Fulham manager desperate to keep Super Eagles winger Sone Aluko

It's not always that a club is keen on keeping hold of a player, but
that is the situation that Super Eagles winger, Sone Aluko finds
himself.

As the manager of Fulham, Slavisa Jokanovic is so keen for the Nigeria
international to stay that he has declared that it would be a mistake
to sell the 28 year old.

"In this moment the only job that I can do is to fight for Sone Aluko
because around me there is some news that we are thinking about
selling him,"

Sone Aluko was ever present last season in the Craven Cottage outfit
late season run to the Championship playoff semi finals where they
came up short. He ended up with 50 appearances with nine goals to his
name.

He has been the subject of several bids as the Fulham manager looks to
keep the former Hull City winger in West London.

"If we do this it will be big mistake for my team." the manager continued

"Ultimately, it looks likely there could be a contract extension, the
club have had multiple bids for him and have rejected them."

The Super Eagle has not featured for Nigeria since his brace against
Bafana Bafana of South Africa in a 2-2 draw in November, 2014. A
result that cost Nigeria a place in the African Cup of Nations
tournament in Equatorial Guinea 2015.

Official: Manchester United signs Chelsea's Nemanja Matic

Manchester United have confirmed the signing of Nemanja Matic from
Premier League champions Chelsea for a fee of £40m.

The 28 year old was the subject of initial movement from the Europa
League champions on Sunday when a picture of him in a United shirt was
leaked following his medicals at the club's Carrington Training
Complex.

Jose Mourinho had told the media following United's 3-0 friendly win
over Vanlenga in Norway on Sunday that the Serbian was "very, very,
very much" keen on a move to Old Trafford.

It becomes the second time the Serbian international would be signed
by Jose Mourinho. The Portuguese resigned him in 2014 from Benfica
during his second spell. He went on to play a key role as Chelsea won
the league title in the 2014/2015 season.

After another season where Chelsea won the title this time under
Antonio Conte, bring to two the title Nemanja Matic won at Stamford
Bridge, he was deemed surplus to requirement following the signing of
22 year old Bakayoko by Chelsea from Monaco. And he didn't play a part
in the club's pre-season.

He becomes Manchester United's third signing of the summer following
the arrivals of Swede defender Victor Lindelof from Benfica for £31m
and Belgian striker Romelu Lukaku from Everton for £75m.

It brings the club's spending to £146m for the summer.

With Inter Milan's Ivan Perisic still being linked to Manchester
United, that outlay could still increase before the transfer window
shuts.

Report: Chelsea's Matic close to Man United move

According to reports, Chelsea midfielder Nemanja Matic is close to a
move to Manchester United.

The 28 year old has not played a part in Chelsea's pre-season having
been left behind in London as the Premier League champions embarked on
a tour of Asia.

He is thought not to be part of Antonio Conte's plans for the coming
season. Which was a reason why he was left behind in London.

Nemanja Matic was a key feature in Jose Mourinho's second spell as
manager of Chelsea. Playing a key role as the Portuguese won his third
English title.

He played a key role alongside N'golo Kante as they raced to the title
that season.

A fee in the region of between £45m-£50m is being mooted as the fee
that would take the Serbian international to Old Trafford in what
would be a reunion with Jose Mourinho.

With the Chelsea squad due back in London this week, the club's
hierarchy would be looking to conclude any deal that would take Matic
out of Stamford Bridge quickly.

Following the signing of French midfielder Bakayoko, a replacement for
the Serbian was signed weeks ago.

Report: Marouane Fellaini agrees deal with Galatasaray

According to reports in the Turkish media, Manchester United
midfielder, Marouane Fellaini has agreed a deal with Galatasaray.

The 29 year old has a year left in his contract at Old Trafford, and
the Turkisk giants sporting director has claimed the Belgian
international is a player they are interested in signing.

"Fellaini will leave Manchester United and he is now in our radar"
says Cenk Ergun, the sporting director of Galatasaray.

"There will be surprises (in the transfer window), we are in talks
with Fellaini.

"We have made an approach, we are close and if we get Fellaini we will
end our pursuit of (Villarreal's Alfred) N'Diaye.

"We need a player like Fellaini who can move around in midfield."

The much maligned Belgian was signed from Everton in the summer of
2013 for a reported fee of £27m. He has gone on to make over 133
appearances during his time at Old Trafford.

He played a key role as Manchester United won their first major trophy
of the post Alex Ferguson era when they won the FA cup in Louis van
Gaal's last match in charge.

He was also a key figure as the club won the League Cup and Europa
League in Jose Mourinho's first season as manager.

The reports linking him with a move away from England has gathered
pace in the last 24 hours. It remains to be seen whether there is some
substance to it. Time would ultimately tell.

Wenger: Alexis return to training delayed due to flu

After Arsenal's 5-2 win over Portuguese champions Benfica in
Saturday's Emirates Cup match, Arsene Wenger was asked about the
current situation of Chilean forward, Alexis Sanchez.

The Frenchman had on Thursday given an update on the 28 year old that
he would be back to training on Sunday. But following the Sanchez's
post on social media revealing that he was sick,

Wenger has revealed that he wouln't be back to training on Sunday as
earlier scheduled.

"He has flu, yes. I had him on text
yesterday." Wenger said.

"He will come back as soon as possible and we were in touch with him
and his doctor and he has no basic problem apart from the fact that he
should come back tomorrow, but he comes back on Tuesday."

"He's flying back as soon as he's in a position to fly back. He has
flu and that's a question of normally four or five days."

Following this latest development, there is no way the Chilean can be
fit for the club's first league match of the season against Leicester
City at the Emirates.

Arsenal open their season next week Sunday against Chelsea in the
curtain raiser of the English season, the Community Shield.

While they conclude their pre-season programme when they wrap up the
Emirates Cup against Sevilla on Sunday.

Conte: Chelsea must avoid finishing 10th

Chelsea ended their pre-season tour of Asia with a 2-1 defeat to Seria
A side Inter Milan.
The defeat followed a 3-2 reverse against Bayern Munich earlier in the week.

Following these defeats, the Chelsea manager has come out to say that
the club must avoid a poor defence of the title they won last season
by not finishing in 10th position, which was where Chelsea ended up
the season after they won the title under the tuteluge of Jose
Mourinho, who was sacked half way through that season.

Oblivious of the fact that he could go the way of other managers who
had been sacked a season after they won the title, the Italian has
declared that they must start strong.

"Two years ago Chelsea finished 10th; that cannot happen again," he
asserted after the match in Singapore

"We know the difficulty and for sure we want to avoid the Mourinho
season with Chelsea," Conte continued

"The coaches of the previous two champions [Chelsea and Leicester]
both lost their jobs [the next season] and we are working very well to
find the best solutions and use them,"

"We have a lot of young players and it is necessary to try and develop them."

The Premier League champions are due back in London on Sunday. They
will play Arsenal in the season's curtain raiser, the Community Shield
match at Wembley stadium on August 6th.

RB Leipzig manager: Liverpool target Naby Keita 100% staying

RB Leipzig manager Ralph Hasenhuttl has declared that Liverpool target
and Guinean international midfielder Naby Keita is 100% staying at the
club and that every possibilitiy of a transfer is over.

He was speaking in London after the club's one nil defeat to Spanish
side Sevilla at the Emirates Cup tourney in London.

The 22 year old midfielder has been the subject of two bids that were
rejected by the Bundesliga outfit. The last of which was over £60m.

They have been adamant from the start that, the star of the West
African nation, Guinea football team, Syli Nationale would not be sold
this summer.

He has spent just one year with RB Leipzig, following his arrival from
sister side Salsburg in the Austrian topflight.
With the club finishing second in the Bundesliga last season, they are
keen to hold on to the spine of their squad as they make their first
appearance in the Uefa Champions League.

Meanwhile, Liverpool are in Berlin playing Hertha Berlin as part of a
three match tour of Germany. Senegalese winger Saido Mane starts his
first game since April when he injured his knee, while Dominic Solanke
has headed the Reds in front as Jurgen Klopp and his charges continue
their preparations for the new season.

Arsenal's 25 man squad for the Emirates Cup

Arsene Wenger has anounced his squad for this weekend's Emirates Cup
where they would play against Portuguese champions Benfica and la liga
outfit, Sevilla.

The 25 man squad includes:

Goalkeepers:

Petr Cech, David Ospina, Emi Martinez

Defenders:

Per Mertesacker, Laurent Koscielny, Rob Holding, Nacho Monreal, Calum
Chambers, Hector Bellerin, Sead Kolasinac, Cohen Bramall

Midfielders:

Aaron Ramsey, Mesut Ozil, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Alex Iwobi, Granit
Xhaka, Ainsley Maitland-Niles, Francis Coquelin, Mohamed Elneny, Joe
Willock

Forwards:

Alexandre Lacazette, Olivier Giroud, Theo Walcott, Danny Welbeck, Reiss Nelson

Alexis Sanchez and Mustafi would not play a part as they are due to
return to training on Sunday.

