Premier League 26 Feb, Arsenal - Tottenham

a

Arsenal have won only one of their last ten meeting with Spurs, Wenger’s position is uncertain as never and they could even stay out of top-four. Spurs are in the better mood, they won’t win the title but will play in Champions League. Both sides play nice attacking football, had a free midweek and will have fresh legs. No reason why both sides shouldn’t go for all three points. Five of their last six league matches have finished with three or more goals (three of those with four or more). In last three visits to Emirates, Spurs were twice two goals down but once win and once grabbed a point.

Bet: Over 2.75
Odd: 1.93 (Ladbrokes)
Stake: 8/10
p
Support the blog and open a betting account using the banners from the left. You'll get some free bets as well.
Make e-mail subscription and get my picks directly in the mail box.
p

Premier League Betting, Norwich - Arsenal

a

Sort of obvious pick. Norwich have conceded in each of their home games (no clean sheet in any of 12 games this season), they play attacking football and three of their last four games produced four or more goals. Remind me on Blackpool last year.

Arsenal’s last seven matches in league were overs, while their five on the road produced 28 goals! Differently from the start of the season, they look pretty well and should be big favorites today. Additionally, Wenger made a deal with Dutch coach Van Persie to be rested against Germany and he’s fully fit. Arsenal have scored 13 goals in their last three meetings with Norwich.

Goals for me.

Bet: Over 3
Odd: 2.21 (188bet)
Stake: 8/10
p
Support the blog and open a betting account using the banners from the left. You'll get some free bets as well.
Make e-mail subscription and get my picks directly in the mail box.
p

WBA - Arsenal

West Brom look much better under Roy Hodgson, they’re undefeated in last four in league and in previous round won in derby away vs. Brum (3-1). But, the fact is they haven’t kept a clean sheet in previous 27 games. On the other hand, from the bottom-half sides only Blackpool have scored more goals (WBA 39). Key midfielder Dorrans is out, other midfielder Mulumbu is doubtful, while Vela cannot play against parent club.

Arsenal suffered two painful defeats in last 10 days (Barca and Man Utd), but they still look good in the title race. Three points less than Utd, but with a game in hand (counting on Utd’s injuries and tough game vs. Bolton today). Arsenal have good record on the road against bottom sides, but Wenger is facing a long injury list. Seven players are out, Fabregas, Djourou, Diaby, Vermaelen, Szczesny, Walcott and Song. Jens Lehmann is in the squad which makes me think they will be vulnerable more than usual. Good news for Wenger is Bendtner returns.

The Gunners are desperate for points, but absolutely the same is with WBA. I expect an open game and goals on both sides.

Bet: Over 2.5
Odd: 1.93 Pinnacle
Stake: 8/10
p
Support the blog and open a betting account using the banners from the left. You'll get some free bets as well.
Make e-mail subscription and get my picks directly in the mail box.
p

Leeds - Arsenal

Leeds are really good in FA Cup recently, knocked Man Utd  at Trafford and played a draw at White Hart Lane last year, in this campaign resisted at Emirates (almost won, actually). Also, United will be confident as they’re undefeated at home in last seven and failed to score only once in last 15 games. The pressure is off (understandable) and Elland will be packed. No way I’ll be against them in these circumstances. Becchio  got some injury against Scunny and is rated as doubtful, but I’d be shocked if he doesn’t start (as I was shocked with Cattermole at Sunday, though).

Problem with Arsenal is they’re missing too many chances and if don’t score until 60th minute, become nervous. On the other hand if Gunners manage to score in first 15-20 mins, they will run the riot. Leeds kept them quiet in the first encounter, will they be able to do that again? No, I don’t believe in it. Arsenal have Wigan for the weekend and Ipswich for six days (after 0-1) and nobody could really assume the team that Wenger will name. Before the Emirates’ draw, Gunners noticed three consecutive wins over Leeds, scoring 13 goals in those. Arsenal haven’t been knocked in the third round in past 15 years.  

I won’t be involved in the final outcome, but high scoring game and away win is my expected scenario. Don’t think Leeds can keep it tight again and I’m sure they really believe in progress. On the other hand, Wenger knows here’s no reply. Goals would be my call.

Bet: Over 3
Odd: 2.06 188bet
Stake: 8/10

Support the blog and open a betting account using the banners from the left. You'll get some free bets as well. 
Make e-mail subscription and get my picks directly in the mail box.
0

Man Utd - Arsenal

United maybe haven’t been impressive, but it’s mainly because their away games as they won just once (with six draws)! However, they’re well known slow starters and I think their performances will be only better. At home, they’ve noticed 7 wins and a draw (2-2 vs. WBA) with 24-6 goal difference. Also, I wouldn’t compare CL group games with Premiership. In my opinion only real weakness is position of right-back and Rafael who lacks in experience (and quality, probably). Personally, I’d rather like to see Gary Neville. United have won four of last five competitive games against Arsenal. No injury concerns for Ferguson.

Public opinion is Arsenal are better than ever. Ok. In previous seasons, they wasted enough points to quit the challenge for the title even in this part of the season. However, they’ll face some problems at Old Trafford. They have bad record against top Premiership clubs (especially against Man Utd and Chelsea). My impression is players are too light weighted (great speed though) which makes them physically inferior in tackles and midfield battle. Than defence, that looks really shaky sometimes. Some info says Szczesny, third choice goalkeeper, will have advantage over Fabianski. At the end it’s not the same without Fabregas. Whatever Wenger has been talking, he’s not fit. In last nine visits to Trafford, the Gunners have noticed seven defeats (one draw and one win). 

I was thinking about goals tonight, but Ferguson will probably set 4-5-1 formation (with Rooney on the wing) that should keep the game tight and Gunners far from the goal. United have an obvious aerial superiority and they’ll be very dangerous from set-pieces. I’ll be simple. Home win, Vidic to score, 2-0 correct score.

Bet: Man Utd -0.5
Odd: 1.95 Digibet
Stake: 8/10

Make e-mail subscription and get my picks directly in the mail box.
l

Arsenal - Wigan

There’re plenty of questions which team Wenger will field for this game. Against Spurs and Newcastle, he named stronger squad than usual for a Cup game. Personally, I don’t have a problem with that. Any Arsenal’s eleven are pretty strong entity. Fabregas is injured. Chamakh will be rested, but there’s Bendtner (although I don’t like to base a bet on him). Arshavin, Wilshere and Rosicky, all should appear from the start. Arsenals haven’t won anything for five years (my honest opinion they’ll blow up in Premier, once again) and this could be a golden opportunity to lift the trophy.

Oppositely from Wenger, Martinez has plenty of reasons for a decent headache. Injury list consists some of his key players and space for rotation is not so big. He announces a possibility to give a chance to some youngsters. Believe him or don’t.  After great run of results they entered a crisis and defeat at West Ham was their fourth consecutive on the road and Wigan dropped into dangerous zone. Despite they knocked Arsenal at semi-final 2006, they have seven consecutive defeats on their soil. Adding on that Wigan has a label of really poor travellers and this is less important Cup, I have no reason to believe Martinez carries a serious hope for this encounter. Stoke at home should be more important concern.

