia back from being an elite player and our long term solution on the right. To be honest, I wouldn't mind trying out Kewell or Gonzales on the right. Kewell had a brilliant season and Gonzales has been dominating La Liga. He seems to have blistening pace and a great eye for goal, two things that which are prized in any league. They also can both switch wings, so I wouldn't mind making our big buy of the summer a striker.

W

For starters, nice post. I think I agree with you on everything except VDV.

Simao for me has never lived up to his billing. I think he's a good player, but for a club like Liverpool you need a step up from him. I wouldn't pay more than 7.5 million euros for Simao and he was rumoured to be going for 15m. SWP on the cheap would be nice, though if Chelsea do sell they'll want something for him. Still I could see him going for more along the lines of what Arsenal were willing to pay for him. Still Ribery and Joaquin are both better if you ask me. I could definately see Joaquin coming too if they agreed a fee. I think the prospect of playing with a club like Liverpool along with the prospect of playing for Rafa and playing with some of his compatriots would do it. He's already said he isn't waiting for Madrid anymore and depending on who their next President is, they're still not moving for him. Just be wary of the price tag though. I think he's a bit overrated and a lot overpriced. Either way, just get him outta La Liga since he likes to torment Barça.

I don't like VDV on the flanks. I like him in the middle with some freedom. He can play on a flank, but I think he's stronger in the middle. Still he's definately doing well for himself. He sorta fell off the radar for a bit there before he left for Hamburg. I'd like to see him at Barça some day since he's already expressed a desire to play for us. Back to 'Pool though, I wouldn't look to VDV for a flank with your formation. I'd stick more to guys like Joaquin or Ribery.

Gonzalez is having a stormer of a season in Spain, but that doesn't always translate to another league. Still he'd be worth the shot at this point and I do think he's got the quality to do it for you lot as well. If anything he could be an important squad player considering the number of fixtures you're likely to see next season. As for Luis Garcia, I know I've made it no secret how much I like him. I think he's great to have on your bench and he should still figure into 'Pools plans in the future. I'd take him back at Barça in a heartbeat if Giuly left (though I don't want Giuly to leave). Hell, I'd just love to bring him back if we're smart enough to dump Ezquerro this summer.

So what happens in the end though? Switch formations or does Sissoko sit?

So what happens in the end though? Switch formations or does Sissoko sit?


That's a good question, I have been very pleased (and surprised) to see Rafa move his formation around a few times this season. 4-5-1, 4-4-2, 5-3-2... we've seen a lot of variations.

Give what we have up front I think 4-4-2ish like what we have right now is the best solution for the time being. This indeed is a worrying sign for SuperMOMO as he would have to sit on some occasions. Still in the end the kid will get more then enough playing time. Right now Gerrard is often moved out to the right so Momo and Xabi can man the central of the park. Even if they sign a high profile RW next season I still think one many occasions Momo will get in the squad.
He's one of our more frustrating players to watch though (Luis Garcia being the other prime example). He's got so much athletic ability that it's not funny anymore. And he can also play. Still he often can't even make a 10 yard pass... I think it's in large part due to concentration....



Looking at next season:

_Paletta is coming for sure, not an immediate impact player but with him and Agger we'll finally have some decent depth (and huge potential) at the back.
_Gonzalez looks also like he'll finally arrive. I must say I've been turned around (finally) by Kewell's performances in the last half year, but some extra depth would be nice.


I think either Cissé (has played better down the stretch) or Morientes will be shipped out and a superior replacement will be brought in. Depending on this guy's abilities we could really come even closer to Chelsea (we won't surpass them yet obviously), especially early in the season goalscoring was our only problem really.

The right wing position is surely going to be adressed as well. Garcia's a great player to have around and one of our few true game breakers (see the Chelsea semi final for example) but we need an all an out winger too. I think SWP at £10-12M would be a shrewd piece of bussiness. Joaquin also seems like a possibility right now (as opposed to last season when I didn't really think it was possible).


I think that will be the main part, I would also like a solid Left Back to be brought in as I'm not too big a fan of JA Riise's defensive abilities.

By the way belgian newspapers are reporting Dembele to AZ is officially done now.

I can't wait to see how he develops at AZ, it looks like we have a real gem on our hands here.
Still gutted Anderlecht couldn't get him from GBA a year ago though :(

Today's news from L'Equipe :
- Gallas wants out. He makes it clear in a long interview, he'll leave Chelsea this summer.
- Yohann Pele, Le Mans' spectacular goalie is high on Werder Bremen's list. He's also wanted to Arsenal, but Werder could make the first offer.
- Porto has inquired about Matt Moussilou, who wants out of Lille.
- Liverpool has upped Bruno Cheyrou's price after his very good season. Bordeaux is not happy with that, as they wanted to sign him.
- Bordeaux is playing hardball with Darcheville and Planus. Both players could leave at this rate.
- Biggest news of them all : Ferguson comes to Lyon tomorrow to see Diarra play one last time and may have an appointment with Aulas.

Other rumours from footmercato
-Lyon and Marseille are interested by D Lugano from Sao Paulo.
-According to spanish press, Joaquin could go to Lyon and would replace the departing Govou (instead of Giuly...)
-Tomasson is looking for a new team and Marseille could be interested
-Sochaux would like Albert Meyong

a few other rumours from Maxifoot
-Piquionne could leave St Etienne and PSG could be interested
-Former L1 player Didier Domi signed with Olympiakos
-For Lyon, still talks about Van Nistelrooy, Kompany, Ribéry, Thiago Motta...
-Nantes signed Eric Cubillier (Monaco), and has good talks for Alioum Saidou (DM, Galatasaray), GK Vladimir Stojkovic (Belgrade), and Ajax Boukhari.

And finally from football365.fr
-A lot of new professionnal contracts in Metz, Nancy, Le Mans, Lille, Strasbourg... I won't give them all at this point.
-Sommeil will leave Manchester City

So what happens in the end though? Switch formations or does Sissoko sit?


Great response. As for Sissoko, that is a huge question in my mind. It was amazing to watch him dominate the midfield the way he did at the ripe old age of 20 years. True, his distrubution is inconsistent, but he has a great coach to help him with his weaknesses. I'm not too worried about him sitting for extended periods of time because of the volume of games we'll have again next season. Another factor in his favor is that he completely changes the way the team plays. He is so athletic and really resembles Gerrard quite a bit with that final burst of pace to close on the ball. I also think he posses a fair amount of danger running with the ball at his feet. He is a good dribbler and he protects the ball very well with his big frame. He definitely needs some shooting practice as his aim leaves a lot to be desired. He did have a lot of yellow cards this season, but it wasn't a ridiculous amount, and he does have so much room for improvement at his age. That said, he would have been a first choice CM for Man Utd this season I think and it looks like they might be acquiring a similar(if more mature) player in Diarra.