Also, the companion of outcasts in Mathieu Debuchy, Kieran Gibbs, and
Carl Jenkinson featured in a youth friendly on Friday and as such
haven't been included as part of the squad. As they are expected to
leave the club.

Other noteable absentee is Jack Wilshere, who is not yet fully fit,
though he has returned to training. While Gabriel and Santi Cazorla
are long term absentees.

The opening match for the Emirates cup is between Sevilla and Leipzig.
Before Arsenal trade tackles with Benfica in the evening fixture.

Arsenal's Perez subject of £7.9m bid from Spanish club

Arsenal have received a bid in the region of £7.9m from La liga outfit
Deportivo la Coruna for striker, Lucas Perez.
The 28 year old joined Arsenal last season from the same club for a
fee of £17m, but featured sparingly for the club. Making just 21
appearances and scoring seven goals. Part of which included the
memorable hat-trick he scored against Basel in the group stages of the
Uefa Champions League last December.

Now his agent has claimed that a bid has been submitted since last
week, and that Arsenal are yet to make a decision on that.

"Arsenal know we want to go, that there are no opportunities here,"
his agent, Rodrigo Fernandez Lovelle said.

The former Deportivo striker has expressed his disillusion at the way
his shirt number ( his number nice shirt was handed to new signing
Alexandre Lacazette) was taken away from him without consultation.
With the player still harbouring hopes of playing in next year's World
Cup, his representative is hoping a quick resolution can be found in
the only club that has shown concrete interest in him.

"Deportivo made an offer a week ago - it is a permanent deal and worth
more than Nolito's move to Sevilla," the agent continued

"Of course [he was told he would play more]. Lucas signed for Arsenal
and was the happiest person in the world and with all of his dreams to
fulfil.

"Every time he played he did well, but after every time he got fewer
and fewer opportunities."

While sections of the fanbase are bewildered as to why he didn't
feature more last season especially when he always did well whenever
he played, it is clear he is a player Wenger doesn't consider as part
of his plans.

But it is clear the club would have to take a huge finanical hit on a
player they paid £17m for a year ago if they eventually sell him.

Alexis Sanchez reveals he is sick

Arsenal's talisman Alexis Sanchez has revealed that he is sick. The 28
year old attacker is expected to resume training on Sunday according
to Arsene Wenger after an extended break following his participation
in the Confederations Cup in June.

The Chilean revealed his state of health through a post on his
instagram account accompanied by a picture of himself alongside his
dog in a cardigan with a snood with the words:

"Enfermo sick"

With his break due to end this weekend, and his return to training due
on Sunday, it remains to be seen whether his post revealing his health
status would prevent him from resuming training at the date set by
Arsene Wenger.

This latest development is just another layer of stories that has
enveloped the Chilean this summer. Most of which have been about
speculations linking him away from the club.

However following Arsene Wenger's strong stance that he would not be
sold despite the fact that he has just one year left on his contract,
he is now expected to see out the reminder of his contract at the
club.

Wenger: Alexis Sanchez returns this weekend

Arsenal's summer has been dominated by the contract situation of
Alexis Sanchez. But with Arsene Wenger speaking to the club's in house
media channel, Arsenal player, ahead of this weekend Emirates Cup, he
gave a general assessment of his squad as well an update on the
Chilean international who had an extended holiday following his
participation in the Confederations Cup where Chile lost in the final
to Germany on July 2.

"Alexis and Mustafi, their first training session will be on Sunday,
the day we play against Sevilla [in the Emirates Cup],"

"They are practising on the day."

Arsene Wenger gave an hint on how early both players could feature
this season in view of their late return from their break following
international commitments. On this, He continued by saying


"First of all you make a really good check up of where they are, how
much they have worked during their break,"

"After, once you know where you stand, they need an adjusted programme
and to see how quickly you can fit them in again.

"Of course it depends as well on what is the need in the squad, what
is their quality. All of these things together make your decision. Do
you put them on the bench when they are not ready [to start]? It is
easier to put a striker on the bench than a defender, sometimes.
Because in a short period they can make an impact. We'll see."

The manager would be mindful of rushing either player back to the
team. Arsenal have adequate cover in defence if Mustafi is held back
with Per Mertesacker, Rob Holding, Nacho Monreal, Laurent Koscielny
and Calum Chambers while if things doesn't go well in attack in the
early matches of the season, he could be tempted to call on the
Chilean as he is the club's talisman.

Mourinho: Zlatan Ibrahimovic could still play for Manchester United

Manchester United manager, Jose Mourinho has hinted that injured Swede
striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic could still play for the club again.

The 35 year old injured his knee ligament in April and his not
expected to play again until early 2018.
Having joined the club from PSG following the expiration of his
contract with the Paris club, he was already on 28 goals with a new
contract on the table after his form in front of goal triggered an
extension, but all that was put on hold following his long term
injury, the first of such injury in his glorious career.

Now Mourinho is saying he could be back with his side in six months
going by his comments as Manchester concluded their pre-season tour of
the United States.

"We spent big money on a striker because, with strikers, you either
spend or you don't get," the Portugese said.

"And we spent because of what happened to Zlatan and we can not allow
ourselves to be without an important, strong striker for the first six
months of the season."

Whether the club is considering a contract for the eccentric Swede
when he is fit in the New Year remains to be seen.

Meanwhile, he is currently using the club's facilities in Carrington
Training complex as he works his way back to fitness. Which means
Mourinho and the club's hierarchy can keep a close watch on his
recovery.

So far he has been linked to several clubs within and outside Europe.
But until he is back to full fitness, clubs are unlikely to take a
risk on him judging by his age.

Monaco: Thomas Lemar staying with us in setback for Arsenal

In a further blow to Arsenal's transfer aspirations, Monaco's Vice
president, Vadim Vasilyev has stated that Arsenal main target Thomas
Lemar would be staying at the club this season.
He further added that Mbappe would also remain at the club.

The former was the subject of two bids from Arsenal that was turned
down by Monaco.

Speaking to the French media,

"Fabinho and Lemar are essential players, they will stay with us." he said

He rejected claims that an agreement has been reached for the sale of
Mbappe, saying instead that the club are in the process of negotiating
a new contract with the teenager.

"I assure you that there is no agreement with any club."

"We are in the process of discussing a contract extension. I hope we
reach an agreement."

This latest remarks from the Monaco hierachy put a further dent on
Arsenal's attempt to sign Thomas Lemar after seeing two bids rejected
for him.

Having sold Bernardo Silva and Benjamin Mendy to Manchester City for a
combined fee of £95m and Bakayoko to Chelsea for £40m and being cash
rich, it seems the club aren't keen to sell more of their players this
summer.

For what's it worth, it looks like Arsenal would have to cast their
search light else where to strengthen their squad ahead of the new
season, as the door seem closed to the possibility of doing a deal
with the French champions.

Reports: Arsenal in the lead to sign Nice midfielder Jean-Michael Seri

According to reports in France, Arsenal are leading the chase to sign
26 year old Nice and Ivorian midfielder Jean-Michael Seri.

The 5ft 5in central midfielder was a key figure in a Nice side that
finished third in the French top flight last season. After toping the
table in the early weeks of the Ligue 1 in the last campaign.

The reports claim a fee in the region of €40m would be enough to price
the former Porto reserve player away from France.

This report come at a time Arsenal are said to be back in for Thomas
Lemar of Monaco. After they had two bids rejected for the French
international. It remains to be seen whether both rumours are linked
particularly as both players play in different positions.

There is no doubt that Arsenal have a dearth of quality in central
midfield particularly when Aaron Ramsey and Granit Khaka are taken out
of the picture.

Whether Jean-Michael Seri fits the bid would largely been determined
by whether the latest reports have some substance to it.

Inter: Man United can have Perisic if offer is right

Manchester United have been on the trail of Inter Milan and Croatian
winger Ivan Perisic. The 28 year old has been the subject of several
bids that have been turned down by the Seria A club.

However, manager, Luciano Spalletti has claimed that the club would
listen to the right offers that is difficult to reject for the winger
who joined the two time European champions two years ago from
bundesliga side Wolfsburg.

"He's an important player in the team and we're counting on him to
start the new season," the former Roma manager said.

Then he opened the door on the possibility of a deal being done with
the rumours linking him away from the club and series of failed bid
from Man United.