I think we won’t see any surprise here. Gunners’ talent and desire for proving themselves should be too much for Wigan. Home win and handicap for me.

Bet: Arsenal -2ah
Odd: 2.26 188bet
Stake: 7/10

I'm curious about Huddersfield. Maybe a bet, but little later.

Make e-mail subscription and get my picks directly in the mail box.

Arsenal – West Ham

Arsenal look really great at the moment. And although this is very popular bet today, I’ll be involved in their game third time in a row. They demolished the Toon in Cup game during the midweek (4-0 away), at the same time resting some key players. Big  boost for Wenger is Fabregas, Walcott and Bendtner are fit and all 3 played at Newcastle (Walcott and Bendtner scored three times). It’s a big squad now and Wenger has no problem to name 11. They also score for fun lately. In 4 home games scored 14 goals (conceded 5) and in 2 CL games scored 11 goals! However in last two games at Emirates, they didn’t look impressive at all. First were shocked by WBA (2-3), then defeated Brum 2-1 but game was below their standards. So, I expect they’ll be very serious today. Arsenal are unbeaten in last 7 games against West Ham, while Man City is the only side that kept a clean sheet at Emirates in 2010..

After  9 rounds, West Ham are stuck to the bottom with just 6 points collected. They’re the side from whom I always expected to turn the corner and start moving away from a dangerous zone. Last season they made a decent spending on a transfer market, but unfortunately most of the signings were just money wasting (can’t not to think on Diamanti and transfer of 6 mill.). In this season nothing has changed and Hammers are living another bleak season in Premier. Also, at Tuesday they played 120 minutes against Stoke (won 3-1 after ET) with Grant naming very strong side. They’re tired and last thing they need is top side on the road that plays fast and attacking football. Next, Grant will miss his skipper Matthew Upson in the center of defense and striker Frederic Piquionne. Statistic also looks pessimistic as West Ham have managed just one clean sheet in 9 games, scored only 7 (lowest in Premier) and have failed to score in 5 of their last 6 games against Arsenal.

Arsenal look like a mean machine at the moment. They’ll face, I think it’s fair to say weak, slow and tired side without a captain and major threat in the attack. Despite it’s a London derby, anything except a high scoring home win would be sensation in my opinion. I expect a very long day for the Hammers and 3-0, 4-0 scoreline.

Bet: Arsenal -2.0
Odd: 2.00 bet365
Stake: 8/10

Make e-mail subscription and get my picks directly in the mail box.
l

Newcastle – Arsenal

After the great start in Premier, the Toon started to slowing down. In the last 3 home games, they noticed just one point against the sides from the bottom side of the table (Blackpool, Stoke and Wigan) and in all of those 3 conceded twice. In the previous round, they defeated Chelsea at Stamford (reserve squad though) in the game where Chris Hughton made 10 changes in the team. Something like that, he already announced. Newcastle tonight will be mix of fringe players and youngsters. They also have a big derby clash on the corner, home against Sunderland and that’s another reason for first teamers not to be risked. The Toon have only one win against Arsenal in last 19 competitive games and haven’t won in last 7 Cup games (since 1952)!

The Gunners are travelling to the north in a great mood. They demolished City at weekend and boosted their self confidence. Also, some important players (Fabregas, Walcott,Bendtner, Denilson) have been recovered from the injuries. In the previous round in city derby, they eliminated Spurs away, in the game where Wenger rotated players (as usual), but because the number of players in rotation (and their quality) that squad is always more than respectable. Arsenal have good tradition in this competition, but probably more important reason is Wenger’s desire to win a silverware (or better to say, pressure on him to win it). And in situation where Spurs, Chelsea and Man City already finished their appearance in Cup, Arsenal are favorites to win it (beside Man Utd, of course).

This surely won’t be a walk at the St James Park for the Wenger’s kids. Newcastle beat Chelsea away with the same team that probably will be tonight. They gained a huge amount of self confidence and will put their best in this game. But, on the other side will be much more serious eleven than at Stamford. Arsenal are in big uptrend, want a trophy and this should be just one station on the road to Wembley. Beside away win, I expect some counter attack that should finish the job before the end of 90 minutes.

Bet: Arsenal -0.75
Odd: 2.13 Canbet
Stake: 8/10

Make e-mail subscription and get my picks directly in the mail box.

.

Manchester City – Arsenal

Citizens are having a good start of the campaign, 17 points from 8 games and lie currently at the 2^nd place. I still believe they have no serious chance for a title, but as far as they believe in it they’ll be giving their best. And the best from such paid players could be really terrific. They don’t lack in confidence as Chelsea have already be beaten at home soil. Few injury worries for Mancini, but considering quality of full squad they could be characterized as minor. Kolo Toure will face a late fitness test and Kolarov is still out. Mario Balotelli is finally fit and will have a place on the bench.

The Gunners are playing another season that looks like one before. Wenger’s kids are great talents, Cesc is one of the best World’s players, Arshavin one of the most dangerous, they all have a great pace… But beside more experience, they really need more strength. Physically, they’re far below the top Premier sides which cause plenty of problems in the midfield tackles and in aerial challenges. And that again, with the lack of counter attack opportunities, brings defeats in the big games. Also, Wenger has some serious problems with injuries in the defense line. Almunia is long term absent and Fabianski is all except safe goalie that gives security to four players in front of him. Then, center backs, Koscielny and Vermaelen are injured (Sagna is back though). So, not so impressive defense will have to cope with two top shape “beasts”, Tevez and Adebayor. Beside mentioned, midfielder Jack Wilshere is suspended. Arsenal have won one of their last eight Premier League away games and have not kept a clean sheet in their last 15 league and cup away games.

I’m well surprised with the odds here. In my opinion, bookmakers have exaggerated Arsenal’s Champions League performances. This is something else, trip to Manchester is probably the hardest they’ll have this season. Chelsea made a five points margin yesterday and Mancini wouldn’t be satisfied with a point here. Home win.

Bet: Man City -0.25
Odd: 2.16 188bet
Stake: 8/10

Make e-mail subscription and get my picks directly in the mail box.
.

Tuesday's result and statistic update

Arsenal - Shakhtar 5-1  WON

Statistic:

October
Profit: -11.08 units Yield: -15.18%

Season
Profit: +9.1 units Yield: +2.99%

See all bets
l
Make e-mail subscription and get my picks directly in the mail box.
l

Arsenal - Shakhtar Donetsk

Arsenal have six points from first two games and scored nine in those. First destroyed Braga at Emirates (6-0), then easy past Belgrade (3-1) and with tonight’s win the Gunners would practically pass the group. When they play Champions League at Emirates, home wins are common thing. Since the loss against Inter Milano seven years ago, Arsenal have noticed 17 wins with 4 draws and 12 of those 17 wins were with 2 or more goals margin. Wenger has plenty of problems in the back line. Koscielny, Sagna and Vermaelen are out (adding on that Fabianski who is in). In past, problems with defensive line meant Arsenal will be even more attacking. But, also some good news from medical service. Fabregas, Bendtner and Theo Walcott are all fit. Fabregas will probably take some part in the game as a preparation for City, while rest two should start the game.

