Seedorf: My heart told me to stay

By ESPNsoccernet staff

Midfielder Clarence Seedorf claims that he penned a one-year extension at AC Milan because of his love for the club.

GettyImagesClarence Seedorf's new contract will see him complete ten years at AC Milan

The 35-year-old's contract was set to expire this summer before he agreed to an extension.

The former Dutch international played an important part in Milan's Serie A-winning campaign last season, but admits he is uncertain of how many games he will play for the Rossoneri next season.

"I didn't ask for anything," Seedorf told La Gazzetta dello Sport. "I didn't meet with coach Massimiliano Allegri and yet I signed anyway. I just wanted to stay here."

"I was given no guarantees. After all, after 900 games in my career, what could I possibly have asked Allegri? My heart told me to stay in order to win the Scudetto and the Champions League.

Seedorf joined Milan in 2002 from city-rivals Inter and is 19 appearances shy of 300 for the Italian giants. His four league goals in 30 total appearances for the club helped Milan win their first scudetto since 2004.

European Under-21 Championship: England do not fear Spain, insists U21 manager Stuart Pearce

Everybody expects the Spanish inquisition. Everybody expects a team containing such nimble ball-users as Barcelona’s Bojan, Jeffren and Thiago Alcantara, let alone Valencia’s Juan Mata or Athletic Bilbao’s boy wonder Iker Muniain if he recovers from illness, to trouble England as the European Under-21 Championship Group B sparks into life on Sunday.

Making a point: England coach Stuart Pearce talks to the England Under-21 team before Sunday's match against Spain Photo: GETTY IMAGES

Stuart Pearce will field a good side in the Herning Stadium, offering the pace of Daniel Sturridge, the midfield prompting of Jordan Henderson and the strong central-defensive axis of Chris Smalling and Phil Jones. To their mild annoyance, England have spent the build-up being lectured on their limitations and Spanish potency. Frequent mention has been made of Barcelona being European champions and Spain conquering the world.

Pearce had heard enough. He came in from a vigorous final training session in Fredericia, calves bursting from his socks, a message leaping from his lips. "The Spanish are decent, but they didn’t win their qualifying group," Pearce pointed out. "Last time we came up against them [at Euro 2009] we beat them 2-0. Our Under-17s turned them over, our Under-19s drew with them."

He acknowledged their qualities. "Spain are an exciting nation at the moment," reflected Pearce. "They have talented players. Barcelona are a great team. It excites me to watch them, learning from them. I don’t fear that." Fitting Pearce’s own demeanour, Henderson, Sturridge and Danny Welbeck will run at Spain, playing with respect but no fear.

Pearce has instilled a strong camaraderie in this squad, a trait reflected in a cameo yesterday when Jones and Welbeck walked to the bus, bantering heavily, brothers in arms, although they could also have been swapping views on Manchester United. Welbeck is regarded enough by Sir Alex Ferguson to be included in his plans for next season while Jones will join once negotiations with Blackburn’s owners are completed. England has talent.

"Technically, we’re underestimated," argued the West Ham centre half, James Tomkins, slightly riled by a blast of criticism from Thiago. "They just see us as these big people who can’t play football. We can play good football. Barcelona are a one-off at the minute. They are a 'freakish' team if you think about what they’ve achieved and how they dominate every game.

Manchester United confident of signing Phil Jones from Blackburn Rovers despite Liverpool's hijack bid

Manchester United hope to complete the £16.5 million signing of Phil Jones on Sunday, despite an audacious last-ditch attempt by Liverpool to hijack the move.

England focus: Phil Jones is trying to concentrate on representing his country Photo: EPA

United are confident they will finalise the deal with Blackburn to buy Jones, who is due to play for England Under-21s against Spain in Denmark on Sunday evening.

Jones passed his United medical and agreed personal terms with the club on Wednesday but the completion of the deal was held up by Blackburn’s Indian owners, who hoped to get a bigger fee for the 19-year-old defender.

On Saturday morning, the transfer took a dramatic twist when Liverpool stepped in with a counter offer for Jones, who has a clause in his contract allowing him to leave for offers of more than £16 million.

Liverpool’s bid is believed to have been around £6 million more than that of United, and was therefore welcomed by Blackburn’s owners, who dispute United’s interpretation of the clause.

They think an offer of £16 million merely allows a club to talk to Jones, and have decided that if the player is determined to leave, they should aim to have an auction for his services.

Dudek: Benzema better than Ronaldo

By ESPNsoccernet staff

Ex-Real Madrid goalkeeper Jerzy Dudek has claimed that his former team-mate Karim Benzema is even better than Brazil legend Ronaldo.

PA PhotosKarim Benzema has found it tough in Spain.

Benzema has found it tough to establish himself at Madrid with Gonzalo Higuain often preferred in the lone striking role, while Ronaldo, who played his final farewell game in Brazil's friendly 1-0 win over Romania on Tuesday, bowed out of the game on Wednesday after a glittering career that included three World Player of the Year awards and two World Cup wins.

Yet, despite all accolades collected by the Brazilian in his playing life, Dudek - who recently announced his own decision to retire from football - thinks Real Madrid currently have a better player.

"When I first saw his [Benzema's] first training session, I was impressed," Dudek said in an interview with France Football. "I told all my friends that Madrid had signed an extraordinary player. For me, he is even better than Ronaldo, the Brazilian. Karim has incredible qualities; he is fast and he is elusive, and he has an eye for goal."

Asked if Jose Mourinho's preference for Higuain has stalled Benzema's progress, the Polish goalkeeper said: "Mourinho has a very strong personality but he is also a psychologist.

"He never leaves a player to the side. He knows how to psychologically motivate a player if he believes he can bring something to the group. This first season in Madrid has been difficult for him, but he works for the future of Real."

Dixon: Wenger knows changes needed

By Mark Lomas
(Archive)

Arsenal are moving slowly and painfully towards their longest trophy drought in more than two decades. For eight years, between their FA Cup victory over Manchester United in 1979 and the defeat of Liverpool in the 1987 League Cup final, Gunners fans were starved of silverware. Now, in 2011, six years after their last major title, supporters are hungrier and more frustrated than they have ever been.