"Sure, there were rumours, but the status quo is that we want to keep Perisic.

"Having said that, if someone comes in with a very difficult offer to
reject, then we'll consider that.

The sticking point for both sides is the fee. Inter are reported to
want close to £50m for the winger who has 17 goals from 70 appearances
in two seasons at the San Siro. While Manchester United are not
willing to go close to that figure.

With the start of new season getting close both clubs would be eager
to find a amicable settlement that they would be happy with, because
as Spalletti claimed the club still have to find an alternative for
Perisic if he leaves.

"But, of course, we'll need to find a valid alternative for Perisic as
well." he concluded

Renewed hope for Liverpool in chase for Naby Keita

There is renewed hope for Liverpool in their chase for RB Leipzig and
Guinean international midfielder Naby Keita.

The 22 year was the subject of two bids from the Merseysiders that was
rejected by the Bundesliga outfit. Claiming the player would not be
sold at any price.

Now German publication Bild, are reporting that RB Leipzig are
secretly planning for life without the Guinean after they send scouts
to search for a possible replacement. Whether the plans are for this
season or next when he would be available for £48m according to a
clause in his contract.

According to reports, Liverpool are preparing a third bid of £74m for
the 22 year old who has played just one season with a team that
finished second in their maiden campaign in the German top flight.

Meanwhile, Liverpool would be flying to Germany this week not to try
to court Naby Keita, but to participate in a series of friendly
matches.
They would play Hertha Berlin at the Berlin Olympic Stadium, before
participating in the Audi Cup in Munich.

So far, Liverpool have brought in three players in striker Dominic
Solanke, winger Mohammed Salah and defender Andrew Robertson.

Arsenal given hope in Thomas Lemar chase

Arsenal have had three bids for Monaco's midfielder Thomas Lemar rejected. The last of which was upward of 45m pounds.

Now according to reports, Arsenal are again in for the 21 year old and the deal could be completed by the end of the week.

The French champions have seen most of their key players depart to the Premier League for huge fees. Bernardo Silva and Benjamin Mendy were signed by Manchester City for a combined fee of 95m pounds.  While Bakayoko is now in the books of Chelsea. But they have been reluctant to do business with Arsenal. Deciding instead to hold on to a player that contributed 14 goals and 14 assists to Monaco's last campaign.

With the beginning  of the season getting close, it remains to be seen whether this latest report on Lemar would turn out to have some legs to it.  So far Monaco have rebuffed all attempts from Arsenal to get him, whether that could be about to change, time would tell.

Monaco denies agreeing £160m deal with Real Madrid for Mbappe

Monaco have denied agreeing any deal with Real Madrid for their 18
year old attacker Kylian Mbappe.

Madrid based sport publication Marca had carried a report that both
clubs had reached an agreement for a fee of £160m. But the French
champions have rejected that report.

Kylian Mbappe has been the subject of interest from a host of Europe's
leading clubs after his breakthrough 2016/2017 season. scoring 26
goals in his debut season for Monaco as the minicipality side rode to
the French league title as well as reaching the semi finals of the
Uefa champions league.

It was his display in the knock-out rounds of that competition that
caught the eye of top clubs' in Europe.

Last week, Monaco released a statement accusing a host of Europe's
leading clubs for an illegal approach for Kylian Mbappe thereby
breaching Uefa and Fifa regulations. With a threat to report those
clubs to Fifa.
That statement came after the speculation surrounding him seem to have
cooled down.

With this latest denial of a deal being reached, there is still some
iron in the fire as far as the future of Mbappe is concerned.

Monaco might not be keen to sell after recouping €173m from the sales
of Bernardo Silva, Benjamin Mendy and Bakayoko to Manchester City and
Chelsea respectively. This is without other players that have been
sold for less.

Real Madrid have funds to throw around after selling Alvaro Morata for £60m.

The story keeps developing, but the smart money is on Kylian Mbappe
staying in Monaco for another season.

Lukaku aiming to create history at Old Trafford

New Manchester United striker, Romelu Lukaku is aiming to create his
own history at Old Trafford.

The 24 year old joined the club early this month, and he is already
looking forward to the new season after being part of the scorers in
the club's pre-season matches in the United States.

As the 20 time English champions prepare for their last pre-season
game against Barcelona before flying back to England, the Belgian is
relishing the opportunity of playing for one of the biggest club's in
world football.

"I'm Romelu Lukaku, I want to create my own history." he said

"I've been working to be a pro since I was 11 years old. I've always
had a goal to win as many trophies as I can and to play for a club
like Manchester United.

"I want to grab this opportunity."

He was just 18 year of age when he left his country of birth to play
in England with Chelsea. After loan spells at West Brom and Everton
before he was signed permanently by the Toffees and after nearly an
100 goals scored in that time, he would be looking to follow in the
footsteps of other strikers that wrote their names into the folklore
of the Theatre of Dreams.

Wenger on Alexis: My mind is made up

The speculation surrounding the future of Alexis Sanchez has dominated
Arsenal's pre-season. And everytime, questions have been asked about
the Chilean's future, Arsene Wenger has been consistent in stating
that the club wasn't going to sell him as he enters the last year of
his contract.

Sanchez has been the subject of interest from PSG of France. With the
reports emanating from there going from a strong interest to losing
interest in signing the Chilean because of his wage demands.
But Wenger has dismissed those media reports as pure imagination.

He has now gone further to state that his mind is made up and the 29
year old who is currently on holiday after his extended season would
not be sold.

Speaking as Arsenal returned to London after they concluded their tour
of Asia, he reiterated that line again.

"I read L'Equipe in the last three or four days,"
"It has moved from Sanchez to Neymar. Today they speak about Neymar,
three days ago they speak about Alexis.

"They need as well, like you [reporters], subjects. They cannot get
Sanchez so they go for Neymar."

The resolute position of Wenger is in contrast to the previous times
the club has been in such situation in the past. And he gave his
reasons why Arsenal won't be selling even with just one year left in
the Chilean's contract.

"My mind has been made up for a while now,"
"I think I made it clear a few times.

"We are in a strong financial situation. So we want to keep our best
players. You can see that there is a fight everywhere to get top
players.

"Sanchez has got one year to go on his contract and we have no need to
make money. He will be part of the team next year."

In spite of Wenger's strong stands, sections of the club's fanbase
would only truly embrace this position until the transfer closes and
the Chilean is still at the club.

Mourinho: De Gea going nowhere

Jose Mourinho has declared that United's and Spain's international goalkeeper David De Gea will not be leaving the club.

The 26 year has been the subject of yearly speculations linking him with a move to Real Madrid after his transfer deadline day move broke down three seasons ago. Ever since, there have been renewed reports linking him with a move away to the Santiago Bernabeu.

However, following strained relationship between both clubs which was one of the reasons United were unable to sign their target Alvaro Morata, Mourinho has stated unequivocally that De Gea would be staying at Old Trafford.

Speaking to the Media ahead of the club's International Champions Cup match in the United (a match United won on penalties after scores were tied at 1-1 from goals from Lingard  and Casemiro)

“I can guarantee that he’s not going this season, that I can, and my feeling is it will be very difficult for him to go [in the future],” Mourinho said.

 “Because he’s a very honest boy, very straight.“He was contacted for a long time [by Real], the club was close, then we open [negotiations] because I always have this feeling of when a player has a desire to go I don’t like to stop players to go because in the end you don’t get what you expect from them if they want to move and they don’t

.“So we open it and then they decided to close and I don’t think the feeling from him [towards Real] is very, very good. I see him very happy and focused and working better than ever so for me 100 per cent he stays with us.”

Following the four year contract extension signed by Sergio Romero, both goalkeepers are expected to battle it out this season with Mourinho indicating that he is prepared to give the Argentine a chance after his strong display as the club won the Europa League last season. 

Monaco's Mendy in £52m Man City move

Manchester City have agreed a fee of £52m for Monaco and France
international left back Benjamin Mendy.

The 22 year old was initially the subject of a £45m bid from the
Premier League outfit that was turned out. Following the decision of
the club's only first team left back Kolarov to return to Seria A with
Roma, the club decided to move quickly to secure this signing, as it
dearth of left backs saw midfielder Fernardinho featured in that
position during the recent Manchester derby in the United states.

His imminent signing is expected to take the club's spending to over
£200m this summer.

Mendy was ever present in the Monaco side that excited Europe with
their brand of attacking football that took them to the semi finals of
both the French Cup and the Champions League, the final of the French
league cup and a Ligue I title win.

Last season was his first and as it has turned out his only season in
Monaco following his signing from Marsielle.

After releasing three full backs in this summer in Bacary Sagna, Gael
Clichy and Pablo Zabaleta plus the decision of Kolarov to join Roma,
the club has now signed three full backs for a combined fee of £128m.