Shakhtar also come in this game with six points. However, they had much more problems in those two then Arsenal. At first game at home, they had lots of problems to break Partizan’s defense (won 1-0). 3-0 at Braga suggests dominating win, but true is home side had possession and few great chances that missed. Then came counter attack, home attempts to save the game, another counter and 0-3 at the end. However, beside domination in Ukraine (first place, with 5 points margin and goal difference 25-5 after 13 rounds), they play very well in Europe (lost away just once since 2008, but were playing in Europa League). They need home win against Braga for second place and tonight won’t have any pressure. However, it’s not like I believe in Lucescu’s announcing they’ll attack Arsenal trying to use their defensive problems. It would be a suicide, more likely. However, only injury concern is very important players, Douglas Costa, and we’ll see is Lucescu ready to risk with him (I think he’s not).

I don’t think Wenger has too much space for calculation here (beside leaving Fabregas on the bench). It’s big difference being first, or second. In the rest three games, they have to travel twice (one trip is in Ukraine), failure today would cut the space for Wenger to play with rotating squad. On the other hand, win tonight with the win in last round against Partizan at home would bring the top. And of course, considering quality difference, Arsenal are way above. Odds are higher than I expected. Home win.

Bet: Arsenal -0.75
Odd: 1.91 Stan James
Stake: 8/10

Probably one pick from Championship, later today.

Make e-mail subscription and get my picks directly in the mail box.
l

Sunday's World Cup round-up

Graham Taylor is convinced goalkeeper David James' terse responses to questions about Fabio Capello's selection policy were a clear indication that all is not well in the England camp.
Former England boss Taylor said: "I know David very well because we signed him as a young player at Watford many years ago. He is very articulate and he was giving us a message there, make no mistake. That was a message that all is not right."
Although he has vowed not to resign and has stood by some controversial team selections, under-fire Cameroon coach Paul Le Guen is facing media criticism following the Indomitable Lions' early exit from the World Cup. 

After it was suggested to the Frenchman that his tactics were to blame for defeats against Japan and Denmark, Le Guen simply replied: "I will not resign but you have given your opinion and I respect that. Either you trust me or you don't, but that's the way things are."

A top public university in Bangladesh has closed indefinitely after students clashed over whether to cancel classes in order to watch the World Cup. Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology reportedly asked students to leave dormitories to calm the situation, after at least five people were injured in violent disturbances.

One group had demanded an early summer vacation so they could watch football on television without any tension. They asked other students not to attend classes or take tests and locked the university's main gate, prompting clashes with senior students who wanted classes to continue.

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger believes a fear of failure and the absolute necessity to get through the group stage has contributed to the poor performances of top European sides at the World Cup.
Wenger said: "The biggest teams who have the highest level of expectation cannot express that talent yet. One reason is caution, fear of failure, response to huge demands. These teams will just get through, most of them, then you will see them really play." 

Australia forward Harry Kewell is adamant he did not deserve to be sent off for handling the ball on the line during his team's 1-1 draw against Ghana.
Kewell told the Sydney Morning Herald: "Everyone that's seen it is saying: 'Fair enough, it's a penalty'. But was it deliberate? Of course not." And coach Pim Verbeek added: "What is he supposed to do, cut his arm off?"

Television viewing figures suggest the United States public have embraced the World Cup. Twice as many Americans are believed to have watched the first five games of the tournament compared with four years ago.

Slovenia's Robert Koren insists his side will not play for a draw against England on Wednesday, even though a point would be enough to take them through to the last 16 - probably at the expense of Fabio Capello's men.
Koren, whose club future is in doubt now his West Brom contract has expired, said: "We will do everything in our power against England. We will try to win."

www.bbc.co.uk

Thursday's gossip column

TRANSFER GOSSIP

Aston Villa manager Martin O'Neill is planning for life without England midfielder James Milner, who has been linked to Manchester City, and has launched an £8m bid for Mbark Boussoufa of Anderlecht.(Daily Mirror) 
Inter Milan hope a combined bid of £33m will be enough to persuade Liverpool to sell Argentine midfielder Javier Mascherano and Netherlands forward Dirk Kuyt.(Daily Mail) 
Barcelona legend Hristo Stoichkov has branded Barca's Swedish striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic a "failure" and insists he will end up at Manchester City.(Daily Mirror) 
Bolton defender Andy O'Brien is wanted by Championship newcomers Leeds.(The Sun) 
Wigan chairman Dave Whelan has put a £15m price tag on Arsenal and Aston Villa target Hugo Rodallega.(Daily Mail) 
Wolfsburg manager Steve McClaren has entered the race to sign Michael Ballack after the Germany midfielder was released by Chelsea.(Daily Mail) 
Arsenal chairman Peter Hill-Wood has confirmed the Gunners are interested in signing Fulham goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer and has hinted defender William Gallas will leave the club after failing to get the two-year contract he wanted.(Daily Star) 
Benfica midfielder Angel di Maria is closing in on a transfer to Real Madrid after telling the Portuguese club he is reluctant to move to England.(Daily Mail) 
New Celtic manager Neil Lennon says he would like to speak to Robbie Keane again after the Tottenham striker's successful loan spell at the Scottish club last season and also said Sol Campbell, who finished the season at Arsenal, had "shown interest" in joining but there was still "a bit of work" to do. (Daily Record)
Fulham hope to see off late interest from Birmingham and West Ham to sign Standard Liege's Congo international striker Dieumerci Mbokani for £8m.(Daily Mail) 
Newly promoted Blackpool are weighing up Portsmouth forward Danny Webber, Wolves striker Sylvan Ebanks-Blake, and Burnley defender Clarke Carlisle, who began his career at Bloomfield Road. (Times)

OTHER GOSSIP

Liverpool remain keen to offer their vacant manager's position to Fulham boss Roy Hodgson, despite Anfield legend Kenny Dalglish's interest in returning to the post.(the Guardian) 
Chelsea's French international striker Nicolas Anelka has agreed a two-year extension to his current deal, which has one year left to run. The new contract is worth £90,000 per week. (Daily Mirror) 
France's World Cup plans have been thrown into turmoil by divisions within their squad over whether Barcelona striker Thierry Henry should start against Uruguay on Friday.(Daily Mirror) 
Property developer Andrew Ellis's bid to buy Rangers is not as much of a done deal as has been reported, with no price agreed or time set for the conclusion of talks. (Daily Record) 
United States coach Bob Bradley says he has spent time at Manchester United observing Old Trafford boss Sir Alex Ferguson's management techniques as part of his World Cup build-up.(Daily Express) 
Former Notts County manager Steve Cotterill will be named as Portsmouth's new boss next week and Rangers defender Kirk Broadfoot could be one of the first new arrivals at the club (Daily Express). 
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has admitted Theo Walcott's omission from the England World Cup squad came as a "massive surprise" but has urged the 21-year-old to put it behind him and concentrate on his future instead.(Daily Telegraph) 

