Fabiano eyes Man Utd and Milan

Brazil striker Luis Fabiano has issued a come and get me plea to both Manchester United and AC Milan - but told Tottenham Hotspur they will be wasting their time making a bid for him.

Luis Fabiano (r) is ready to leave Sevilla for a bigger club

Fabiano has revealed he is almost certain to leave Sevilla this summer as he goes in search of silverware, and the player, who has scored two goals at the World Cup and is in the running for the Golden Boot, would like a move to the Premier League or Serie A.
Spurs are already said to have made an enquiry for Fabiano, but he feels moving to White Hart Lane would be a sideways step.
Fabiano told the Daily Star Sunday: "I have a real chance of winning a World Cup here in South Africa, and that is what I must stay focused on even though I know my future has to be sorted soon. I have made it clear that I will not be signing a new contract with Sevilla and at 29 I now need to join a club where I can start challenging for the highest honours from the first season.
"I have heard Tottenham Hotspur made an inquiry about me but, with all respect, that is not somewhere I am going to be able to win the Premier League or the European Cup in the next three or four years.
"There would be no point in me joining Tottenham. I might as well stay at Sevilla, as it's the same thing. Sevilla are actually bigger when you look at how much we have been in the European Cup, so there would be no point me moving to a smaller team.
"The choice will come down to Manchester United and AC Milan. That is the sort of team I want to be signing for, one of the true giants of Europe. I think the way Manchester United play football is very attractive, I must be honest and say Premier League football attracts me and also the way Manchester United play football attracts me.
"You think about being Wayne Rooney's strike partner and that is very attractive for any striker. I think the style of Premier League football suits me and I think I could score goals and be very successful there. Their coach is a winner, their players are winners and they are one of the few teams in Europe challenging for the top honours season after season.
"As soon as the World Cup is over I will make a quick decision on my future - and while it is going on I hope Sevilla can open discussions. I have enjoyed my time here but I now need to be at a giant."

Deschamps set to reject Liverpool interest

Didier Deschamps looks to be out of the running for the Liverpool job just 24 hours after being installed as one of the favourites to take over.

Didier Deschamps won the Ligue 1 title with Marseille last season

The Marseille manager, who guided the French club to the Ligue 1 title last season, has revealed he is in discussions over a new deal at Stade Velodrome and has no intention of quitting the club.
It means that Fulham boss Roy Hodgson is now the clear favourite to get the job and is odds-on with the bookmakers with former Real Madrid manager Manuel Pellegrini second in the betting.
Deschamps, who returned to management with Marseille last summer after last being with Juventus in 2007, explained to La Provence: "We have held [contract] discussions. I am happy at Marseille. I am not there for just one year. A coach must be there for the long haul, and that is my wish.''
The French club's president has also dismissed the chances of Deschamps, who also led Monaco to the 2004 Champions League final, taking over at Anfield.
It was reported in L'Equipe that Liverpool chief executive Christian Purslow contacted Marseille and asked to speak to Deschamps - a request which was turned down by Jean-Claude Dassier.
Dassier claimed: "He asked me if I allowed him to meet Didier and Jean-Pierre Bernes (Deschamps' agent). I replied that I did not allow any meeting to take place. I have also indicated that there is no way we'll let go of our coach.''

Harry Redknapp want to sign Joe Cole

Tottenham Hotspur boss Harry Redknapp has reiterated his desire to sign out-of-contract England international Joe Cole.

Joe Cole: Will consider his future after the World Cup finals

• Man Utd rule out Cole deal
Redknapp has been in contact with Cole's representatives and is hopeful a deal can be done when the midfielder returns from the World Cup.
Cole failed to agree a new contract with Chelsea last month and has been linked with both Manchester United and Arsenal. But Redknapp is aiming to snap up one of this summer's highest-profile free agents ahead of his rivals.
Redknapp gave Cole his break at West Ham United when he was manager at Upton Park and could be reunited with the 28-year-old.
Redknapp said: "We've declared our interest in Joe to his agent but that is as far as it has gone. We are told Joe doesn't want to talk to anyone about any move until after the World Cup is over."

Ballack back to Leverkusen

Michael Ballack has joined Bayer Leverkusen on a two-year contract. The 33-year-old, who is missing the World Cup through an injury picked up in the FA Cup final victory, was released by Chelsea at the end of last season.

Michael Ballack: Played for Leverkusen in 2002

The midfielder is returning to the Bundesliga and his old side, with whom he reached the Champions League final in 2002
"With my transfer to Bayer Leverkusen a circle is complete. I had a beautiful and successful time here, on which I like to look back on a lot," Ballack told the club's website.
"That was a factor in my decision." Ballack added: "But above all the good sporting potential of this young and attractive team were persuasive.
"I am especially looking forward to the great fans, who naturally have been key in my decision to return to Bayer."
Ballack, who spent three years with Bayer before leaving for Bayern Munich in 2002 and then moving on to Chelsea in 2006, will reportedly earn around €12 million over a two-year stay at Bayer.
Steve McClaren's Wolfsburg were also believed to have been interested in him, but Ballack has opted for a return to his old club.
Bayer sporting director is delighted to have signed a player of Ballack's experience, and believes he will help the development of the club's crop of young players.
"With Michael Ballack our team is getting an enormous boost in quality," he said. "Especially our many young players will benefit from his abilities and his experience.
"We did everything to convince Michael. That his preference was for Bayer despite our limited financial possibilities in comparison to the competition, shows his emotional attachment to the club."

Roy Hodgson target to be Liverpool boss and Eriksson replace him at Fulham

Liverpool are on the brink of finalising the appointment of Roy Hodgson as the club's new manager and Sven Goran Eriksson is the favourite to replace him at Fulham.

Roy Hodgson: Anfield target

Hodgson will return to England from South Africa, where he has been working as a World Cup pundit for the BBC, on Friday and will enter into final negotiations with Anfield officials.
The make-up of Hodgson's backroom staff is one of the key issues still to be resolved, with the former Inter manager eager to take Fulham assistant manager, Mike Kelly, with him.
Hodgson beat several other candidates, including former Real Madrid and Villarreal coach Manuel Pellegrini and Anfield legend Kenny Dalglish, to replace Rafael Benitez, who left Liverpool last month.
Former England manager Eriksson is top of Fulham's shortlist to replace Hodgson at Craven Cottage, with Mark Hughes and Tony Mowbray also reportedly on the hit-list.
Eriksson is currently in charge of Ivory Coast at the World Cup, but the Elephants are expected to bow out of the competition on Friday and the Swede can then consider his options.
"As usual there are rumours and agents phoning, but we will see," Eriksson said. "I haven't thought about my future and I haven't spoken to anyone because I don't want to do that during the World Cup."

