Falcao poised to make Monaco comeback in Emirates Cup

Agen Bola Terpercaya Cityholidaybet Reported - Radamel Falcao is expected to make his eagerly awaited comeback when Monaco take part in the Emirates Cup next week. The Colombia international has been absent since damaging his cruciate knee ligament in a Coupe de France tie against Monts d'Or Azergues in January. Falcao missed the World Cup as a result of the injury, despite a desperate late bid to be fit for the tournament in Brazil. However, the 28-year-old is poised for a return to action when the pre-season tournament takes place at the home of Arsenal. "I think he will be able to start playing again at the Emirates Cup," Monaco head coach Leonardo Jardim told L'Equipe. "He is now in the final phase of his recuperation." Falcao's future at the Stade Louis II has been called into question amid rumours of a return to La Liga with Real Madrid, with the striker having previously represented rivals Atletico.

Vertonghen set for new five-year Tottenham deal

Agen Bola Terpercaya Cityholidaybet Reported - Jan Vertonghen insists he is happy to stay at Tottenham and reveals he has been offered a new five-year contract. Towards the end of last season, the 27-year-old admitted that he was keen to play Champions League football, while the player’s agent claimed earlier this month that "several teams" were interested in the Belgium international. Last week, Goal learned that Tottenham were planning talks over a new contract and Vertonghen says he is ready to commit his long-term future to the club. "It goes without saying that I would like to stay at Tottenham," Vertonghen told Belgian station Radio 1. "I still had a four-year contract but I see that they have offered me a new five-year contract as a great sign of confidence." Vertonghen will return to pre-season training on Monday following his holiday after Belgium's World Cup campaign and is set to undergo tests on an ankle problem.

I'm happy at Atletico Madrid, insists Suarez.

Agen Bola Terpercaya Cityholidaybet Reported - Mario Suarez has stressed he is "very happy" at Atletico Madrid despite rumours that Rafael Benitez is keen to bring him to Napoli. The defensive midfielder, who currently has two caps for Spain, made 24 La Liga appearances for Diego Simeone's title-winning side last season but has reportedly become a target for last season's Serie A runners-up. Suarez, however, has indicated he is fully committed to starting the new campaign with the Vicente Calderon side. "I am now here in San Francisco and am working for Atletico," the 27-year-old, currently on pre-season duties in the USA, told reporters. "I have a contract with Atletico. "I am very happy here, very happy, I'm on tour and there's not much more I can say. "The team's goal this year is to fight for all titles, we're starting the season fighting for a major title, the Spanish Supercopa."

Inter must get back to where they belong – Mazzarri

Agen Bola Terpercaya Cityholidaybet Reported - Walter Mazzarri believes Inter can return to the summit of Italian football if they continue to adopt the kind of attitude shown against Real Madrid. The Serie A side defeated the European champions on penalties in their opening International Champions Cup fixture in California on Tuesday, after a 1-1 draw. Since winning a treble of the league title, Coppa Italia and Champions League in 2010, Inter have fallen adrift of Italy's elite and finished fifth, 42 points behind winners Juventus, in Serie A last season. Mazzarri is determined to restore Inter to past glories and was delighted with the attitude shown in pre-season so far - but stopped short of predicting what the club can achieve this term. "At this moment of the year we can't decide on our target for next season," he said. "But it's clear that when you coach a team like Inter you want, as soon as you can, to bring the team back to where it belongs because of its history. "If we act like this, then during the season we will discover what we can achieve."

Pochettino quiet on Schneiderlin speculation

Agen Bola Terpercaya Cityholidaybet Reported - Mauricio Pochettino is remaining tight-lipped on reports suggesting that Tottenham are planning to swoop for Southampton's Morgan Schneiderlin. Since Pochettino's departure from St Mary's a number of key players have left the Saints - including Luke Shaw, Adam Lallana and Rickie Lambert - with Dejan Lovren set to follow with a €25 million move to Liverpool. Tottenham, meanwhile, have already recruited Swansea City pair Michel Vorm and Ben Davies, with Gylfi Sigurdsson heading to the Liberty Stadium as part of the deal. Earlier this week Goal revealed Schneiderlin is now the No.1 transfer target for both Arsenal and Tottenham but, while he admits he would like further reinforcements, Pochettino refused to shed any light on the speculation. "We're trying to improve the squad but I never speak about players from other clubs," he told reporters. "I have respect. I'm just focused on my team." Pochettino was speaking after Tottenham defeated Chicago Fire 2-0 on Saturday, as the club ended their pre-season tour of the United States unbeaten.

Bayern: We'll never fire Guardiola

Agen Bola Terpercaya Cityholidaybet Reported - Bayern Munich chief Karl-Heinz Rummenigge has reassured fans that Pep Guardiola will "never be fired" by the Bavarian giants. The five-time European champions have often stuttered in the seasons following a World Cup: Felix Magath was fired in January 2007, while Louis van Gaal was dismissed in April 2011, as both men struggled with a squad fatigued after an insubstantial summer break. Rummenigge has assured fans that a similar malaise will not befall the club this season and that Guardiola, whom was hired last summer, need not fear for his future. "Bayern Munich will never fire Pep Guardiola," the club chief affirmed to Morgen Post. "I give you that in writing. "He will be our coach until at least June 30, 2016, when his contract ends. "Admittedly, for the players it is not easy to begin again after a short holiday due to the World Cup, but thankfully we have a coach who is very relaxed in dealing with this situation."

No mind games with Mourinho, says Van Gaal.