If we could get either Joaquin or SWP for less than 15m pounds, i'd be truly thrilled. To have a true RW and true LW with the pace that both SWP and Gonzales have would be so helpful counter-attacking. BF, what do you think of Ribery? He seems ridiculously talented, I watched him play quite a bit for the French u-21 team and was impressed. There were a few moments that made my jaw drop. Do you think he'd be available, despite what OM's president said?

Raiola, agent of two Juventus' players (one is Ibrahimovic), was in London yesterday.
Considering Juventus' current situation, that could mean something..

Today's news from L'Equipe :
- Gallas wants out. He makes it clear in a long interview, he'll leave Chelsea this summer.
- Yohann Pele, Le Mans' spectacular goalie is high on Werder Bremen's list. He's also wanted to Arsenal, but Werder could make the first offer.
- Porto has inquired about Matt Moussilou, who wants out of Lille.- Liverpool has upped Bruno Cheyrou's price after his very good season. Bordeaux is not happy with that, as they wanted to sign him.
- Bordeaux is playing hardball with Darcheville and Planus. Both players could leave at this rate.
- Biggest news of them all : Ferguson comes to Lyon tomorrow to see Diarra play one last time and may have an appointment with Aulas.

What's the FYI on Moussilou, good player at his position? strengths/weaknesses?

Streaky striker that can score 4 in one game (did twice I think) and none for 10 games. Has undeniable talent, but is a question mark.

According to lequipe.fr, Berlusconi has declared today that Sheva wants to play in the EPL next season.

-According to "Le Parisien", Yohann Gourcuff (Rennes) was visiting Milan AC training camp...
-Chamakh wants to stay at Bordeaux an play the CL next year. (Yes, Lyon won't sign him!! :handclap: I don't like him... :sarcasm: )
-Rennes will lose Frei and could replace him by Kerzakhov (Zenit St Peterburg)

Micoud has shown interest in going back to France (Bordeaux and PSG were mentioned..)

BREAKING NEWS: Shevchenko is leaving Milan.
This Summer he will join EPL (Chelsea i guess).

BREAKING NEWS: Shevchenko is leaving Milan.
This Summer he will join EPL (Chelsea i guess).

I predict this scenario:

- Sheva to Chelsea
- Ruud to Milan
- Kuijt to United

- Davids all but likely to return to Ajax..

- Andy van der Meyde might return to Ajax as well..

- Ajax are after former Ajacied Mario Melchiot, too.

- Boukhari, who had offers from Nantes and Fiorentina on the table has re-signed with Ajax.

- John Goossens, one of Holland's finest prospects has recently been added to Ajax' first squad. He will see some minutes next year.

- PSG, Monaco and Fiorentina are not willing, or can not meet Feyenoord's demands regarding international winger Romeo Castelen, said to be slightly lower than 10 million.

- Chelsea and Internazionale have brought out bids on Huntelaar.

- Real Madrid want Arjen Robben. Robben himself said he might be open for a move to the Spainish Giants.

- Koeman immediately contacted Farfán and Alex just moments he was appointed as PSV's new coach. Both players have been getting offers from all over the place. Barçelona is said to be the frontrunner for Farfán, who should cost at least 14 million. Alex, who's price is between 15 and 20 has Chelsea as his most likely destination, especially if Gallas indeed leaves.

BREAKING NEWS: Shevchenko is leaving Milan.
This Summer he will join EPL (Chelsea i guess).
Posted it 5 hours before... ;)

Rodriguez and Bueno are officially on PSG's transfer list. :shakehead
Indeed, their coach Lacombe had this to say :
"I had trust in Cristian (Rodriguez) when I arrived and then he hit the wall a bit. He was compared to great all time players and it played in his head. There's a balance to find in a team. They've both had a lot of problems this year (transfer from Penarol) but they must be in a favourable context. They're two competitors, but they're not fan of training. For them, it's all games. They need playing time, and they must find a team where they can play more."

All I can say is that it's a new line on the every lasting stupid move PSG has made with young talented players.
Bueno leaving, I could live with, but Rodriguez is an unbelievable talent, and the best talent PSG has had since Ronaldinho (and before that Rai). Dealing him away when he could/should be their key player is just immensely stupid.

Posted it 5 hours before... ;)As a rumour or as a sure thing already?

O=S, any chance you've got a link to Chelsea/Huntelaar?

Rodriguez and Bueno are officially on PSG's transfer list. :shakehead
Indeed, their coach Lacombe had this to say :
"I had trust in Cristian (Rodriguez) when I arrived and then he hit the wall a bit. He was compared to great all time players and it played in his head. There's a balance to find in a team. They've both had a lot of problems this year (transfer from Penarol) but they must be in a favourable context. They're two competitors, but they're not fan of training. For them, it's all games. They need playing time, and they must find a team where they can play more."

All I can say is that it's a new line on the every lasting stupid move PSG has made with young talented players.
Bueno leaving, I could live with, but Rodriguez is an unbelievable talent, and the best talent PSG has had since Ronaldinho (and before that Rai). Dealing him away when he could/should be their key player is just immensely stupid.
Sack that coach as soon as possible.

O=S, any chance you've got a link to Chelsea/Huntelaar?

Sorry, found the link when I was at school, no idea how I got there anymore. Maybe you should googlelize..

Either way, it was just a blurb. It mentioned that Chelsea was one of many teams that made an offer on Huntelaar. It also said that he'd be a good fit especially now that Tevez seems unlikely.

IMO Huntelaar won't be a good fit from a Dutch point of view. He could very well handle it, but he'd have to split time with Crespo (if he even stays) and Drogba and that's something that might hurt his development. Huntelaar won't leave for at least a year, perhaps two anyway though, and you can quote me on this.

EDIT: Can't even find the link to the Internazionale interest, either. Though I found this, it's in French. Evilo?

http://www.internazionale.fr/news.php?id=980

I predict this scenario:

- Sheva to Chelsea
- Ruud to Milan
- Kuijt to United

Sounds plausible, but I think it will end up even bigger possibly involving Henry,Eto and Inter Milan's Adriano. Damn, if he ends up with Mourinho and Chelsea along with Ballack it will be down right scary :eek:

One guy who tabs will be on in the next couple of years is Porto's Anderson (who they got from Gremio in the Brazilan league), who is compared favourably to Ronaldinho. I have seen the kid play with Porto this year when he was called up from Porto's B team. The kid definetely has the moves, saw him beat 4 players including two defenders on one attack and just barely missing his first goal in his first game

Quick translation:

Gazetto dello Sport is reporting Inter are interested in Huntelaar as a possible replacement for Adriano, who's on the brink of leaving. Ajax are reluctant to sell, but €9-10M could be enough to convince them. Inter are also looking at Ruud.

Ah, thanks.

That 9/10 million tidbit is pretty hilarious though. He costed Ajax 9 million Euro's to begin with.

- Davids all but likely to return to Ajax..

- Andy van der Meyde might return to Ajax as well..

- Ajax are after former Ajacied Mario Melchiot, too.