Roberto Mancini has said he is interested in signing either Milos Krasic or Edin Dzeko

Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini has said he is interested in signing either Milos Krasic or Edin Dzeko and hailed Barcelona forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

Roberto Mancini is currently considering his options in the transfer market

• Yaya Toure set to join City
City have already signed defender Jerome Boateng from Hamburg but look set to reinforce further up the field, with an array of big names linked.
CSKA Moscow winger Krasic had looked certain to move to Italy, with Juventus and Inter Milan strongly interested, while Wolfsburg striker Dzeko has frequently been linked with the biggest clubs in Europe, but Mancini appears hopeful of adding one of the duo to his squad.
"Many players are linked with City, often for convenience," he told Tuttosport. "We are used to raised prices, but in reality we cannot buy dozens of players. Of course we aim to strengthen. Krasic or Dzeko? One really interests us, the other doesn't. Who? I cannot say."
Ibrahimovic, who played under Mancini at Inter, is also said to be a target for City, with rumours in recent weeks over a swap move with Robinho. "In my opinion, Ibra is the best striker in Europe," Mancini said. "It makes me laugh when people say he misses crucial chances."

Chelsea could fight Man City to get David Silva

Manchester City have been given permission to open talks with Valencia midfielder David Silva, but Chelsea could yet make a move for the player.

David Silva is currently in South Africa.

Roberto Mancini has been linked with a move for Silva for weeks, and now his Spanish club have agreed to let City talk to the winger. The two clubs have yet to agree a fee but it now seems certain that Silva will be heading to the Premier League.
"As has been said, there is interest from Manchester City and we have permitted them to talk to the player, but we have reached no agreement and we have not talked about a fee," said Valencia's deputy chairman Javier Gomez.
Although City appear to be in pole position to land the midfielder's signature, it is far from certain that he will opt to move to Eastlands. Only on Sunday, Silva spoke of his desire to join Chelsea and the player's agent has again suggested he may prefer a move to Stamford Bridge.
"We're weighing up offers from three clubs and one is Chelsea," his agent, Julio Llorente, told the Daily Mail. "If Silva doesn't want to go to City, the transfer isn't possible."
Silva, currently with Spain at the World Cup finals, is expected to cost in the region of £28 million. While that is small change to owners of both clubs, it could be that Chelsea may prefer to spend big on a striker rather.
Last weekend Silva said of possible interest from Chelsea: "Chelsea have established themselves as one of the best clubs in Europe over the last five years. They might not have the history of Real Madrid or AC Milan but they are creating their own history now.
"There is no reason why in the future Chelsea can't be as decorated as Real Madrid. Chelsea probably have, along with Barcelona, the best squad in football and if any player joins Chelsea he knows he is going to win things.
"In players like John Terry, Frank Lampard and Didier Drogba, they have players who would get into any team in the world and it would be a pleasure to play with them. There is no doubt in my mind that Chelsea would be a great club to play for - and a club where I could fulfil my ambition of league titles and the European Cup.
"The Premier League is still the place to be. No other league in the world has six or seven Champions League-quality teams."

Anelka signs new one-year Chelsea deal

Chelsea striker Nicolas Anelka has signed a one-year contract extension to keep him at Stamford Bridge until summer 2012, the club have confirmed.

Nicolas Anelka has committed himself to Chelsea until at least 2012

Having experienced a World Cup nightmare after being sent home from the France squad, Anelka admitted he was delighted to commit his club future to the Blues.
"When I first came to Chelsea I wanted to stay much longer than what I did in the past with other clubs," Anelka told the club's official website. "It is a big club, you play with big players and I like this club, I like London.
"There is no need to move anymore and so I am very glad to sign a new contract and I know we will play in big games and win titles. I am very glad.'
Anelka was signed by former boss Avram Grant from Bolton in 2008 and has gone on to play 123 times for the Blues, netting 42 goals.
Current Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti praised Anelka's abilities and revealed his delight at the striker's decision to sign a new deal.
"Nicolas is a fantastic player who has good technical qualities and movement," Ancelotti said. "When I was coach at Juventus I wanted to buy him, so it is good now he has signed for me and I think Chelsea is his home. I look forward to working with him for one year more."

CITY will step up their pursuit of James Milner

MANCHESTER CITY will step up their pursuit of James Milner as soon as England exit the World Cup.

Club sources have indicated they will be going back in with an improved bid after seeing a £20million offer for the Aston Villa midfield ace, 24, knocked back earlier in the summer. And they remain confident around £25m should be enough to tempt Martin O'Neill to sell the former Newcastle star.
If he moves to Eastlands he is likely to be joined in the City engine room next season by Yaya Toure, as the club edge closer to a £25m deal for Barcelona's Ivorian ace.
Meanwhile, EMMANUEL ADEBAYOR has vowed to stay at City and battle for his place next season, despite the big-spenders eyeing Fernando Torres and Wolfsburg's Edin Dzeko.
The Togo international said: "I'm looking forward to next season. It's going to be very difficult. But that's football."

JOE COLE wants to join Manchester United

JOE COLE has told pals he wants to join Manchester United.

The England ace becomes a free agent next Wednesday when his Chelsea contract expires. The midfielder, 28, had been expected to join Arsenal.
But now it seems Gunners boss Arsene Wenger is set to lose out to Old Trafford boss Alex Ferguson in the race for Cole's signature.
Spurs boss Harry Redknapp and Real Madrid chief Jose Mourinho have both managed Cole in the past and are keen to do so again - but are also set to miss out.
Chelsea skipper John Terry admits he is stunned at the move.
Terry said: "It still amazes me how the club have come to the conclusion of letting Joe go."

Dirk Kuyt hopes Steven Gerrard stay at Liverpool

Dirk Kuyt was disappointed to see Rafael Benitez leave his post as Liverpool boss and hopes the Spaniard will not be followed out of Anfield by captain Steven Gerrard.

GettyImages

Dirk Kuyt had a good relationship with Rafael Benitez at Anfield

Benitez left Liverpool by mutual consent earlier this month to bring an end to a six-year tenure and Kuyt, whom Benitez brought to the club in 2006, admitted he would be forever thankful to the Spaniard for giving him his chance in English football.
"I was sad to see Rafa go," he told the News of the World. "He was the manager who brought me over to Liverpool and I think he is a great manager. He was very important for Liverpool. He won the Champions League and did wonderful things for the club.
"I would just like to thank Rafa for bringing me to Liverpool and making me the player I am now."
Following Benitez's departure there have been fears on Merseyside that Gerrard could follow him out of the club, with new Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho reportedly keen on luring a player he almost signed while he was with Chelsea.
That would be a major blow to Liverpool's hopes next season in the eyes of Kuyt, after they could only manage a seventh-place finish in the Premier League last term.
"I wouldn't like to see Stevie G go," he said. "Everyone wants to keep Stevie at the club. He is the captain of the team, he's very important and his heart is bleeding Liverpool, so it must be a very good offer or a very good club if he wants to leave.
"But I don't know what will happen. It's just up to him and the club. I have spoken to Stevie while I have been here. We wished each other all the best before the games started but we just talked about football and not his future."

Lionel Messi has revealed he would love to see Wayne Rooney join Barcelona

Lionel Messi has revealed he would love to see Wayne Rooney join Barcelona and believes he can go down as an all-time great.