Agen Bola Terpercaya Cityholidaybet Reported - Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal insists that there will be no risk of confrontation between him and his "friend", Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho. The Dutchman, newly installed at Old Trafford, indicated on Saturday that he would talk to his Blues counterpart about his comments on the Red Devils' signing of Luke Shaw. Mourinho is well known for playing mind-games with his rivals, while Van Gaal himself is an outspoken figure, but the 62-year-old does not expect any wars of words with the Portuguese or anyone else. "I don't think I will fall out with him. Mourinho is my friend," he told reporters. "I don't think I will fall out with all the other managers. I have full respect for all my colleagues." "For me mind games are not so interesting. I have to manage my club. That is already difficult enough. I am not concerned with other clubs or other managers."

James destined for greatness, says Del Piero.

Agen Bola Terpercaya Cityholidaybet Reported - Juventus legend Alessandro Del Piero has taken the time to praise new Real Madrid signing James Rodriguez and believes the Colombia international is destined for greatness. Madrid paid Monaco €80 million for the creative midfielder, while also spending €25m to lure Toni Kroos away from Bayern Munich. Del Piero feels the Champions League holders have strengthened well ahead of the 2014-15 campaign by bagging the duo, whom both excelled at the World Cup. "Madrid reinforced the squad well. James is an incredible player – he’s young and has a great future ahead of him," Del Piero was quoted as saying by AS. "And Kroos will fit in perfectly as well. He is a midfielder who will play an important role for Real Madrid."

Mathieu: I will prove Barca right for spending €20m

Agen Bola Terpercaya Cityholidaybet Reported - Jeremy Mathieu is determined to silence his critics and prove Barcelona right for spending €20 million on him ahead of the 2014-15 campaign. Question-marks have been raised over whether the former Valencia defender has what it takes to succeed at the Camp Nou side and whether he's worth his hefty transfer fee at the age of 30, but Mathieu is confident that he will become an instant hit at Barca. "It’s difficult to join a team after someone like Carles Puyol leaves, but I will show Barca that they made a good choice in signing me," the defender told Barca TV. "I will give 100 per cent of myself and I hope everything goes well on the pitch. "Being 30 gives you more tranquillity and experience when you talk to the press and deal with the atmosphere of big clubs. I’m very ready for the demands and pressure. "I won’t have any problems when it comes to finding my place in the team. But for now, I have to do all my talking on the pitch."

Liverpool did not want me to stay, says Carragher.

Agen Bola Terpercaya Cityholidaybet Reported - Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher says the club made no effort to retain his services in an off-field role following his retirement. Carragher represented the Merseyside club 737 times from 1996 to 2013, making 508 league appearances and winning the Champions League, two FA Cups, two League Cups, one Uefa Cup and one Uefa Super Cup. However, the one-club stalwart and local product was not asked to remain at the club in a coaching or advising role, and claims he was "embarrassed" during his final season. "I was never offered a role by someone else or at Liverpool," Carragher told The Anfield Wrap podcast. "I told manager Brendan Rodgers 12 months before the end of that season that I was finishing. I knew I was finishing. I'd had enough of being a substitute."

Big European teams want Reus, claims agent.

Agen Bola Terpercaya Cityholidaybet Reported - Marco Reus' agent Dirk Hebel has claimed that a number of major European teams are closely monitoring his client's situation at Borussia Dortmund with a view to a potential transfer. The Germany international has a contract with BVB until June 2017, but he's available for a limited fee release clause of €35 million in the summer of 2015. Dortmund are keen to hold on to Reus, though, and have offered the 25-year-old a payrise in an attempt to convince him to agreeing to remove the buyout clause from his current deal. However, contract talks have so far been unsuccessful and the attacker's representative has refused to rule out a move elsewhere. "Marco would make any big European team stronger," Hebel was quoted as saying by Bild. "That's why it's completely normal that a number of these major European teams are interested in signing him."

Mourinho: Modric rejected Chelsea move

Agen Bola Terpercaya Cityholidaybet Reported - Jose Mourinho has revealed he approached Luka Modric about a possible move to Chelsea but the Croatia international rejected him to stay at Real Madrid. The 28-year-old midfielder joined the Spanish club from Tottenham in 2012 and worked under Mourinho for a season before the Portuguese left for Chelsea. Reports have suggested that the pair could be reunited at Stamford Bridge this summer but Mourinho claims Modric will remain at Madrid. "I called Modric only privately but he doesn't want [to join] Chelsea,” Mourinho told Croatian newspaper Sportske Novosti. "You know I really appreciate Luka Modric and his qualities. But he stays in Real Madrid.” Modric made 49 appearances in all competitions for Madrid last season, scoring two goals and providing eight assists, while Manchester United have also been linked with a bid for the 28-year-old.

Mathieu far from finished – Zubizarreta

Agen Bola Terpercaya Cityholidaybet Reported - Andoni Zubizarreta says Barcelona's latest signing Jeremy Mathieu is far from finished after the defender was unveiled on Thursday. The sporting director sanctioned a €20 million deal for the 30-year-old, who has signed a four-year deal at Camp Nou, with the option of an additional year. The decision to offer a contract of that length is unusual for a player in his 30s, but Zubizarreta is convinced Barcelona's latest capture has plenty still to give. "Mathieu is an excellent football player, that's what I think, and he will help us with our operation ahead," he told the media at the Frenchman's official presentation on Thursday. "I will not get into numbers, for me that isn't important. It is said that when a player is 30-years-old he is finished and then later we see that he is not. He's in excellent physical condition."