- Boukhari, who had offers from Nantes and Fiorentina on the table has re-signed with Ajax.

- John Goossens, one of Holland's finest prospects has recently been added to Ajax' first squad. He will see some minutes next year.

- PSG, Monaco and Fiorentina are not willing, or can not meet Feyenoord's demands regarding international winger Romeo Castelen, said to be slightly lower than 10 million.

- Chelsea and Internazionale have brought out bids on Huntelaar.

- Real Madrid want Arjen Robben. Robben himself said he might be open for a move to the Spainish Giants.

- Koeman immediately contacted Farfán and Alex just moments he was appointed as PSV's new coach. Both players have been getting offers from all over the place. Barçelona is said to be the frontrunner for Farfán, who should cost at least 14 million. Alex, who's price is between 15 and 20 has Chelsea as his most likely destination, especially if Gallas indeed leaves.

Would Alex get a work permit? If so, he'd be a great addition, but Gallas just has crazy chemistry with Terry (Terry's one weakness is his speed and Gallas has that in spades). I am going to be depressed if he does indeed leave because I don't think there's anyone who could create as great a partnership with Terry.

Just to add to my thoughts about wingers, I wouldn't be disappointed if we picked up Dario Srna. He looks a pretty good player and would be a good consolation prize if we miss out on the big names previously mentioned. I'd certainly prefer him to Victor or J.Pennant(linked with him ALL the time).

Well BF and CC, I was actually thinking about how Liverpool has a good group of players who could really fit into Barça's current 4-3-3. Forgive me for talking too much about the formation of late, but I do love it so. ;) Now the key is in the midfield, and you've got three guys who would be perfect. Here, let me put down the formation first:

----------------------Striker------------------------
Wing/Striker------------------------------Wing/Striker

--------------Xabi-------------Gerrard---------------
----------------------Sissoko------------------------

Riise---------Hyypia------------Carragher------Finnan

----------------------Reina--------------------------

All the players that I mentioned fit really well. I think a Hyypia replacement (somebody with a bit more pace) would help out (though you keep Hyypia for depth of course). Other than that though, you've the guys to make it work everywhere but up front (to an extent). Going back to midfield, it's like an inverted Barça midfield. Gerrard is your Deco and Xabi is your Xavi. They've just swapped sides. Sissoko is different to Edmilson in some respects, but he's defensively good enough and has a good enough engine to do the defensive work. Of course you do need to add some depth to back these guys up. Arteta's been linked and would be a good option to back up Xabi. Then I figure you need two more guys. It may be hard to find a Gerrard backup, but I think you could find a Sissoko backup. Somebody who can play DM and CB. I have one guy in mind, but shhhhhhhh. Another guy (to backup Xabi or Gerrard could be Raul Garcia.

As for the defense, Riise and Finnan are both good backs to fit the formation (especially Riise). Kromkamp would be a good backup to Finnan. I wouldn't want to comment on Traore though. So that leaves Agger as a backup in the middle along with Mr. Shhhh who you'd bring in.

So that leaves you with front three. Now this is where I think you'd have to consider the majority of your reinforcements (where you are considering them already of course). Let's start with who you have though. Luis Garcia proved himself on either side at the wing/striker position already in 03/04 with Barça. He'd be great to have on your bench and IMO could definately push guys in terms of competition. Competition for who? Joaquin would be good start and I like him for this formation. Ditto for Jesus Navas, but he's Barça's for the taking. :D I like SWP for it too, though he adds a different element. More like Giuly to an extent. I don't think Kewell would fit in well enough (and I don't rate the guy so much), but in the short term he could be a backup. I think Gonzalez would be more ideal though. Maybe they could be rotated until Kewell goes and a starter is found (unless Gonzalez really impresses in England as well). As for your current crop of strikers, Morientes goes and the rest stay (so long as a Cisse type can't be found cheaply enough). Fowler is your Larsson (sort of), Crouch is your Maxi (who adds the size element and totally gives you a different look. Still I don't like Crouch (or Maxi that much for that matter) to do this. Fred on the other hand... At the end of the day you want somebody who can really bang in goals, pass the ball well enough and who will work hard. Either way despite the fact that Barça has only three real strikers, only two are used. I think you need three minimum and if one of the wings you bring in is versatile you can cover the middle again. Sorry, but I'm having trouble sorting out somebody for the middle.

OK, enough of my jabberin'.

----------------------Striker------------------------
?/Gonz/LGarc------------------------------Joaquin/SWP

--------------Xabi-------------Gerrard---------------
----------------------Sissoko------------------------

Riise---------Hyypia------------Carragher------Finnan

----------------------Reina--------------------------

OK, well easier said than done. I just think you've got the defense and especially the midfield to make it work. Now you just need the next Ronaldinho, the next Eto'o and the next Messi. :D

==============================================

BTW Cap'n. You notice who put himself on the transfer block today? :sarcasm:

Well BF and CC, I was actually thinking about how Liverpool has a good group of players who could really fit into Barça's current 4-3-3. Forgive me for talking too much about the formation of late, but I do love it so. ;) Now the key is in the midfield, and you've got three guys who would be perfect. Here, let me put down the formation first:


----------------------Striker------------------------
?/Gonz/LGarc------------------------------Joaquin/SWP

--------------Xabi-------------Gerrard---------------
----------------------Sissoko------------------------

Riise---------Hyypia------------Carragher------Finnan

----------------------Reina--------------------------

OK, well easier said than done. I just think you've got the defense and especially the midfield to make it work. Now you just need the next Ronaldinho, the next Eto'o and the next Messi. :D

==============================================

BTW Cap'n. You notice who put himself on the transfer block today? :sarcasm:



I know, who saw the Shevchenko story coming! :sarcasm: Out of the wild blue. I like that system as it allows Gerrard, Xabi and Momo to all play.

I know, who saw the Shevchenko story coming! :sarcasm: Out of the wild blue. I like that system as it allows Gerrard, Xabi and Momo to all play.

So I guess Sheva just isn't better than RvN then. :sarcasm:

It allows them all to play, and as I said it really works for all of them. I'm just too tired to sort out up front. I did notice though that Liverpool could use some depth. One of the papers said that Rafa'll be spending this summer though starting with Bent. Not sure he's the answer, but then I don't see Rafa moving for Bent in the first place.

IMO Huntelaar won't be a good fit from a Dutch point of view. He could very well handle it, but he'd have to split time with Crespo (if he even stays) and Drogba and that's something that might hurt his development. Huntelaar won't leave for at least a year, perhaps two anyway though, and you can quote me on this.

Not playing wont stop Chelsea. They'll just buy him and then farm him back on loan if they want to. :shakehead

So I guess Sheva just isn't better than RvN then. :sarcasm:

It allows them all to play, and as I said it really works for all of them. I'm just too tired to sort out up front. I did notice though that Liverpool could use some depth. One of the papers said that Rafa'll be spending this summer though starting with Bent. Not sure he's the answer, but then I don't see Rafa moving for Bent in the first place.