GettyImagesArsene Wenger has made some questionable signings in recent years

Arsene Wenger's inability to shed a monkey off his back that has become more King Kong than Bubbles has led to growing disgruntlement among the Emirates faithful, who are wearily preparing themselves for another summer of high-profile transfer rumours which fail to become the sort of revolutionary reality that is needed in North London.

However, it is perhaps to Wenger's credit that patience among Gunners supporters is running out. Such is the level he took Arsenal to, beginning with the Double in 1998 and reaching its peak with the Invincibles of 2004, expectations rose to levels never before experienced at the club. The Frenchman also set the transfer bar high with early signings - the likes of Patrick Vieira, Emmanuel Petit and Marc Overmars thrilling the Highbury crowds, before further astute acquisitions - Thierry Henry, Freddie Ljungberg and Gilberto Silva - really took his side onto the next level.

Whether his transfer nous is waning or the belief in his philosophy of blooding youngsters has grown stronger, one thing is clear: changes are needed at Arsenal. Wenger has proven himself adept at blending youth and experience in the past but recent efforts - Mikael Silvestre, Sol Campbell and Sebastien Squillaci - have left much to be desired.

The successful combination of old and new at Arsenal was never more evident than in the 1998 Double winners. A back five with an average age of 33 - David Seaman, Lee Dixon, Tony Adams, Steve Bould/Martin Keown and Nigel Winterburn - provided Wenger with the sort of defensive stability that he can only dream of now. Dixon, with a new career as a TV pundit, played under Wenger for six of his 14 years as an Arsenal player and believes his former boss will realise that it is time to make some important additions.

"I've seen a frustration in Arsene this season that I've not seen before and that's borne out of the fact they've gone six years without winning a trophy," Dixon told ESPNsoccernet. "I'm sure the pressure gets to him as well. I think he thought that two, three, four years was the cycle that this team would have to go through before they got to a winning stage. It does take time.

''What Alan Hansen said - 'You never win anything with kids' - in general that tends to work because they haven't got the experience necessary when things are going badly to know how to get themselves out of it. It does take a period of time but having said that there are now a number of quite experienced players (from an 'amount of games' point of view) in that team.

"But it goes beyond that, it's about having an older head. The defenders I played with, including midfielders Patrick Vieira and Manu Petit, those players came alive when we didn't have the ball - which is just as important as what you do with it. Unfortunately they don't have the balance. That is not right and that's the main reason they haven't been successful.

"It's very difficult for me to be critical of him [Wenger]. But having played under him and watched his development as Arsenal manager from the media side too, I think he will be the first to admit that maybe he's got the balance of the team slightly wrong in its attacking ideas and also what they do when they don't have the ball defensively - not just the back four, the whole team.

"I'm not really big on 'which player is playing at Bayern Munich at left-back, we should sign him', that's for other people to say but I'd say the main thing is that the superb youthful players Arsenal have got in the team at the moment need to be blended with some experience. I think that mix is slightly wrong and the answer may be signing a new centre-back and a central midfield player."

With Samir Nasri and Cesc Fabregas both heavily linked with moves away from the Emirates - to Manchester United and Barcelona respectively - Arsenal could be left with a significant midfield vacuum next season. Dixon, who made 619 appearances for the Gunners after moving to Highbury from Stoke in 1988, believes the need for an experienced presence in the Arsenal team is the most pressing issue. One player who he feels could have made a difference in a 2010-11 season punctuated by a lack of leadership when the going got tough, is AC Milan midfielder and friend Clarence Seedorf.

"I said at the start of last year that someone who has been there, done it - in the Patrick Vieira-type mould, but someone who is playing more at the peak of his powers. I'm quite friendly with Clarence Seedorf and I talked to him and said 'you'd be perfect for us because younger players like Jack Wilshere would look at you when things are going wrong'. At the moment Jack's looking round and even [captain Cesc] Fabregas to a certain extent when things aren't going quite right. There are no obvious leaders to say 'right, this is what we need to do'. It might not work of course but at the moment there doesn't seem to be a plan when their great football is not paying dividends; if it's 0-0 or they go behind, there's no real Plan B.

"That was the start of last season [when the Seedorf suggestion was made], I think he's too old now! No, he had a great season for Milan and we saw that some of his performances in the Champions League were brilliant. He can still get round the pitch, he plays in more of an advanced role but he said to me he can play in any role in midfield. I don't think it's necessarily about where he plays, though, it's just having him in the dressing room. I'm not saying to Arsene: 'Go out and sign Clarence Seedorf now', I just thought that sort of player was something they needed in addition to what we've got in midfield.

"We've got some excellent players in midfield - Jack Wilshere, [Aaron] Ramsey, [Samir] Nasri and obviously Fabregas, all the same type of player in that they like to play football. So does Seedorf but he's got a little bit more about him upstairs as to his positional play and his attitude towards the game and certain difficult periods of the game that's invaluable really. But it's not just one, I think they need two or three players."

It would certainly seem that Wenger, the man nicknamed 'Le Professor', could learn something by studying Seedorf and AC Milan's recent Serie A title triumph, achieved with a philosophy that is in sharp contrast to his own. At the Rossoneri, unlike Arsenal, players continuing well into their 30s - aided by the impressive medical advances of the renowned Milan Lab - is the norm not the exception. For Milan, age is an asset not an encumbrance and the presence of wise old heads like Gennaro Gattuso, Gianluca Zambrotta and Massimo Ambrosini helped complement the youthful exuberance of the likes of Alexandre Pato and Kevin-Prince Boateng.

Exactly who will be the players to make the difference at Arsenal remains to be seen. Seasoned Premier League performers Scott Parker and Chris Samba have been among those tipped to add a calming influence, though they do not possess the sort of 'wow' factor that will convince Gunners fans that the cobwebs will be blown off the trophy cabinet in 2012. There has been talk that Wenger may even call it a day, feeling disillusioned that what was once critical acclaim has now morphed into plain old criticism. But Dixon feels that while Wenger unquestionably seems set in his ways, the much-maligned Frenchman will be able to deliver the goods and transform Arsenal's fortunes next season.