Asamoah Gyan extends Al Ain contract

Agen Bola Terpercaya Cityholidaybet Reported - Ghana captain Asamoah Gyan has extended his contract with Al Ain until 2018, the UAE side have announced on their official website. The former Sunderland striker had two years left on his four-year contract, but the 28-year-old sealed the improved deal on Thursday evening. He has been the leading goalscorer in the Gulf Region over the past three years. The ‘Baby Jet’, who increased his World Cup goal tally to six in Brazil to become Africa’s leading goalscorer at the global showpiece, is delighted to have committed to the Garden City club. “I am very happy to extend my contract here until 2018 and I thank the club’s board, management and all the fans for their support,” Gyan told his official website. “I have been happy here since I arrived in 2011 and I hope to help the side to keep winning.” The Ghana international, who initially joined The Boss as a loanee in 2011, has scored 82 goals in 66 league matches.

Vidic urges Inter to bid for Hernandez

Agen Bola Terpercaya Cityholidaybet Reported - Nemanja Vidic has urged Inter to sign Manchester United striker Javier 'Chicharito' Hernandez. The Mexico international joined up with Louis van Gaal's squad for their pre-season tour of the United States earlier this week, although his future at Old Trafford remains unclear after starting just six Premier League games last season. And Vidic, who joined Inter this summer after spending eight years at United, believes his former team-mate would be a welcome arrival at the Serie A club. "These things are up to clubs," Vidic told reporters. "Obviously, Chicharito will be a good signing for every club and we'd be glad to have him. "Now we have to focus on this group to get the Europa League qualification. It's not the Champions League but it's a very nice competition with a lot of good European teams."

Bale: I want to improve everything next season

Agen Bola Terpercaya Cityholidaybet Reported - Real Madrid forward Gareth Bale says he wants to improve every aspect of his performances in his second season in Spain. Bale struggled initially for form and fitness after missing much of pre-season following his world record €100 million move from Tottenham last summer, though he went on to develop a devastating understanding with fellow attackers Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema. Yet despite scoring in both the finals of the Copa del Rey and Champions League, the 25-year-old thinks there is a lot more he can give on the pitch. "I want to improve every season: give more assists, score more goals, I want to improve everything," said Bale at a press conference in California. "It was disappointing not being in the World Cup, but I had a seven-week break and I could do a full pre-season. "My adaptation last year was hard because I had no pre-season. This season I feel I am training well. We hope the preparation will help us all to achieve the goals this season."

Reus could return to team training in two or three weeks, says Klopp

Agen Bola Terpercaya Cityholidaybet Reported - Borussia Dortmund coach Jurgen Klopp has revealed that Marco Reus could return to full team training as early as next month. Reus suffered a ligament tear in Germany's World Cup warm-up match against Armenia in June, ruling him out of the tournament, and sporting director Michael Zorc has said this week that the player is still expected to return to action in September. Klopp feels that Reus could make a return to team training in a matter of weeks after his ankle has shown positive signs of progress. Speaking to Bild, Klopp said: "It's always a good feeling to see the guys running again. This is great. So far, the healing process has been optimal. "Maybe Marco can get into the team training again in two or three weeks." Reus scored 23 goals for Dortmund last season, helping BVB to a second-placed Bundesliga finish behind Bayern Munich.

Costa will fight for Chelsea trophies

Agen Bola Terpercaya Cityholidaybet Reported - Chelsea striker Diego Costa is determined to return the Premier League title to Stamford Bridge in his debut season in English football. The 25-year-old joined the Blues for €40 million earlier in the summer following a prolific season in La Liga, in which he bagged 27 goals as Atletico Madrid won La Liga. Now Costa, who has been joined by Atletico team-mates Thibaut Courtois and Filipe Luis in west London, is aiming to enjoy back-to-back successes by helping his new club to their first league win since the 2009-10 campaign. “I’d say to the fans that you need to be confident that I personally will fight for this club to make sure we’re in contention to win as many trophies as possible,” he told Chelsea TV at the club’s pre-season training camp in Austria. “I’m part of a great group of players here and we will do everything we can to give the fans what they want: and that’s titles.” Chelsea are touring Europe before their opening game of the season against Burnley on August 18, and face Austrian side Wolfsberger on Wednesday.

Van Gaal to have words with Mourinho over Shaw jibe

Agen Bola Terpercaya Cityholidaybet Reported - Louis van Gaal says he will speak to Jose Mourinho privately after the Portuguese claimed signing Luke Shaw would have “killed” Chelsea. The Red Devils paid €34 million to acquire the 19-year-old left-back from Southampton, agreeing to pay him a salary of €200,000-per-week, while the Blues pulled out of any prospective deal after learning of the teenager's demands. Mourinho instead signed Filipe Luis from Atletico Madrid in a €20m deal and took a swipe at United on Friday, telling reporters: "To pay a 19-year-old boy what we were being asked for, for Luke Shaw, we are dead. "We would have killed our stability with financial fair play, and killed the stability in our dressing room." Van Gaal, however, refused to bite back in public, instead revealing that he will speak with the Chelsea boss in private. “I don't have to answer, I don't think I have to discuss things with the media. Its better to discuss it with Jose,” he told reporters in the build-up to United's pre-season clash with Roma.