Now I know people in Milwaukee have a serious drinking or drug problem to post such garbage.Just admit you hate RVN and be fing done with it@ :madfire: Only a foo; would make that statement afer what RVN did this past season.Please go straight to you local hospital and have them chech out what is between your ears and I will bet it is nothing but air . :confused: :confused: :confused:

If you don't get the reference, check out the "Redraft the Top 15 in 2004" on the prospect board.




I wouldn't be too disappointed with Bent as long as one of the superstar rw's we've been banding about arrives. I'd prefer him to Defoe, he's not a complete midget like Defoe. One player i'd really like to see come to Anfield is Robbie Keane, he is just aces. Plus he was a HUGE Liverpool fan as a kid and still talks about it all the time, so i'd assume he still follows the club. He doesn't have blistening pace, but he's a great finisher and wonderfully imaginative on the ball. Of course, Spurs wouldn't sell him unless we made a huge bid or Keane threw a fit to get moved.

Rodriguez and Bueno are officially on PSG's transfer list. :shakehead
Indeed, their coach Lacombe had this to say :
"I had trust in Cristian (Rodriguez) when I arrived and then he hit the wall a bit. He was compared to great all time players and it played in his head. There's a balance to find in a team. They've both had a lot of problems this year (transfer from Penarol) but they must be in a favourable context. They're two competitors, but they're not fan of training. For them, it's all games. They need playing time, and they must find a team where they can play more."

All I can say is that it's a new line on the every lasting stupid move PSG has made with young talented players.
Bueno leaving, I could live with, but Rodriguez is an unbelievable talent, and the best talent PSG has had since Ronaldinho (and before that Rai). Dealing him away when he could/should be their key player is just immensely stupid.

Well, I don't have the same opinion... talented but incredibly selfish on the pitch.
Still, I also think it's a stupid move by PSG. They'll never understand they need to give guys more than 6 months of chances... Raï was awful in his 1st season but marvelous later, just because they gave him time.
But it's becoming a long time now for PSG to learn patience... awful recruiting staff years after years. Both players will join the list of the bad south american signing in recent pst, with Vampetta, Christian, Andre Luiz, and all... Amazing how this team can waste money in signing over rated players... :shakehead

I disagree. Rodriguez is 20, he'll learn to pass better.
But he's an awesome talent, and hardly overrated.
Mark my words : Cristian Rodriguez is going to be a world class star in this game if he doesn't get a big injury.

Well, of course he's young and has talent...
Ronnie ddidn't pass a lot in his 1st years.
But the difference is the willingness to work hard in training and obviously PSG doesn't seem to think he's going to work hard enough.
We'll see if PSG is making an error, everything is possible with this team! ;)

Andrei Shevchenko on discussing transfer possibilities,

"It is useless hiding things -- I was with the president, we talked of many things and also about the possibility that I could leave."

"I find it hard to talk about this and now I have to weigh things up well after seven years at Milan and think. We haven't taken any decision -- we will see in the coming days."

- Rangers striker Kris Boyd, SPL's top goal scorer has been linked to a move to Dynamo Kyiv.

Dynamo now have to wait and see if the Rangers new boss is a fan of Boyd's play, and give Kyiv any indication that he could be sold.

Boyd, a Rangers fan, has said he's at Rangers for "the rest of his days"

that's a quote after the Bulgaria game.

A few more rumors from England.

- Pires looks like he's leaving. He really wants a two-year deal, but Arsenal will only offer one.

- Spurs have had a £3m bid for Chimbonda rejected.

- Shevchenko may leave Milan for Chelsea for £35m.

- Liverpool have shown interest in SWP, but Man City also want him back on a season-long loan.

- Chelsea are reportedly getting closer to Tevez, but I doubt that this is true.

- Lyon might part with Diarra for van Nistelrooy and £5m. I don't know if I could see RVN in L1 though.

I read the Tevez to Chelsea rumors too.
As for Ruud to L1, why not? As long as he goes to a CL contender, it makes sense. He's not Sheva either.

Boyd, a Rangers fan, has said he's at Rangers for "the rest of his days"

that's a quote after the Bulgaria game.

Usually in those kind of situations, his agent would readily decline however he went on to add to confirm that Dynamo were indeed interested.

I read the Tevez to Chelsea rumors too.
As for Ruud to L1, why not? As long as he goes to a CL contender, it makes sense. He's not Sheva either.

I think Ruud would still want to play in a more high profile league. I think he wants a couple more years in the limelight before he heads back to Holland.

I think Ruud would still want to play in a more high profile league. I think he wants a couple more years in the limelight before he heads back to Holland.

Yup. Plus, he's had interest from some of the biggest teams in the world. Barça, Juventus and Milan are expressed their interest as soon as it appeared he was on the market. Surely he should start wherever he goes, so I don't get the Barça interest but still. No disrespect to Lyon, but if you can chose between those 3 teams and Lyon, I would know.

Ruud has probably fewer than 3 or 4 teams interested. Barca surely don't want him, Juventus probably neither, and we're left with Milan, Real and Lyon.

I predict this scenario:

- Sheva to Chelsea
- Ruud to Milan
- Kuijt to United

Yes, there will be a game of musical chairs with strikers this summer.

Crespo will probably head back to Italy. Obvious place is Milan.

Now I know people in Milwaukee have a serious drinking or drug problem to post such garbage.Just admit you hate RVN and be fing done with it@ :madfire: Only a foo; would make that statement afer what RVN did this past season.Please go straight to you local hospital and have them chech out what is between your ears and I will bet it is nothing but air . :confused: :confused: :confused:

If you don't get the reference, check out the "Redraft the Top 15 in 2004" on the prospect board.




I wouldn't be too disappointed with Bent as long as one of the superstar rw's we've been banding about arrives. I'd prefer him to Defoe, he's not a complete midget like Defoe. One player i'd really like to see come to Anfield is Robbie Keane, he is just aces. Plus he was a HUGE Liverpool fan as a kid and still talks about it all the time, so i'd assume he still follows the club. He doesn't have blistening pace, but he's a great finisher and wonderfully imaginative on the ball. Of course, Spurs wouldn't sell him unless we made a huge bid or Keane threw a fit to get moved.

Oi! I thought you didn't appreciate condescension. I don't hate RvN at all. Still I think Sheva is better if you look at his all around game. RvN is the better finisher of course, but Sheva's got more game.

I like Defoe and I really like Robbie Keane. Still I don't think any of those three guys is the sort of guy you should be looking to. You need to set your sights higher.

Surely he should start wherever he goes, so I don't get the Barça interest but still.

He definately doesn't start if Barça are interested, and I highly doubt they're interested.

Barthez has announced he won't resign with Marseille for personnal reasons (family apparently).
Or maybe he's thinking about retirement after the WC.

Lequipe announces that Barthez is to be named number one in front of Coupet today.