AND FINALLY

Brazilian Carlos Eugenio Simon, who will referee England's first World Cup group C match against the United States in Rustenburg on Saturday, and his assistants have been given a list of 20 English swear words as part of a crackdown on abusive language.(The Times)

www.bbc.co.uk

Sunday's gossip column

BREAKING GOSSIP

Liverpool may make a summer move for Manchester City defender Micah Richards with an offer of £12m.(caughtoffside.com) 
Manchester United are preparing a £20m bid for Real Madrid attacker Rafael Van der Vaart according to the Spanish press.(IMScouting.com) 

TRANSFER GOSSIP

Inter Milan boss Jose Mourinho may move for Liverpool midfielder Steven Gerrard after agreeing a four-year £40m deal to take over as Real Madrid manager next season. Inter right-back Maicon is likely to be his first signing at the Bernabeu.(Sunday Times) 
James Milner has told friends that he wants to join Liverpool. Manchester United, Manchester City and Chelsea are also desperate to sign Aston Villa's 24-year-old England midfielder.(News of the World)
Liverpool are lining up Wolfsburg's Edin Dzeko, who was the German Bundesliga's top scorer with 26 goals last season, to replace Fernando Torres. Chelsea and Manchester City are poised to make massive bids to sign the Spanish striker.(News of the World) 
Chelsea are poised to launch a £26m bid for Tottenham playmaker Luka Modric. (Mail on Sunday) 
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has failed to change the mind of captain Cesc Fabregas who is determined to return to boyhood club Barcelona this summer.(News of the World) 
Republic of Ireland midfielder Stephen Ireland, 23, has told Manchester City that he wants to leave the club.(Sunday Mirror) 
City are also looking to offload temperamental Brazilian star Robinho. The club is hoping he has an outstanding World Cup so they can recoup at least £25m of the £32.5m they forked out when signing him from Real Madrid in August 2008. (Sunday Mirror) 
Manchester City are still looking to flex their spending muscles by offering £20m for Everton's 28-year-old midfielder Mikel Arteta. Arsenal are likely to provide the main competition as they search for a replacement for the seemingly Barcelona-bound Cesc Fabregas.(Mail on Sunday) 
Everton have emerged as contenders for the signature of Manchester City's unsettled striker Craig Bellamy. Tottenham are also in the race for the Wales international.(News of the World) 
Robbie Keane is set to move from Tottenham to Aston Villa in a £15m deal. Villa are ready to meet the asking price, particularly if they pick up £30m for James Milner from either Manchester City or Chelsea. (Sunday Mirror) 
Villa are also in the market for Valencia pair Nikola Zigic and Miguel. The Serbian striker and Portuguese defender would cost a combined £9.5m.(News of the World) 
Joe Cole could renew his acquaintance with Harry Redknapp as Tottenham close in on the England midfielder who has yet to agree a new contract with Chelsea. Spurs boss Redknapp handed Cole his debut as a teenager when he was in charge at West Ham.(Sunday Mirror) 
Celtic winger Aiden McGeady is faced with a choice between Birmingham and Russian side Spartak Moscow as he contemplates a £6m move away from Parkhead.(News of the World) 
Hull will have to offload midfielder Jimmy Bullard this summer as his £45,000-a-week wages are too much for the relegated side to afford in the Championship.(News of the World) 
Bolton boss Owen Coyle hopes to sign Portsmouth striker David Nugent who he took on loan during his time with Burnley last season.(News of the World) 
Sunderland are beating Aston Villa and Newcastle in the battle for Manchester City defender Nedum Onuoha.(News of the World) 
Newcastle are confident that they can tie up a deal to take Manchester United winger Tom Cleverley on loan for next season. The 20-year-old spent last season at Watford.(News of the World) 
The Magpies are also close to a deal for French winger Bernard Mendy who has left Hull as a free agent.(News of the World) 
Ajax striker Luis Suarez has told his employers that he will only leave the Amsterdam club for Manchester United. (Sunday Express)
Wigan are set to sign up Tenerife centre-half Jose Antonio Culebras on a free transfer. (News of the World) 

OTHER GOSSIP

Wayne Rooney is not fully fit after it emerged that the England striker is still having treatment on his injured right ankle.(News of the World) 
Everton midfielder Jack Rodwell will turn down the chance to move to Manchester United or Arsenal and sign a new long-term deal at Goodison Park.(News of the World) 
Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez is being offered £5m to quit Anfield and manage the United Arab Emirates.(Mail on Sunday) 
Former Middlesbrough boss Gareth Southgate will be offered a return to management by Portsmouth.(News of the World) 
Avram Grant's first task on being appointed West Ham manager will be to trim co-owner David Sullivan's list of transfer targets from 32 names to just 6.(News of the World) 
Notts County manager Steve Cotterill has emerged as Portsmouth's top target to replace Avram Grant as manager. Cotterill, 45, led County to the League Two title, but only had a contract until the end of the season.(Sunday Mirror) 

AND FINALLY

Cesc Fabregas will be paid half his annual salary before he has even kicked a ball for Barcelona should the 23-year-old complete his move from Arsenal. The midfielder, who is expected to earn about £160,000-a-week, will immediately be paid £4.16m.(Sunday Mirror)

www.bbc.co.uk

Thursday's gossip column

BREAKING GOSSIP

Manchester United are ready to make a £28m bid for Aston Villa midfielder James Milner. Villa have already turned down a £20m bid from Manchester City for the 24-year-old who is currently with England at their pre-World Cup training camp in Austria. (caughtoffside.com) 