Rooney has come in for criticism at the World Cup as he has struggled to live up to his pre-tournament billing as one of the potential stars of the summer, but Messi says he would be delighted to play alongside the England striker at Camp Nou.
"It would be a dream to play with Rooney if Manchester United ever came to the point where they needed to sell him," Messi said in the Daily Star Sunday. "I would personally go to the Barcelona president and ask that he be signed myself.
"There are always a handful of players in the world at any one time who can go down in the footballing history books. At the moment, there are maybe (Cristiano) Ronaldo, Rooney, Xavi and one or two more - but I can't think of one that plays with the desire of Rooney.
"We all know football players at the top level are blessed with high wages, it's no secret, but Rooney would play for €100-a-week. You can see the fire in his eyes. It's that fire which makes him the best of the best."

David Silva has revealed he would relish a move to Chelsea

Valencia winger David Silva has revealed he would relish a move to Chelsea and believes they rank alongside Barcelona as the best club in world football.
Silva, currently on World Cup duty with Spain, is expected to leave Valencia this summer and, as it appears there is little prospect of him joining Barca or Real Madrid, both Chelsea and Manchester City are viewed as possible destinations.
The 24-year-old, who was recently quoted as saying he would find it difficult to resist a move to Manchester United, has now reiterated his belief that the Premier League is the strongest in the world and feels Chelsea are its strongest team.
"Chelsea have established themselves as one of the best clubs in Europe over the last five years," he said in the Daily Star. "They might not have the history of Real Madrid or AC Milan but they are creating their own history now.
"There is no reason why in the future Chelsea can't be as decorated as Real Madrid. Chelsea probably have, along with Barcelona, the best squad in football and if any player joins Chelsea he knows he is going to win things.
"In players like John Terry, Frank Lampard and Didier Drogba, they have players who would get into any team in the world and it would be a pleasure to play with them.
"There is no doubt in my mind that Chelsea would be a great club to play for - and a club where I could fulfil my ambition of league titles and the European Cup.
"The Premier League is still the place to be. No other league in the world has six or seven Champions League-quality teams."

Blackburn manager Sam Allardyce admits interest in icon Guti

Blackburn manager Sam Allardyce has admitted his interest in Real Madrid icon Guti - but concedes a deal for the Spanish playmaker is unlikely.

Guti is available on a free transfer with the classy midfielder leaving Real Madrid after 15 years at the Spanish giants.
Rovers defender Michel Salgado is trying to convince Guti to make the move to Ewood Park with Allardyce a big fan of the 33-year-old.
However, Allardyce admits Guti is not at the top of his priority list with a new striker his main target.
"Guti would be a player we would like to sign there is no doubt about that," Allardyce told the Lancashire Evening Telegraph.
"It has been fronted by Michel Salgado and it has been outstanding that a player like that would like to come to Blackburn.
"But a player in his position is not the priority at the moment.
"One of the stumbling blocks for me is the priority is a frontman and I am not so sure Mr Guti could wait for us to find a front man and see where we go from there.
"But that is the key thing for us to sign a front man and then look elsewhere after that."

Milos Krasic's is likely to join big-spending Manchester City

Milos Krasic's agent thinks the Serbia international is likely to join big-spending Manchester City after his World Cup interests are over.

Krasic had set his sights on a move to Italy and looked on the brink of joining Juventus, but the Bianconeri have instead virtually wrapped up a move for Catania's Jorge Martinez.
Martinez's move to Turin has seen Juve end their interest in Krasic and the CSKA Moscow winger's agent claims City are now favourites to win the race for his signature.
"The deal with Juventus is closed," Vlado Borozan told Tuttomercatoweb.com. "After Martinez the Bianconeri cannot also bring in Krasic.
"Now the most likely club is Manchester City, even though the footballer has said he wants to play in Italy."
Juventus are thought to have been unwilling to pay over 13million euros for Krasic while CSKA reportedly raised the price tag to 18million when they heard of City's interest in the 25-year-old.
That deal would end Juventus' interest in Krasic, who impressed during Serbia's shock 1-0 victory against Germany.
Martinez has spent the past three years at Catania and was surprisingly left out of the Uruguay squad despite the winger enjoying a stunning campaign last term.
The 27-year-old is expected to pen his new contract on Monday, with Catania receiving a reported 12million euros.
Catania director Pietro Lo Monaco said: "Jorge Martinez is a Juventus player and so we have to say goodbye to him.
"I want to congratulate him because he will be wearing the shirt of a very important club."

Real Madrid boss Manuel Pellegrini is a shock candidate to be the new Liverpool boss

FORMER Real Madrid boss Manuel Pellegrini is a shock candidate to be the new Liverpool boss.

Chilean Pellegrini, 56, has met Anfield officials and joins Roy Hodgson and Kenny Dalglish on the shortlist. He was sacked by Real last month for failing to beat rivals Barcelona to the La Liga title.
Liverpool midfielder Javier Mascherano could follow former boss Rafa Benitez to European champions Inter Milan.
His agent Marco Piccioli has revealed they are in talks, adding: "We are evaluating the move and will soon have a new meeting to better establish the details of this deal."

MANCHESTER UNITED sign teen ace Paul Pogba

MANCHESTER UNITED and Le Havre have ended their feud over the controversial signing of teen ace Paul Pogba.

The French club accused United of offering the 17-year-old financial incentives to tempt him into breaking his contract. The Red Devils have always denied that - and insisted Pogba did not have a deal in place.
They were backed by FIFA, who allowed them to register the youngster in October 2009.
Le Havre threatened to take the matter further but both clubs have now confirmed that all outstanding issues have been resolved.
A statement read: "An agreement has been reached in relation to the registration of Paul Pogba with Manchester United in July 2009.
"The terms of the agreement will remain confidential."

YAYA TOURE will become a Manchester City player after the Premier League side agreed a £25million fee with Barcelona

YAYA TOURE will become a Manchester City player after the Premier League side agreed a £25million fee with Barcelona.

The two clubs should finalise the deal today with Toure ready to become the first big transfer of the summer subject to a medical. City doctors are heading to South Africa to meet Toure who is preparing for the Ivory Coast's clash with Brazil on Sunday.
The midfielder will sign a four-year deal worth £6m per season and join up with his brother Kolo at Eastlands.
Toure has long been a target for City who first tried to nab him 18 months ago.
Back then Toure decided to sign a new deal and stay at the Nou Camp.
But he became disgruntled last season as Barca boss Pep Guardiola left him on the bench, preferring to start with Sergio Busquets.
His agent Dmitry Seluk insists most of the key figures at Barca want Toure to stay, but his lack of games under Guardiola has been a major problem.
Seluk said: "The president Joan Laporta, the incoming president Sandro Rosell, Guardiola, myself... we all want him to stay at Barcelona - it's one of the greatest clubs in the world.
"Everything is perfect except for one thing - playing 65 per cent of the minutes is not sufficient for a player like Yaya, but that's the only reason we want to go."
Seluk did, though, admit he would have a chat with Rosell "out of courtesy" before completing any move for his client.