Rooney: I want to captain Man Utd to title

Agen Bola Terpercaya Cityholidaybet Reported - Wayne Rooney is keen to captain Manchester United to the title but insists he will respect Louis van Gaal's decision should he choose someone else. Robin van Persie has been touted as a possible skipper due to the pair's relationship from their time together with the Netherlands, while Darren Fletcher wore the armband during Thursday's 7-0 win over LA Galaxy. Rooney is confident United can improve on last season's seventh-place finish and win the Premier League under Van Gaal and hopes to lead the team on the field under the new regime. "Of course we can win the title," he told reporters. "Last season was a bad one, we know that, but we are confident we can put it right. We have to believe we can win the title. "Of course I would like the captaincy but it's the manager's decision who he chooses. He wants to work with the players and then choose a captain from there. "I don't think he was ever going to just walk in and choose a player from the off. I'm sure he will look at the players now and make his decision in a couple of weeks."

Wenger reveals pep talk that revived Ramsey’s career

Agen Bola Terpercaya Cityholidaybet Reported - Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has revealed that he held a crisis meeting with Aaron Ramsey to help revive the young Welshman’s career. A series of injuries had stunted the 23-year-old’s development and he was routinely singled out by the Emirates Stadium faithful during the latter years of the club’s nine-year trophy drought, with Wenger reluctant to play the under-fire midfielder. But, after a confidence-boosting sit down with his manager, Ramsey emerged as one of the Premier League’s leading stars last term, scoring 16 goals and helping the Gunners win the FA Cup. “I sat down with Aaron and I told him, ‘I don’t think people don’t like you, but they don’t like your game at the moment’,” the Frenchman explained during the club’s pre-season tour of the United States. “He had to come back to a more simple game... then you saw a different player, because he is intelligent, and when I came out of the meeting I knew this guy would come back.” Ramsey started Arsenal’s 2-0 win over Boreham Wood, their first friendly of the pre-season schedule, and is expected to feature again against New York Red Bulls on Saturday.

Mourinho: Shaw wages would have killed Chelsea

Agen Bola Terpercaya Cityholidaybet Reported - Jose Mourinho has insisted signing Luke Shaw would have "killed" Chelsea's finances and prompted unrest in the squad. The 19-year-old joined Manchester United for €37.5 million in June, with the club making him the highest-paid teenager in the world with a €200,000-a-week salary. Goal understands Chelsea pulled out of the race to sign Shaw when they became aware of the wages on offer from United, with Mourinho adding that such a salary would have angered other squad members. "To pay a 19-year-old boy what we were being asked for, for Luke Shaw, we are dead," he told reporters. "We would have killed our stability with financial fair play, and killed the stability in our dressing room. "Because when you pay that much to a 19-year-old kid - a good player, fantastic player - but when you pay that amount of money, the next day we would have had players knocking on our door. "It would've killed immediately our balance, and we couldn't allow that."

Mathieu is Abidal's spiritual successor at Barcelona

Agen Bola Terpercaya Cityholidaybet Reported - Ludovic Giuly has hailed the arrival of Jeremy Mathieu at Barcelona and believes he will be the spiritual successor to Eric Abidal. The Catalan giants sealed a €20 million deal for the centre-back on a four-year contract from Valencia on Tuesday after weeks of negotiations between the two sides. And Giuly - who played for Barcelona between 2004 and 2007 - insisted that Mathieu will be a strong addition at the heart of the club’s back line next term, filling the void left by fellow Frenchman Abidal in 2013. "Mathieu is a good player. I played against him in France and Spain," Giuly told Mundo Deportivo. "He’s a strong player that can provide pace for Barca in defence. "He might provide what Eric Abidal gave to Barcelona but much tougher. "His price is a little high, but this is up to the clubs. The player should be focused on playing for his club and that has nothing to do with the price."

Galliani: Balotelli 99.9 per cent staying

Agen Bola Terpercaya Cityholidaybet Reported - AC Milan chief Adriano Galliani has reiterated his intention of holding on to striker Mario Balotelli this summer, despite rumours linking the Italy international with a move away from San Siro. The 23-year-old did not feature in Milan's 3-0 pre-season friendly loss to Olympiacos in Toronto on Thursday with reports suggesting that the forward could be on his way out of the club in the coming weeks. Balotelli’s rumoured destination is Premier League side Arsenal with Arsene Wenger having met with the striker’s agent, Mino Raiola, during the World Cup over a potential transfer. Despite the talks having stalled, though, Galliani has insisted that Milan do not want to sell Balotelli to any club this summer. "Balotelli never asked to be sold. He will stay at Milan. 100 per cent doesn't exist on the transfer market, but 99.9 per cent does," Galliani told reporters.

Lallana and Markovic great signings for Liverpool, enthuses Rodgers.

Agen Bola Terpercaya Cityholidaybet Reported - Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers says that fans should be very excited about signing the likes of Adam Lallana and Lazar Markovic. Serbia international winger Markovic joined Liverpool in a big-money deal from Portuguese champions Benfica and Rodgers is expecting big things from the 20-year-old. "Young Markovic is a really exciting talent," he told reporters ahead of Liverpool's opening International Champions Cup match against Roma on Wednesday. "He's the kind of player I like, who can beat people in one versus one [situations]. Liverpool also splashed the cash on Southampton captain Lallana, forking out a fee around £25 million for the England international midfielder and Rodgers believes that he has not only the ability but the character to succeed at Anfield. "Adam Lallana, as you'd expect, is a wonderful talent and we've seen that over the last couple of years in the Premier League," he explained.

AC Milan must rely on youth, says Berlusconi.

Agen Bola Terpercaya Cityholidaybet Reported - Silvio Berlusconi claims AC Milan must turn their attention to their youth academy talents in order to return to the summit of Italian football. Milan have gone without silverware since winning the Serie A title under Massimiliano Allegri in 2010-11 and finished short of the European places last season after a dismal campaign. Club president Berlusconi believes youth could be the key in their attempts to become a major force on the continent once again. "We have to start a new cycle and start winning again like we did in the past," the Milan supremo told Oggi. "We have to appreciate and rely on the youngsters coming through our own youth academy as well. "Let's not forget that Milan are still the most successful club in the world." Mattia De Sciglio is one of the few players in Filippo Inzaghi's squad who came through the ranks of the Milan academy, along with Bryan Cristante.