TRANSFER GOSSIP

Barcelona are preparing to launch a £70m bid for Liverpool's Fernando Torres after signing David Villa, his strike partner in Spain's national side, from Valencia.(Daily Mirror) 
However, the Catalan side's hopes of luring Cesc Fabregas from Arsenal to the Nou Camp could be hit by Yaya Toure's reluctance to move in the opposite direction. The Ivory Coast midfielder is said to be attracting the interest of Manchester City.(Daily Mail) 
Barca have decided they will not pay more than £30m for Fabregas, which could also put the deal at risk.(Daily Star) 
Arsenal are looking for £80m before they allow their talismanic skipper to return to his former club.(Daily Mail) 
Gunners manager Arsene Wenger is actually hopeful of persuading midfielder Fabregas to stay for one more season.(Daily Mirror) 
However, should Fabregas leave, Arsenal can forget plans to replace him with Mikel Arteta, according to the Everton midfielder's agent. Manchester United have also been linked with a move for Arteta.(the Sun) 
Manchester United are planning a £15m bid for Everton midfielder Jack Rodwell despite Toffees boss David Moyes saying the 19-year-old is not for sale.(the Sun) 
Manchester City will need to pay Benfica £43m if they want to bring Brazilian defender David Luiz to Eastlands. (the Independent) 
Merseyside rivals Everton and Liverpool are competing to sign £11m-rated Ajax centre-back Jan Vertonghen.(Daily Mirror) 
Sunderland manager Steve Bruce is planning a major spending spree after being told he has "an open chequebook".(the Sun) 
Birmingham City are considering a £2.5m bid for Fulham full-back Paul Konchesky.(Daily Mail) 
The Blues have also joined the race for Burnley striker Steven Fletcher as their hopes of landing Fulham's Bobby Zamora fade.(Daily Mirror) 
West Brom are poised to sign Hull star Stephen Hunt - even though he won't be fit for the start of next season. The Baggies have agreed a £4m fee for the Republic of Ireland winger, rising to £5.5m if Roberto di Matteo's men stay in the Premier League.(Daily Star) 
The Baggies are also set to make a £2m move for Stoke striker James Beattie. (the Sun) 
Sol Campbell has welcomed Celtic's interest and made it a clear a bumper two-year deal could tempt him to reject a one-year offer from Arsenal.(the Sun) 
Veteran defender David Weir is set to hang up his boots if Walter Smith quits as Rangers boss over the summer. (Various) 
Fulham are ready to table a pre-World Cup bid of £1m for Hibernian defender Sol Bamba.(Scottish Daily Express)
Peter Houston's first task as permanent manager of Dundee United will be to fight off bids for Craig Conway and Garry Kenneth from Middlesbrough.(Daily Record) 
Meanwhile, Houston will sign a three-year contract at Tannadice tomorrow. (Various)

OTHER GOSSIP

Inter Milan have denied they have made an approach for Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez to replace Real Madrid-bound Jose Mourinho.(the Sun) 
Benitez says he wants a further four years at Anfield and also feels there is no evidence that star striker Fernando Torres wants to leave the club.(the Times) 
Manchester United failed in a last-ditch attempt to sign Spain international striker David Villa, who joined Barcelona for £34m.(Mirror) 
The Red Knights consortium's hopes of taking over United from the Glazer family looks set to fail because of internal wranglings.(Guardian) 
Dutch champions FC Twente want Portsmouth manager Avram Grant to replace Steve McClaren, who has left to manage German side Wolfsburg. However, Grant is being linked with the vacant post at West Ham.(Daily Star) 
Grant will be unveiled as the Hammers new manager next month. (the Sun) 
Ivory Coast and Chelsea striker Didier Drogba believes he can finish as the World Cup's top scorer.(Daily Star) 
England World Cup-winning goalkeeper Gordon Banks believes Fabio Capello should use David James as his number one goalkeeper for the World Cup.(the Guardian) 

AND FINALLY

England midfielder Steven Gerrard says team-mate Joe Cole is just as good as Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo - in training.(Daily Mirror) 
If you fancy owning the shirt worn by England's World Cup winning hat-trick hero Geoff Hurst, pop down to Harrods where it is set to go on sale on Friday. Hurst no longer owns the number 10 shirt he made history in at the 1966 World Cup final. The price tag? Only £2m...plus VAT! 
(Daily Express)
www.bbc.co.uk

Wednesday's gossip column

BREAKING GOSSIP

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has reportedly agreed a deal to stay on as Gunners boss until 2013. The earlier-than-anticipated verbal agreement is a huge boost to the club's hopes of hanging on to marquee players such as striker Robin van Persie and particularly midfielder Cesc Fabregas.(goal.com) 
Ben Foster has accepted he will have to leave Manchester United to revive his flagging career. "I want to be playing football. I am not interested in just hanging around and I would go if the club wanted to sell me," admitted Foster, who has played 13 times for United this season. (Press Association Sport) 
Paris Saint Germain defender Mamadou Sakho has hinted that he is interested in leaving the Ligue 1 side, alerting Arsenal who have long been linked with the 20-year-old. "The Europa League is good but my absolute dream is the Champions League. I have personal goals and I'm thinking," Sakho told French newspaper L'Equipe. (imscouting.com)

. 

TRANSFER GOSSIP

Chelsea hope to catch fellow-suitors Manchester City cold with a dramatic move for Fernando Torres and are willing to table a British record transfer fee, that could reach £70m, for the Liverpool striker.(Daily Mail) 
Manchester United are hopeful of tying up a £16m deal for CSKA Moscow midfielder Milos Krasic this summer.(caughtoffside.com) 
Alternatively, Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson wants to bring just one player to Old Trafford this summer and this is Tottenham midfielder Luka Modric.(footylatest.com) 
Argentine newspaper Ole reports that highly sought after Benfica winger Angel Di Maria has agreed a move to Real Madrid , rejecting overtures from both Manchester United and Chelsea.(imscouting.com) 
Parma are keen to sign striker Valeri Bojinov on a permanent deal from Manchester City after a successful loan spell at the mid-table Serie A side. (Daily Mail) 
Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez is hoping to secure a deal to snap up Serbian international striker Marko Pantelic from Ajax this summer.(caughtoffside.com) 
Striker Ivan Klasnic's hopes of a long-term stay at Bolton, following his loan spell at the Reebok this season, are in doubt with his French club Nantes trying to find him a new home.(Daily Mirror) 
Arsenal are reportedly considering making a bid to sign Sampdoria striker Giampaolo Pazzini this summer. (caughtoffside.com) 
The Gunners have also been alerted to the availability of Italian goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon who has expressed an interest in moving to the Emirates following the failure of his club Juventus to qualify for next season's Champions League. (The Sun) 
Alternatively, Arsenal are readying a move for Manchester City keeper Joe Hart, who has spent the season on loan at Birmingham.(The Guardian)
West Ham have emerged as shock contenders to re-sign midfielder Joe Cole from Chelsea. The player, who swapped Upton Park for Stamford Bridge in the summer of 2003, is out of contract this summer.(caughtoffside.com) 
West Ham are preparing to make an improved bid of £5m for West Brom midfielder Graham Dorrans - despite Albion valuing him at £10m. (Daily Mail) 
Sunderland boss Steve Bruce is planning a £9m double raid on former club Wigan for defender Maynor Figueroa and goalkeeper Chris Kirkland.(Daily Mirror) 
Tottenham are prepared to offer striker Robbie Keane to Everton in exchange for midfielder Steven Pienaar.(Daily Mirror) 
Stoke have made a £4m bid for Ipswich midfielder and captain Jon Walters.(The Sun) 
Newcastle are eyeing up a move for Reading midfielder Gylfi Sigurdsson. The 20-year-old has bagged 20 goals in 38 starts in his first season and collected Reading's Player of the Year title.(Daily Mirror) 
Wolves have joined the race to sign striker Frederic Piquionne, who has impressed on loan at Portsmouth from French club Lyon this season. The player is also wanted by Blackburn and Birmingham.(The Sun) 
Liverpool are set to increased their offer for Rangers defender Danny Wilson over the next 48 hours to a minimum £2m. (Daily Mail) 
Lee Naylor wants to do a U-turn on his decision to leave Celtic for English football and hopes caretaker Neil Lennon will offer him a new contract if he is given the manager's job permanently. (the Sun)
Defender Mark Reynolds hopes Motherwell will sell him in the summer rather than lose him for nothing when his contract runs out at the end of next season. (Various) 
Walsall have released Rhys Weston from his contract by mutual consent, paving the defender's way to a possible switch to Motherwell after last week's trial at Fir Park. (Daily Express)


