Liverpool to offload midfielder before window closes

Liverpool are keen to offload midfielder Jermaine Pennant before the transfer window closes tomorrow night. The former England under-21 international has been linked with a possible £4 million move to Premier League new boys Stoke City in recent days. (News of the World)

The former Arsenal youngster has found it hard to nail down a first team place at Anfield in ever since signing for the club back in 2006. Stoke boss Tony Pulis is trying to rush through a deal now to sign the 25-year old but wheter or not he makes the deadline is going to be tight.

I think this would be a good deal all round. Good for Pennant because he will be guaranteed first team football every week. Good for Stoke because they will have a decent winger on their hands and finally, it will be good for Liverpool because they will get one of their many midfielders off their books and gain £4 million.

Liverpool to offload midfielder before window closes

Liverpool are keen to offload midfielder Jermaine Pennant before the transfer window closes tomorrow night. The former England under-21 international has been linked with a possible £4 million move to Premier League new boys Stoke City in recent days. (News of the World)

The former Arsenal youngster has found it hard to nail down a first team place at Anfield in ever since signing for the club back in 2006. Stoke boss Tony Pulis is trying to rush through a deal now to sign the 25-year old but wheter or not he makes the deadline is going to be tight.

I think this would be a good deal all round. Good for Pennant because he will be guaranteed first team football every week. Good for Stoke because they will have a decent winger on their hands and finally, it will be good for Liverpool because they will get one of their many midfielders off their books and gain £4 million.

Shock inclusion in England squad

Jimmy Bullard has tonight been included in the England team to face Croatia and Andorra. The Fulham midfielder has received his first call-up to the national team after impressing Fabio Capello over the past few months.

Bullard, 29, returned from a serious knee injury at the back end of last season and made an immediate impact, scoring in his comeback game. I am personally delighted to see Bullard named in Capello's squad and I feel this is a great testament to the legend that is Jimmy Bullard.

Shock inclusion in England squad

Jimmy Bullard has tonight been included in the England team to face Croatia and Andorra. The Fulham midfielder has received his first call-up to the national team after impressing Fabio Capello over the past few months.

Bullard, 29, returned from a serious knee injury at the back end of last season and made an immediate impact, scoring in his comeback game. I am personally delighted to see Bullard named in Capello's squad and I feel this is a great testament to the legend that is Jimmy Bullard.

Newcastle set to sign Uruguayan international

Newcastle United are on the brink of capturing their third South American of the summer with Uruguay international Ignacio Gonzalez en route to Tyneside from Valencia. (setanta)

The midfielder has only just agreed to join the Che from Uruguayan club Danubio but will immediately be loaned to The Magpies for the coming season to join Fabricio Coloccini and Jonas Gutierrez in Kevin Keegan’s squad. The 26-year-old, who passed a medical with Valencia on Friday, is already on the move as coach Unai Emery has a number of alternative options at his disposal. Valencia vice-president Fernando Gomez has confirmed that the deal is close to being agreed with the Premier League club.

“We have many players who can play in midfield and this is an excellent solution for both sides,” said Gomez. “We expect the formalities to be completed on Monday morning.” Gonzalez spent a spell on loan with Monaco last season, making five appearances and scoring one goal in Ligue 1. His arrival in Newcastle is likely to be delayed as he will play for his country in their upcoming World Cup qualifiers on September 6 and 10.

This looks like a decent acquisition on loan. The Newcastle midfield is badly lacking some creativity and this may be just the spark in the middle that they need.

Newcastle set to sign Uruguayan international

Newcastle United are on the brink of capturing their third South American of the summer with Uruguay international Ignacio Gonzalez en route to Tyneside from Valencia. (setanta)

The midfielder has only just agreed to join the Che from Uruguayan club Danubio but will immediately be loaned to The Magpies for the coming season to join Fabricio Coloccini and Jonas Gutierrez in Kevin Keegan’s squad. The 26-year-old, who passed a medical with Valencia on Friday, is already on the move as coach Unai Emery has a number of alternative options at his disposal. Valencia vice-president Fernando Gomez has confirmed that the deal is close to being agreed with the Premier League club.

“We have many players who can play in midfield and this is an excellent solution for both sides,” said Gomez. “We expect the formalities to be completed on Monday morning.” Gonzalez spent a spell on loan with Monaco last season, making five appearances and scoring one goal in Ligue 1. His arrival in Newcastle is likely to be delayed as he will play for his country in their upcoming World Cup qualifiers on September 6 and 10.

This looks like a decent acquisition on loan. The Newcastle midfield is badly lacking some creativity and this may be just the spark in the middle that they need.