GettyImagesAC Milan won the Serie A title with old heads like Gennaro Gattuso and Clarence Seedorf in the side

"I don't know if he would ever walk away," Dixon says. "I think he's more frustrated now than he's ever been and that might be the thing that changes his philosophy. I don't think he's going to go out and sign three or four players for £30-£40 million each. That's not in his mentality and whether he lives or dies by that philosophy, he's willing to take that chance. I think there will be changes and there have to be.

"I'm putting my faith in Arsene and say he will turn it around. Something will happen, i don't believe he will go through the summer and keep it the same because as much as it's his team, he must be able to see the problems that lie there. He is hugely more intelligent and knowledgeable about the game than I am and so I think he will make changes and they will put them in a position in which they can challenge near the top again."

• Follow me on Twitter: @marklomasESPN

Mancienne ready for new challenge

Michael Mancienne is confident his decision to quit Chelsea for Hamburg will only make him a better player.

Mancienne, who looks certain to captain England in their European Under-21 Championship opener against Spain on Sunday, joined the German club 11 days ago, having spent almost 15 years in the system at Stamford Bridge.

"I think the move will have a great benefit," said Mancienne.

"It's a new challenge for me and to play for a big team such as Hamburg and to be playing week in, week out.

"I'm really honoured to go there and really looking forward to the challenge."

Mancienne will become only a handful of English players to have braved a move to one of Europe's top leagues in recent seasons.

He claimed it was a mystery why more of his compatriots had not followed suit.

"To be honest, I don't know," he said.

"I saw it as a massive opportunity to go abroad and to play in the German league, so I'm really excited by it.

"I did have a few other options, but I saw Hamburg as my biggest option."

Other nations would have axed Fab

By ROB BEASLEY

FAILURE ... but Fab hasn't paid the price

FABIO CAPELLO would have been sacked after the World Cup by any other top footballing nation.

That's the explosive claim of Three Lions' legendary striker Alan Shearer.

He said of the England boss: "Capello was a great manager when he came to this country, but it has not really worked for him with England.

"In this job you get judged on the major tournaments and he had us in a major tournament in South Africa and we definitely underperformed there. Everyone agrees about that.

"I think if any of the other big countries had performed like we did, he would have lost his job."

But Shearer says the country should now get behind Capello as England try to qualify for Euro 2012.

He added: "What's for sure is you can't sack him now. We will still qualify, I'm pretty sure of that."

Swiss roll over Danish hosts

Xherdan Shaqiri earned Switzerland a 1-0 against hosts Denmark at the European Under-21 Championship on Saturday night.

The Danes could not have asked for a tougher assignment having not beaten Switzerland, who impressed in the build-up to the tournament, at this level for 26 years.

Following an uneventful first half at the Energi Nord Arena in Aalborg, the Swiss started the second period on the front foot and deservedly took the lead after 48 minutes.

The experienced Shaqiri, who plays his club football for FC Basel, broke the deadlock thanks to a moment of real magic.

He picked up the ball halfway inside the Swiss half before ghosting away from three players before slotting his left-foot strike across Mikkel Andersen's desperate dive.

However, Denmark were not overawed by the Swiss dominance and came close to restoring parity on three occasions.

Firstly, defender Andreas Bjelland's stabbed effort was parried by Yann Sommer at his near post.

Minutes later the goalkeeper was called into action once again, making a fine reaction save to deny Daniel Wass.

Swiss stopper Sommer was there again to deny substitute Henrik Dalsgaard with three minutes remaining.

And the Danes thought they had earned a deserved point with the last kick of the game when Nicki Bille slotted the ball into the top corner, but the assistant referee had already raised his flag for offside, much to the anger of the home supporters.

Hosts Denmark now face a crucial encounter against Belarus on Tuesday while Switzerland take on Iceland knowing that victory would practically assure them of a spot in the semi-finals.

Rangers to open talks for striker Tomer Hemed

By Alasdair Lamont
BBC Scotland

Hemed (left) made his debut for Israel last weekend

Rangers will hold talks with the representatives of Israel striker Tomer Hemed over the weekend.

The six foot tall 24-year-old will be out of contract with Maccabi Haifa at the end of June.

Hemed was top scorer for the Israeli champions last season, with 17 goals, and made his international debut earlier this month.

He started the match against Latvia last weekend and provided an assist for Yossi Benayoun in a 2-1 victory.

Clubs in Italy, Spain and Belgium are also tracking the player but the lure of Champions League football may give Rangers an advantage.

And it is understood Hemed has spoken to Celtic's Beram Kayal, a former Maccabi team-mate, about a possible move to Glasgow.

Euro U21 - Albrighton hits back at Spain

Marc Albrighton has responded to Spain midfielder Thiago Alcantara's claim that he had not heard of any of England's players ahead of the sides' European Under-21 Championship opener by declaring: "I don't know any of your team either."

Barcelona youngster Thiago admitted the only players he knew of from Stuart Pearce's original squad were Jack Wilshere and Micah Richards, both of whom pulled out of this month's tournament.

Aston Villa midfielder Albrighton, who is hoping to start Sunday's mouth-watering Group B opener in Herning, hit back, saying: "They're obviously good at their mind games. If they want to think that then brilliant, that's a plus side for us because they're not going to be expecting what they're going to get on Sunday."

He added: "Obviously, it would've helped if Jack Wilshere, Andy Carroll and Micah Richards were here but the players that we've brought in to replace them are great players and will give us good options."

Asked if he would recognise the likes of Thiago or World Cup winners Juan Mata or Javi Martinez, Albrighton added: "Not really, no. We wouldn't really recognise them.

"We've got to be positive about our game and can't fear them too much.

"We know bits and pieces about them but I think we've got to concentrate on us and make them fear us.

"I've seen a couple of clips and noticed that, defensively, we can get at them, definitely.

"The craft that we've got going forward, we've got pace, we've got strength and we've got a lot of ability.

"They do look vulnerable at the back, so we'll look to counter on them while they're playing their pretty football."

Follow LIVE text commentary of every match throughout the European Under-21 Championship!

PA Photos

Azzurri line up Spain friendly

Italy will host Spain in a glamour friendly at the start of next season, the Italian federation (FIGC) have confirmed.

Spain, the reigning world and European champions, will face the 2006 World Cup winners in Bari on August 10.