It'll be interesting to see what happens in Madrid. Elections are now set and there are a host of candidates. Of course with candidates come promises. The names of Xabi Alonso, Cesc Fabregas, Cristiano Ronaldo and Kaka have all been mentioned.

- Gourcuff has announced he won't sign an extension with Rennes. Meaning he could probably move this summer since his contract is up in 2007.
- Benfica has inquired about Rennes' coach Boloni.
- Boukhari is very close to Nantes.
- Cris has signed an extension.
- Malbranque could leave Fulham very soon.
- N'Zogbia won't play at the U21 championships. He's still in confilct with Le Havre and the federation obviously sides with the academy here (he fled without a transfer fee).

- Gourcuff has announced he won't sign an extension with Rennes. Meaning he could probably move this summer since his contract is up in 2007.

So that basically means that it's just a matter of time before Wenger swoops in and gets the kid for practically nuthin'. Or does he go elsewhere? Lyon?

I wouldn't say for nothing, but not for this full value, yes.
The guy isn't locked down in a huge contract so his value won't be huge and Rennes HAS to sell him this summer, or they lose him for nothing next summer.
However, there should be a bit of a bidding way.
I would expect Milan or Arsenal to win this battle.
The guys is Zidane quality in terms of talent (obviously, it'll take more than talent to have ZZ's career).

Oi! I thought you didn't appreciate condescension.


Read this thread: http://hfboards.com/showthread.php?t=250535

:dunno:
You're trying to prove you can't see Malkin is doing better than Ovechkin in every possible way?
We knew that already? That's what you call other people's bias, isn't it?

Kevin Mirallas has signed his first pro contract with Lille.

Rumours have Ballack in London as I type.

Peter Løvenkrands (Rangers forward/winger) was at Arena auf Schalke yesterday, to check things out.

Read this thread: http://hfboards.com/showthread.php?t=250535

:dunno: And?

Ballack has agreed to a contract with Chelsea London (it was obvious for months now, especially after Chelsea agreed to a contract with the same supplier that has Ballack under contract and he had to choose a team with the same supllier).

Noahiro Takahara signed with Frankfurt.

Chedlij Amri and Du-Ri Cha signed both with Mainz 05. Benjamin Auer won´t extend his contract with Mainz.

Mönchengladbach has fired coach Horst Köppel. Lot of possible replacements out there, but no real favorite.

Rudi Völler of Leverkusen has told the media that Berbatov played his last game for Leverkusen. Nothing is signed yet, but all parties have agreed (destination: most likely Tottenham).

Jens Jeremies has retired.

Special news...Energie Cottbus will get promoted to the Bundesliga after a 3-1 victory against 1860 Munich. Congrats :)

Ballack press conference is tomorrow.

according to some swedish newspapers Real Betis, Tottenham and West Ham has shown interest in buying Kim Källström (Rennes).

Barçelona are after Ryan Babel (19 - Ajax). Article mentions that with the departure of Larsson and the unlikelyness of getting Henry, they now have set their goals on the young stud.

Ajax already waved off a 12 million Euro offer from Betis Sevilla at the start of the season. But GM van Geel said that everybody is for sale if the price is right.

Lyon are trying to get Pauleta now.
If they get him, they'll be even harder to stop than this year.

PSG is trying to get Monterrubio (Rothen leaving?) and young future star Jérémy Menez (Sochaux), who's a PSG fan since childhood.

Gourcuff has officially declared he won't sign an extension with Rennes, and that Arsenal, Milan, Lyon and PSG are after him.
However, the big news is that he said he's a bit afraid to go that young (19) to a foreign team. He says he should establish himself on a big french team first.
Obviously, PSG and Lyon fans are starting to feel crazy about this piece of news.
With that said, I still wouldn't rule out Milan and Arsenal.

Wow, it appears that Salomon Kalou has officially signed with Chelsea. Said to be 12 million Euro's.. Chelsea can't suit him up however, as Kalou is from outside the EU and only would be eligeble if he would get his Dutch passport. Untill then, I think he will remain playing for Feyenoord. Perhaps even PSV..

Also, AZ, who have one of the best youth setups in the country, already attracted two major 18 year old talents in Dembele and Agustien earlier this week, now they are close to signing U21 Captain Gijs Luirink, who IMO was league's top defender this year.

Nordin Boukhari officially to Nantes as well.

Chelsea offered 18 million on Ruud van Nistelrooij, but United waved it off saying they don't want to sell him to a rival. Mourinho said he won't give up and will continue trying..

Also, AZ, who have one of the best youth setups in the country, already attracted two major 18 year old talents in Dembele and Agustien earlier this week, now they are close to signing U21 Captain Gijs Luirink, who IMO was league's top defender this year.

And you can add my former teammate and youth international, Julian Jenner to the list as well as German Simon Cziommer.

Leonardo of NAC, who was once named in the same breath as van der Vaart, Robben and van Persie, seems to have found himself again. Tottenham, PSV and AZ are after him..

Some German rumors & news:

- Werder is interested in Inters LB Pierre Womé. Clemens Fritz (Bayer) will join them and Zidan will back in Bremen, after a one year loan to Mainz 05. Marko Babic, Per Mertesacker, Sylvain Monsoureau, Karim Haggui and Boubacar Sanogo (replacement for Valdez, if he leaves- Dortmund is interested) are all potential targets for the team

- Markus Feulner joins Mainz 05 from Cologne

- The HSV will likely loose van Buyten after the clubs has failed to secure the direct qualification for the Champions League. I think that Bayern will be likely sign him away

- Bochum has expressed interest in Marcel Ndjeng (2.BL/ Paderborn.)

- Leverkusens manager Rudi Völler wants Sergej Barbarez. Midfieler Pirmin Schwegler (Young Boys Bern) has signed a four-year deal with the club.

Well, not Bundesliga rumours anymore, but i won´t stop posting about Lautern :)

Sven Müller (Nürnberg), Stefan Lexa (Frankfurt) and Benjamin Auer (Mainz) are all rumoured to join Kaiserslautern.
I´d be happy if Auer joins Lautern again, after he spent most of his junior days with Lautern.


@ Beli/Evilo: what do you know about Moussa Ouattara ? He´s playing in Poland right now but has been with Tours and Cretiel in France....

Mourinho'd confirmed Chelsea are talking with Benfica about Simao, and that one winger will leave. He also wants a third choice goalie who is comfortable and experienced, Quim is the name leading the rounds.

@ Beli/Evilo: what do you know about Moussa Ouattara ? He´s playing in Poland right now but has been with Tours and Cretiel in France....
Don't know him despite living in Tours... He played only 5 games for Tours then 20+ with Créteil the following year... He's a defenseman and played the African Cup in 2004 for Burkina Faso, 25 years old, that's all I can say. :)

Lille signed his 1st player of the offseason with Youla, a young forward who played in Belgium, Turkey and was loaned this season to Metz. He played quite well for this relegated team and Besikstas finally let him go to Lille.