Liverpool must wait on Torres scan

Liverpool striker Fernando Torres will undergo a scan to determine the severity of a hamstring problem, but Reds manager Rafa Benitez has hinted that the injury will only be a short-term one.(Setanta)

The Spain international lasted only 27 minutes of Liverpool’s 0-0 draw with Aston Villa on Sunday as he was substituted for David Ngog after chasing a pass from Javier Mascherano. The sight of last season’s top scorer limping off the Villa Park pitch was a deeply unwelcome one for Benitez who has also seen captain Steven Gerrard sidelined due to a minor operation.

Liverpool are now anxiously awaiting the results of a scan on Monday but Torres appears almost certain to miss Spain’s World Cup qualifiers against Bosnia-Herzegovina and Armenia.

"We don't know how long Torres will be out for yet," Benitez told the club’s official website. "We'll have to wait for the results of the scan on Monday. "It could be he is out for seven to ten days, but until he has the scan we won't know."

This could turn out to be a major problem for Liverpool. With Stephen Gerrard also out injured, I'm sure Liverpool fans will praying that the Spanish striker picked up isn't to serious. With important league and Champions league fixtures coming up they really need him fit.

Liverpool must wait on Torres scan

Liverpool striker Fernando Torres will undergo a scan to determine the severity of a hamstring problem, but Reds manager Rafa Benitez has hinted that the injury will only be a short-term one.(Setanta)

The Spain international lasted only 27 minutes of Liverpool’s 0-0 draw with Aston Villa on Sunday as he was substituted for David Ngog after chasing a pass from Javier Mascherano. The sight of last season’s top scorer limping off the Villa Park pitch was a deeply unwelcome one for Benitez who has also seen captain Steven Gerrard sidelined due to a minor operation.

Liverpool are now anxiously awaiting the results of a scan on Monday but Torres appears almost certain to miss Spain’s World Cup qualifiers against Bosnia-Herzegovina and Armenia.

"We don't know how long Torres will be out for yet," Benitez told the club’s official website. "We'll have to wait for the results of the scan on Monday. "It could be he is out for seven to ten days, but until he has the scan we won't know."

This could turn out to be a major problem for Liverpool. With Stephen Gerrard also out injured, I'm sure Liverpool fans will praying that the Spanish striker picked up isn't to serious. With important league and Champions league fixtures coming up they really need him fit.

Zableta's dreams come true

Pablo Zableta admitted it was a dream come true to sign for Manchester City .The Argentina defender completed his £6.5million switch from Espanyol today.(the sun)

And Zabaleta, 23, said: "I am very happy to come here and play in the Premier League. "Playing in England has been a lifelong dream which has finally come true by moving to City. "I'd met Mark Hughes previously and was really impressed with him but having talked to him about Manchester City I had to come here and be part of his plans. "I'm very confident of helping the first team to achieve their goals for the season and after walking around the stadium I can't wait to play in front of the City fans there. It is very impressive."

Hughes was delighted to bring the star to Eastlands. He said: "We feel the addition of Pablo is another great signing for Manchester City. "He's young and a winner, with an Olympic gold medal to prove that, but more so he will provide us with great balance in the side. "I'm very happy to bring him here and hopefully we can get a good result at Sunderland to round off what has been a very satisfactory week indeed for us."

Somehow I doubt Zabeleta has ever even heard of Man city. I think a player of his calibere would have to be out of their mind to join Man city in their current state.

Zableta's dreams come true

Pablo Zableta admitted it was a dream come true to sign for Manchester City .The Argentina defender completed his £6.5million switch from Espanyol today.(the sun)

And Zabaleta, 23, said: "I am very happy to come here and play in the Premier League. "Playing in England has been a lifelong dream which has finally come true by moving to City. "I'd met Mark Hughes previously and was really impressed with him but having talked to him about Manchester City I had to come here and be part of his plans. "I'm very confident of helping the first team to achieve their goals for the season and after walking around the stadium I can't wait to play in front of the City fans there. It is very impressive."

Hughes was delighted to bring the star to Eastlands. He said: "We feel the addition of Pablo is another great signing for Manchester City. "He's young and a winner, with an Olympic gold medal to prove that, but more so he will provide us with great balance in the side. "I'm very happy to bring him here and hopefully we can get a good result at Sunderland to round off what has been a very satisfactory week indeed for us."

Somehow I doubt Zabeleta has ever even heard of Man city. I think a player of his calibere would have to be out of their mind to join Man city in their current state.