A statement on the Italian federation's official website www.figc.it read: "The friendly match between the national team coached by Cesare Prandelli and world champions Spain will be played in Bari, at the San Nicola stadium on Wednesday, August 10.

"The decision was made by the FIGC president Giancarlo Abete after talks with the Bari president, Vincenzo Matarrese."

The last meeting between the sides came in the Euro 2008 quarter-finals, when Spain beat Italy on penalties in Vienna en route to winning the title.

Ligue 1 - Gervinho may snub Premier League switch

Gervinho has revealed he could snub a move to Arsenal and Manchester City to remain at French champions Lille.

The Ivory Coast forward is considering his options with Arsenal apparently pondering an £8 million bid for the striker, who scored 15 times in Lille's title-winning campaign.

"Everything is still possible. We just won two trophies with Lille and will play Champions League football next year. The club are working on a very exciting project that is interesting for many people. I could convince players to stay here," said Gervinho.

"There is always a choice. Do I want to stay or should I leave?

"I still have a one-year contract and we are currently in talks. One thing is sure though: I will sign a contract extension or the club will sell me."

Eurosport

Blanc yet to name France skipper

Laurent Blanc has revealed the five players in contention to become France captain as he narrows down his search for a new leader.

Blanc has been rotating the armband since taking charge of the side last summer following a disastrous World Cup campaign, when Patrice Evra was skipper under Raymond Domenech.

He is keen to have a first-choice captain in place by the end of the Euro 2012 qualification programme but has not been able to decide yet on the best candidate.

Blanc has therefore drawn up a shortlist that comprises Bordeaux's Alou Diarra, Lyon's Hugo Lloris, Eric Abidal of Barcelona, AC Milan new boy Philippe Mexes and Chelsea's Florent Malouda.

"I'm not going to announce the name of the captain but four or five players who will grow in importance: Lloris, Abidal, Diarra, Malouda, and I hope to add Mexes when he returns from injury," said Blanc.

"Nobody has emerged and we'll see if someone manages to do that in the squad. I'm waiting to see the transfers a bit, which could change things."

France signed off for the season with a 1-0 friendly win in Poland on Thursday, following a 4-1 defeat of Ukraine and a 1-1 draw in Belarus in their final Euro 2012 qualifying match of the 2010-11 campaign.

Holding midfielder Diarra, who worked under Blanc at Bordeaux, is widely tipped to be named full-time captain, having worn the armband seven times since Blanc replaced Domenech.

Essien not Inter leaving Blues

Michael Essien has declared that he expects to still be at Chelsea next season after being linked with a move to Inter Milan.

Speculation emanating from Italy and Ghana has suggested that Essien could be on his way to Inter this summer following a disappointing campaign at Stamford Bridge.

However, the 28-year-old midfielder maintains that he knows nothing about the reported interest and is staying focused on performing as well as he can for the Blues.

Having missed out on silverware this term, Essien hopes to help Chelsea enjoy success on the domestic and European stage over the next 12 months.

He told skysports.com: "I am looking forward to next season, I want to win back the title and bring the Champions League to Chelsea.

"So I am not aware of not playing for Chelsea next season."

Gibson happy to leave United

Sunderland target Darron Gibson has revealed that he is ready to leave Manchester United if he does not start playing more regularly.

It was reported earlier this week that the Black Cats had launched a triple bid for Gibson and United team-mates Wes Brown and John O'Shea.

Gibson is now waiting to see whether a move materialises - but insists he would have no problem making the switch to Wearside if it benefits his career.

The Republic of Ireland midfielder has previously been urged to quit Old Trafford by national team manager Giovanni Trapattoni as he remains a bit-part player under Sir Alex Ferguson.

And the 23-year-old has now indicated that it might be time for him to embark on a new challenge at the Stadium of Light.

"If Sunderland get the three of us, it would be unbelievable business," he said.

"It wouldn't faze me one bit to leave, all I want is what's best for me.

"So if the best thing for me is to leave and go somewhere that I'll play every week then so be it.

"I haven't sat down with Sir Alex to talk but if it comes to me not playing as much as I'd like next season I'll have to move.

"I'm nearly 24. I'm going to have to go somewhere else if I don't start playing regularly."

Newcastle sign Lille midfielder Yohan Cabaye

Newcastle have made Lille's Yohan Cabaye their first signing of the summer, after agreeing a five-year deal for the midfielder.

Cabaye (left) was a crucial part in Lille's title win

The 25-year-old helped the French side to a league and cup double last season, but told his team-mates before their final game of the season that he was bound for Tyneside.

The transfer fee is reported to be £4.3m.

"This is a fantastic move for me," Cabaye said.

"I have enjoyed great times with Lille but the time is right now to test myself against the best and playing for Newcastle United in the Premier League does just that.

"My first impressions of the club and the city are that it is a lovely place and the stadium is magnificent."

Cabaye's good form with Lille earned him a France debut against Norway in August.

Eric Cantona to coach Cosmos in Paul Scholes testimonial

Manchester United icon Eric Cantona has confirmed that he is set for a return to Old Trafford.

The Frenchman will feature as part of Paul Scholes's testimonial game on Friday 5 August, when he will coach the legendary New York Cosmos.

Cantona quit United in 1997, having won four titles and two domestic doubles in his five seasons at the club.

"I am looking forward to returning to Old Trafford in my new role with New York Cosmos," said Cantona.

"I wish to congratulate Paul for such an incredible career at Manchester United."

Scholes announced his retirement in the wake of United's Champions League final defeat by Barcelona last month.

"This is going to be a big night for me and my family but one which I intend to enjoy and I will savour every moment," said Scholes.

"I have spent my whole footballing life at Manchester United, so this will be an emotional farewell.

"I hope the fans enjoy the night, especially seeing the boss and Eric battling it out in front of the dugouts."

Continue reading the main story

It is that natural ability that makes Paul unique

Sir Alex Ferguson Manchester United manager

The 36-year-old has committed himself to a coaching career at the club, having marked the end of his playing days, during which he secured 10 league titles, a figure second only to Ryan Giggs.

Scholes's United manager, Sir Alex Ferguson, remains appreciative of the midfielder's impact at the club.

"The accolades he has received have been well deserved," said Ferguson.