Lille signed his 1st player of the offseason with Youla, a young forward who played in Belgium, Turkey and was loaned this season to Metz. He played quite well for this relegated team and Besikstas finally let him go to Lille.

He's pretty good when given a chance. Very fast, very good dribbler (will score incredible goals when on form) but not always the purest finisher. I liked him and I was a bit sad when he had to leave Anderlecht (he came to Belgium through Lokeren) without being given a proper chance.


Please let it be SWP.

Yep, that would be excellent :D:D

Christoph Daum stepped down as the coach of Fenerbahce Istanbul because of health reasons...

uuuuh...i can smell the.... :biglaugh:

Shall i start the Daum to Gladbach rumours ?


Mikael Forsell and Jan Koller are both rumoured to Hamburg while Andreas Isaksson is linked with Werder Bremen (big Isaksson-fan here, so i´d love to have him in the Bundesliga).

We don't need another frakking winger. We just don't. Three is more than enough. Joe Cole/Robben/Duff is more than enough to rotate, hell Essien can be put on the wing.

Yeah but Liverpool could use one.

Though rumour has it Benitez doesn't have SWP near the top of his shopping list.

And I would prefer 4 wingers if I were Chelsea, though José started using 2 strikers a lot more near the end of the season somewhat eliminating the need for 4 wingers as they won't play every game anyway with two wingers.

@ Beli/Evilo: what do you know about Moussa Ouattara ? He´s playing in Poland right now but has been with Tours and Cretiel in France....
Sorry, can't help more than Beli, I don't know him much.

Thanks a lot Beli/Ev.

btw:

Lautern signed Quattara some minutes ago.

I´m glad that some players stand by Kaiserslautern.
GK Jürgen Macho has signed a new two-year deal.

Sven Müller has agreed to a contract until 2009 and Quattara until 2008. :)

Breaking news! Ruud van Nistelrooij leaves Old Trafford!

http://www.football365.com/mediastore/Football365_Shop/ruud_leaves.jpg

Gallas has taken his medical with Milan.
Milan has also had negociations with Rennes on a 7M euro transfer for Yoann Gourcuff.

All of this according to lequipe.fr

Gallas has taken his medical with Milan.
Milan has also had negociations with Rennes on a 7M euro transfer for Yoann Gourcuff.

All of this according to lequipe.fr

Gallas to Milan, because Chelsea wants to give #13 to Ballack?

Probably more Gallas to Milan and Sheva the other way.

Rumor:

To Ajax: Pocognoli and Defour
RC Genk: 7 Million and Tom de Mul

First question to Belg, Pocognoli who?

Dacourt has confirmed he'll sign with Inter in the upcoming days.

Rumor:

To Ajax: Pocognoli and Defour
RC Genk: 7 Million and Tom de Mul

First question to Belg, Pocognoli who?

Left winger / left back. Still very young (01/08/1987)

Highly touted, came from Standard's youth setup and broke into the first team and has pretty much stayed there since january (he did very well, not Defour-well but still very impressive for such a young kid).
Defensively responsible (not great yet though), decent dribbler and very good crosser of the ball. I like the way he knows how to take the right decision at the right time. He's scored a few goals and given a couple of very good assists in his time in the first team. Nice player, I really like him.

Moreso then Defour I think it's too early for him to make the move to Ajax though.

Left winger / left back. Still very young (01/08/1987)

Highly touted, came from Standard's youth setup and broke into the first team and has pretty much stayed there since january (he did very well, not Defour-well but still very impressive for such a young kid).
Defensively responsible (not great yet though), decent dribbler and very good crosser of the ball. I like the way he knows how to take the right decision at the right time. He's scored a few goals and given a couple of very good assists in his time in the first team. Nice player, I really like him.

Moreso then Defour I think it's too early for him to make the move to Ajax though.

Sounds like an Emanuelson clone. If the trade goes through, expect Pocognoli to be his backup until Emanuelson reaches his prime and gets sold.

I like the prospect of having Anita, Sarpong and Defour as 16/17 year olds playing together at midfield one day.

Ajax' future is the brightest since the 83/84/85 generation (Heitinga, van der Vaart, Sneijder, etc)..

Dacourt has confirmed he'll sign with Inter in the upcoming days.Capello close to Inter i guess..
(and i guess after the way he and his fans just celebrated the 'title', Inter fans are far from pleased with the idea..)

Sounds like an Emanuelson clone. If the trade goes through, expect Pocognoli to be his backup until Emanuelson reaches his prime and gets sold.

I like the prospect of having Anita, Sarpong and Defour as 16/17 year olds playing together at midfield one day.

Ajax' future is the brightest since the 83/84/85 generation (Heitinga, van der Vaart, Sneijder, etc)..


I don't think he's got quite the pysical abilities of an Emanuelson (yet??) but he is a guy that can play both positions with relative ease so in that way you're right.

Capello close to Inter i guess..
(and i guess after the way he and his fans just celebrated the 'title', Inter fans are far from pleased with the idea..)
Well lequipe.fr also announced Mancini would stay as coach but that he'd have to do better next season.

Well lequipe.fr also announced Mancini would stay as coach but that he'd have to do better next season.I know, those are the official words by Moratti at the moment.
I think if Mancini stays, he will have been saved by the scandal
(the two seasons where he failed to win were cheated and he was one of the direst arraigner of Moggi along the last couple of years)

_Anderlecht have completed the signing of young Argentinian midfielder Lucas Biglia. He was on the U-20 squad in the world cup last summer and is pretty highly touted. He rejected moves to Valencia and Villareal because he'd play CL at Anderlecht (and of course he's play tout court at Anderlecht - though he didn't say that much to the press). Nicolas Frutos being at Anderlecht also helped his decision.
Apparently RSCA payed €3M for him.

I must say this looks like an exciting transfer to me, I've been hoping for years Anderlecht started doing more of these transfers bringing in very talented players and then selling them with a big profit after a few years (like PSV does). It seems Van Holsbeeck agrees with me.



_Egyptian playmaker Ahmed Hassan is expected to sign as well in the next days on a Bosman

_Another transfer that could happen soon is the addition of Jelle Van Damme.

_Anderlecht is also still looking at Mbark Boussouffa, but at RSCA's valuation of €3-4M Ghent apparently doesn't want to talk. We'll see how that goes.

_Christian Wilhelmsson could be on his way to FC Nantes, the asking prcies is supposedly €4M, but I think there would be other suitors at that price, especially if he has a good world cup.

_Chievo Verona could be interested at taking over Walter Baseggio, I think he'd coast around €1M



_Some good news for Bruges as well, Bosko Balaban is very close to signing a new two year deal. If he does I think we'll see little extra activity on the transfer market by Brugge.

_Chievo Verona could be interested at taking over Walter Baseggio, I think he'd coast around €1MHe was disappointing with Treviso, i don't think Chievo will spend 1M on him. That doesn't mean he won't join Chievo.