Spurs prepare £12 million bid for former Gunner

Tottenham are preparing a £12 million bid for Portsmouth midfielder Lassana Diarra. The former Arsenal ace could be set to exit Fratton Park after Portsmouth boss Harry Redknapp was told he needs to sell to lessen the club's financial problems. (The People)

Diarra, 23, has been one of Pompey's top performers in recent months and inspired the club to their first major trophy in 90 years, when they won the FA Cup last season. Spurs boss Juande Ramos is keen to add to his midfield options before the transfer window closes on Monday night and Diarra is high on his list.

Diarra has 14 caps for the France national team and It would be a real shame to see Diarra leave Portsmouth, so soon after joining them. Since his move to Fratton Park in January from Arsenal he has become a firm fan favourite and I am sure every Pompey fan will be devastated if he does join Tottenham.

Spurs want to sign him, but do you? If so, he only costs £4 million in this seasons "You the Manager" and at that price he must be a bargain. Sign-up now (below) to receive two teams for the price of one and be in with a chance to win the September prize of £10,000.

Spurs prepare £12 million bid for former Gunner

Tottenham are preparing a £12 million bid for Portsmouth midfielder Lassana Diarra. The former Arsenal ace could be set to exit Fratton Park after Portsmouth boss Harry Redknapp was told he needs to sell to lessen the club's financial problems. (The People)

Diarra, 23, has been one of Pompey's top performers in recent months and inspired the club to their first major trophy in 90 years, when they won the FA Cup last season. Spurs boss Juande Ramos is keen to add to his midfield options before the transfer window closes on Monday night and Diarra is high on his list.

Diarra has 14 caps for the France national team and It would be a real shame to see Diarra leave Portsmouth, so soon after joining them. Since his move to Fratton Park in January from Arsenal he has become a firm fan favourite and I am sure every Pompey fan will be devastated if he does join Tottenham.

Spurs want to sign him, but do you? If so, he only costs £4 million in this seasons "You the Manager" and at that price he must be a bargain. Sign-up now (below) to receive two teams for the price of one and be in with a chance to win the September prize of £10,000.

Arsenal, Liverpool and Everton miss out on England midfielder

Manchetser City midfielder Michael Johnson is set to sign a new contract at Eastlands after a summer filled with speculation over his future. Arsenal, Liverpool and Everton were all keen to lure him away from the City of Manchester stadium but in the end he has chosen to stay with Mark Hughes' men.

The England under-21 international is set to sign a new £50,000 a week deal at the club at which he has progressed through the ranks. He has become an integral part of the Man City first team and I am sure this news will come as a huge relief to Mark Hughes who was extremely keen to hold onto the 20-year old.

As a City fan myself, I have to say I am thrilled with this news. Johnson has been superb the past 18 months and I feel it is crucial that we hold onto our best players. I think this is the right decision by Johnson because if he had of joined, let's say Arsenal, he would not of been guaranteed a first team place every week.

Could this be the perfect time to sign the highly rated youngster for your team. Then sign-up for the Daily Mirror's, "You the Manager" (below) and buy Johnson for just £3.5 million. Join now and enter your team to challenge for the September monthly prize of £10,000. When you sign up you receive two teams for the price of one.

Arsenal, Liverpool and Everton miss out on England midfielder

Manchetser City midfielder Michael Johnson is set to sign a new contract at Eastlands after a summer filled with speculation over his future. Arsenal, Liverpool and Everton were all keen to lure him away from the City of Manchester stadium but in the end he has chosen to stay with Mark Hughes' men.

The England under-21 international is set to sign a new £50,000 a week deal at the club at which he has progressed through the ranks. He has become an integral part of the Man City first team and I am sure this news will come as a huge relief to Mark Hughes who was extremely keen to hold onto the 20-year old.

As a City fan myself, I have to say I am thrilled with this news. Johnson has been superb the past 18 months and I feel it is crucial that we hold onto our best players. I think this is the right decision by Johnson because if he had of joined, let's say Arsenal, he would not of been guaranteed a first team place every week.

Could this be the perfect time to sign the highly rated youngster for your team. Then sign-up for the Daily Mirror's, "You the Manager" (below) and buy Johnson for just £3.5 million. Join now and enter your team to challenge for the September monthly prize of £10,000. When you sign up you receive two teams for the price of one.

Spurs and United set for battle over striker... and it's not Berbatov

Manchester United and Tottenham are set for another battle over a striker. This time it is about Newcastle striker Michael Owen who has today been linked with an possible exit from St James' Park and both Sir Alex Ferguson and Juande Ramos are keen to offer him that exit route. (Sunday Mirror)

The England international is apparently about to reject a new contract offer from Newcastle of £120,000 a week in favour of a move to Old Trafford or White Hart Lane. With Spurs and United both in the market for a new front man, it makes sense that Michael Owen's name is mentioned.