Shaqiri: Juventus not a step back from Bayern

Agen Bola Terpercaya Cityholidaybet Reported - Bayern Munich attacker Xherdan Shaqiri has admitted that he would be open to a move to Juventus if the opportunity arises. The Bundesliga champions recently stressed that they have no intention of selling the Switzerland international, yet Juventus continue to closely monitor Shaqiri's situation at the Allianz Arena as they look to continue their summer recruitment plans. Shaqiri, who has also been linked with Roma and Liverpool, says he has yet to hear of any concrete interest from the Italian champions but insists it would not be a backward step to move to Turin from Pep Guardiola's side. "Juventus would definitely be a nice option," Shaqiri was quoted as saying by Tuttosport. "Juventus are a big club, who wouldn't want to play for them... I don't think Juventus would be a step back in my career. "I don't know whether Juventus have been in touch with Bayern. I have not heard anything about it from Juventus or Bayern."

Pellegrini: Manchester City squad is not yet complete

Agen Bola Terpercaya Cityholidaybet Reported - Manuel Pellegrini has hinted that Manchester City will add to their squad before the close of the transfer window as they continue to prepare for the 2014-15 season. City have already acquired Willy Caballero, Fernando and Bacary Sagna from Malaga, Porto and Arsenal respectively but are interested in a big-money move for Fernando's former club-mate Eliaquim Mangala, as they seek to strengthen their defence. And Pellegrini concedes he is not yet satisfied with his squad, though he does not intend to rush into any deals. "I don't think the squad is complete yet but we have six weeks before the transfer window closes," the Chilean told reporters at a press conference ahead of a pre-season clash with Sporting Kansas City. "Perhaps there is the option to bring one or more players in, or maybe one or two will leave our squad but there is time for us to consider what is best for our team."

Schweinsteiger needs six-week break, says Bayern doctor.

Agen Bola Terpercaya Cityholidaybet Reported - Bayern Munich team doctor Hans-Wilhelm Muller-Wohlfahrt has voiced his concerns over Bastian Schweinsteiger's fitness ahead of the 2014-15 campaign. The influential midfielder was plagued by injury problems throughout last season and missed a number of games for Bayern, but he recovered in time to feature prominently at the World Cup with Germany. Bayern granted the 29-year-old a three-week holiday after he guided the national team to glory at this summer's tournament, but Muller-Wohlfahrt feels Schweinsteiger needs at least twice as long in order to fully recover from his exploits in Brazil after a gruelling 2013-14 season. "Schweinsteiger needs at least a six-week break," the Bayern doctor told Eurosport. The midfielder missed Germany's World Cup opener against Portugal and was on the bench for the game against Ghana, but featured from the start in the world champions' remaining five games. Schweinsteiger made 36 appearances in all competitions for Bayern last season.

Barcelona agree €20m deal for Mathieu

Agen Bola Terpercaya Cityholidaybet Reported - Barcelona have confirmed that they have reached a deal that will see them sign Jeremy Mathieu from Valencia on a four-year deal for a fee of €20 million. The Catalans were looking to sign a new centre-back following the retirement of Carles Puyol at the end of the 2013-14 campaign and they have long been pursuing 30-year-old Mathieu. After protracted negotations, Barca have finally secured the signing of the Frenchman, who will have a €50m buyout clause in his new contract after becoming one of the most expensive players at the age of 30 or over in history. "Barcelona and Valencia have reached an agreement for the transfer of the French player Jeremy Mathieu," a statement on the club's official website reads. "Jeremy Mathieu will sign a contract with Barcelona for the next four seasons plus an optional season more. "The cost of the transfer is €20 million and the buyout clause will be €50m."

Koeman denies Liverpool have bid for Lovren

Agen Bola Terpercaya Cityholidaybet Reported - Southampton manager Ronald Koeman insists the club have yet to receive an official offer from Liverpool for Dejan Lovren. The centre-back is expected to leave the club after publicly admitting his "head was already at Liverpool" after seeing a previous bid from the Anfield outfit rejected, which he claims was worth £20 million. Goal understands Brendan Rodgers has made a breakthrough in his pursuit of the Croatia international, but Koeman insists the club have never recieved an offer from Liverpool despite Lovren's claims. "We have had no bid from Liverpool for Lovren, that is the situation," Koeman told reporters. "If that does not change, he will continue to play at Southampton. "We know there is a lot of interest in our players, I think that is normal. But we have to wait, we work on the team."

'Hummels to Manchester United for €20m? Forget it' – Klopp

Agen Bola Terpercaya Cityholidaybet Reported - Borussia Dortmund boss Jurgen Klopp has dismissed speculation that defender Mats Hummels could join Manchester United this summer. The Red Devils had been linked with a €20 million move for the Germany international, with Louis van Gaal keen to rebuild a central defence that lost Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic in the off-season. But Klopp has laughed off suggestions that he could lose the World Cup winner, as well as attacker Marco Reus, who has been linked with Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich. "I can assure you that there are no signs that one of them wants to leave us," the BVB boss told Ruhr Nachrichten. "Mats joining Manchester United? For €20 million? For such little money you can forget that immediately!" Van Gaal included Hummels on his six-man shortlist for summer targets before officially taking the role last week.