_Anderlecht have completed the signing of young Argentinian midfielder Lucas Biglia. He was on the U-20 squad in the world cup last summer and is pretty highly touted. He rejected moves to Valencia and Villareal because he'd play CL at Anderlecht (and of course he's play tout court at Anderlecht - though he didn't say that much to the press). Nicolas Frutos being at Anderlecht also helped his decision.
Apparently RSCA payed €3M for him.

I must say this looks like an exciting transfer to me, I've been hoping for years Anderlecht started doing more of these transfers bringing in very talented players and then selling them with a big profit after a few years (like PSV does). It seems Van Holsbeeck agrees with me.
He's a fantastic young player. Incredible left foot.

BF, or anyone else with an opinion on LFC, do you see there any chance of Liverpool challenging Chelski for the PL title next year? What would you do if you could take over the reins for the silly season?

Personally, i'd try and sign one world class player and sod off Cisse to Lyon and attempt to bring in a true top striker partly with the money Ged gives us for his prodigal son. Hoping to fob off El Moro as well, I just don't think he's a match for Liverpool. Hopefully we can use him as a trading chip to pick up one of our targets. Also, i'm worried that Hyppia will have a shaky season and Agger won't be ready to pick up the slack. Is it too greedy to hope for a Luisao or Lugano level CB to arrive as well? I'd really love to have a faster defender with Sami's anticipation and ability in the air. I'd bring back FSP into the fold, I think he'd make an excellent 4th striker for next season. Bit worried about stunting his development, but he's already a good striker.

Anyhow, not to hijack the thread, but heres what i'm hoping for this summer, although there is no way it happens with the pain in the *** the transfer market is:

Sell:
Cisse-9m pounds to Lyon
Kirkland-1.5m pounds to West Brom
Dudek-1.5m pounds to Feyenoord
Le Tallec-2m pounds to some mid level french club
Traore-1.5m pounds to Everton
Diao-500k pounds or highest bid to the highest bidder

Trade:
El Moro and 10m pounds to Betis for Joaquin

Already acquired:
Mark Gonzales
Gabriel Paletta
Fabio Aurelio(all but signed)

Buy:
Diego Lugano-7m pounds from Sao Paulo
Fernando Torres-18m pounds from Athletico Madrid

Total outlay-19m, 1m less than the 20m transfer kitty Rafa has supposedly been given.

Keepers-Reina, Carson, Willis

Defenders-Finnan, Carra, Lugano, Aurelio, Riise, Hyppia, Agger, Kromkamp, Paletta(youth team)

Midfielders-Joaquin, Alonso, Sissoko, Gerrard, Gonzales, Kewell, Garcia, Hamann

Forwards-Torres, Fowler, Crouch, FSP

----------Reina------------
Finnan-Carra-Lugano-Aurelio
------Sissoko-Alonso-------
Joaquin---Gerrard---Gonzales
----------Torres------------

Bench-Carson, Hyppia, Riise, Kewell, Hamann, Fowler, Crouch

Totally unrealistic, I know, but thats the only team I could see keeping up with the chavs. Beautifully balanced on paper at least. Anyone else feel like doing a similar run-down on their club? I'd especially be interesting in seeing what Flyhigh thinks Arsenal will do or what GoM thinks Man Utd will do.

----------Reina------------
Finnan-Carra-Lugano-Aurelio
------Sissoko-Alonso-------
Joaquin---Gerrard---Gonzales
----------Torres------------


Oh, and our 2nd team would be pretty damn good as well:

-----------Carson-----------
Kromkamp-Hyppia-Agger-Riise
------------Hamann---------
Anderson----Garcia----Kewell
-----Crouchinho--Fowler-----

Asskickingly good!

I know you're talking about challengers to Chelsea, but I'll do Chelsea.

It's interesting really, LOADS of players being linked with moves out, but then that means a lot in, and it could upset the squad morale and unity a lot. I mean, these lot are all supposed to be leaving:

Glen Johnson: Anyone who'll take him
Asier Del Horno: Unsatisfactory first season, reports of shipping back to Spain
Ricardo Carvalho: Real Madrid, Barcelona interested after inconsistent year
Hernan Crespo: Will be moving back to Italy
Damien Duff: Has had a shocking time and could be the winger to leave
Carlton Cole: See Johnson
William Gallas: Much publicised, appears to be headed to Milan
Didier Drogba: Lyon want, Drogba's apparently said today in a reputable media outlet he's disillusioned with England.
Eidur Gudjohnsen: Odd man out without Ballack, will be off.
Shaun Wright-Phillips: See Duff.
Wayne Bridge: Loaned out and may be allowed to leave.

Which definitely leaves holes. Now, in terms of signings, we've naturally been linked with everyone under the sun, but the guys below seem to be the most concrete:

Michael Ballack: Signed
Andriy Shevchenko: Official word from the club is interest and dealings with Milan, supposed fee agreed, lots to do.
Simao: JM confirmed it in Portugal but denied it in England, interesting.
Hilário: Nothing deal, third choice goalie.
Salomon Kalou: Some Dutch reports say deal is done, but he may not be able to come over immediately.
Roberto Carlos: Some reports suggest a £4m bid.
Christian Chivu: Some stories of Abramovich's liking of Chivu, very weak stories mind.
Carlos Tevez: Very strong and consistent reports of a £22m bid, denied by all at the club.

So, if we take that into account, this could be the starting team

-------------Shevchenko------Tevez----------

---------Lampard-------------Ballack----------

--------------Essien--------------------------
-----------------------Makelele---------------
<new LB>----Terry-----Carvalho--------Ferreira
-------------------Cech-----------------------

Although in some other situations you might use

-----------------Shevchenko-----------------
Robben-----------------------------Cole/Simao

-----------------Lampard/Ballack--------------

-------------Essien/Ballack--------------------
-----------------------Makelele---------------
<new LB>----Terry-----Carvalho--------Ferreira
-------------------Cech-----------------------

But if a lot of the guys supposedly are going, we'll need a lot of depth coming in, and I can't see who at the moment. I suspect Jimmy Smith, Jonas Elmer, Michael Mancienne, and at a push Scott Sinclair might get more time to break into the first team squad next season (I'd include Diarra but his position is a bit different, he's a long term replacement for Maka and has been excellent when he's played)

Interesting times.

You forget Robben could very well leave also.

-------------Shevchenko------Tevez----------

---------Lampard-------------Ballack----------

--------------Essien--------------------------
-----------------------Makelele---------------
<new LB>----Terry-----Carvalho--------Ferreira
-------------------Cech-----------------------

This doesn't make sense imo.
With both Lampard and Ballack on the picth, only one out of Essien and Makelele will play. I think most times Essien will be used in a more defensive position in place for Makelele.

Turkish born striker Nihat is set to join Villarreal.

Arsenal have an interesting case. It basically all depends on Henry.

IF Henry stays:

- I don't think we would seriously pursue a striker. With Henry, RvP, Walcott, Lupoli, and Adebayor, they'll have a logjam at striker. There's even talk of playing a 4-3-3 sometimes with Walcott on the right and RvP on the left. The main problem with this formation is that Fabregas wouldn't be ideal for that central midfield spot.