Click to play

Cantona spoke exclusively to Football Focus in March

"And now from one great player to another; Eric Cantona. I am going to relish this touchline showdown; one Gaelic mind to another.

"Neither of us will want to lose this one, it is sure to be a great night and a well-deserved recognition for Paul."

Brazilian superstar Pele will also be in attendance in his role as Cosmos honorary president.

It will be the New York Cosmos' first match in over 25 years, following the club's folding in 1984. They are currently bidding to gain admittance to Major League Soccer.

The Cosmos side will be made up of players from around the world, invited by Pele and Cantona.

Jerome Boateng wants to swap Man City for Bayern Munich

Berlin-born Boateng wants a move back to his native Germany

Manchester City defender Jerome Boateng wants to return to the German league by joining Bayern Munich.

The 22-year-old move to City last summer on a five-year deal from Hamburg but has become frustrated at Eastlands.

He wants to play at centre-back and not the right-back slot he usually occupies for City. He said: "It is all about whether I am released. I hope it works.

"Bayern are bigger than City, they are one of the top six teams in Europe. To play for them would be an honour."

A stumbling block over any deal could be the fee for Boateng, whose first season at City was disrupted by injury and limited him to 24 appearances.

His last game for City was on 2 March in the FA Cup fifth round victory over Aston Villa.

Despite City going on to lift the Cup and qualify for the Champions League, Boateng is keen to leave in order to improve his international prospects with Germany.

"I would like to go to Munich. On my side everything is clear," said Boateng.

"I have already told [City manager] Roberto Mancini that I want to play in central defence and not at full-back.

"Bayern have indicated I will play in the centre. To play there regularly is important for me because I will have a better chance of playing in the national team."

Arsenal fear Samir Nasri and Gael Clichy could leave

By David Ornstein
BBC Sport

Nasri (left) and Clichy have one year left on their contracts

Arsenal fear that midfielder Samir Nasri and left-back Gael Clichy could leave the club this summer.

The pair have only a year left on their deals and Nasri, 23, has been linked with Manchester United, while Clichy, 25, is a rumoured target for Liverpool.

Their more significant concern is over the Nasri situation.

But the Gunners, who could also face a fight to keep Cesc Fabregas, stress that the door is open for Nasri and Clichy to negotiate new deals.

After a sixth season without a trophy, Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is expected to strengthen his squad this summer.

He is likely to make one signing from France but that it is unlikely to be Belgian midfielder Eden Hazard, who has been linked with the club.

BBC Sport understands Arsenal are working on a deal for Hazard's Lille team-mate, Ivory Coast forward Gervinho, but reports that it could be completed this weekend appear wide of the mark as the clubs are struggling to agree a fee.

However, Wenger's hopes of ending the club's trophy drought will be dealt a blow if he loses both Nasri and Clichy.

Nasri signed for the Gunners in July 2008 from Marseille and has publicly stated his uncertainty over his Arsenal future, while not ruling out a move to Manchester United.

The France international scored 15 goals in 45 games last season and was the outstanding performer for Wenger's side in the first half of the campaign.

Clichy has been at Arsenal since the summer of 2003 and, even though he is one of the club's longest-serving players, the impact of his exit could be limited with Kieran Gibbs a ready replacement.

The prospect of losing the two players will only heighten the concerns of Arsenal fans. Barcelona are again being linked with inspirational skipper Fabregas and, in addition, Manchester United-bound Phil Jones turned down a move to the Emirates from Blackburn.

Wenger has signed the 19-year-old defender Carl Jenkinson from Charlton and been heavily linked with promising Southampton winger Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain but those arrivals are unlikely to appease disgruntled fans.

Gunners star eyes trpy glut

Johan Djourou says Arsenal will go trophy "crazy" when they finally win silverware - and he insists Arsene Wenger is the right man for the job.

Wenger is set to bolster his squad this summer - despite missing out on England Under-21 international defender Phil Jones who is on the verge of a move to Manchester United - in an attempt to get them over the line in 2012 following another bitterly disappointing campaign.

Djourou: So much potential at Arsenal

Defeat in the Carling Cup final at Wembley to Birmingham sparked a cataclysmic collapse in all competitions as Arsenal's barren spell was extended to six seasons.

However, Swiss centre-half Djourou maintains once that first trophy is safely in the Emirates Stadium cabinet, then more will swiftly follow.

"You expect better for Arsenal, of course, but I think that when this long run ends it will just go crazy and we will win everything that is there because this club's got so much potential," the 24-year-old told Sky Sports News.

"It has been six years, but I am just waiting for the moment. I wanted to win something so bad to say to those people 'shh, that's it, it is finished with and we have won something'.

"Unfortunately I can't say that now because it is not the case, but it is not even to say that people are wrong, it is for us to show that we are good enough because we know in ourselves that we are good enough."

Some have suggested Wenger's time is up, his vision for success with such a young team having yet again failed to deliver.

Djourou, though, insists the 61-year-old French coach continues to move the club in the right direction.

"We are always so close to winning and we were missing a little thing," Djourou added.

"People say it is players or people say it is experience, but then who really knows?

"I think that we have experience because the players have been together for a long time.

"What is the real story behind it? I couldn't really tell you, but what I can say is that I think the way Arsene Wenger builds this team is the right way."

After Jones decided to stay in the north-west rather than start afresh in London, Arsenal will continue to push for experienced defensive cover.

Having been prepared to match United's £16million offer for the young Englishman, Wenger indicated he is ready to spend big on the right man, which may now prove to be senior England man Gary Cahill, who still has a year left to run on his current Bolton deal, while Blackburn's Christopher Samba, who almost joined Arsenal in January, is likely to be available for half as much.

The Gunners boss, however, also showed he is determined to keep one eye on the future following confirmation promising Finland Under-19s defender Carl Jenkinson had signed from Charlton, while Arsenal have also been linked with Lille's 20-year-old Belgian midfielder Eden Hazard.

Ivory Coast forward Gervinho appears set to leave the French club, and Arsenal are a possible destination, which could then pave the way for fringe strikers like Nicklas Bendtner and Carlos Vela to leave.

Speculation over the future of captain Cesc Fabregas has again resurfaced, but whether Barcelona have the funds to bankroll another £35million-plus move for their former youth product remains to be seen.