Gerrard: Hodgson is the right man for England

Agen Bola Terpercaya Cityholidaybet Reported - Steven Gerrard is confident Roy Hodgson is the right man to take England forward following the former captain's retirement from international duty. The 34-year-old called time on his Three Lions career on Monday but leaves England following a disastrous World Cup which leaves them 20th in the Fifa Ranking - their worst position since 1996. Hodgson will remain in charge despite a group-stage exit in Brazil and, while Gerrard admits the opinion on England is "very negative", he is confident the former Fulham boss was the correct appointment. "I'm sure Roy will get the job right. I know things will turn around for the better," he told reporters. "I know the players are upset and everyone has an opinion on England at the moment - it's very negative. "But I'm sure Roy will help making the England supporters proud again and change the way people are looking at this England team. "He's a fantastic manager and I'm glad the FA have stuck with him. He's the man who fulfilled my childhood dream, made me England captain, and I'll always thank him for that."

Morata out of action for 50 days

Agen Bola Terpercaya Cityholidaybet Reported - Alvaro Morata has made an inauspicious start to his Juventus career after picking up a knee injury on his first day of training that will keep him out of action for 50 days. The young Spanish forward sealed his €20 million move from Real Madrid to the Serie A champions on Saturday, only to suffer the setback on Monday. The 21-year-old limped from the training pitch complaining of pain in his knee and a series of tests have confirmed that he could be at risk of missing the start of the Serie A season. "Alvaro Morata underwent an MRI scan after being forced to depart Monday afternoon's training session early due to injury," a statement on the Juventus website reads. "The tests, carried out at Turin's Clinica Fornaca di Sessant, revealed a second grade tear of the medial collateral ligament in the striker's left knee. "He is estimated to return to action in 50 days."

Will Keane and Tom Lawrence sign new Manchester United deals

Agen Bola Terpercaya Cityholidaybet Reported - Promising young Manchester United duo Will Keane and Tom Lawrence have both signed new long-term contracts. Keane, whose twin brother Michael has also come the youth system at the club, had agreed to pledge his future to the club in July after a series of talks with Old Trafford officials. And the forward, who attracted interest from the Chelsea and Tottenham, as well as Serie A pair AC Milan and Inter, has now put pen to paper on a new contract. Keane made his United debut off the bench in a 3-2 defeat to Blackburn Rovers in December 2011, and has since spent time on loan with Wigan and QPR, helping Harry Redknapp's side secure promotion back to the Premier League last season. Lawrence, meanwhile, made his United first-team breakthrough last season after Ryan Giggs took over as head coach following the sacking of David Moyes. The Welsh winger made his full debut in a 3-1 win against Hull City in May and was replaced by Giggs in the second half.

Everton inch closer to Lukaku signing

Agen Bola Terpercaya Cityholidaybet Reported - Everton are close to agreeing terms with Chelsea over the permanent signing of Romelu Lukaku. Lukaku spent last season on loan at Goodison Park and scored 15 Premier League goals in 31 appearances for Roberto Martinez's side. The Belgium international is understood to be keen on a return to Everton, with the Toffees increasingly confident of securing a deal for the striker. The deal is likely to cost Everton around £18 million, but the Merseyside club are prepared to spend the majority of their transfer budget to land their No.1 target this summer. Publicly, the Stamford Bridge outfit have indicated they expect Lukaku to be a part of the Blues squad which will travel to the Netherlands to face Vitesse Arnhem. But the striker stated his future was uncertain shortly after Belgium's elimination from the World Cup this summer. "I have a few ideas but we'll see," he said. "I have to have discussions first and have to think about it. I want to go home and then I will decide. It will be soon."

Tottenham edge ahead of Arsenal in race for Schneiderlin

Agen Bola Terpercaya Cityholidaybet Reported - Tottenham have stolen a march on Arsenal in the race to sign Morgan Schneiderlin, with the Southampton midfielder swayed by the "great future" the north Londoners have ahead of them under Mauricio Pochettino. Arsenal opened discussions over a deal to sign Schneiderlin last week but north London rivals Spurs are also in talks to sign the 24-year-old and believe they are favourites for his signature. The £18 (€22.7) million-rated France international is emerging as Tottenham's leading target for the summer transfer window as Pochettino looks to improve his squad ahead of the new season and the clubs have been in discussions for several weeks. Schneiderlin has spoken glowingly of his improvement under Pochettino and believes re-uniting with the Argentine would be a better career move than moving to Arsenal. "I think a manager like that is good for every club," Schneiderlin told Goal. "With the quality Tottenham have, Mauricio Pochettino will get the best out of each player. "He improved me very much. He improved the whole squad and improved me as a player. He's a great coach and good man and it's a shame Southampton lost him."

Chelsea star Salah excused from military service

Agen Bola Terpercaya Cityholidaybet Reported - Chelsea star Mohamed Salah will not have to return to Egypt to do military service, Goal understands. Reports earlier this week had suggested that the winger would be forced to go back to his homeland to serve in the armed forces, after his place in an education program was rescinded, meaning he could not travel abroad. But kingfut.com reported that the country's prime minister Ibrahim Mahlab then intervened personally in the matter, holding a meeting with his minister for higher education and national team coach Shawky Gharib in which he described the ruling as "threatening" the future of Egyptian football. And Goal understands that Salah has now been given confirmation that he is no longer obligated to return home to do military service, which traditionally ranges from 12 months to three years. On Monday, Salah travelled with the rest of the Chelsea squad to a pre-season training camp in Austria, and the club consider the matter settled. Salah moved to Stamford Bridge from Basel for €14 million in January and scored two goals in 10 Premier League appearances for the Blues, netting in home wins against Arsenal and Stoke City.