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He added: "I have to know his opinion because he is the new president."
Toure, 27, is one of the world's top defensive midfielders and snapping him up is a major coup for City.
In the past he's been a target for Arsenal and recently Chelsea also tried to reach a deal with Barcelona.

MOURINHO is ready to make a £15million bid for Glen Johnson.

JOSE MOURINHO is ready to make a £15million bid for Liverpool's England defender Glen Johnson.

The new Real Madrid boss is keen to add a rampaging right-back to his squad at the Bernabeu and the Anfield star is on his wanted list. His first choice is Brazil's Maicon, who was a key member of Mourinho's treble-winning Inter Milan side last season.
But the European champions are desperate to keep hold of the Brazilian, who scored in their World Cup win against North Korea.
And new San Siro coach Rafa Benitez is no friend of the Madrid boss after the pair fell out during the Special One's time with Chelsea in the Premier League.
Mourinho sold Johnson, 25, to Portsmouth for £6m just a month before he left Stamford Bridge in September 2007 but two years later the player moved on to Liverpool in an £18m move.

Riquelme confirms English suitor

West Ham target Juan Roman Riquelme has confirmed that an English side are among several clubs pursuing his signature.

The 31-year-old former Boca Juniors star, who has retired from international duty after a fall-out with coach Diego Maradona, has had two spells with Boca and has previously played for Barcelona and Villarreal.
Both Everton and Tottenham have enquired about the technically-gifted midfielder in recent years, and Brazilian club Flamengo have reportedly already put an offer on the table.
Riquelme feels he can still play at the highest level, and confirmed that he has had offers from Argentina, as well as an interested English party.
"I am a player who can play in any side," he said in the Daily Express.
"I want to be happy and know where I am going to play. I feel I can play at the highest level for many more years.
"I have had several offers from clubs in Argentina and there is an English club asking about me and my agent is dealing with it."
West Ham avoided relegation from the Premier League last season and Avram Grant has since taken control of the club following the departure of Gianfranco Zola.
The East London side have already added German midfielder Thomas Hitzlsperger to their squad as they look to improve next term.

Koscielny chasing Arsenal switch

Lorient defender Laurent Koscielny wants to seal a move to Arsenal, according to his agent Stephane Canard.

Canard has revealed that talks are ongoing between Lorient and Arsenal over a potential deal.
It is understood the Gunners have made two bids for the defender, with their last being around £8.3million.
"French and foreign clubs have shown interest. Among them, there are the Gunners," Canard told France Football.
"It is difficult to not listen to someone like Arsene Wenger when he is attracted.
"Any player is tempted to work with him.
"Lorient's officials want to get an eight digit fee and negotiations have started. With some bonuses, we are not that far away."
Koscielny only moved to Lorient from Tours last year, but his progress has been outstanding.
And now a move to Arsenal is very much the player's preference.
"One year ago, coming to Brittany was a real sporting choice. During last season, German clubs showed interest, but it didn't go any further," Canard continued.
"Now it is different as the season is over. Without being critical of Lorient, Laurent is 24-year-old and has others ambitions.
"He recently called his chairman and coach to tell them he absolutely wants to join Arsenal."

BIRMINGHAM are set to complete a £5million for Fabrizio Miccoli

BIRMINGHAM are set to complete a £5million raid for Italian striker Fabrizio Miccoli after Palermo said he could leave.

The Serie A men had rejected a £4m bid - but Miccoli stated he wanted to play in England. Sporting director Walter Sabatini said: "We will try to please him."

GIORGIO CHIELLINI'S agent last night opened the door move from Juventus to Manchester United

GIORGIO CHIELLINI'S agent last night opened the door for a megabucks move from Juventus to Manchester United.

SunSport told you yesterday the £25million-rated Italy ace is Alex Ferguson's No 1 target to replace wantaway Serbia centre-half Nemanja Vidic. Davide Lippi, son of Azzurri boss Marcello and Chiellini's agent, revealed: "United is a club and England is a country of great importance to us. We like them a lot.
"With Giorgio, we've decided that during the World Cup we won't think about the transfer market. But after the World Cup, we will think about everything. He is honoured to be of interest to United."
Chiellini, 25, is the top centre-half in Serie A yet, as we revealed, he earns a modest £1.7million a year.
Talks over a new deal have stalled. He has two years left on his current contract but Juve now run the risk of losing one of their most prized assets.
Lippi added: "He has a contract with Juventus but, given he's 25 and when he signed his contract he was very young, now is the time a player at his level has to get the contract a top player deserves.
"At Juventus, many have top contracts — but not Giorgio. "
Italy may not have set the world alight in their opening 1-1 Group F draw with Paraguay but Daniele De Rossi insists there is still nobody in the tournament better than the holders.
De Rossi, who scored his side's second-half goal in Cape Town on Monday, said: "We played well but were a bit naive, starting with me. My mistake allowed them to score.
"We didn't have the killer touch from 30 yards in. That is fundamental against teams who line up for a draw.
"But what we did show is this Italian side always plays to win.
"Our group is not easy and I expect us to grow together, as we did in 2006. Rest assured, when we come up against the likes of Brazil or Argentina or any of the other greats, we will not be the underdogs."
Keeper Gianluigi Buffon hopes to beat a back twinge in time to face New Zealand on Sunday.

Manchester United and Manchester City want me - Burdisso

Manchester United and Manchester City are both chasing the signature of Argentinian centre back Guillermo Burdisso, according to the player.

Burdisso, who plays for Argentine outfit Rosario Central, has apparently courted interest from the Premier League pair.
The defender is highly-rated and has attracted interest from a host of Italian teams previously.
Guillermo's older brother Nicolas currently plays for Serie A outfit Roma but it appears a move to England looks likely for the 22-year-old.
Burdisso - who has a solitary Argentina cap to his name - says he is waiting for news as to which half of the North West city was looking to snap him up in the close season.
He said: "I have been told that in the next days an offer from Manchester is going to arrive to the club and that when that happens the manager, Vicente Cunado, is going to tell me if it's from Manchester City or Manchester United.
"In addition, according to what is being said by the press of Rosario, it seems to be that what has been offered is what Rosario Central expects my transfer."

Alcaraz happy to be joining Wigan

Paraguay hero Antolin Alcaraz insists he has no regrets about committing to Wigan despite his stock already rising with his goal against Italy.

The defender, who will join Latics from Club Brugge after the World Cup, headed his country in front in Cape Town last night.
While Italy levelled to draw 1-1 through Daniele De Rossi, their failure to hold on did not take the gloss off Alcaraz's big night.
"It's the most beautiful day of my life," he said.
He insists he has no regrets about signing with Wigan rather than waiting to put himself in the shop window in South Africa.
"I have a good contract with Wigan, I'm glad I'm going to the Premier League," he said.
"I talked to the coach Roberto Martinez and have a good feeling so I don't doubt my choice now."
With Group F games against Slovakia and New Zealand to come, Paraguay are confident of progression to the last 16.
"I'm just happy for the team," said Alcaraz. "I think we can do something in this group. This point is obviously very important."
Team-mate Lucas Barrios believes that, in theory, playing their toughest game first should make the rest of the group easier.
"The next match will be a bit different," said the striker. "We'll still try to score but it should be a bit easier for us. Considering it's a World Cup, though, you never know what's going to happen. We want three points in the next match."