Manchester City are currently on a tour of the United States.

Man City confirms signing of Real Madrid's defender

Manchester City have confirmed the signing of Real Madrid and Brazil
defender, Danilo for a fee of £26.5m.

The 26 year old becomes the club's second signing at right back
following the arrival of Kyle Walker from Tottenham earlier this
month.

The former Porto defender can however operate as a left back and in
midfield besides his natural position at right back.

Speaking of his move to the Etihad Stadium, he said joining the club
and playing for Pep Guardiola was an opportunity he couldn't turn
down.

"There was interest from other clubs, but it has always been my
ambition to play for Pep Guardiola,"

During his time at Real Madrid, he won the two Champions League titles
and La liga during his two year stay at the club.

He becomes the club's fourth signing of the summer, following the
arrivals of Ederson, Kyle Walker and Bernardo Silva as Pep Guardiola
continues to reshape his squad ahead of his second season.

They are currently on a tour of the United states.

Koscielny: I am very happy at Arsenal

Arsenal defender Laurent Koscielny has spoken of how happy he is at
the club and how he is enjoying his stay in London with his wife and
kids.

The 31 year old joined Arsenal in 2010 from Ligue 1 side Lorient.
After initially struggling in his first season at the club, he has
grown to become a stalwart of Arsenal's defence over this years. Now
in his seventh year and eight season at the club with 350 appearances,
he has very reason to be happy.

Speaking to the media as Arsenal concluded its pre-season tour of
Asia, he also reiterated that he wasn't leaving the club anytime soon
for any reason.

"When I first got here, I didn't think about how long I would stay at
this club – but now I am starting my eighth season so I am very happy
with this," he said

"I am happy in my life every day, not just the football but my life
with my wife and kids in London. We enjoy it, that's why I have stayed
for a long time here.

"I have a long contract with Arsenal and I have [no reason] to leave
the club. I am just here to enjoy my job and give everything for the
team, and get the best results for the club. If i can do all of that,
then I am happy.
"Arsene Wenger is a big [inspiration] for me. He bought me from France
and has given me everything to help me play for Arsenal, and has
helped me as a man too.

"I have a big [loyalty] to this club and to the boss too. I have
stayed here for seven years and I have learnt a lot from him, so I am
happy to be here with him and to fight for him because he is a great
person."

During his time in North London, he has three FA cups to his name. And
he would looking to add more silverware following the new contract
extension he signed in January.

Pires: Lacazette needs time to settle into English football

Former Arsenal and France international midfielder Robert Pires has
said that the club's recording signing, Alexandre Lacazettle would
need time to settle in the Premier league.

He was speaking against the backdrop of his own personal experience
and how long it took him to make the transition from France ligue 1 to
the rough and tumble of the English football.

He joined Arsenal from Marseille in 2000 after the European
Championships hosted by Belgium and Netherland. Where he went on to
spend six years.

According to him, it took him more than six months to settle after
being initially shocked at the physicality of the English game.

"I think he'll be a success. But maybe he will need time to adapt." he
first stated.

Robert Pires believes if it becomes difficult for Lacazette to settle,
he would need time to adjust from making the transition from France to
England for the first time.

"He is a good striker who has scored a lot of goals with Lyon. Of
course it will be very difficult in the beginning because when you
play in France and move to England it is not the same, it is very
aggressive.

"Maybe he will need time for the adaptation but everyone around him is
very important, especially the French connection.

"But to make the adaption, to find the rhythm and the tempo, for me it
took six or seven months. It was very tough, for me it was the
aggression and intensity."

He went further to relate his first culture shock of how physical the
English game is in his debut from the bench, detailing how Arsene
Wenger talked him into how physical the game could be.

"It was my first game away at Sunderland and Arsene Wenger said
'Robert, I know you are a bit upset because you want to play but I
prefer if you are on the bench and you can watch the game, the fight
and the tempo'.

"After 20 minutes sat on the bench I said to myself 'what are you
doing here?' because it was very, very difficult. I remember one
tackle from Patrick Vieira and I thought this football wasn't for me.

"It was very difficult and it is about adaptation. If you play in
France, Spain or Italy it is not the same football."

Lacazettle would have the chance to face a Premier league side for the
first time as Arsenal would be in action later today as they wrap up
their tour of Asia when they face Chelsea in the last of four matches
at the Bird Nets Stadium in Beijing, China.

Official: Chelsea signs Morata for £60m

Chelsea have confirmed the signing of Alvaro Morata from Real Madrid
on a fee of £60m. The 24 year old joins the Stamford Bridge outfit
after two spells at the Spanish capital club.

He becomes Chelsea's four signing of the summer after the signing of
Antonio Rudiger, Babayoko and Willy Caballero.

The club's technical director Micheal Emenalo had this to say about him.

"Alvaro has proven class at the highest level and his quality will be
a huge asset,"

Early today while speaking in Beijing, where the club are on tour,
manager, Antonio Conte described him as a fantastic striker with
experience of playing at the highest level.

Prior to his signing, he gave an indication of why he opted to join
Chelsea when he spoke to sections of the Spanish media.

"I'm going to the team managed by the coach who has placed the most
faith in me, and that's great for me," he said.

He came through the Real Madrid youth academy. And made his debut for
the club at the age of 18 when they were managed by Jose Mourinho in
2010. He subsequently joined Juventus in 2014 after failing to secure
a regular first team place in the team. After two years in Turin, Real
Madrid exercised a buy back clause which brought him back to the club
in 2016.

He scored 20 goals in 48 appearances in his second spell back at the
club. But he featured sparingly last season, and subsequently decided
to leave the club for good. And he has now ended up in West London at
the home of the Premier League champions.

Liverpool confirms signing of defender Robertson for £10m

Liverpool have confirmed the signing of Scottish international left
back Andrew Robertson for an initial fee of £8m rising to £10m.

The 23 year old joins from Championship side Hull City.

He was ever present for the Tigers last season in their season back in
the premiership making 39 appearances where they suffered relegation
after one season. In total he made 115 appearances in three seasons at
Hull City.

Speaking of his move to Anfield, a clearly excited Robertson said

"It feels a bit surreal but I'm delighted. There are not more special
clubs than Liverpool,"

He concluded: "When you grow up as a kid you dream of playing with big
clubs such as Liverpool and to make that a reality is a dream come
true for me.

"I just want to prove to people that I can do it at this level, and
hopefully I manage to do that this season and do good things for this
club."

He becomes Liverpool's third signing of the summer after the arrivals
of Dominic Solanke and Mohammed Salah.

Jurgen Klopp added thus after the club's latest signing

"For Andrew, this is another big step on what has been a quite
incredible personal journey in a very short space of time.

"I know our environment will benefit him and help him push himself
even more than he has already. This is a player who does not limit his
ambition."

Liverpool featured midfielder James Milner at left back last season
ahead of the natural left back Alberto Moreno. The Spanish left back
is now expected to leave the club following Robertson's arrival.

Conte: In Morata Chelsea have a fantastic striker

• Chelsea manager have hailed the capture of Spanish international

striker Alvaro Morata by terming him a fantastic striker.

The 24 year old was in London for his medicals on Thursday and the
club is expected to confirm the signing of the 6ft 3in striker after
the move is finalised.

Speaking in Beijing ahead of Chelsea's match with Arsenal wheere both
clubs are on tour. The 44 year old Conte said:

"We have added a fantastic striker, even at a young age he has won a
lot already and we are looking forward to welcoming him to the squad,"

"I think for sure this is a good signing for us. He is a young player,
but has a lot of experience, he went to Juventus and Real Madrid. He
has a lot of experience and this is good for us."

Morata scored 20 goals in 48 appearances last season for Real Madrid
despite being a bit part player.

At his age, he has two Seria A and La liga titles and two champions
league titles to his name.

Antonio Conte: Diego Costa was out of my plans in January

Chelsea manager, Antonio Conte has confirmed that Diego Costa was out
of his plans as far back as January, 2017.

The Spanish international was the subject of a huge bid from a Chinese
club at the time after reports came out that he had a bust up with a
club trainer which caused him to be dropped from the Chelsea squad.

After the revelations earlier in the summer that he was no longer part
of the manager's plans through a text exchange.

It has no been revealed by the Italian that the decision to severe
ties with the 28 year old was taken seven months ago after the
incident which caused him to be dropped from the team.

Speaking at a press conference in Beijing, China, ahead of Chelsea's
pre-season friendly with Arsenal on Saturday, he confirmed what has
been known by sections of the club's fanbase and the media.