OTHER GOSSIP

Liverpool could be forced to choose between keeping manager Rafa Benitez or striker Fernando Torres. Benitez will deliver a series of ultimatums designed to increase his power at the club this week, but the manager's relationship with Torres has cooled to such an extent that if he stays the striker could leave.(The Sun) 
Anfield legend Kenny Dalglish could return to Liverpool as temporary boss, with Ian Rush as his assistant, if current Reds manager Rafael Benitez quits the club to join Italian side Juventus.(Daily Mirror) 
Sir Alex Ferguson has vowed to rebuild his Manchester United side over the summer, even if they snatch the title from Chelsea this season. United are one point behind the Blues heading into this weekend's final game. (Daily Mirror) 
French striker Karim Benzema has played down his chances of a move to Manchester United, claiming he wants to stay at Real Madrid "forever". (Daily Mirror) 
Arsenal defender Sol Campbell believes he may have played his way back into Fabio Capello's England plans for South Africa this summer. Campbell, whose last appearances for his country came during Steve McClaren's ill-fated Euro 2008 qualifying campaign, has performed well for the Gunners since rejoining them in January after a spell with League Two side Notts County.(Daily Mirror) 
Former Tottenham boss Martin Jol, now in charge at Dutch side Ajax, says he would love to manage in England again. "It's not that I have unfinished business in England, but I'd love another crack at it," he said.(The Sun) 
Former Burnley boss Steve Cotterill is favourite to take over as Coventry manager after Chris Coleman was axed on Tuesday.(The Sun) 
Alternatively, former Leeds boss Gary McAllister could retake the reigns at Coventry. The ex-Scotland player left the Sky Blues in January 2004 for personal reasons.(Daily Telegraph) 
Manchester United are close to agreeing a four-year contract extension with defender Jonny Evans.(Daily Express) 
Stoke winger Matthew Etherington is ready to sign a new four-year deal with the club.(The Sun) 

AND FINALLY

Wolves striker Michael Kightly has apologised to the club's fans for his poor season which has seen him out of action since November with an ankle injury. (Daily Mirror)

www.bbc.co.uk

.

Laval 2 - 1 Caen

Monday's gossip column

BREAKING GOSSIP

Bolton defender Gary Cahill, who is reportedly attracting interest from Arsenal, Manchester United, Manchester City and Liverpool, has admitted the time may be right for a move away from the Trotters.(The Bolton News) 

.

TRANSFER GOSSIP

Ajax forward David Suarez may be bound for Arsenal, with the Gunners weighing up a £22m bid for the Uruguay international.(Caught Offside) 
But Wolves insist striker Kevin Doyle, who has emerged as a £10m target for Arsenal, will not be leaving Molineux this summer.(Daily Mirror) 
Manchester City have Aston Villa winger Ashley Young in their sights, with the Eastlands hierarchy believing a £22m bid may tempt Villans boss Martin O'Neill to sell.(Caught Offside) 
Wigan have slapped an £8m price tag on Honduras left-back Maynor Figueroa, who is wanted by Sunderland boss Steve Bruce. (Daily Mirror) 
Palermo defender Simon Kjaer, 21, is a possible target for Arsenal as manager Arsene Wenger looks for a new centre-back partner for Thomas Vermeulen.(Footy Latest) 

OTHER GOSSIP

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez is set for showdown talks with new Reds chairman Martin Broughton later this week as speculation continues that the Spaniard may be on his way out of Anfield.(the Sun) 
Former England boss Steve McClaren will move on to Bundesliga club Wolfsburg after guiding FC Twente to the Dutch league title on Sunday. (Daily Mail) 
Inter Milan sporting director Marco Branca has said it is "unthinkable" that manager Jose Mourinho would move away from the Champions League finalists this summer. (the Times)
Defender Steve Finnan has pledged to stick with Portsmouth next season, despite the club's relegation to the Championship. (Daily Mirror) 
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has told his error-prone goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski to win over the Gunners' faithful in the same manner as defender Emmanuel Eboue, who was booed by the home support at the Emirates last season only to turn it around with a string of fine performances. (Daily Mail) 
Wigan manager Roberto Martinez believes that in-demand attacking duo Hugo Rodallega and Charles N'Zogbia should stay with the Latics if they want to develop.(the Sun) 
Burnley skipper Steven Caldwell admits that he is disappointed to find himself still waiting for a new contract offer at Turf Moor.(the Sun) 

AND FINALLY

David Beckham has blamed his unerring dedication on the pitch for the Achilles tendon injury that has ruled him out of England's World Cup squad this summer. "In the last two years I've been pushing myself too hard because I wanted to get into Fabio Capello's World Cup squad," the Los Angeles Galaxy midfielder told David Letterman's chat programmeThe Late Show in the United States.(Daily Mail) 
Stoke striker Dave Kitson has claimed he has been unfairly blamed for problems at the club. "Cloudy in Stoke? That's Kitson's fault. The traffic's terrible? Blame that on Kitson too," he said. (the Sun)

www.bbc.co.uk

.

Birmingham C. 2 - 1 Burnley

.

Milton Keynes Dons 0 - 0 Brighton & Hove A.