Manchester United plan to launch a £25million bid for Giorgio Chiellini

ALEX FERGUSON will launch a £25million bid for Italy defender Giorgio Chiellini.

The Juventus centre-back, 25, is the Manchester United chief's top choice to replace Nemanja Vidic, should the Serb quit Old Trafford as expected. Despite being one of the biggest names in Serie A, Chiellini earns a modest £1.7m a year and has two seasons left on his current contract at Juve.
It is understood that the Old Lady of Turin would accept a bid for him as they look to rebuild their side following a disastrous season - they finished seventh in the Italian top flight.
And Fergie is on red alert, with Manchester City expected to launch a £20m bid for wantaway Vidic in the next few days.

Yossi Benayoun has signed a four-year contract at Chelsea

Yossi Benayoun has signed a four-year contract at Chelsea, according to reports in his native Israel.

The 30-year-old Liverpool midfielder, who is on holiday in Israel, will apparently undergo a medical in the coming days before completing a move to the champions.
The two clubs are believed to have come to an agreement over the transfer fee with Chelsea set to pay around £4million for the former West Ham man.
Last month Benayoun said: "Ancelotti wants me for next season and now everything depends on Liverpool. Chelsea will have to pay some £6million but I believe that in the end I'll be moving there."
Benayoun would be an ideal replacement for Joe Cole, who has been allowed to leave the club this summer after failing to agree terms on a new deal.

Tosic Manchester United set to join CSKA Moscow

MANCHESTER UNITED winger Zoran Tosic - on loan at Cologne - is set to join CSKA Moscow for £8million.

Cologne wanted to extend the Serb World Cup star's stay but United insisted on the transfer. Cologne director Michael Meier said: "It is hard for any German club to compete.

Mutu told to pay Chelsea compensation

Adrian Mutu has been ordered to pay former club Chelsea over 17million euros after losing his final appeal in a legal battle with the club.

The court confirmed this morning that they have upheld the decision made by FIFA and the Court of Arbitration for Sport, drawing what should be a final line under a fight which has lasted over five years.
Chelsea paid Parma 22.5million euros (around £15.8million) for Mutu in August 2003 but sacked him in September 2004 when he tested positive for cocaine, before then suing him to recover the money they paid to sign him.
The incident has dogged the Romania international ever since. FIFA ordered him to pay 17million euros to Chelsea, and his appeal to the CAS failed.
Mutu was given a glimmer of hope when the Swiss Federal Court temporarily suspended the fine, but they have now decided the 31-year-old must pay the full amount plus interest.
In a statement they said: "In a ruling on June 10, 2010, the Swiss Federal Court rejected the appeal formed by Adrian Mutu against the decision by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
"The CAS ordered the Romanian professional footballer to pay a sum superior to 17million euros to his former employer, Chelsea Football Club Limited (Chelsea)."
The court was keen to highlight that they were unable to make a ruling on the actual decision but rather just the sum involved - 17,173,990 euros plus interest.
The statement continued: "(The court) first rejected the arguments by which the footballer questioned the impartiality of two of the three arbitrators who rendered the decision.
"On those merits, the Federal Court recalled that, in the field of international arbitration, it does not retry the case, as a court of appeal would, but can check only certain aspects very limited to the basis of recorded facts in the imposed sentence.
"In this case, the Federal Court had only to consider whether the amount of damages/interest allocated to the London club violated the core values that all judicial systems should follow.
"They came to the conclusion that this was not the case, so that the Romanian footballer's appeal was unfounded."
It is unclear whether Mutu - who has also been ordered to pay court costs - will be able to pay the full amount after reports in Romania last year suggested the striker was bankrupt.
Mutu served a seven-month ban from football before rebuilding his career first at Juventus and then at Fiorentina, who bought him from the Bianconeri for 8million euros in July 2006.
The Viola star is currently serving a nine-month ban after testing positive for anti-obesity drug sibutramine in January, and will be allowed to return to football on October 29.
Chelsea have declined to comment.

Mascherano maybe join Inter Milan

Javier Mascherano has fuelled rumours he may be set to join Rafael Benitez at Inter Milan after revealing he is learning Italian.

Javier Mascherano is currently on international duty with Argentina

Mascherano, currently on international duty with Argentina at the World Cup, has been heavily linked with a move away from Anfield as Liverpool may be forced to sell star players to balance the books.
The Italian press has suggested Benitez could make Mascherano his main transfer target and it appears the midfielder may be considering a move to Serie A.
"I am learning Italian while I'm here in South Africa," he said. "I don't know what I will do after the tournament. We shall see."

Al Fayed: Hodgson won't leave for Liverpool

Mohamed Al Fayed is confident that Roy Hodgson will decide to remain at Fulham if Liverpool do attempt to recruit him as Rafa Benitez's successor at Anfield.

Roy Hodgson has a formidable reputation in England

Hodgson is viewed as one of the leading candidates to replace Benitez having enjoyed a tremendous season by steering Fulham to the Europa League final, where they were defeated by Atletico Madrid.
Since being appointed in January 2007, Hodgson has enjoyed a successful time at Craven Cottage and enjoys the unwavering support of his chairman.
Al Fayed hopes Hodgson will reciprocate that faith by turning down Liverpool, should they make a formal offer.
"I don't think he'll leave me," Al Fayed told the Sunday Mirror. "I'm sure he'll have lots of approaches from other clubs, but I give him anything he wants to reach results and we have a very good relationship."

Bentley facing uncertain Spurs future

Tottenham midfielder David Bentley admits he remains uncertain as to whether he will still be at White Hart Lane next season.

The 25-year-old winger has struggled to make the desired impact since making a big-money move from Blackburn in 2008.
First-team opportunities have been sporadic, with Bentley unable to hold down a regular role.
That proved to be the case again last season, with Spurs boss Harry Redknapp awarding him just 12 Premier League outings.
A lack of action has led to speculation regarding his future, with some suggesting he would be wise to move on.
Bentley, though, insists he remains committed to the Tottenham cause and will be doing his utmost during pre-season to force his way into the fold.
"Hopefully I will get fit and as strong as possible and look to have another good season," he told Sky Sports News.
"Whether I get out on the pitch, you never know. You can be as fit as possible but not play any football, so we will see what happens."
On the possibility of making a move elsewhere, Bentley added: "We will have to see, you never know. I'm at Tottenham at the minute, but let's see what happens."
Bentley is keen to remain in north London, with Tottenham preparing to enter the UEFA Champions League next season.
The opportunity to appear in Europe's premier club competition certainly appeals to Bentley, but he accepts that competition for places remains fierce.
He is currently battling with England international Aaron Lennon for a right-wing berth and knows he may be forced to settle for a place on the bench at times.
"I think when you are at a top club that's what happens," he said.
"The Champions League is great for the club and great for the fans and hopefully it will be great for me. But you never know and we will have to see what is going to happen."