Javier Faus vice-president of the finance department at the Champions League winners admitted the Spanish giants would have "45 million euros (just over £40million) for new signings, plus money that may be obtained from sales" as they look to reduce debt.

Samir Nasri is another who has yet to announce his intentions for next season, with Manchester United reportedly keeping tabs on the France midfielder's protracted contract negotiations with the Gunners.

United up Narsi chase

Manchester United have reportedly stepped up their interest in Arsenal midfielder Samir Nasri and could be ready to launch a bid soon.

The France international midfielder, 23, is understood to be on United's radar and skysports.com are now claiming he is the Premier League champions' top target this summer.

Nasri: Linked with Old Trafford switch

Nasri's reluctance to engage in contract talks with Arsenal until he is satisfied their transfer targets are of the required standard to mount a title push next season has alerted Sir Alex Ferguson to his possible availability.

Despite being close to wrapping up a deal for Blackburn defender Phil Jones and Atletico Madrid goalkeeper David de Gea, amid widespread speculation Aston Villa's Ashley Young is also heading for Old Trafford, Ferguson's appetite for new signings has yet to be sated.

Nasri is seen as an ideal replacement for the retired Paul Scholes, with the centre of the field an area United's management are keen to revamp with fresh talent.

Inter Milan's Wesley Sneijder has been linked but Nasri, with just a season left on his existing deal, could be a more realistic deal to finance.

Arsene Wenger would be loathe to lose one of his key men, especially given Nasri's exit would likely lead to other members of his squad questioning their own futures.

However, United are now ready to test Arsenal's resolve to keep a player who has previously intimated he would be open to the prospect of moving to Manchester.

Reds and Cats wrap Hendo deal

Liverpool and Sunderland have confirmed that Jordan Henderson's transfer from Wearside to Anfield for a "substantial" fee has been completed.

England Under-21 international midfielder Henderson, 20, has signed "a long-term deal" on Merseyside.

Henderson: Now a Liverpool player

He agreed personal terms and visited the Reds' Melwood training complex on Wednesday before undergoing a medical.

The highly-rated starlet has moved for an undisclosed fee, described as "substantial" by Sunderland's website, with reports suggesting it could be up to £16million rising to nearly £20million depending on adds-on and clauses.

Henderson has spoken of his excitement at signing for Liverpool, telling the club's website: "I'm over the moon, overjoyed to be here and I'm really looking forward to it.

"I was flattered to know Liverpool were interested in me and, once I knew, it was a massive decision for me to make but also a massive opportunity.

"Obviously it's hard to leave your local club. I'm a Sunderland lad, I've supported them all my life.

"But I'm really looking forward to the future now and obviously this is a massive opportunity for me. I'm really excited by it."

A statement from Liverpool read: "Liverpool Football Club have completed the signing of Jordan Henderson after the 20-year-old passed a medical and agreed personal terms.

"Henderson travelled to Merseyside on Wednesday after a fee was agreed with Sunderland. He then underwent a medical examination in Liverpool before signing a long-term deal."

Henderson is Liverpool's first signing of the summer and - following the big-money captures of Andy Carroll and Luis Suarez in January - the third high-profile new recruit since Fenway Sports Group's takeover of the club and Kenny Dalglish's return as manager last season.

Currently part of the England Under-21 squad who get their European U21 Championship campaign under way in Denmark this weekend, Henderson won his first senior international cap against France last November and his value has soared over the past year, despite a recent dip in form.

The Sunderland youth academy graduate made his Black Cats debut in a 5-0 defeat to Chelsea in November 2008.

In total he has made 79 appearances for the Wearsiders, scoring five goals, and he also spent a spell on loan at Coventry in the 2008-09 season.

He said: "My family are all Sunderland fans as well, and it's pretty tough because I've had some great years there.

"I've been there since I was seven and I'll definitely miss it but, like I say, I'm looking forward to playing for Liverpool now."

Henderson admits he cannot wait to link up with midfield colleague Steven Gerrard.

"He is one of the best players in the world, you want to be playing with him and training with him to try to improve yourself as a player," Henderson said.

"I've trained with him once (for England) and he was unbelievable, to be honest. I'm looking forward to it, and there are other good players here who can help me as well.

"Steven has been a massive, massive player for Liverpool for years now and he still is. Hopefully I can learn a lot from him."

It had been thought Liverpool striker David Ngog might travel in the opposite direction as part of the transfer.

He remains at Anfield for now, but Reds director of football Damien Comolli has indicated the 22-year-old could still be headed for the Stadium of Light.

"Sunderland have had a strong interest in David, so we've agreed to let David speak to Sunderland about his future to see if he's interested in going there," Comolli said.

"They've expressed a strong interest, so we'll see what's next for him."

Comolli conveyed his delight at the conclusion of the Henderson deal and insisted Liverpool had not paid over the odds.

"I'm very pleased because he was one of the targets we had and when you get your first target it's always a good sign because you think the others will come through as well," Comolli said.

"We are very, very pleased. He has got all the skills technically that we needed.

"He's good with the ball, he's creative, he's got good passing, he's physically very good.

"That's everything we wanted in a midfielder and he's versatile as well. For Kenny, he will be the player we wanted.

"On the fee, I've read and heard a lot of things. There was a lot of speculation on how much we would pay for Jordan and none of the figures I've seen are correct so far.

"We've paid a price that we are comfortable with, otherwise we would not have done the deal."

Dalglish is likely to continue doing business in the transfer window as he attempts to rejuvenate his squad this summer.

Liverpool are believed to retain interest in Blackpool midfielder Charlie Adam, while Ipswich youngster Connor Wickham is thought to be another target.

FA reveal Toure's 'belly hell'

Manchester City defender Kolo Toure was obsessed with "the appearance of his belly", according to documents released by the FA.

Ivory Coast international Toure was handed a six-month suspension by the FA in May after being found guilty of taking banned water tablets.

Toure: Became obsessed with his weight, says FA

His suspension has been backdated to March and he will be able to play again in September, but the FA have revealed that his battle with his weight led him to take the pills.

The governing body have also said the 30-year-old claimed City's club doctor, Jamie Butler, had okayed the tablets, a claim refuted by Butler and quashed by the FA.