This possible transfer all depends on one man. Dimitar Berbatov. If Berbatov joins United, I feel Owen will sign for Spurs, but if Berbatov stays at Spurs then I could see Owen making the move south to Manchester. Will either of these players make it into your team? Sign Owen for just £6.5 million and Berbatov for £7.5 million below.

With the transfer deadline nearing a close, make sure you stay tuned to Football Corner for all the latest gossip and deals to go through.

Spurs and United set for battle over striker... and it's not Berbatov

Manchester United and Tottenham are set for another battle over a striker. This time it is about Newcastle striker Michael Owen who has today been linked with an possible exit from St James' Park and both Sir Alex Ferguson and Juande Ramos are keen to offer him that exit route. (Sunday Mirror)

The England international is apparently about to reject a new contract offer from Newcastle of £120,000 a week in favour of a move to Old Trafford or White Hart Lane. With Spurs and United both in the market for a new front man, it makes sense that Michael Owen's name is mentioned.

This possible transfer all depends on one man. Dimitar Berbatov. If Berbatov joins United, I feel Owen will sign for Spurs, but if Berbatov stays at Spurs then I could see Owen making the move south to Manchester. Will either of these players make it into your team? Sign Owen for just £6.5 million and Berbatov for £7.5 million below.

With the transfer deadline nearing a close, make sure you stay tuned to Football Corner for all the latest gossip and deals to go through.

Premier League : Bet of the Day

After yesterday's success with my Premier League Bet of the Day, I am hoping I will follow it up with another cracking bet today. The bet I have chosen today comes from the Aston Villa V Liverpool match which sees Gareth Barry face the side he was oh so close to joining.

With that in mind, I have gone for Barry to score at any time in the match at a very generous 13/2 @ Paddy Power. Be sure to watch Barry bang in a goal for Martin O'Neill's men at 4.00 on Sky Sports 1 today.

Premier League : Bet of the Day

After yesterday's success with my Premier League Bet of the Day, I am hoping I will follow it up with another cracking bet today. The bet I have chosen today comes from the Aston Villa V Liverpool match which sees Gareth Barry face the side he was oh so close to joining.

With that in mind, I have gone for Barry to score at any time in the match at a very generous 13/2 @ Paddy Power. Be sure to watch Barry bang in a goal for Martin O'Neill's men at 4.00 on Sky Sports 1 today.

Berbatov will join United

According to a recent poll run on Football Corner, we asked you wheter or not you think Tottenham striker Dimitar Berbatov will join Manchester United. With only two days to go before the transfer deadline, you the readers, feel Berbatov will indeed join United.

Here are the results of the poll:

Yes (Berbatov will join United) 55% (157 votes)
No (Berbatov will not join United) 45% (125 votes)

I would like to thank everyone who voted and I would urge everyone to stay tuned to Football Corner over the coming days where we will have in-depth coverage of the latest deals and rumours in the world of football.

Berbatov will join United

According to a recent poll run on Football Corner, we asked you wheter or not you think Tottenham striker Dimitar Berbatov will join Manchester United. With only two days to go before the transfer deadline, you the readers, feel Berbatov will indeed join United.

Here are the results of the poll:

Yes (Berbatov will join United) 55% (157 votes)
No (Berbatov will not join United) 45% (125 votes)

I would like to thank everyone who voted and I would urge everyone to stay tuned to Football Corner over the coming days where we will have in-depth coverage of the latest deals and rumours in the world of football.

Spurs midfielder on his way to Celtic

Celtic are preparing a move for Tottenham midfielder Kevin Prince-Boateng. The former Hertha Berlin midfielder has struggled since moving to White Hart Lane two years ago and it is understood that Juande Ramos is keen to offload him before the window closes on Monday.

The 21-year old has only made 13 league appearances since joining Spurs and he is also keen to exit the club as soon as possible. Celtic boss Gordon Strachan is hoping to sign the German under-21 international on a one year loan deal with a view to a permanent deal.

I would be extremely surprised to still see Boateng at Tottenham on Tuesday morning. I feel Ramos will ask for the move to be permanent straight away in order to get some money in to fund moves for other targets. On a funnier note, Boateng has 13 tattoos.

Spurs midfielder on his way to Celtic

Celtic are preparing a move for Tottenham midfielder Kevin Prince-Boateng. The former Hertha Berlin midfielder has struggled since moving to White Hart Lane two years ago and it is understood that Juande Ramos is keen to offload him before the window closes on Monday.