- They definitely need to sign a young CB IMO. Kompany would be really good. Right now, Sendo has potential, but I'm not sure if he'll ever develop into a top-class CB. Campbell is getting very old and while Djourou has shown a lot of potential, he's still very young.

- They also need to sign a central midfielder. Diaby will be out for a long time after that tackle by Smith. There is talk of Wenger renewing his pursuit of Zokora. The Gunners just need someone that can be a ballwinner and who can pass and play good defense. There has been talk of Lauren moving to central midfield, but I'd prefer to see someone more established come in.

- Pires is definitely gone in my mind. He knows that he will get less and less time as Hleb continues to emerge. Also, for some reason, Wenger usually prefers Ljungberg to Pires, probably because Ljungberg can play better in the middle although I think Pires is the better overall player.

- I'd like to see Gilberto go, but only if they bring in a good replacement. Gilberto has been valuable, but his form is still a little choppy and his passing has never been exceptional.

- I wouldn't mind seeing Wenger go after a young GK, Lehmann's 35 or 36 I think and realistically, he probably only has 1 or 2 good years left.

IF Henry goes:

- A top striker is definitely needed. RvP and Adebayor don't have enough experience to be our two main strikers and they don't score enough goals. Wenger has said that he won't be bringing in Vigic. Berbatov definitely becomes an option here. Other options could be Torres or even Baptista again. Honestly though, if Henry goes, this team is in major trouble. They have a great young core, but they really need a leader and a goalscorer like Henry and quite simply, there's not another one like him in the world.

- All of the other things stay the same.

Since you need a young CB, any thoughts Arsenal might set their eyes on Heitinga again? They were one of many interested two years ago before he got his injury, even offering 11 million, but he was supposed to be Ajax' newest building block, so they kept him. He's nearing his potential again and is even joining the Dutch to the world cup. I don't want Heitinga to leave, but I'm just throwing out names.

If you want a young, two-way CB, Heitinga might be gold seeing as his value used to be higher, but the reward remains the same.

Since you need a young CB, any thoughts Arsenal might set their eyes on Heitinga again? They were one of many interested two years ago before he got his injury, even offering 11 million, but he was supposed to be Ajax' newest building block, so they kept him. He's nearing his potential again and is even joining the Dutch to the world cup. I don't want Heitinga to leave, but I'm just throwing out names.

If you want a young, two-way CB, Heitinga might be gold seeing as his value used to be higher, but the reward remains the same.

I wouldn't mind seeing them a make run at him, but I'm not sure if they will. I think Wenger already feels that he already has a big project in Senderos and I don't know if he wants to take on another one in Heitinga. Still, it seems like a change of scenery might do Heitinga a lot of good and if Wenger can get him cheap, I'll bet he'll make the buy and then see what happens.

Berbatov's deal with Tottenham is sealed and delivered, so he won't go to Arsenal.

Berbatov's deal with Tottenham is sealed and delivered, so he won't go to Arsenal.

I thought that personal terms hadn't been worked out, but I haven't been at the computer for a while, so I'll take your word for it.

EDIT: Just seen that it does appear to be done.

Berbatov's deal with Tottenham is sealed and delivered, so he won't go to Arsenal.

16 million as well. Quite a lot for a rather average striker.

16 million as well. Quite a lot for a rather average striker.

typical Spurs... :D

Average is not a word I would use for Berbatov.

16 million as well. Quite a lot for a rather average striker.

Ahm, what ?
Average ?

He´s not outstanding in all aspects, but he´s still good enough to score 20 goals just out of nothing (head, left foot, right foot, knee, ***, whatever it takes to let the ball go in).

BTW Flyhigh, you're up in the Calcio draft.

Ahm, what ?
Average ?

He´s not outstanding in all aspects, but he´s still good enough to score 20 goals just out of nothing (head, left foot, right foot, knee, ***, whatever it takes to let the ball go in).

Just not a fan. Doesn't really posses any outstanding skills, just all-round meh. Not a difference maker..

BTW Flyhigh, you're up in the Calcio draft.

I've sent Beli a pm.

Just not a fan. Doesn't really posses any outstanding skills, just all-round meh. Not a difference maker..

Uh - that you haven´t seen enough. You´ll slap me, but i think he´s at the same level as a Makaay and still getting better.

€ 15,7 Mio transfer fee for Berbatov.

Leverkusen has signed his replacement and agreed to a 2-year contract with Sergej Barbarez.

Carsten Jancker has signed in Shanghai with Shenhua :biglaugh:

Uh - that you haven´t seen enough. You´ll slap me, but i think he´s at the same level as a Makaay and still getting better.

Agreed.

He's more valuable in all round play then Makaay, though he's not that naturally a goalscorer.

I think he'll be a great hit in the EPL personally, great signing yet again by Spurs

Not that Makaay is a natural scorer either, seeing the tons of sitters he's missed lately... :sarcasm:

Pierre Womé --> Werder Bremen, 2 year contract

Giuly admitted he's in contact with Lyon.

- Andrei Voronin may be on his way out of Bayer Leverkusen.

- Dynamo Kyiv captain Maksim Shatskikh may be moving to England and could join Sheffield United.

Just not a fan. Doesn't really posses any outstanding skills, just all-round meh. Not a difference maker..Some others have already replied to this, but I also want to add that he's got lots of skill. Technically, he belongs to the world's top strikers.

Some others have already replied to this, but I also want to add that he's got lots of skill. Technically, he belongs to the world's top strikers.

That's my main problem. I hear so many good things about him, but whenever I watch Leverkussen I leave with an unimpressed feeling towards Berbatov. I know he can do great things, I still remember his CL goal vs Roma. I guess it's just bad luck on my part.

Some others have already replied to this, but I also want to add that he's got lots of skill. Technically, he belongs to the world's top strikers.That sounds like a bit of stretch to me, but of course i have not seen him play as many times as you..

That sounds like a bit of stretch to me, but of course i have not seen him play as many times as you..

His shot definetely is...i dunno if i´ve seen him more than once hit a ball not 100%

Official
Lyon signed Toulalan 4 years.
http://www.olweb.fr/index.php?lng=fr&a=24947&pid=101002

As expected. Tireless worker in the midfield. I think he's got Diarra's potential. I really like him for many years now... and I'm happy Lyon signed him. :)

Even through all this mayhem, there are still some transfer rumors running around Juve. Marchionni's agent confirmed his client would join Juventus no matter what. Del Piero also pledged his future to the Old Lady.

Besides that, if Juventus do get relegated, there is a strong rumor that we will play a young but highly talented team with the likes of Chiellini and Balzaretti running the boat along with Del Piero and Marchionni. Capello, Vieira, Mutu and Ibrahimovic would surely be on their way out in an attempt to stockpile the cash while waiting to return to Serie A and then spending an enormous amount of money reshaping the t