MANCHESTER CITY will launch a shock £20million bid to nab Nemanja Vidic

MANCHESTER CITY will launch a shock £20million bid to nab Nemanja Vidic from bitter rivals Manchester United.

And City will offer the wantaway Serbian a staggering £24m pay deal. A £115,000-a-week four-year contract is on the table for the centre-half and City will make their bid in the next few days.
Vidic, 28, has been unsettled for some time - but will not make any official announcement about his future until Serbia are out of the World Cup.
Paolo Fabbri, an associate of his agent Silvano Martina, confirmed Vidic could quit Old Trafford.
Fabbri said: "We are waiting for Nemanja to tell us what we he wants to do. Any eventual transfer will take place only after the World Cup."
Landing Vidic would represent a massive coup for City chief Roberto Mancini and a huge blow for Alex Ferguson.
The United boss has shown interest in £10m Palermo centre-half Simon Kjaer and he is seen as a possible replacement for Vidic.
Danish international Kjaer is regarded as one of the top defenders in Serie A.

Barca set timescale for Fabregas deal

Barcelona have revealed they hope to negotiate the signing of Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas at the World Cup in South Africa.

Arsenal have insisted that the 23-year-old midfielder, a Barca youth product, is not for sale, but that could change in South Africa, according to Barca's corporate director general Joan Oliver.
"Cesc has arrived in South Africa to play the World Cup, but there are a lot of football people there," he said.
"(Arsenal coach Arsene) Wenger will be there and there will also be representatives of Barca (there)."
Barca have had one bid for the Spain midfielder rejected, with Arsenal saying they would not welcome further bids, but Oliver wants to hold direct talks with the Gunners.
"This is a three-sided affair and the third side (Arsenal) have not expressed themselves in any way," he said.
"There is a player who wants to come here, but he has a contract. We have made an offer (of 35million euros) and they have said that the player is not for sale. The problem is between the player and the club (Arsenal); we haven't been invited to the table (to negotiate)."
While Oliver believes a deal can be done, he accepts it may take some time.
"You can never predict when a signing will be closed," he said. "In this world, when you put a deadline on it, you always end up losing out," he said.
Oliver was also dismissive of Real Madrid's supposed interest in the player, believing that Arsenal are using Barca's biggest rivals to bump up the price for their captain.
"They can negotiate with whoever they like," he said.
"But what a coincidence... when Barca are negotiating for a player, another club appears out of the blue - it's always the same.
"We complete signings when the price is reasonable. And the story of Cesc is what it is. The player has said both publicly and privately that he wants to play for Barca."
In any case, Oliver says he in unconcerned because there has been a lack of signings across Europe so far this summer.
"There has only been one important operation up until now and that was David Villa's signing for Barca. That's why we won't rush and we won't sign anybody paying an exorbitant sum," he said.

Vidic future a Real Madrid concern

Nemanja Vidic's future at Manchester United is again in doubt after his agent hinted the defender could quit Old Trafford.

Nemanja Vidic: Joined Man United in 2006

Vidic has been a long term target for Spanish giants Real Madrid and his agent, Paolo Fabbri said he could not rule out a move to the Bernabeu.
"We are waiting for information," Fabbri said. "We are waiting for Nemanja to tell us what he wants to do, so at the moment we are waiting as it is up to him."
"Any eventual transfer will only take place after the World Cup."
Last month Vidic insisted he was happy at Old Trafford but rumours that his wife, Ana, is unhappy in Manchester persist. United might also find it difficult to turn down a rumoured £25 million bid for the 28-year-old, who has two years remaining on his contract.
Asked whether United had offered Vidic a new deal, Fabbri said: "He is concentrating on something else so I guess it won't be until after the World Cup that he makes a decision on his future.
"We have requested some time from Manchester United to think about things, and Nemanja does not want to look at things until after the World Cup."
Although Fabbri is aware of the reported interest from Real, he insisted the Liga club have not made an official approach.
"We have not heard anything official from them and Nemanja has requested I do not speak about particular clubs while he is at the World Cup," Fabbri said.

Indian businessman Saurin Shah has confirmed he is keen on buying Blackburn Rovers

Indian businessman Saurin Shah has confirmed he is keen on buying Blackburn Rovers.

Shah, who owns the Qubic Sports and Entertainment group, has made a £25 million offer for the club and hopes to complete a deal by the end of July.
"We're serious," he said. "We're in negotiations. We've acquired the right of due diligence. We have the right of first refusal.
"There are many Indian and Pakistani people in Lancashire, so the interest is natural."

Robinho keen on Besiktas switch

Manchester City star Robinho has revealed he would be open to linking up with former Real Madrid boss Bernd Schuster at Besiktas.

Robinho is hoping to attract interest at the World Cup

• Robinho open to Barca move
Schuster, who coached Madrid from 2007 to 2008, took charge of Turkish side Besiktas on Thursday and confirmed his interest in taking Robinho to the club.
The Brazil international is currently on loan at Santos but, speaking to reporters, he revealed he is open to moving to Turkey. "If Schuster is there, I could go too," he said.
Robinho has also been linked with a move to Barcelona and his representative has confirmed the player has a difficult relationship with City boss Roberto Mancini.

Domenech frustrated by stalemate

France coach Raymond Domenech believes Group A rivals Mexico and South Africa hold the early advantage after his side's 0-0 draw with Uruguay.

After the hosts were held to a 1-1 draw by Mexico in today's opener in Johannesburg, France then failed to win their opening game for the third successive finals tournament as they drew 0-0 at Green Point Stadium in Cape Town.
"We lacked that last bit, the last pass," Domenech admitted. "We had to guard against an unlucky counter (by the opposition).
"It is almost a beautiful 0-0, but the result is what it is. They were good, solid in defence."
Uruguay striker Diego Forlan had a few opportunities for the South Americans, whose emphasis was on keeping tight and looking to counter.
France, though, had chances to win the game, not least in the seventh minute when winger Sidney Govou somehow side-footed wide from close range after Franck Ribery's teasing left-wing cross.
The outgoing France boss added: "The other two have the advantage."
Uruguay coach Oscar Tabarez, whose side were not bullied in terms of possession by the 1998 champions, said: "The pitch was not particularly good. It created some problems for us controlling the ball.
"Bearing in mind what happened in the game and that France, a recent world champion who are very well organised and prepared, I think it is not a bad result, bearing all this in mind.
"The results in the second round of matches are now more important because both opening matches ended in draws."
Tabarez was forced to defend his team's discipline on the eve of the match and had to do the same tonight after substitute Nicolas Lodeiro was sent off for two bookings.
"I think football is one thing, and behaviour on the pitch is a different kettle of fish," he said. "Theoretically, any card is avoidable but I was once a player and I know what it is like to be out there. So I understand my players' point of view.
"My way of doing things has given us good results so far and we will continue on this road.
"A coach has to be critical of behaviour on the pitch that gives us yellow cards - one today was for protesting and I don't like that at all. I will talk to the players and try to stop that happening again in the future.
"The other side also had cards, remember that. If we didn't have these talking points, though, football would be very boring indeed."