The 21-year old has only made 13 league appearances since joining Spurs and he is also keen to exit the club as soon as possible. Celtic boss Gordon Strachan is hoping to sign the German under-21 international on a one year loan deal with a view to a permanent deal.

I would be extremely surprised to still see Boateng at Tottenham on Tuesday morning. I feel Ramos will ask for the move to be permanent straight away in order to get some money in to fund moves for other targets. On a funnier note, Boateng has 13 tattoos.

Gunners cruise past Newcastle as Van Persie stars

Arsenal cruised past Newcastle United at the Emirates today with Robin Van Persie bagging two of the goals. The Gunners came into the game on the back of a defeat to Fulham last weekend and it was clear from the off they were keen to make-up for last weekend.

Arsene Wenger's men could have had a penalty as early as the two minute mark when Fabrico Collocini brought down Van Persie in the box only for Rob Styles to wave to appeals away. Arsenal were awarded a penalty eighteen minutes in when Charles N'Zogbia deliberatly handled the ball, with Van Persie stepping up to slot the ball to the left of Shay Given.

Arsenal continued to impress and they bagged there second just before the break when, once again Van Persie firing home after a neat bit of play from Emmanuel Eboue. That goal put the game beyond Newcastle and Kevin Keegan's men never really threatened, if fact it was Arsenal who continued to impress.

Denilson netted the Gunners third fifteen minutes into the second-half, getting on the end of some terrific play between Samir Nasri and Emmanuel Adebayor. Newcastle' Joey Barton came on for the first time this season for the last few minutes and was not surprisingly booed every time he touched the ball.

Elsewhere it finished : Bolton 0-0 West Brom, Everton 0-3 Portsmouth, Hull City 0-5 Wigan, Middlesbrough 2-1 Stoke City, West Ham 4-1 Blackburn.

Maybe it's time to sign Robin Van Persie for your team. Sign the Dutch striker for just £6.5 million in the Daily Mirror's, "You the Manager" (below) and receive two teams for the price of one.

Gunners cruise past Newcastle as Van Persie stars

Arsenal cruised past Newcastle United at the Emirates today with Robin Van Persie bagging two of the goals. The Gunners came into the game on the back of a defeat to Fulham last weekend and it was clear from the off they were keen to make-up for last weekend.

Arsene Wenger's men could have had a penalty as early as the two minute mark when Fabrico Collocini brought down Van Persie in the box only for Rob Styles to wave to appeals away. Arsenal were awarded a penalty eighteen minutes in when Charles N'Zogbia deliberatly handled the ball, with Van Persie stepping up to slot the ball to the left of Shay Given.

Arsenal continued to impress and they bagged there second just before the break when, once again Van Persie firing home after a neat bit of play from Emmanuel Eboue. That goal put the game beyond Newcastle and Kevin Keegan's men never really threatened, if fact it was Arsenal who continued to impress.

Denilson netted the Gunners third fifteen minutes into the second-half, getting on the end of some terrific play between Samir Nasri and Emmanuel Adebayor. Newcastle' Joey Barton came on for the first time this season for the last few minutes and was not surprisingly booed every time he touched the ball.

Elsewhere it finished : Bolton 0-0 West Brom, Everton 0-3 Portsmouth, Hull City 0-5 Wigan, Middlesbrough 2-1 Stoke City, West Ham 4-1 Blackburn.

Maybe it's time to sign Robin Van Persie for your team. Sign the Dutch striker for just £6.5 million in the Daily Mirror's, "You the Manager" (below) and receive two teams for the price of one.

Saha joins Everton

Alex Ferguson has saved Manchester United nearly £7million in wages by letting Louis Saha leave for NOTHING. Saha, 30, will sign a two-year deal with Everton if he passes his Goodison Park medical today. Despite shelling out £12.8m for Saha in January 2004, United have ripped up the final two years of the French striker’s £65,000-a-week contract after a host of injury problems.

But Everton boss David Moyes insists the former Fulham hitman can prove a hit if he ends his injury nightmare. Moyes said: “Louis is a good centre-forward who has a bit of everything. “He can run, head the ball and score goals and he has not cost us any money. “There will be some money after he’s played some games, but there is no initial outlay and he has to play before we pay.”

Saha started just 52 Premier League games at Old Trafford but still netted 28 top-flight goals. Moyes added: “If I can get Louis out there 20 times a season, that would give us a chance of winning 20 games.”

I think Man United did the right thing letting Saha go. They lost more money then they gained for the player. Its unfortunate that he was so injury prone but who knows a fresh start at Everton may be just what he needs.