A report issued by the FA reads: "The context is that for some years KT (Kolo Toure) has had a problem controlling his weight.

"He has become obsessed with his weight and more particularly the appearance of his belly."

The FA have released a 16-page report giving their reasons for the ban.

Toure said he had been given the tablets by his wife, Mahoo, and the report continued: "MT put the water tablets into a drug dosette. On January 29, he travelled for the fourth round FA Cup match to be played against Notts County.

"He took his supplement including the dosette in a bag branded 'Herbalife'. KT's recollection was that he gave that bag (including the dosette) to the club doctor, Dr Butler, in the hotel restaurant early that evening and asked him, '...these are the supplements I take. Are they okay?'

"At the time two of the MCFC coaching staff, Attilio Lombardo and Fausto Salsano were close by. KT recalled Dr Butler looking through the bag, lifting out some of the contents and then telling him that 'everything in the bag is okay'. That was not Dr Butler's recollection."

The statement went on to add that Toure "did not have any products with him at the time and simply informed him (Butler) he wanted to start taking 'Herbalife' supplements".

Butler added that Toure had given him some 'Herbalife' products to check at the club's training ground a few days later but "never saw the drug dosette".

The FA said: "It was not suggested that he was shown the medicine bottle with the 'water tablets x21' label then or at any stage."

The report concluded that Dr Butler "never told him it was safe to use water tablets" and "he would unequivocally have said such were prohibited and should not be used".

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard: I'll be in top shape

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has been 'doing yoga' and expects to return next season in the best shape he has been in for a decade.

The influential England midfielder has not featured for club or country since March, when he saw his season cut short by a groin injury.

Gerrard: Expects to return for Liverpool in top shape

He has since undergone an operation and is eight weeks into his recovery, with the 31-year-old expected to return when the Reds' pre-season training begins early next month.

And captain Gerrard is hungry to get back on the pitch, insisting he feels in top shape ahead of his comeback.

"I have confidence in what I can do," he told the Daily Express. "I am going to be in the best condition physically going into this season that I have been for the last 10 years.

"I am working doubly hard on my body, on my core and on strengthening my groin, which I have suffered with.

"The operation went well and I have nearly double the strength in the groin now than before. The physios at Liverpool are measuring that on a weekly basis and the results show that.

"I know I will be rusty in friendlies but I have confidence that I am going to be the freshest I have been, both mentally and physically, for a long, long time."

Gerrard says he has been working hard to ensure he is in the best possible condition ahead of the new campaign.

"For two or three hours each day I will have to work on my body to make sure I am right," he said. "But I don't see that as a chore. This is me getting right for Liverpool Football Club.

"I have started doing yoga a couple of times a week as well. It absolutely wipes you out. People who think you turn up and you're just posing in different shapes should have a go!

"I am enjoying it after the sessions because I am feeling the benefits. That is part of the reason why my groin feels so good just now.

"I've not kicked a ball for a long time, probably the longest I have gone in my career, and I can't wait to get back now."

Trezeguet move to Napoli 50-50

The agent of David Trezeguet has confirmed that his client has a '50 per cent' chance of joining Napoli from Hercules.

The former France international's future is up in the aire after Hercules suffered relegation from Spain's Primera Liga.

Trezeguet's representative, Antonio Caliendo, declared last week that there was plenty of interest in the striker.

"I can say that there's a 50 per cent chance Trezeguet will play for Napoli next season," Caliendo told Naples-based radio station Kiss-Kiss.

"We've taken a few steps forward, but you'd have to ask (Napoli sporting director Riccardo) Bigon.

"Trezeguet to Napoli would be the cherry on the cake of a big transfer window, but the dice have not yet been cast."

Trezeguet has already spent 10 seasons in Italy as he represented Juventus between 2000 and 2010.

He scored 12 goals for Hercules this season, but could not prevent the Alicante side from being relegated.

Own goal gives Les Bleus win

Wigan's Charles N'Zogbia forced Tomasz Jodlowiec into an own goal to gift France a 1-0 victory over Poland in Thursday's friendly in Warsaw.

Defender Jodlowiec put through his own net after 13 minutes in one of only a handful of chances created by Les Bleus during the first half.

N'Zogbia: Congratulated after goal

Laurent Blanc's men then raised the tempo in the second half but were unable to add to their tally against the Euro 2012 co-hosts.

It still marked a successful end to France's tour having also hammered Ukraine on Monday night.

Poland looked the better side in the opening half and could have taken the lead after 10 minutes, but Robert Lewandowski directed his header past the right post.

France made the breakthrough just two minutes later, though, with the help of N'Zogbia, whose left-footed strike was turned into the net by the head of Jodlowiec.

The home side set about trying to find an equaliser, but their finishing was poor with Adrian Mierzejewski creating the best chance on the stroke of half-time with a 25-yard strike which whistled past the right post.

Les Bleus had been disappointing so far, but things picked up after the restart with Mathieu Valbuena firing the first warning shot with an effort which narrowly cleared the crossbar.

Poland responded with a free-kick from Ludovic Obraniak which stung the palms of Cedric Carrasso in the visiting goal, with the midfielder seeing another good effort turned away minutes later.

But it was home goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny who soon found himself at the heart of the action, first turning away a left-footed strike from Valbuena before keeping out a free-kick from N'Zogbia.

The Arsenal star did even better to palm clear another shot from N'Zogbia after 64 minutes with Valbuena again denied in what was proving to be a frustrating spell for the French.

Lewandowski tried to take some of the pressure off his goalkeeper with a drilled effort which was tipped away by Carrasso, but Szczesny continued to be tested and another fantastic save nine minutes from time prevented Adil Rami from turning a header into the bottom corner.

Having weathered the storm well, Poland had one last chance to take something from the game but Carrasso was equal to the challenge, keeping out a powerful 30-yard drive from Adam Matuszczyk with his feet.

Aguero delays decision about future

Sergio Aguero has said he will not make a decision on his future after the forthcoming Copa America.

Aguero, 23, is currently with the Argentina national squad ahead of the championships, which will be held in his homeland.

"A decision about a possible transfer elsewhere will be made when the Copa America is over," the Argentina forward told Canal 7. "At the moment, I don't know anything about what will happen."