"In January, the Costa situation was very clear for the club, for him
and his agent," he said

"I don't to like to talk about players that don't stay here - for me
the situation is closed."

The issue remains whether any club would be willing to meet Chelsea's
valuation of a player they clearly want out of the club. His preferred
destination is to return to Atletico Madrid, but the club are under a
transfer ban until January 2018.

It remains to be seen how this would be eventually resolved as a
replacement in the person of Alvaro Morata has been signed with just
confirmation from the club being what is left.

Former Man United striker heading back to the Premier League

West Ham United are close to bring back former Manchester United
striker Javier Hernandez to the Premier League. The Londoners have
reached an agreement with German club Bayern Leverkusen in the region
of £16m.
He is due to fly in to London for his medicals.

The 29 year old Mexican striker known more for his nickname Chicharito
was a huge weapon in Alex Ferguson's armoury when he arrived from
Mexico in 2010. He ended up scoring 59 goals in 156 appearances for
United in his five years at the club with most of them coming as a
substitute. He was sold by Louis van Gaal in 2015 to Bayer Leverkusen
where he scored 39 times in 76 matches in all competitions.

A goal poacher known for his ability to pounce on loose balls within
the six yard box, he is currently the record holder of the highest
goals scored for the Mexican national team with 47 goals.

He is expected to add more bite to a West Ham forward line that
struggled for goals last season.

African Cup of Nations expanded from 16 to 24 teams.

The Confederation of African Football (Caf) have announced the
expansion of the continent's show piece tournament from its current 16
team format to 24 teams starting from 2019 in Cameroun.

The annoucement comes following Caf's extra ordinary congress in
Rabat, Morocco. Where a football symposium to advance the game of the
continent is being held.

Although, it wasn't part of Ahmed Ahmed promises during when he was
campaigning for the Caf presidency, it is a decision that would be
welcomed by certain sections of the continent particularly smaller
countries that have struggled to qualify in recent years.

With this expansion, the number of countries that can host it, would
shrink further, with the possibility of co-hosting being mooted as a
possible way to reduce the burden according to the Caf's president.

Cameroun are currently struggling to meet deadlines and are behind
schedule for upgrading stadia, training and hotel infrastructure ahead
of the 2019 Afcon. And their initial remit was for 16 teams. Now that
it has been increased to 24 teams, it would further put pressure on
the Camerounians in terms of preparing to meet deadlines.

The decision on whether to move the tournament from its present
January and February timing to June and July is still being awaited.

For now though, the qualification for the next Afcon just got better
for many countries who started their qualifying campaign on the wrong
foot.

Morata: Antonio Conte values me

Alvaro Morata has been speaking to the Spanish media since Premier
League champions Chelsea announced on Wednesday that they have agreed
a fee with Real Madrid for the 24 year old striker.

The relationship between Morata and chelsea's current manager, Antonio
Conte dates back to when the Italian was in charge of Juventus. He was
instrumental in signing him for Juventus in the summer of 2014. The
first time he was leaving the Spanish capital for another club. But
Antonio Conte left his position shortly after to become the manager of
the Italian national team.

Now with another opportunity to renew that relationship that was ended
abruptly three years ago, the 6ft 3in striker has spoken glowingly
about the Italian.

"I'm going to the team managed by the coach who has placed the most
faith in me, and that's great for me." he told the Spanish media.

The two time champions league winner was Real Madrid's second highest
goal scorer last season with 20 goals. 15 of which came in the league
where he started only 14 matches. But made a total of 48 appearances
in all competitions last season with only 19 starts.

His move is still subject to him agreeing personal terms and passing
his medicals.

Reports: Madrid's Alvaro Morata close to £70m Chelsea move

According to reports, Real Madrid and Chelsea have reached an
agreement for the transfer of 24 year old Alvaro Morata.

The player who came through the Real Madrid youth academy is reported
to have left the club's pre-season tour of the United States at their
Los Angeles base and his now heading to London to have his medicals.

The Spanish striker was initially in the radar of Manchester United,
but they were priced out of a move for the two time champions league
winner.

Chelsea have been targeting signing a striker after it was revealed
that Diego Costa was not in Antonio Conte's plans for the coming
season. With report now circulating that the club is closing in on
signing the Spanish international, it would turn out to be a huge
scoop for the Premier League champions after the disappointment of
missing out on the signing of their first choice target, Romelu
Lukaku.

With reports emanating from Spain having been picked up by sections of
the Italian press, where he spent some time with Juventus, it seems
the reports have some legs to it as the story continues to develop. It
should become clearer within the next 24 hours.

RB Leipzig rejects Liverpool's £66m bid for Naby Keita

German bundesliga side RB Leipzig have rejected a bid of £66m from
Liverpool for their Guinean international midfielder Naby Kieta.

The Premier league outfit have been in hot pursuit for the 22 year old
player who was one of RB Leipzig's stand out performer in their first
ever season in the German top flight last season. Where they finished
second behind Bayern Munich.

However they have repeatedly been knocked back as the club has refused
to sell at any price.

Speaking about the rejected bid, the club's owner Dietrich Mateschitz
told the German press via sports publication Bild,

"We were flattered when an offer of 75m euros (£66m) for Naby Keita
recently landed at our door. No way. He still has a contract and he
will fulfil it."

The German outfit have held the position that they prefer Naby Keita
to feature in their first ever season in the champions league. He only
arrive the club last summer of sister club Reb Bull Salzburg in the
Austrian bundesliga.

In spite of being thwarted by they repeated attempt to the Guinean
international, the player who has a contract until 2020 has a release
clause of £48 which can be triggered next summer. Yet with His
participation in the champions league this season, Liverpool might not
be the only club interested in signing him when the opportunity
presents itself next summer.

Liverpool set to sign left back as £10m fee agreed

Liverpool are set to sign Hull and Scotland international left back
Andy Robertson. Both clubs have agreed a fee of around £10m.

The 23 year old has left Hull's training camp in Portugal where they
are preparing for a new season in the Championship.

He is expected to have a medical at Liverpool on Wednesday after which
the deal would be confirmed.

His signing would bring to three the number of signings Jurgen Klopp
have made this summer after the arrivals of Dominic Solanke from
Chelsea and Mohammed Salah from Roma.

The club fielded James Milner as a left back for most of last season
with Klopp not taken to Alberto Moreno who is the club's natural left
back. As he has struggled since he was signed from Sevilla.
With the arrival of Robertson, he could be set for a move away from the club.

The Merseyside club make a return to the Champions League this season
where they would have to negotiate the play-offs before making the
group stages.

They are currently in Asia for a pre-season tour and they currently
led Crystal Palace 1-0 in their friendly match after a goal from new
signing Dominic Solanke.

Arsenal's Szczesny completes move to Juventus

Juventus have confirmed the signing of Arsenal's goalkeeper Szczesny
for a fee of £10m. He has signed a four year contract.

The 27 year old had spent the last two seasons on loan at Seria A side
Roma. This was after he lost his place in the Arsenal team in 2015.

He is expected to be an understudy to Gigi Buffon in the coming
season, pending when the 39 year old hangs his glove.

Speaking after coming his move to the Italian champions, he said:

"When you join Juve, it's because you've been chosen. I didn't
hesitate one moment before coming here."

His departure brings to an end a eight year association with Arsenal.
His time at the club would remain one whose potential was unfulfilled
after he arrived the club at young age.

He could count Arsene Wenger as the manager who brought him to
limelight by making him the first choice at the club at a young age.
He lost his way along that journey and his time at the club has
officially ended.

Lacazette and Kolasinac starts against Bayern Munich

Arsene Wenger has named a combination of a strong and experimental
side in Arsenal's first pre-season friendly in Shanghai, China. The
club's two summer signings starts. With youth players Kristian Bielik
alongside Mertesacker and Monreal in defence. Maitland-Niles is at
right wing back, Kolasinac at left wing back. Francis Coquelin and
Granit Xhaka make up the midfield, while the trio of Alexandre
Lacazette, Mesut Ozil and Danny Welbeck make up the front three in
Wenger's 3-4-3 formation.

Full line-up

Cech, Bielik, Mertesacker, Monreal, Maitland-Niles, Coquelin, Xhaka,
Kolasinac, Ozil, Welbeck, Lacazette

Antonio Conte becomes best paid manager in Chelsea's history

Chelsea confirmed Tuesday that Antonio Conte has signed new terms on a
two year contract. The Italian signed a three year contract when he
joined the club as manager last summer on a considerable low terms
when he compared to his peers.

But after leading the club to the Premier League title in his first
season and rebuilding the confidence of the team after a disappointing
2015/2016 season where they finished 10th. The club have increased the
terms of his contract.

The new contract has made him the best paid manager in the club's
history after details of the new deal emerged in the media. With
reports putting his new contract at £9.5m a year.