Saha joins Everton

Alex Ferguson has saved Manchester United nearly £7million in wages by letting Louis Saha leave for NOTHING. Saha, 30, will sign a two-year deal with Everton if he passes his Goodison Park medical today. Despite shelling out £12.8m for Saha in January 2004, United have ripped up the final two years of the French striker’s £65,000-a-week contract after a host of injury problems.

But Everton boss David Moyes insists the former Fulham hitman can prove a hit if he ends his injury nightmare. Moyes said: “Louis is a good centre-forward who has a bit of everything. “He can run, head the ball and score goals and he has not cost us any money. “There will be some money after he’s played some games, but there is no initial outlay and he has to play before we pay.”

Saha started just 52 Premier League games at Old Trafford but still netted 28 top-flight goals. Moyes added: “If I can get Louis out there 20 times a season, that would give us a chance of winning 20 games.”

I think Man United did the right thing letting Saha go. They lost more money then they gained for the player. Its unfortunate that he was so injury prone but who knows a fresh start at Everton may be just what he needs.

Woodgate: Berbatov has betrayed us

Johnathon Woodgate has accused Dimitar Berbatov of betraying his team-mates. The Spurs striker is desperate to join Manchester United. And last night both clubs were inching closer to a £28million deal. (the sun)

But Spurs centre-back Woodgate rapped: “What he’s done doesn’t give out a great message to the supporters, if I’m honest. "The boys are working twice as hard for each other. If it was me, I would do it differently. “I would work hard for the club up until I actually left. I’d still be playing until I was leaving. "Even if I didn’t want to be somewhere I would still give 100 per cent because that’s the way I was brought up.”

The transfer looked deadlocked over the last few weeks, with United refusing to budge from their £25m offer and Tottenham refusing to accept anything below £30m. There were even reports from Germany yesterday that Bayern Munich were ready to exploit the stalemate with a late offer.

Tensions between the two clubs erupted when United boss Alex Ferguson gloated that Berbatov was on his way. That sparked Tottenham to make an official complaint to the Premier League. But United chief executive David Gill has spoken to Spurs officials over the last 48 hours in Monaco and a compromise seems to be on the horizon. The £28m deal being thrashed out looks likely to rise to £30m depending on how successful the Bulgarian is at Old Trafford.

I totally agree with Woodgate. I think Berbatov has betrayed his team-mates, the fans and most importantly the club that put him in the position he is in today. I think he has to go for the sake of both parties.

Roman Pavlyuchenko was granted his work permit yesterday after Spurs agreed a £12million fee with Spartak Moscow. The transfer looks set to go through if he passes a medical in London today.

Woodgate: Berbatov has betrayed us

Johnathon Woodgate has accused Dimitar Berbatov of betraying his team-mates. The Spurs striker is desperate to join Manchester United. And last night both clubs were inching closer to a £28million deal. (the sun)

But Spurs centre-back Woodgate rapped: “What he’s done doesn’t give out a great message to the supporters, if I’m honest. "The boys are working twice as hard for each other. If it was me, I would do it differently. “I would work hard for the club up until I actually left. I’d still be playing until I was leaving. "Even if I didn’t want to be somewhere I would still give 100 per cent because that’s the way I was brought up.”

The transfer looked deadlocked over the last few weeks, with United refusing to budge from their £25m offer and Tottenham refusing to accept anything below £30m. There were even reports from Germany yesterday that Bayern Munich were ready to exploit the stalemate with a late offer.

Tensions between the two clubs erupted when United boss Alex Ferguson gloated that Berbatov was on his way. That sparked Tottenham to make an official complaint to the Premier League. But United chief executive David Gill has spoken to Spurs officials over the last 48 hours in Monaco and a compromise seems to be on the horizon. The £28m deal being thrashed out looks likely to rise to £30m depending on how successful the Bulgarian is at Old Trafford.

I totally agree with Woodgate. I think Berbatov has betrayed his team-mates, the fans and most importantly the club that put him in the position he is in today. I think he has to go for the sake of both parties.

Roman Pavlyuchenko was granted his work permit yesterday after Spurs agreed a £12million fee with Spartak Moscow. The transfer looks set to go through if he passes a medical in London today.

Carling Cup 3rd round draw

Im fairly sure nobody cares about this pointless tournament, but just in case you do here is the third round draw. My tie of the round would be holders Tottenham away to Newcastle United. Somehow I don't see Spurs retaining the Carling cup.