Liverpool loan Aspas to Sevilla

Agen Bola Terpercaya Cityholidaybet Reported - Liverpool have confirmed Iago Aspas has joined Sevilla on loan for the 2014-15 season. The forward joined the Reds from Celta Vigo last summer but struggled to nail down a first-team place and made only 15 appearances in all competitions. Sevilla announced a deal had been agreed last week and also revealed that they would have the option to buy the 26-year-old for a set price. Aspas returns to Spain having previously played one season in La Liga - his final campaign with Celta - in which he scored 12 goals. His position at Liverpool had been further weakened by Brendan Rodgers' signing of the likes of Adam Lallana, Rickie Lambert and, most recently, Lazar Markovic, although Luis Suarez has been sold. Aspas' only goal for the club came against third-tier Oldham Athletic in the third round of the FA Cup in January.

Do Real Madrid really need James Rodriguez?

Agen Bola Terpercaya Cityholidaybet Reported - One of football’s biggest certainties is that Real Madrid will always be waiting to swoop for any player who has just been the star man at the World Cup. They did so in 2006 with Fabio Cannavaro, and did the same four years earlier with Ronaldo. In 2014, the Champions League holders will add Monaco's James Rodriguez to the list. His Colombia side enthralled everyone across the planet with their brilliant attacking football, with the World Cup Golden Boot winner at the heart of everything until their exit to the hosts at the quarter-finals. Inevitably, Barca and Real Madrid were instantly linked with his signature and the former Porto attacker professed his preference for a move to the capital. Now, the European champions are set to complete an €88m transfer for the 23-year-old. But the question that lingers: do Madrid really need him? James is a wonderful player, capable of dictating play, scoring goals and delighting crowds, but the club seem to be fixing a problem they simply don’t have.

Dnipro Konoplyanka still open to West Ham switch

Agen Bola Terpercaya Cityholidaybet Reported - Yevhen Konoplyanka is open to a move to West Ham should they return with an improved bid for the Dnipro Dnipropetrovsk star, Goal understands. The Hammers saw an offer of €12 million (£9.5m) rejected by the Ukrainian giants a fortnight ago and are yet to indicate whether they will increase their offer for the 24-year-old. Dnipro are adamant they will not sell Konoplyanka for any less than his release clause of €15m (£12m), despite the player having just one year remaining on his contract. Konoplyanka sees his future away from Dnipro if the right move presents itself and is interested in talking to West Ham if they are able to match his valuation. But if nothing materialises this summer, Goal understands the 24-year-old is willing to wait and settle his future in January, when he can negotiate a pre-contract agreement with any interested club. Konoplyanka, who impressed for Ukraine against England during qualification for this summer's World Cup in Brazil, was courted by both Tottenham and Liverpool in January, though neither have followed up their interest in recent weeks.

Kroos: I only decided to join Madrid after Bayern talks collapsed

Agen Bola Terpercaya Cityholidaybet Reported - Toni Kroos has stressed that he only started thinking about a transfer to Real Madrid after talks with Bayern Munich over a new deal collapsed. The Germany international was keen to stay in Bavaria, but he eventually opted to join the European champions for a reported €25 million after failing to agree terms on a contract extension with Pep Guardiola's side. "I first started thinking about a transfer when talks with Bayern were unsuccessful. Bayern were always my priority and I didn't talk to anybody else," Kroos told the official DFB website. "I then decided to go for a new challenge after we failed to reach an agreement with Bayern and a number of clubs showed an interest in signing me. Winning the World Cup settled it." The versatile midfielder dismissed rumours that he left the Allianz Arena because he did not feel appreciated by the Bundesliga titleholders. "I didn't leave Bayern because I didn't feel valued," he insisted. "I played for one of the biggest clubs in the world and was a starter under several coaches."

Monaco can replace James – Germain

Agen Bola Terpercaya Cityholidaybet Reported - Valere Germain believes that Monaco would be able to bring in the right replacements if Real Madrid agree a deal for James Rodriguez. The Colombia star enjoyed an excellent World Cup in Brazil, ending the tournament with the Golden Boot after scoring six times as los Cafeteros reached their first ever quarter-final, prompting heavy speculation that Carlo Ancelotti could look to bring him to Santiago Bernabeu in a €90 million deal this summer. James joined the principality outfit last year for €45 million from Porto, scoring 10 times in 38 games as his side finished as Ligue 1 runners-up, and while Germain feels that they would miss his influence he is confident the club have the financial muscle to replace him. "All the players have faith in the club's officials," the 24-year-old told L'Equipe. "If James leaves, as he's considered as one of the best in Europe right now, it would be a huge loss. But Monaco can always buy new recruits. I'm sure we’ll have a team as competitive as last year." James is set to join up with his Monaco team-mates in Miami on Monday as part of pre-season preparations.

Van Gaal will make Manchester United an attacking force, says Woodward.

Agen Bola Terpercaya Cityholidaybet Reported - Louis van Gaal will get Manchester United back playing attractive attacking football, according to executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward. Dutchman Van Gaal – who has won league titles in Netherlands, Spain and Germany – is now tasked with rebuilding and Woodward thinks the 62-year-old will have no trouble winning over United supporters and will also help develop the next generation of stars. Speaking at the end of a week in which Van Gaal formally took charge at United, Woodward told MUTV: "He's got incredible energy and very importantly he likes attacking football. "If you remember the Barcelona team [Van Gaal managed] in the late '90s, who played incredible, attacking football, and those games we had against them in '98-99 [when United won the Champions League], that's the kind of football Manchester United fans love. "It's part of our DNA. The second part of what he likes is giving youth a chance. He's got a track record littered with giving young players a break in the first team, who have gone on to be stars."