Thursday's gossip column

TRANSFER GOSSIP

Manchester United have made Tottenham midfielder Luka Modric their number one target this summer and are preparing a £25m bid for the Croatian 24-year-old. (The Sun) 
United's Wayne Rooney has been linked with a move to Real Madrid after his representatives requested that the striker recorded two versions of a commercial in Barcelona: one wearing a red kit and the other in a white strip as worn by the Spanish side.(Daily Mirror) 
The Red Devils are said to be interested in signing Borussia Dortmund's Serbia centre-back Neven Subotic.(imscouting.com) 
Former United winger Cristiano Ronaldo has urged current club Real Madrid to sign Old Trafford left-back Patrice Evra. (imscouting.com) 
Italian side Roma are ready to offer Brazil goalkeeper Doni, 30, to Tottenham, Arsenal and Manchester United in a bid to raise funds.(Daily Mail) 
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger's head talent spotter, Steve Rowley, ran the rule over their summer targets at Blackburn - defender Phil Jones, 18, and midfielder Steven N'Zonzi, 21, while scouting Rovers ahead of Arsenal's trip to Ewood Park. (Daily Mail) 
The Gunners are leading the chase to sign Roma's £10m-rated centre-back Philippe Mexes.(caughtoffside.com) 
Tottenham are battling it out with Arsenal to sign Fulham centre-back Brede Hangeland. 
(caughtoffside.com) 
Liverpool have emerged as favourites to sign Rangers highly-rated 18-year-old defender Danny Wilson.(imscouting.com) 
The Reds are also keeping tabs on Rangers' Algeria defender Madjid Bougherra who is valued at £5m. (Daily Mail) 
Andrey Arshavin's agent says the forward is committed to Arsenal despite the Russia star recently saying that he would like to join Barcelona.(Daily Telegraph) 
Benfica's £25m-rated defender David Luiz has issued a come-and-get-me plea to Premier League suitors Manchester United, Chelsea and Manchester City. (goal.com) 
Manchester City are also tracking Lazio defender Stefan Radu, who is said to worth £8.7m.(footylatest.com) 
Birmingham, West Ham and West Brom are interested in Portsmouth keeper David James. (footylatest.com) 
Midfielder James Milner's future at Aston Villa will be decided after the World Cup and hinges on whether manager Martin O'Neill stays at the club. (Daily Mirror) 
Tottenham are keeping tabs on Bayern Munich midfielder Hamit Altintop who is out of contract this summer.(Daily Star) 
West Ham are plotting a cut-price summer move for Portsmouth midfielder Kevin-Prince Boateng, while the Hammers are also on the trail of Cardiff winger Peter Whittingham and Burnley winger Chris Eagles.(Daily Mail) 
Meanwhile the Hammers, along with Blackburn, have been priced out of the market for former Liverpool striker Djibril Cisse. The Panathinaikos striker is currently valued at around £12m.(Daily Mail) 
West Ham are also hoping to sign Tottenham's Jamie O'Hara. O'Hara is currently on loan at Portsmouth and the Hammers are prepared to offer either Matthew Upson or James Tomkins to help land the midfielder. (Daily Telegraph) 
Newcastle are facing a fight to keep Slovenia youngster Haris Vuckic, with Manchester United, Chelsea and Liverpool ready to make bids for the 17-year-old forward.(Daily Mirror) 
Reading are ready to cash in on goalkeeper Adam Federici and midfielder Gylfi Sigurdsson. Federici is linked with Tottenham and Liverpool, while Sigurdsson is a £2m target for West Brom and Wolves.(Daily Mail) 
Derby County will sell striker Rob Hulse, 30, in the summer with Coventry and West Bromwich Albion interested.(Daily Mirror) 
County are battling it out with Bristol City for Scunthorpe striker Gary Hooper, who is rated at around £1.5m. (Daily Mirror) 
Wolves are set to offer relegated Burnley £3m for defender Andre Bikey. (The Sun) 
Southampton are hoping to take advantage of rivals Portsmouth's financial problems by launching a £1m bid for midfielder Hayden Mullins. (Daily Mail) 

OTHER GOSSIP

Cristiano Ronaldo says he does not expect to be at Real Madrid for the rest of his playing career. "I spent several years wanting to play in Madrid but I don't see myself here at 40. Football is all about cycles - if you have already won everything with a team you have to change." (The Sun) 
England boss Fabio Capello has turned down the chance to take over at Juventus to concentrate on England's World Cup campaign.(Daily Mail) 
Juventus are also keen on Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez, who fears the Merseyside club are trying to force him out of Anfield.(the Sun) 
Benitez has admitted that with his future at Liverpool in doubt and claims no-one has asked him to stay at the club. (the Times) 
Former Manchester United striker Andrew Cole has urged Red Devils manager Sir Alex Ferguson to launch a summer bid for Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema.(Daily Star) 
Birmingham boss Alex McLeish has held clear-the-air talks with his employers and is poised to commit his future to the club.(Daily Mail) 
Uefa president Michel Platini believes Bordeaux boss Laurent Blanc should be the next France coach.(Daily Mirror) 
England legend Geoff Hurst says Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes should be tempted out of international retirement and go to this summer's World Cup. (the Sun) 

AND FINALLY

Newcastle midfielder Joey Barton, 27, has given up alcohol and says he lives "a monk-like existence" in an attempt to avoid trouble and reproduce his best form on the pitch.(Daily Star) 
Manchester United fans are being urged to boycott the purchase of season tickets to demonstrate their opposition to the ownership of the club by the Glazer family. The Independent Manchester United Supporters' Association has written to its members asking them not to renew their season tickets this summer. (the Guardian)
www.bbc.co.uk

Tuesday's gossip column

BREAKING GOSSIP

Manchester City are set to rival Juventus for the services of Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez for next season. According to Italian newspaper La Stampa, City are apparently willing to offer the Spaniard a huge transfer kitty and long term contract to leave Anfield and replace current City boss Roberto Mancini Eastlands. (footylatest.com) 
However, Tuttosport, the Turin based newspaper, has revealed that Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez has verbally agreed to take over as Juventus coach. (imscouting.com) 
According to Italian website Tutto Mercato, Arsenal are in pole position to sign Fiorentina's highly rated goalkeeper Sebastien Frey.( imscouting.com) 
But German media outlet Sportbild are convinced that Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger will make a concerted effort to sign Bayer Leverkusen goalkeeper Rene Adler this summer. (footylatest.com) 
Arsenal forward Andrei Arshavin, a long-time Barcelona fan, still dreams of playing for the Spanish giants one day, the Russian international has revealed. "Even playing just one season for Barcelona would make a pinnacle of my whole career," said Arshavin. (Reuters Press Agency)
Chelsea are set to launch their summer spending spree with a move for Valencia striker David Villa, who is also a target for Manchester United, Barcelona and Real Madrid.(goal.com) 