THIRD ROUND DRAW

Arsenal v Sheffield United

Brighton or Manchester City v Derby

Burnley v Fulham

Portsmouth v Chelsea

Blackburn v Everton

Rotherham v Southampton

Swansea v Cardiff

Ipswich v Wigan

Stoke v Reading

Leeds v Hartlepool

Watford v West Ham

Manchester United v Middlesbrough

Liverpool v Crewe

Aston Villa v QPR

Sunderland v Northampton

Newcastle v Tottenham

(Ties to be played on the week commencing September 22.)

Carling Cup 3rd round draw

Im fairly sure nobody cares about this pointless tournament, but just in case you do here is the third round draw. My tie of the round would be holders Tottenham away to Newcastle United. Somehow I don't see Spurs retaining the Carling cup.

THIRD ROUND DRAW

Arsenal v Sheffield United

Brighton or Manchester City v Derby

Burnley v Fulham

Portsmouth v Chelsea

Blackburn v Everton

Rotherham v Southampton

Swansea v Cardiff

Ipswich v Wigan

Stoke v Reading

Leeds v Hartlepool

Watford v West Ham

Manchester United v Middlesbrough

Liverpool v Crewe

Aston Villa v QPR

Sunderland v Northampton

Newcastle v Tottenham

(Ties to be played on the week commencing September 22.)

City make £7 million bid for United striker

Hull City have today made a £7 million bid for Manchester United striker Frazier Campbell. The England under-21 international spent much of last season on loan at the KC Stadium but now City boss Phill Brown is eager to sign Campbell on a permanent deal.

The 20-year old started United's first game of the new season at home to Newcastle, stuggling to make a huge impact. It is understood that United boss Sir Alex Ferguson will only let Campbell go if he finds a replacement for him before the close of the window on Monday.

With Saha already out the door at Old Trafford, I feel this deal will only go through if Dimitar Berbatov arrives at the club. If United were to let Campbell go they would only be left with Rooney and Tevez as their two recognised strikers.

I personally think Campbell and indeed Hull will benefit from this move. Campbell would be guaranteed first team football every week and Hull will have a top young striker to help keep them in the Premier League. One word of caution though, I think £7 million is a massive price to be paying for someone who hasn't got much Premier League experience.

City make £7 million bid for United striker

Hull City have today made a £7 million bid for Manchester United striker Frazier Campbell. The England under-21 international spent much of last season on loan at the KC Stadium but now City boss Phill Brown is eager to sign Campbell on a permanent deal.

The 20-year old started United's first game of the new season at home to Newcastle, stuggling to make a huge impact. It is understood that United boss Sir Alex Ferguson will only let Campbell go if he finds a replacement for him before the close of the window on Monday.

With Saha already out the door at Old Trafford, I feel this deal will only go through if Dimitar Berbatov arrives at the club. If United were to let Campbell go they would only be left with Rooney and Tevez as their two recognised strikers.

I personally think Campbell and indeed Hull will benefit from this move. Campbell would be guaranteed first team football every week and Hull will have a top young striker to help keep them in the Premier League. One word of caution though, I think £7 million is a massive price to be paying for someone who hasn't got much Premier League experience.

Premier League : Bet of the Day

This week's Premier League Bet of the Day is a bit different. Instead of just picking a first goalscorer or a correct score, I have decided to go for the game with the most goals in it (3 o'clock kick-off's).

I feel today's game at the KC Stadium has to potential to be a six-goal thriller so that is why I have gone for the Hull V Wigan match @ 7/2 @ Paddy Power. That's got to be worth a few quid. Be sure to stay tuned tomorrow's Bet of the Day.

Premier League : Bet of the Day

This week's Premier League Bet of the Day is a bit different. Instead of just picking a first goalscorer or a correct score, I have decided to go for the game with the most goals in it (3 o'clock kick-off's).

I feel today's game at the KC Stadium has to potential to be a six-goal thriller so that is why I have gone for the Hull V Wigan match @ 7/2 @ Paddy Power. That's got to be worth a few quid. Be sure to stay tuned tomorrow's Bet of the Day.

The most on-off transfer saga of the summer is now officially off as Spurs miss out

This transfer saga has been rumbling on ever since the end of the European Championships in July. Tottenham's lengthy pursuit of Zenit St Petersburg striker Andrei Arshavin is now officially off after the Zenit boss Dick Advocaat admitted Spurs were £6 million short with their bid.

The Russian international claimed last week that he had agreed terms with Spurs and now it was just a case between the two clubs to agree a fee for his services. The 27-year old was valued at £22 million by the Russian giants but Spurs boss Juande Ramos was only willing to spend £16 million.