Mexico hold hosts in World Cup opener

South Africa were pegged back by Rafael Marquez's equaliser as Mexico held the hosts to a 1-1 draw in the World Cup opener in Johannesburg.

After struggling through the first half, the home side came out firing after the break and took the lead through Siphiwe Tshabalala.
But after missing plenty of chances to build on their advantage, they saw their lead cancelled out by the Barcelona defender.
Katlego Mphela could have snatched victory at the death, but his strike found the base of the post as both sides had to settle for a share of the spoils.
After an entertaining opening ceremony in Johannesburg, Bafana Bafana failed to make the most of their advantage, much to the disappointment of the 85,000 crowd.
The visitors almost stunned their hosts inside the first 120 seconds, but were thwarted by a last-ditch block by Aaron Mokoena.
It came after Paul Aguilar's cross from the right was not convincingly cleared by Itumeleng Khune and Giovani dos Santos' shot was repelled by the South Africa captain with an empty net gaping.
Steven Pienaar sent South Africa's only real early chance - a 25-yard free-kick - disappointingly over, while Efrain Juarez became the first player to be booked at the World Cup for trying to slow down play.
Dos Santos again came close when a quick counter-attack resulted in the Galatasaray forward striking a rising shot narrowly wide.
There was a slightly nervy moment for Mexico after 22 minutes when Oscar Perez fumbled and then regathered Pienaar's cross.
Fortunately for the goalkeeper, there were no attacking players close enough to capitalise.
Khune continued to be kept busy and did well to keep out Guillermo Franco after the former West Ham striker controlled well in the area only to see his shot blocked.
Bongani Khumalo then diverted another Dos Santos shot away for a corner, before there was a lucky off-side escape when Khune flapped at a corner - but came so far he played Carlos Vela offside as the Arsenal forward latched on to a flick-on and tapped in.
The home side finally came out of their shell in the closing moments of the half - Mphela failing to connect with Tshabalala's well-floated cross and Kagisho Dikgacoi heading a corner wide.
Lucas Thwala, who was stretched down the left in the opening 45 minutes, was replaced by Tsepo Masilela at half time as Carlos Alberto Parreira looked to shore up in defence.
But it was in attack where they prospered, taking the lead through a fine Tshabalala effort after 55 minutes.
The Kaizer Chiefs midfielder was put through on the left by an excellent ball from Teko Modise and unleashed a powerful cross-goal shot that gave Perez no chance.
Mexican coach Javier Aguirre responded by throwing on Andres Guardado for Aguilar.
It was Dos Santos, though, who continued to torment the home defence and he again drew a fine save from Khune with a strike from the right that was turned away for a corner.
The home side were clearly lifted by the goal and Modise should have doubled the advantage after the hour mark when Mphela's shot was deflected into his path six yards out - but he struck his effort wide.
Veteran Cuauhtemoc Blanco was thrown into the mix in place of Vela, but again it was the home side through Modise who engineered a good chance.
However, he took too long to pull the trigger and Francisco Rodriguez cleared away the danger.
Javier Hernandez also entered the fray but it was another substitute that set up the equaliser - Guardado's cross from the left looping over the head of Mokoena and Marquez took a touch before firing in.
Mphela showed good pace minutes from time when he outpaced Rodriguez, but his shot could not beat the post.

Benitez bid Tevez 35mil for Inter

RAFA BENITEZ is set to launch a £35million raid for Manchester City star Carlos Tevez.

The former Liverpool chief wants to make Tevez his first signing at Inter Milan. Benitez finally succeeded Jose Mourinho at the San Siro - as exclusively revealed by SunSport on June 1 - after he signed a two-year deal yesterday.
And the Spanaird is a long-standing admirer of the Argentine striker, 26, and wanted to lure him from Manchester United to Anfield last summer.
He missed out as Liverpool could not compete with City's billionaire Arab owners, who captured him for £25.5m.
Now backed by billionaire Inter owner Massimo Moratti, Benitez will try again.
Tevez may welcome a switch to the European champs after City failed to qualify for the Champions League

Benitez has been confirmed as the new Inter Milan coach

Former Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has been confirmed as the new Inter Milan coach, signing a two-year deal with the Serie A giants.

Italian and European champions Inter moved swiftly to snap up Benitez, who left Liverpool last week, as they sought a replacement for Jose Mourinho who left for Real Madrid earlier this summer.
Benitez is to be introduced at a San Siro press conference next Tuesday.

Man City back on Torres trail

MANCHESTER CITY'S quest for Fernando Torres has been re-ignited by Rafa Benitez's Anfield exit.

Eastlands boss Roberto Mancini has never hidden his admiration for the Spanish striker, 26. But City feared their hopes had disappeared when they missed out on the Champions League.
That led them to Edin Dzeko but they were never going to pay Wolfsburg's £34million asking price.
Now City are monitoring developments at Liverpool.
And they know Torres' relationship with ex-boss Benitez was one of the factors which made it difficult for him to leave.
If City do mount a serious bid next month they are likely to face competition from Chelsea, who are ready to smash the British transfer record to sign him.
Meanwhile, City remain interested in Barcelona midfielder Yaya Toure but his wage demands could prove to be a sticking point.

EMILE HESKEY agony over Rio KO

EMILE HESKEY has spoken of his hell at knowing he put Rio Ferdinand out of the World Cup.

England skipper Ferdinand damaged knee ligaments in training when he tackled Heskey and the Aston Villa striker fell on his left leg. The incident happened on Friday and was described as a freak accident by Ferdinand.
However, Heskey has found it hard to cope.
The striker said: "I spoke to Rio afterwards and he told me there was nothing I could do but it was still difficult for me.
"What happened was that I tried to turn the ball round the corner and fell backwards onto him but his leg was in a position where he couldn't actually move it.
"There was nothing you could do.
"Knowing he is out of the World Cup was very difficult.
"He is our captain and has been a great player through the years for England and at club level.
"It was just one of those things."
Heskey is being tipped to start Saturday night's World Cup opener against the United States despite a record of just seven goals in 58 appearances for England.
Boss Fabio Capello believes the 32-year-old causes major problems for opposition defences, wearing them down with his physical style.
And Wayne Rooney and Steven Gerrard always seem to be more effective when the burly hitman is playing.
Heskey conceded: "Forwards are judged on their goalscoring.
"People do look at that. But I like to think I bring a lot more to the game and I do get pleasure from assisting.
"I also get pleasure from being part of a winning side.
"I do sometimes think I could have done better in certain situations and got a goal myself but that is part and parcel of the game."

Vieira signs City contract extension

Manchester City have confirmed that veteran midfielder Patrick Vieira has signed a one-year contract extension at Eastlands.