The former Independiente striker informed Atletico of his desire to leave the Vicente Calderon last month, and has subsequently been linked with a move to rivals Real Madrid, Chelsea and Inter.

Aguero was recently praised by Real's Portuguese coach Jose Mourinho.

"Obviously, I am pleased that a coach like him [Mourinho] talks positively about me," the forward said. "It's always good to be praised by other coaches."

Lazio can Klose on Scudetto

New Lazio striker Miroslav Klose believes his club can battle for the league title next season.

The Germany international became Lazio's first summer reinforcement.

Klose: New Lazio recruit

The 33-year-old joined the Roman outfit as a free agent and put pen to paper on a two-year contract with the Serie A outfit yesterday.

"Lazio is a very interesting team," said Klose on the club's official website, www.ssslazio.it.

"They have a mix of young players and experienced ones.

"I think it will be an interesting campaign and I am certain we will be able to battle for the scudetto."

The former Werder Bremen forward endured a disappointing campaign for Bayern Munich in 2010/11, scoring just one goal in 20 Bundesliga appearances.

After four seasons with the German giants, Klose is eager to show his worth in Italy's top flight.

"I am very happy with this new adventure," he said."I cannot wait to make my debut in Serie A.

"I will try to do my best for Lazio, who have a great team and very strong players."

Lazio narrowly missed out on Champions League football after a fifth-place finish in Serie A and will compete in the Europa League.

Barca reveal tranbsfer bounty

Barcelona have announced their summer transfer budget after confirming they are taking measures to reduce their debt.

Javier Faus, the European champions' vice-president of the finance department, said on Wednesday night coach Pep Guardiola would have "45 million euros (just over £40million) for new signings, plus money that may be obtained from sales".

Guardiola: Will have £40million to spend

The announcement has already led to speculation Barca will not be able to move for targets such as Arsenal's Cesc Fabregas, although income could be generated from sales of the likes of Bojan Krkic, Jeffren and Maxwell.

In announcing a reduction in the amount the club owe, Faus said: "The gross debt has been reduced from 532million euros to 483million euros, and the net debt from 431million euros to 364million euros.

"We want to decide our future and to do so we must reduce the debt to acceptable levels.

"There has been a great effort, which will continue over the next two years, to reduce this debt...a millstone that is essential and indispensable.

"This will make Barcelona the most financially solvent club in the world in two or three years."

Real Madrid appeal against Mourinho ban

Real Madrid have appealed against the five-match touchline ban imposed on their coach Jose Mourinho.

Mourinho's punishment came in the wake of ill-tempered Champions League semi-final first leg against Barcelona at the Bernabeu, when he was sent to the stands and criticised Barca in the post-match press conference.

Mourinho has already indicated his intention to take his case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport if necessary and a statement on the UEFA website read: ''Real Madrid have appealed against the disciplinary verdict handed down to Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho by the UEFA Control and Disciplinary Body on May 6, and relating to the UEFA Champions League semi-final first leg between Real Madrid and Barcelona in Madrid on April 27.

''The appeal follows the sending by UEFA of the reasoned decision on June 6. The date of the hearing will be communicated in due course.''

Mourinho was unhappy at the red card shown to Real midfielder Pepe, and afterwards claimed there was a refereeing conspiracy in favour of Real's great rivals.

Mourinho said after the game: ''Today it's clear that against Barcelona you have no chance.

''I don't understand why. I don't know if it's the publicity of UNICEF (the club's shirt sponsor), I don't know if it's the friendship of (Spanish football federation president Angel Maria) Villar at UEFA, where he is vice-president, I don't know if it's because they are very nice, but they have got this power. The rest of us have no chance.

''(Pep) Guardiola is a fantastic coach, but he has won one Champions League which I would be ashamed to win after the scandal at Stamford Bridge and this year, if he wins it again, it will be after the scandal at the Bernabeu.

''I hope that one day he will win a clean Champions League, with no incidents behind it.''

Ashley Young 'agrees' United deal.

Ashley Young has reportedly agreed personal terms ahead of his proposed big-money move from Aston Villa to Manchester United.

The talented forward, who has also undergone a brief medical, is now expected to complete a switch to Old Trafford when he returns from holiday.

Young: Heading to United

It emerged on Thursday that the Premier League champions had held discussions with Young's representatives over a possible switch.

The England international admitted earlier this summer that he was keen to play at the very highest level, sparking speculation that he would leave Villa Park.

United have been credited with a long-term interest in the former Watford player, while Liverpool were also understood to be monitoring the situation.

And Sir Alex Ferguson now looks to have pipped the Reds to yet another transfer target, with Blackburn defender Phil Jones also set to sign for the champions.

Liverpool chasing Serie A defender

Serie A club Catania say that Liverpool have expressed interest in their Argentine defender Matias Silvestre.

GettyImagesMatias Silvestre has scored six times since joining Catania

Silvestre, 26, has been playing for the Sicilian club for the past three-and-a-half seasons, after transferring from Boca Juniors and has since become captain of the Rossazzurri.

The defender has been a standout in Vincenzo Montella's side and Catania general manager Pietro Lo Monaco stated earlier this year that he expected the South American to head on to a bigger stage in the summer.

Lo Monaco now says that it is Liverpool, along with Villareal, who are leading the charge to lure Silvestre away from Italy next season.

"Top of the list of those moving on is Silvestre," Lo Monaco told Itasportpress. "I'd struggle to keep him here, considering what a great player he is. There are two Italian clubs tracking him, but Liverpool and Villarreal are also interested in Silvestre."

Sneijder staying with Inter

Wesley Sneijder has moved to end speculation over his future by declaring he wants to stay with current club Inter.

The 27-year-old playmaker has been touted as a target for Chelsea and Manchester United but is set to remain at the San Siro.

"Milan is marvellous, picturesque and full of elegance. I love it," Sneijder told the Inter website.

"At the moment I am very happy here and I don't see why I should leave."

The Dutch international joined Inter in the summer of 2009 and played a major part in helping Inter win the Treble of the Champions League, Serie A and Coppa Italia in his first season.

The Italian club finished second in the league and reached the last eight of the Champions League last season, although they did retain the Coppa Italia.

"There is a family atmosphere at Inter and there are all the ingredients to aim high," added Sneijder.