The Italian is already reshaping his squad ahead of the new season as
he looks to defend the Premier League title and challenge in Europe
with the signing of central defender Antonio Rudiger and midfielder
Bakayoko from Roma and Monaco respectively for a combined fee of £70m.

With Diego Costa expected to leave the club and the future of Matic
uncertain, the club still have some way to go to get its squad ready
for the new season. And with Eden Hazard missing for the start of the
new season after ankle surgery early in the summer, the club would
have to move quickly to secure its transfer targets after missing out
on Romelu Lukaku.

On his new contract, Antonio Conte had this to say:

"I am very happy to have signed a new contract,"

"We worked extremely hard in our first year to achieve something
amazing, which I am very proud of. Now we must work even harder to
stay at the top."

They are currently on a tour of Asia where they would play Bayern
Munich and Arsenal.

Would Wenger keep his 'not selling' words on Alexis?

The speculation surrounding Alexis Sanchez contract situation at the
club has rumbled on again this summer after it dominated much of last
season.
And this has dominated much of Arsene Wenger's early pre-season press
conferences and comments with the club's in house media team.

The 28 year old Chilean hinted that he was keen to play for a club in
the champions league in an interview. A competition he knows Arsenal
will not participate in this coming season. Though he reiterated the
main decision lies with the club. And so far going by the utterances
and signals from the club through Arsene Wenger, it seems the club is
keen to keep the Chilean for the reminder of his one year contract
which means, he could leave on a free next summer if he doesn't sign a
contract extension during the season.

Wenger confirmed this again when he spoke to the club website that the
decision has been made to keep the Chilean and not sell in spite of
the links to Bayern Munich, PSG and Manchester City.

"The decision has been made and we will stick to that – the decision
is not to sell.

"I do not give too much importance to things that are translated. The
whole interview, which I got, did not really mean that [he only wants
Champions League football].

"The main focus for us is on the Premier League, that for me is more
important than the Champions League.

"We rested sometimes players in the group stage of the Champions
League for the Premier League, so that has become the biggest
importance for us.

"For the rest, we have played 20 years in the Champions League and 17
years before Alexis arrived and three years with him – he can get us
back in there."

However, the uncertainty over the Alexis Sanchez situation is that
Wenger has tolled this same line in the past especially when Robin van
Persie was in a similar situation. As well as Samir Nasri who also had
one year left in his contract before he left for Manchester City.

Yet Wenger has always drew a line between the financial landscape at
the club at the time and what currently obtains at the club.

Whereas, the considerations in terms of players who wouldn't sign
contracts have always been purely economic, but for sporting reasons
and the fact that the club needs its top players to challenge for the
coming season, it is time for the club to put sporting interest first
in handling Alexis Sanchez future which is why the club must match his
words with action.

With the pursuit of Thomas Lemar suffering several setbacks after
three bids were turned down by Monaco, the resolve to hold Alexis to
the reminder of his contract could have been strengthened. Though
there have been reports that both situations are not related. Still it
would have been difficult to believe that as Wenger would had issues
fitting these players into a lineup which meant Lemar looked likely
like a signing to cushion the effect of a possible Alexis' departure.

When Robin van Persie left for Manchester United in 2012, he
participated in the club's pre-season programme before he departed
during the transfer window of that season. So until the transfer
window closes, that is when there would be a partial closure on the
Alexis Sanchez saga.

The Chilean being out of the spot light with his extended holiday
after his participation at the Confederations cup means the
speculations is abit muted. But all that should change when he returns
to the club and how he deals with questions on his future would be
interesting.

Neymar staying at Barcelona after being linked with a £195m move to PSG

Reports emerged from France Tuesday that Qatari investment group own
PSG had met the buy out clause of Barcelona and Brazilian attacker
Neymar after they triggered his release clause of £195m.

The 25 year old has been at the Nou Camp since 2014. And won a treble
in his first season, and have had a trophy laden three years since he
was signed from Santos.
He signed an extension in 2016 that would keep him at the club until 2021.

In spite of the strong link to French side PSG, after they got
encouragement from the camp of Neymar, the president of Barcelona
Josep Maria Bartomeu has poured cold water on the reports by
confirming that he would remain at the Camp Nou.

Neymar has been in the shadows of Messi in his three years at
Barcelona and that is not expected to change as long as the Argentine
remains the fulcrum of the five time European champions.
He recently signed a new contract that would keep him at the club for
a further three years up still 2021.

What Neymar's strong link to PSG shows, is that the club's with a deep
pocket from their owners means huge clubs like Barcelona and Real
Madrid are no longer exempted from their player's being linked to
other clubs.

Cristano Ronaldo was strongly linked with a move away from Real Madrid
after his tax revelations in June. While the Ronaldo stories were just
that of a player throwing taltrums after being dismayed by his tax
revelations. Neymar's on the other hand has legs to it. And with the
player still young in football terms being just 25 years old, this
could easily be a recurrent speculation every summer. But for now he
remains at the Camp Nou.

Wenger: New coach Lehmann can help Arsenal players with winning mentality

Arsenal legend Jens Lehmann joined the club's coaching staff in June.
The former German international was part of the invincibles that went
an entire season league undefeated 2003/2004.
He went on to make 200 appearances for the club over two spells.

Arsene Wenger spoke to the club's in house channel, Arsenal player,
spoke on what the qualities the German would bring to the table in his
first coaching job and how this would impact the players.

"He has a demanding attitude and can give his desire to win to the
players, to help them achieve their targets,"

"That's what you want from these players. "He can also give good
advice because he has gone through periods where it was not easy for
him, where it wasn't all going well, and I believe his rigorous
attitude to his career is similar to Per Mertesacker. It's important
that a team is surrounded by people like that.

"He enjoys being involved in training as well, and to experience the
pleasure he had when he was giving his best for Arsenal Football Club
again. He's still highly motivated and that motivation never goes.
When you want to do things well, I don't think that ever changes."

The all action German was never shy of dishing it out to his team
mates and opponents alike during his playing days, no doubt
transferring that attitude of always being on your toes would go a
long way to aiding this current group of Arsenal players who have a
knack for losing their way when things don't go the way they
envisaged.

Mathieu Debuchy on the verge of Nice move

Arsenal right back Mathieu Debuchy is set to sign for French side
Nice. He is reported to be in France to undergo a medical. Its a move
which would end his three year association with Arsenal.

The 31 year old has endured a difficult period during that time at the
Emirates.

He arrived from Newcastle United shortly after the 2014 world cup for
a fee of £12m and settled in well at the club. However after a
shoulder injury while playing against Stoke City in a league match, he
never regained his composure as the player the club signed.

He was the subject of a bid from Manchester United during van Gaal's
first season at the club, a move that was vetoed by Arsene Wenger.

He engineered a loan move to Ligue Un side Bordeaux in a bid to secure
a place in France squad for Euro 2016. But fell short after another
round of injuries.

He returned to Arsenal last season, and didn't feature at all, but for
a league start that lasted just fifteen minutes after he got injured.

His association with Arsenal would be remembered on the premise of his
injuries and lossing his place in the French team during his peak
years. However, whatever silver lining there was from his injury
plagued Arsenal career was the discovery of the excellent Hector
Bellerin who has since become a steady player in that position.

Arsenal's Szczesny set to join Juventus

Arsenal's goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny is close to sealing a move to
Italian champions Juventus according to reports. The 27 year old has
been linked to the old lady for much of the summer as he is reported
to have agreed personal terms with the Italian giant ahead of what
would be a deal.

A fee in the region of £10-£12m has been mooted as the sum both clubs
are trying to trash out.

The 27 year old Polish international was Arsenal's first choice for
four seasons after he was intially signed as a teenager in 2009, but
following inconsistencies in his performances and an infraction in the
dressing room after a poor display against Southampton in January,
2015. He was subsequently loaned to Seria A side Roma, where he spent
the last two seasons, helping the club finish in third and second
position respectively.

If he eventually joins Juventus, he is expected to be an understudy to
Gigi Buffon, who has claimed he might hang up his gloves after the
2018 world cup in Russia.

A consensus of those of Arsenal persuasion would have preferred to see
the Pole extend his one year contract and continue on as a player at
the club either on loan or an understudy to Petr Cech. And later on as
natural successor to the 35 year old.

Still only 27 year old, he is just entering his peak years as a
goalkeeper, and despite his fiobles as a person, he is more naturally
talented than David Ospina. Arsenal's current second choice. And his
physical attributes makes him well suited to the rigours of the
Premier League than the Chilean.