TRANSFER GOSSIP

West Ham co-owner David Sullivan is planning a radical shake-up at Upton Park after conceding the club will listen to offers for any player except Scott Parker. "Other than Parker, there is not a player we wouldn't sell if it was the right bid," confirmed Sullivan.(Daily Mirror) 
Aston Villa will be the first to test out West Ham's willingness to sell with a £10m bid for England striker Carlton Cole.(Daily Mai) 
West Ham have also bid £4m for West Brom midfielder Graham Dorrans as they begin their squad overhaul.(Daily Mirror )
Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has decided to switch attention from one Aston Villa winger to another by aiming to snap up England international Ashley Young instead of his Villa Park team-mate James Milner.(caughtoffside.com) 
Bolton boss Owen Coyle is ready to let up to 10 of his players go as he makes way for a new wave of signings at Wanderers. Record buy Johan Elmander is likely to be among those who squeezed out by fresh faces.(Daily Mirror) 
Coyle is also set to raid former club Burnley for midfielder Chris Eagles and defender Clarke Carlisle.(Daily Mail) 
Liverpool are set to sign Swedish teenage forward Kristoffer Peterson from Savedalens IF after the 15-year-old impressed on trial.(Daily Mail) 
According to Spanish newspaper Sport, Barcelona are lining up a shock bid for Newcastle defender Stephen Taylor, with Carles Puyol heading to St James' Park in return.(imscouting.com) 
Real Madrid's veteran midfielder Guti has reportedly signed a deal to play in Dubai, ending rumours that he could join Tottenham this summer.(imscouting.com) 
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is apparently considering a move for Manchester City forward Roque Santa Cruz.(caughtoffside.com) 
Wenger has also placed Borussia Dortmund's Serbian international centre back Neven Subotic at the top of his summer spending plans as he looks to freshen up his defensive options.(caughtoffside.com) 
Wolves are chasing £3m-rated Bristol City striker Nicky Maynard.(Daily Mail) 
Wanderers are also lining up a double summer swoop for Reading's Gylfi Sigurdsson and AZ Alkmaar winger Jeremain Lens.(Daily Mirror) 
The midlands club are also keen to re-sign striker Robbie Keane from Tottenham. The 29-year-old, who began his career at Wolves, spent the latter part of this season on loan at Celtic.(The Sun) 
Ex-England keeper Richard Wright is poised to leave Ipswich for the second time with Town manager Roy Keane looking to shed the former Arsenal man's £15,000 a week wages.(Daily Mirror) 
Newcastle are considering a £1m summer move for Blackburn striker Jason Roberts.(Daily Mail) 
Former Arsenal star Alexander Hleb could return to England this summer with Manchester City, Aston Villa and Sunderland among a host of clubs across Europe keen on recruiting the Barcelona midfielder.(Daily Mail) 
Preston boss Darren Ferguson is planning talks with his father, Manchester United manager Sir Alex, about bringing Red Devils striker Danny Welbeck back to Preston on loan next season. Wellbeck arrived at Deepdale on loan in January but made just eight appearances before returning to Old Trafford because of a knee injury.(Daily Mail) 

OTHER GOSSIP

Ex-Everton striker Wayne Rooney is asking Liverpool to do his Manchester United side a favour when Rafael Benitez's side face Chelsea as the Red Devils look to seal a a record 19th top-flight title. United currently trail Premier League leaders Chelsea by a point, with two games left to play.(Times) 
Portsmouth manager Avram Grant has emerged as a leading contender to replace Gianfranco Zola at West Ham. The Israeli heads a shortlist, which also includes Ajax manager Martin Jol, FC Twente's former England boss Steve McClaren and ex-Hammers defender Slaven Bilic, now in charge of Croatia.(Daily Mirror) 
Manchester City are to launch an audacious bid to end Joe Hart's loan spell at Birmingham City and take the goalkeeper back to Eastlands in a move that will enrage their Premier League rivals.(Guardian) 
Juventus president Jean-Claude Blanc is prepared to fly to Liverpool this week to try and force Rafa Benitez's hand over accepting his offer of a four-year contract worth £16m.(Daily Mail) 
Adam Pearson, the Hull City chairman, is understood to be considering his future at the troubled club as they face up to their imminent relegation from the Premier League and an impending financial meltdown at the club, who are £35m in debt.(The Times) 
Crisis club Hull are going to ask their players to take a 40% pay-cut in a desperate bid to save money and avoid administration. The Tigers were relegated to the Championship last week.(Daily Mirror) 
Aston Villa midfielder Stiliyan Petrov has revealed that the questioning of his side's fitness by Chelsea captain John Terry in the aftermath of the Blues' 7-1 win over Villa in March has spurred them back into Champions League contention. Villa have picked up 13 points from the past five games and are now level on points with fourth-placed Tottenham.(The Sun) 

AND FINALLY

Hull chairman Adam Pearson has revealed that the Tiger's goal-shy strikers have cost the club a whopping £901,875 a goal this season. Pearson admitted the club are spending £195,000 a week on strikers, which in total this campaign has cost them £7.215m for a return of eight goals. (The Sun)
www.bbc.co.uk

Monday's gossip column

BREAKING GOSSIP

Arsenal have handed captain Cesc Fabregas an unprecedented £3m payment and upped his wages by nearly 50% to £110,000-a-week to keep him at the club and warn off the advances of Barcelona.(Goal.com) 
Manchester City and Chelsea have enquired about the availability of Barcelona's Brazilian right-back Dani Alves, who is in ongoing contract negotiations with the Spanish club. (Sport Spanish newspaper) 

TRANSFER GOSSIP

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson is preparing a £35m bid to bring Atletico Madrid's Argentina striker Sergio Aguero, 21, to Old Trafford.(Caughtoffside.com) 
Meanwhile, Manchester United and Everton will battle it out to sign 17-year-old Dutch winger Bob Schepers from second division side SC Cambuur-Leeuwarden. (the Sun) 
Barcelona are interested in Arsenal left-back Gael Clichy and could offer Spanish striker Bojan Krkic as part of a potential swap deal.(Caughtoffside.com) 
Liverpool are ready to beat Chelsea, Tottenham and Arsenal for the signature of Charlton's 18-year-old striker Jonjo Shelvey for £3m.(Daily Mail) 
West Ham defender Herita Ilunga, 28, is a £2m target for Paris St Germain, while the French side also want Portsmouth's 27-year-old left-back Nadir Belhadj.(the Sun) 
West Brom want to sign Hull midfielder Jimmy Bullard in the summer but he may have to take a pay cut to stay in the top flight.(Daily Mail) 
Wolves, Wigan and Celtic have joined the long list of suitors hoping to sign Scunthorpe's £2m-rated striker Gary Hooper after Derby, Coventry and Ipswich also showed an interest in the 22-year-old.(Daily Mail) 
Ipswich manager Roy Keane wants to make Sunderland striker Daryl Murphy's loan move to Portman Road a permanent one.(Daily Mail) 
New Bristol City boss Steve Coppell is keen to sign two players he had at Reading, striker Dave Kitson, now at Stoke, and defender Ivar Ingimarsson, who is still at the Madejski Stadium.(Daily Mirror) 
West Brom are ready to offer a contract to Steven Reid, who is on loan at the Baggies from Blackburn.(Daily Mirror) 

OTHER GOSSIP

West Ham co-chairman David Gold says manager Gianfranco Zola "deserves another crack" at leading the club after securing Premier League survival. (Daily Mirror) 
Sunderland boss Steve Bruce claims striker Darren Bent should be in the England squad for the World Cup in South Africa this summer after scoring 25 goals for the Black Cats this season.(Daily Mirror) 
Inter Milan boss Jose Mourinho denies he will take charge of Ghana for their World Cup campaign.(Sky Sports) 
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger wants Sol Campbell to stay with the Gunners for another year and believes the defender could be valuable to England at the World Cup.(Goal.com) 
Relegated Hull will begin talks with banks to restructure their £35m debt in a bid to avoid administration and the subsequent 10-point penalty next season.(Daily Mirror) 

AND FINALLY

Brazil coach Dunga called police to his house to get rid of a comedy television crew.(Yahoo sports) 
Celta Vigo goalkeeper Yoel Rodriguez charged 40 metres up the pitch to harangue and shove team-mate Roberto Trashorras after conceding the only goal of the Spanish second division match against Villarreal B. (Yahoo sports)
www.bbc.co.uk