The 33-year-old France international joined City from Inter Milan on a six-month deal in January and he has now chosen to take up the option of another year with Roberto Mancini's side.
Vieira made 14 appearances for the Blues last season, scoring his only goal in the 6-1 thrashing of Burnley at Turf Moor.
The signing of Vieira was not enough to help City secure a coveted place in the Champions League, but the former Arsenal player's decision to extend his stay will boost the club as they seek to ensure they have the depth to cope with a campaign that will see them compete in the Europa League.
Mancini, who Vieira played under at Inter, has already started strengthening his squad after Hamburg defender Jerome Boateng agreed to join on a five-year deal.
City have also been linked with moves for the likes of Napoli midfielder Marek Hamsik and Liverpool striker Fernando Torres. They also had a £20million bid for England midfielder James Milner turned down by Aston Villa.
But there have also been departures, with Martin Petrov, Benjani Mwaruwari and Sylvinho being released after the club decided not to offer them new deals.

JOE COLE and Michael Ballack were last night released by Chelsea

JOE COLE and Michael Ballack were last night released by Chelsea.

England World Cup star Cole turned down Blues' offer of £90,000 a week because he wanted parity with the club's top stars, who are paid up to £150,000 a week. Negotiations collapsed and Chelsea have finally withdrawn their offer, so Cole, 28, can go on July 1.
German midfielder Ballack, 33, is also leaving the Double winners.
He had wanted a one-year extension to his existing deal but once again Chelsea refused to meet his demands as the club attempt to impose a strict new pay code.
SunSport revealed Cole held a meeting with Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger before flying to South Africa for the World Cup.
Tottenham chief Harry Redknapp - who gave Cole his big chance at West Ham - has also publicly stated his desire to sign the midfielder.

KENNY DALGLISH - Let me boss Liverpool

KENNY DALGLISH has dramatically thrown his hat into the ring to be Liverpool's next manager.

The Kop legend was initially thought to be playing a key role in finding Rafa Benitez's successor after the Spaniard left last week. But in reality, Dalglish was never part of the process with managing director Christian Purslow the only man earmarked to search for a boss.
Sources close to King Kenny, who managed the club between 1985 and 1991, have confirmed he would jump at the chance of taking the reins again.
And now Purslow is poised to hand the Scot, whose last job in England was with Newcastle 12 years ago, the task of restoring the Reds to their former glories.
Dalglish, 59, returned to Anfield as the club's Academy Ambassador last July and would bring in Ian Rush, another Kop idol, with him should he get the job.
Turning to Dalglish also saves any compensation claim, such as the £2.5million it would need to grab Roy Hodgson from Fulham.
Benitez will be confirmed as Inter Milan's new boss today and is expected to take most of his Liverpool backroom staff with him.

Real rule out moves for Roo and Messi

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has no desire to sign Barcelona's Lionel Messi or Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney this summer.

Perez returned to the Bernabeu for a second spell last summer but Madrid ended the season empty-handed, despite an outlay of 250million euros.
Having signed the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Kaka prior to the 2009/10 campaign, Madrid have been linked with a host of top names again this year.
Perez famously signed Barcelona's Luis Figo in 2000 in a highly-controversial move in his first stint as president, but insists there will be no repeat this time around with Messi.
"Messi is the second best player in the world, after Cristiano, and it wouldn't be good to have them in the same team," he said.
"This way, there is more competition," he added, implying that Madrid would be by far the greater force with both players in his side.
New coach Jose Mourinho has apparently identified four new players in order to build a team to challenge both domestically and in Europe, but Perez claims only two or three players will arrive this summer.
"We already have the stars in our current squad, so we'll sign two or three great players to complement them," he said.
And Inter Milan full-back Maicon, who has already expressed his desire to link up again with Mourinho in Madrid, could be one of them.
"There is no rush, but Maicon is one of the great players in the world in his position," Perez said.
Perez has ruled out a summer swoop for Rooney, however.
"In Rooney's position we already have very good players," he said.
Bayern Munich forward Franck Ribery is another who will not be arriving in the Spanish capital.
"Ribery is impossible because he just renewed his contract with Bayern," he said.
Madrid finished second in the Primera Division to Barca, while early eliminations to Second Division B side Alcorcon in the Copa del Rey and Lyon in the Champions League made it an unhappy return for the 63-year-old.
Perez acted quickly in light of those disappointments, sacking coach Manuel Pellegrini and bringing in Mourinho on the back of his unprecedented Serie A, Coppa Italia and Champions League treble with Inter.
And it seems Mourinho, unlike Pellegrini, will be given time to get things right at the Bernabeu.
"We have contracted Mourinho for four years," Perez told Antena 3.
"We had the opportunity to sign someone I believe is the best coach in the world and we didn't want to let that opportunity pass by."
Perez later told Cadena Copa that he expects the often defensive-minded Mourinho to bring both success and attractive football to Madrid.
"He knows he is coming to a club where, as well as winning, the fans call for entertainment," he said.
But he added: "I have no doubts about the football he will bring. I remember that his Porto and Chelsea sides played good football."
Perez wanted to bring in Arsenal's Arsene Wenger as coach last summer before settling for Pellegrini from Villarreal.
"It was impossible," he said. "So we went for a coach with the same characteristics, and that was Manuel Pellegrini."
But the Chilean was on borrowed time as soon as Madrid were knocked out of the Champions League by Lyon.
"That was the day I decided we needed a new impulse," Perez said.
"We needed a strong coach with a winning record... Mourinho is like a new force of nature.
"The history of Real Madrid isn't about keeping our coaches - it's about winning.
"But we would like to have a coach here for many years and that's why we have given Mourinho a four-year contract."

Spurs admits interest in Cole

Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp has admitted he is interested in taking Chelsea and England midfielder Joe Cole to White Hart Lane.

Cole, who scored in England's 3-0 World Cup warm-up victory against Platinum Stars on Monday, is out of contract at Chelsea this summer and has been linked with a number of clubs, notably Spurs, Arsenal and Manchester United.
Now the Spurs boss has revealed his desire to lure the former West Ham player to north London.
He told the Daily Express: "Yes, I am prepared to declare my interest in Joe Cole.
"Why not? He is a great player, his contract is up and he is on a free transfer.
"When he returns I would love to talk to him about coming to Spurs."
Redknapp's statement contradicts his comments last week when he claimed he believed the 28-year-old would leave Stamford Bridge this summer but his destination would be somewhere other than Tottenham.
"It looks to me someone's going to make a great free transfer, if he doesn't stay at Chelsea," Redknapp had told BBC Radio 5 Live.
"I genuinely don't know who that is. I don't think it's going to be Tottenham.
"I've got a feeling, I may be wrong, that he's already agreed a deal with someone, and it's not Tottenham.
"I'm not saying if he hadn't agreed a deal with someone and he was available and didn't stay at Chelsea that we wouldn't be interested.
"I'm a big fan of Joe's, but the feedback we've had is that he might well have already done something."