Dodo sets sights on Brazil call-up after Inter switch

Agen Bola Terpercaya Cityholidaybet Reported - Dodo hopes that his transfer from Roma to Inter can bolster his chances of becoming a regular member of the senior Brazil side. The 22-year-old made 35 appearances for the Giallorossi after joining from Corinthians in July 2012, with the San Siro outfit prompted to secure an initial €1.2 million deal for his loan and an option to make the move permanent for €9m. Dodo has represented Brazil both at Under-17 and Ur-20 level and he feels joining the Nerazzurri will bring him a step closer to his first senior cap. "Inter presented me with a project which I can be more involved in," the youngster told Corriere dello Sport. "After call-ups with the U-17 and U-20 sides, I am convinced that Inter will give me the push to get into the national team. "I was pleased that, after being with Roma for two years, a team like Inter thought me so important. Together with my agent we realised that this was the best option for me and here I am."

Lambert: Wearing the No.9 shirt for Liverpool is special

Agen Bola Terpercaya Cityholidaybet Reported - Rickie Lambert has admitted he is overjoyed at being handed the No. 9 shirt for Liverpool after making his debut in a pre-season friendly win at Preston North End. The 32-year-old striker follows in the footsteps of the likes of Robbie Fowler, Fernando Torres and Ian Rush in wearing the iconic shirt and, as a boyhood fans, says he would have been happy with any number after joining the club from Southampton. "I've always seen myself as a No.9 as it's the type of player I am, and to get it at Liverpool is unbelievable," the close-season signing told Liverpool's official website. "I would have been happy with any number because as long as that badge is on the front I would have been happy with any shirt, but to get No.9 is special for me."

Lukaku set to stay at Chelsea, says Steve Holland.

Agen Bola Terpercaya Cityholidaybet Reported - Chelsea assistant first-team coach Steve Holland has denied reports that striker Romelu Lukaku is on the verge of leaving the club. The Belgium forward spent last season on loan at Everton - where he scored 15 goals in 31 Premier League appearances - following a successful spell at West Brom the previous campaign. Lukaku has been linked with a return to Goodison Park, while Tottenham and Bundesliga club Wolfsburg are also said to be eager to sign the 21-year-old. Holland does not expect the former Anderlecht man to be on the move in the near future, though. "The plan is that he will join up with us at some stage during the second [pre-season] week when we are in Holland," he told reporters. When pressed as to whether Lukaku will not be allowed to leave Stamford Bridge before he is due to head to Netherlands on tour, Holland stated: "That's the situation as I understand it.”

Juventus fall outs forced Conte out – Nedved

Agen Bola Terpercaya Cityholidaybet Reported - Pavel Nedved has explained Antonio Conte left Juventus because he was fed up of constant fall outs behind the scenes with management. The 44-year-old surprised the football world when it was announced last Tuesday that he had left his post with the Bianconeri by mutual consent, despite winning three Serie A titles in a row. However, Nedved - who is on the Turin club's board of directors - insisted that there was not one dramatic bust-up that prompted Conte to leave the Turin outfit and claims he had initially been talked out of resigning at the end of 2013-14. "Antonio has resigned because he did not have the energy to continue disagreements with management," the 41-year-old Czech told reporters in Italy. Nedved, who made 315 appearance for Juventus over his career as he won two Serie A titles with the club, added that the Bianconeri had not been radically destabilised by the departure and would continue to build for next season. "None of what the media have said about his resignation is exact," the former Lazio winger added. "Conte was just tired. His decision surprised us, even if at the end of the season we had already talked about it."

Seedorf dialogue wasn't great – Bonera

Agen Bola Terpercaya Cityholidaybet Reported - Daniele Bonera says Clarence Seedorf's poor verbal skills were behind his problems at AC Milan after praising the impact of new coach Filippo Inzaghi. Bonera, however, stressed that Milan should be able to look to a brighter future under their new boss, insisting that he is more prepared than Seedorf to handle a role of this magnitude. "You can see immediately that [compared to Seedorf] there is a significant degree of preparation," the 33-year-old told a press conference at the club's Milanello training centre. "Clarence had a certain kind of dialogue with players, comparable to [Massimiliano] Allegri, but not great dialogue. Inzaghi places a lot of emphasis on this aspect. "Inzaghi was an electric player and he has the same characteristic as well as a coach. He seems to be very knowledgeable and has very clear ideas about what should be the way you play on the team. I see he is very taken by this new assignment - I liken him to [Carlo] Ancelotti."

Filipe Luis targets Champions League and Premier League with Chelsea

Agen Bola Terpercaya Cityholidaybet Reported - New Chelsea signing Filipe Luis has set his sights on a Premier League and Champions League double. The full-back completed his move from Atletico Madrid to Stamford Bridge on Friday, penning a three-year deal, and is determined to go one better than Diego Simeone's side did in Europe last term. Filipe was part of the Atletico side who won La Liga on the final day of 2014-15 and then lost in extra time in the Champions League final against local rivals Real Madrid. "Last season was brilliant but I've come here to do exactly the same," Filipe told his new club's official website. "I want to go one better in the Champions League and, in terms of the Premier League, I want the trophy badly. "Chelsea is the best club for me to do that; we have the best coach and an amazing squad, we have some brilliant players and I hope the supporters will see the Premier League trophy at Stamford Bridge at the end of the season."