Yet in all these, Arsene Wenger has a habit of not giving a second
chance to a player he has lost confidence in. So like several players
before him, the Pole is permanently on his way out of Arsenal. And his
sitting out the club's tour of Australia and China was a sign ot that.

Chelsea signs Monaco's Bakayoko

Chelsea have confirmed the signing of Monaco and French midfielder
Bakayoko. The 22 year old joins for a fee of 35m.

A tenacious and athletic presence in the middle of the park. He was
one of several key players that were instrumental in Monaco's league
title triumph last season. As well as their fairy tale run to the semi
finals of the champions league.

He becomes Chelsea's second major signing of the summer following the
arrival of German international defender Antonio Rudiger from Roma

With his capture, the status of Serbia international Matic should
become clear soon. The two time premier league winner has been linked
with a move to Manchester United. He was left behind in London
alongside Diego Costa as Chelsea proceeded to their pre-season tour of
Asia. The former is no longer part of Antonio Conte's plans. He is
expected to join Athletico Madrid in spite of their transfer ban.

Chelsea are also keen on signing a replacement for Diego Costa. And
after missing out on Lukaku, Dortmund and Gabon striker Aubameyang is
now reported to be the club's prime target.

Further on Babayoko, he would bring more mobility to Chelsea's
midfield alongside the tireless Kante as Conte continues to reshape
his side ahead of the new season.

AC Milan on the verge of signing Juventus defender Bonucci for £35m

Italian international Leonardo Bonucci arrived Milan on Friday to
complete his transfer from Juventus. The 30 year old central defender
was the subject of a £35m bid from the Rossoneri on Friday.

Regarded as arguably the best central defender in the world, Bonucci
leaves Juventus after a seven year stay, winning six Seria A titles
and three Coppa Italia.

His move to the San Siro has come as a surprise to many with Milan
legend Gattuso branding it a joke that turned out to be true.

He fell out with Maxi Allegri last season and was not included in a
match day squad during the last campaign. Although, he was still
regarded as a key stalwart of the Old Lady's backline, which makes
this move completely unexpected.

AC Milan have spent huge sums in the transfer market this summer. An
amount that has gone beyond the €100m mark. The seven time European
champions have struggled since they last won the Seria A title in
2012. They finished sixth last season after another season plagued by
inconsistencies.

However, after they were bought over by a Chinese investment group,
the club is now awash with cash to make big name signings.

Current manager, Montella would be hoping to mode a side that can
rival Juventus domestic dominance with the signings the club have made
this summer. And Bonucci is likely not to be the club's last signing.

Kyle Walker joins Man City from Spurs for £50m

Manchester City have confirmed the signing of England international
right back Kyle Walker for a fee of £45m with £5m as add-ons.

The 27 year old spent eight years at Tottenham Hotspur where he made
183 appearances. He was part of the Premier League team of the
2016-2017 season. A season where he made 31 league starts with five
assist.

He becomes Pep Guardiola's fourth signing of the summer, which takes
City's spending to £127.7m With a left back still expected to be
signed especially with Monaco's left back Benjamin Mendy being linked
with a £35m move, it could take their spending to close to the £200m
mark in the coming weeks.

Speaking on his move to the Etihad Stadium, Walker had this to say:

"Pep Guardiola is one of the most respected managers in the world and
I feel he can help me take my game to a new level."

He started being linked with a move to Manchester City towards the
dying months of last season. City were initially put back by the
player's valuation, but following Dani Alves' decision to sign for PSG
when he was poised to join City, the club moved quickly to secure the
services of a prime target within 24 hours having submitted a bid on
Friday.

He is now expected to be in the party that would travel to the United
States for a pre-season tour. Where they would play Manchester United
amongst other teams.

Ozil: I will stay at Arsenal

Arsenal have received reassurances from their midfielder Mesut Ozil
that he would remain at the club and extend his contract when
negotiations resume.

The future of the 28 year old German international has been the
subject of speculation since the beginning of the year as his contract
has just one year to run.

Asked about whether he would be staying in North London beyond this
season in Sydney, Australia where Arsenal are on tour, his reply was;

"It is definitely my preference to stay,"

"Once everyone is back in London, we will sit down and discuss the
future. I have always said that I feel very good at Arsenal."

He continued by asserting that preparation for the forth coming season
was presently his priority.

"For now the most important thing is our pre-season and getting
through the tour, training and getting fitness,"

"I have always said that I feel very good at Arsenal."

Ozil is entering his fifth season as an Arsenal player. He was signed
from Real Madrid in 2013 for a fee of £42m. A fee that made him the
club's record signing at the time. A record that now belongs to new
signing Alexander Lacazette.

During his time at the club, he has won three FA cups and two community shields.

Although, few would take his reassurances with a pinch of salt until
he truly puts pen to paper to extend his stay at the club beyond this
season. Until then, his words remain just that, words.

While in Australia, Arsenal would play two games, the first of which
is on Thursday against Sydney FC and on Saturday against Western
Sydney Wanderers.

After Australia, they leave for China where they would face German
Champions Bayern Munich on 19 July and Premier League champions
Chelsea on 22 July.

Following the Asia tour, they return to England for the Emirates cup.

Lukaku joins Manchester United for a fee of £75m

Manchester United have signed Romelu Lukaku for a fee of £75m. The 24
year old arrives from Everton after three seasons at the Merseyside
club. The first of which was spent on loan.

Lukaku who scored 68 league goals has signed a five year contract at
Old Trafford with the option for a further sixth year.

Speaking on the Belgian's arrival, Jose Mourinho said.

"Romelu is a natural fit for Manchester United. He is a big
personality and a big player,"

"It is only natural that he wants to develop his career at the biggest club.

"He will be a great addition to the group. I am really looking forward
to working with him again."

Lukaku was also the subject of a separate bid from Chelsea. But it
came too late after Manchester United had agreed a fee with Everton.
He turned down a lucrative contract from Everton last season that
would have made him the club's highest paid player in it's history.
Claiming he didn't want to remain at the same level.

In his response to his signing, he said;

"I cannot wait to run out at Old Trafford in front of 75,000 fans."

He becomes Manchester United's second major signing of the summer
after the signing of Swede defender Victor Lindelof who arrived from
Benfica for a fee of £32m.

Jose Mourinho's side are currently in the United States for a 18 day
pre-season training.

Chelsea signs German defender Antonio Rudiger for £29m

Chelsea have confirmed the signing of German defender Antonio Rudiger
for an initial fee of £29m which could rise to £33m with add-ons. The
24 year old joins from Seria A side Roma.
He was a consistent presence in the Italian capital side defence last
season, making a total of 30 league appearances as they finished
second behind Juventus.

He was part of the German squad that won the confederation cup in
Russia last week.

Antonio Rudiger came through the youth system at Borussia Dortmund
before he joined Stuttgart in 2011.

Speaking on his move to West London where his resumption for
pre-season is to be delayed following his participation at the
Confederation, he said.

"It's a great feeling because not every player has the opportunity to
join a huge club like this,"

He becomes Chelsea's first major signing of the summer as they look to
improve a squad that would be participating in the champions league
after a break from Europe last season.

The squad of Premier League champions are expected back for pre-season
training on Monday.
After the poor way in which the re-signing of Romelu Lukaku was
handled, this signing would come as a measure of relief to Antonio
Conte that the club has finally set the ball rolling on their transfer
business for the summer.
With the transfter window still in its early days, the club has
continually being linked to Monaco's midfielder Bakayoko and Juventus'
left back Alex Sandro.
And the club is still targeting a striker as a possible replacement
for Diego Costa who is expected to leave after being told he wasn't
part of the manager's plans.

Manchester United confirms deal for Lukaku subject to a medical

Manchester United have confirmed that they have reached a deal with
Everton for the signing of Romelu Lukaku. The 24 year old was the
subject of a £75m bid on Thursday.

The club has now announced that a deal is in place to bring the
Belgian to Old Trafford.
Confirming the annoucement via it tweeter page, it says thus:

"MUFC is delighted to announce a fee has been agreed with Everton for
the transfer of Romelu Lukaku, subject to a medical & personal terms"

With this announcement, they have succeeded in beating Chelsea to the
signature of Lukaku. He was poised to rejoin Chelsea after being
linked all summer to Stamford Bridge. But following Manchester
United's failure to reach an agreement with Real Madrid over the
signing of Alvaro Morata, Jose Mourinho has moved quickly to sign
Lukaku, jumping ahead of the queue to beat Chelsea who were previously
in prime position for his signature.

The Belgian has been prolific during his time in the Premier League
since he was first signed by Chelsea in 2011 as an 18 year old. His
goals have largely been with West Brom and Everton after failing to
secure a first team place at Chelsea. He was loaned out to West Brom
and Everton before securing a permanent deal to Goodison Park. With a
new chapter set to begin in his career, he is just less than 15 goals
away from clocking a century of goals in the Premier League.

Chelsea matches Manchester United £75m bid for Lukaku

Chelsea have entered the fray to sign Romelu Lukaku after they matched
Manchester United's bid of £75m. The West London club were in pole
position to resign their former player as he has been linked with them
all summer. But a lack of movement from the Stamford Bridge outfit saw
Manchester United jump ahead of the queue to take the lead in the race
to sign the Belgian international after they sent a bid of £75m on
Thursday. It has now emerged that Chelsea have responded in like sum
as both clubs go head-to-head in the race to sign him.

Manchester United are now in a stronger position to sign the 24 year
old largely due to he player's agent. His agent Raiola has as his
clients Paul Pogba, Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Zlatan Ibrahimovic. He was
instrumental in bring all three players to Old Trafford last season.
And he looks set to do the same with Lukaku.

The destination of the Belgian striker, a scorer of 25 league goals
last season should become clearer in the coming days.

Everton set to sign Wayne Rooney

Wayne Rooney looks set to rejoin Everton on a free transfer 13 years
after he left for Manchester United.
His respresentatives have been holding talks with the hierarchy at
Everton in the last few days, and a deal is set to be close to being
finalised according to reports.

He has been the subject of speculation since the turn of the year.
The 31 year old has seen his playing time diminished over the last few
seasons. A situation that has seen his importance to the Old Trafford
club recede over time. He only started 15 games last season.

He was on the books of Everton from 2002 to 2004 making 67 appearances
after coming through the club's academy. His resigning would follow
the pattern of the biblical prodigal son, with the only difference
being that he instead made something out of his time way from
Merseyside. Going on to become Manchester United highest goal scorer
with 253 goals as well as for holding same record for England, taking
both records from United legend Bobby Charlton. He also capped his
time at Manchester United winning several titles.

His current contract which is set to be terminated to allow him move
to his boyhood club was due to expire in 2019. It is worth £300,000 a
week. According to reports, Manchester United would make up the short
fall of his wages in the deal that would take him to Goodison Park.

His signing would cap an interesting transfer window for Ronald
Koeman, as the club's new found financial power as seen them spend a
little over £100m on five players. It remains to be seen whether Wayne
Rooney would be a replacement for Romelu Lukaku who looks set to join
Manchester United or there would be further signings in boaster
Everton's forward line.

Per Mertesacker appointed head of Arsenal Academy

Arsenal have annouced that club captain will take over as the head of
its academy from 2018 when is contract with the club expires. The 34
year old former German international would replace Andries Jonker who
left to become manager of Wolfsburg last season.

Speaking to Arsenal.com about the appointment. Manager Arsène Wenger said:

"Per is an exceptional character who is a great example for young
players. He is a deep thinker about the game and committed to helping
players fulfil their potential. He will be an inspirational figure for
everyone connected with the academy."

In response to his appointment which comes into effect in a year's
time, Per had this to say:

"This is the start of an exciting new chapter for me and I am
delighted that I will be able to stay part of the Arsenal family. This
season I will remain fully focused on my job with the team and am
looking forward to a successful last season on the pitch. After that,
I look forward to the exciting challenge of helping produce young
players good enough to play for the Arsenal first team."

on his part, the club's chief excecutive, Ivan Gazidis said:

"At Arsenal, we believe in developing young players to their full
potential and giving them an opportunity to shine. I am delighted that
Per will take on this role. He understands the club's values, he knows
what it takes to win at the top level and he will be the ideal person
to drive the academy forward when he takes on the role next year."

Per Mertesacker was appointed Arsenal's captain last season, but
injured his knee at the start of the season which caused him to miss
the entire season, apart from a couple of minutes against Everton on
the last day of the league season.
He put in a towering performance in his first start of the season in
the FA Cup final win over Chelsea in May.

He joined Arsenal from Werden Bremen in 2011 and was part of the
German squad that won the World Cup in 2014.

In the mean time, while Per sees out this last season as a player, the
academy will be led by Luke Hobbs.

Man United agrees £75m fee for Everton's Lukaku

Manchester United have agreed a fee of £75m for Belgian and Everton
striker Romelu Lukaku. The 24 year old, the scorer of 25 league goals
last season has been repeatedly linked with a return to Chelsea, but
Jose Mourinho has moved quickly to secure one of his key targets
following failure to reach an agreement with Real Madrid over the
signing of striker Alvaro Morata.
They are now expected to drop their interest in Morata which has been
played out publicly all summer.

Jose Mourinho was reported to be growing frustrated at the club's
inability to secure their targets with just one signing confirmed to
date. With a pre-season tour of the United States on the horizon on
Sunday, he was eager to get a striker he sold to Everton while he was
manager at Chelsea. Especially as Zlatan Ibrahimovic was no longer at
the club and Wayne Rooney is poised to return to Everton, leaving
Manchester United shot of firepower.

Romelu Lukaku rejected an handsome contract extension at Everton that
would have made him the club's highest paid player in history, but
with a move to Old Trafford now firmly on, it represents a new chapter
for a player who says he doesn't want to remain at the same level with
Everton.

What does this mean for Chelsea?

The Stamford Bridge outfit where the firm favourite to secure his
signature. One that would have heralded a second spell at the West
London club for Lukaku. But it seems the inability of Chelsea to reach
an agreement with Everton has played into the hands of Manchester
United, whose difficulty in securing the signing of Alvaro Morata has
made them cast their net toward Lukaku instead.
It leaves Chelsea in a difficult situation as main striker Diego Costa
is no longer in the plans of Antonio Conte and plans are already on to
move him away from the club.

It remains to be seen how Chelsea reacts as a prime target slips
through their fingers to join a rival. As the saying goes, their loss
is Manchester United gain.

And it would seem that with Wayne Rooney getting set to swap Old
Trafford with Goodison Park, it has made reaching an agreement much
faster for both clubs, though, both deals are reported to be
completely unrelated.

Lionel Messi signs £500,000 a week Barcelona contract extension

Barcelona and Argentine maestro, Lionel Messi has agreed a new four
year contract that extends his stay at the Catalan club to 2021. The
club has announced.

"The club is very happy with the renewal and commitment of Messi, the
best player in history," it said.

Lionel Messi joined Barcelona as a 13 year old in 2000, and since he
made is competitive debut four years later, he has gone on to become
the club's highest goalscorer with 507 goals in 583 matches.

The 30 year old married his long term girlfriend and childhood friend
who is the mother of his two children last weekend with a lavish
ceremony at his hometown of Rosario in Argentina.

The Spanish media reports that the new contract has a release clause
of £263 million in it.

His time at the club has seen him eclipsed several records, including
being the Catalan's record goalscorer. With this new deal keeping him
at the club until he is 34 years, he could end up breaking more record
along the way.

For the time being though, the maestro is currently enjoying his
honeymoon with is not so brand new wife. Its a case of happy married
life and happy new contract renewal.

£46m Alexandre Lacazette joins Arsenal after completing medicals

Arsenal have completed the signing of French international striker,
Alexandre Lacazette today after he had his medicals and completed his
paper works at London Colney, the club's training ground. This was
after both Arsenal and Lyon agreed an initial fee of £46m that could
rise to £52m with add-ons.

The 26 years old has been repeatedly linked to Arsenal over the past
three years, and this summer, he was set to join Atletico Madrid after
they agreed a fee with Lyon, but after a FIFA transfer ban that was
rectified by the Court of Arbitration for Sports few weeks into the
summer, it scuttled the possibility of a deal happening. This left the
door open for Arsenal to pounce on a player that Arsene Wenger has
reportedly monitored for the last nine years.

The 5ft 9in striker record with Lyon ends at 129 goals in 275 games.
And he had his best season to date when he registered 37 goals with 28
coming in Ligue 1 last season.

His addition, brings pace, technique and a natural goal scoring
ability to the Arsenal forward line. With reports indicating that
Alexis Sanchez and Mesut Ozil could be set to extend their contracts
after weeks of uncertainty, it could yet turn out to be an eventful
summer for the club.

Inspite of the arrival of Alexandre Lacazette, Arsenal still have a
backlog of issues to sort out before the season starts, especially as
the squad returned to pre-season training this Tuesday.

The futures of Oxlade Chamberlain, Jack Wilshere, Kieran Gibbs and the
aforementioned Ozil and Sanchez have to be resolved in the coming
weeks.

With Arsene Wenger asserting at the end of last season that he would
have to find a way to prone down the big squad at his disposal, which
has grown bigger with two signings and no key departure yet, there is
a possibility that players would have to leave before more signings
are made in the coming weeks.