Advocaat was quoted as saying "Tottenham offered £16m and that's not enough, so that's the end of it.""They (Tottenham) had several weeks of time to buy him and they did not offer £22m like everybody has been writing, but just £16m,". "I think that Arshavin costs more than £16m."

This is obviously bad news for Spurs fans and even Premier League fans because I feel Arshavin would of been a tremendous addition to both. His skill on the ball is second to none and the way in which he runs at defences is top class. Maybe Spurs will now have to go out and sign an Ashton or a Huntelaar.

The most on-off transfer saga of the summer is now officially off as Spurs miss out

This transfer saga has been rumbling on ever since the end of the European Championships in July. Tottenham's lengthy pursuit of Zenit St Petersburg striker Andrei Arshavin is now officially off after the Zenit boss Dick Advocaat admitted Spurs were £6 million short with their bid.

The Russian international claimed last week that he had agreed terms with Spurs and now it was just a case between the two clubs to agree a fee for his services. The 27-year old was valued at £22 million by the Russian giants but Spurs boss Juande Ramos was only willing to spend £16 million.

Advocaat was quoted as saying "Tottenham offered £16m and that's not enough, so that's the end of it.""They (Tottenham) had several weeks of time to buy him and they did not offer £22m like everybody has been writing, but just £16m,". "I think that Arshavin costs more than £16m."

This is obviously bad news for Spurs fans and even Premier League fans because I feel Arshavin would of been a tremendous addition to both. His skill on the ball is second to none and the way in which he runs at defences is top class. Maybe Spurs will now have to go out and sign an Ashton or a Huntelaar.

Scholes tries the "Hand of God" and recieves his marching orders

Paul Scholes tonight attempted the "Hand of God" and succeed in getting sent off. The former England international had already been booked at the time when he hand balled the ball into the Zenit St Petersburg net.

Manchester United were trailing at the time when Scholes attempted, what Diego Maradona did against England all them years ago, The Hand of God. It was simply stupid. The referee had a clear view of the incident and rightly gave Scholes his marching orders with his second yellow card.

Paul Scholes will now miss United's first Champions League group game against Villarreal next month. It was a good finished by the Ginger Magician but unfortunately he was sent off. Anyway, will you trust Paul Scholes to star in your fantasy football team. Sign Scholes for just £4.5 million in the Daily Mirror's "You the Manager" below.

Scholes tries the "Hand of God" and recieves his marching orders

Paul Scholes tonight attempted the "Hand of God" and succeed in getting sent off. The former England international had already been booked at the time when he hand balled the ball into the Zenit St Petersburg net.

Manchester United were trailing at the time when Scholes attempted, what Diego Maradona did against England all them years ago, The Hand of God. It was simply stupid. The referee had a clear view of the incident and rightly gave Scholes his marching orders with his second yellow card.

Paul Scholes will now miss United's first Champions League group game against Villarreal next month. It was a good finished by the Ginger Magician but unfortunately he was sent off. Anyway, will you trust Paul Scholes to star in your fantasy football team. Sign Scholes for just £4.5 million in the Daily Mirror's "You the Manager" below.

Fergie hits out at Tottenham

Alex Ferguson has slammed Tottenham for dragging their heels over the sale of Dimitar Berbatov and admits: I’ve no idea if he will sign. Manchester United boss Ferguson has made three bids in a year for Berbatov, the last £25million, but Spurs are holding out for £30m.

A furious Ferguson told the sun: “I’m less optimistic today. I’ve no idea what is going on. "It is hard to communicate with some people in this life. We just have to get on with it.”

Spurs will be more likely to do business now having signed Roman Pavlyuchenko for £12m from Spartak Moscow. But the Londoners are determined to play hardball and have reported United to the Premier League for what they claim to be tapping up. Berba, 27, has handed in a transfer request. And last night White Hart Lane legend David Ginola insisted the striker should be allowed to leave.

The Frenchman said: “The problem for Berbatov is that he is playing for Spurs and they are not fighting for the title. They are not fighting for any place in the Champions League. “He is a young player who has propositions from big clubs and he wants to play at the top. “Players have more freedom nowadays. There is no point asking a player to play for you if he is not happy.”

I think Ferguson has every right to be angry with Tottenham for dragging this Transfer out. It is clear that Berbatovr does not wish to play for the club anymore, he has already signed a Man United shirt! I think Tottenham just need to let him go.

Fergie hits out at Tottenham

Alex Ferguson has slammed Tottenham for dragging their heels over the sale of Dimitar Berbatov and admits: I’ve no idea if he will sign. Manchester United boss Ferguson has made three bids in a year for Berbatov, the last £25million, but Spurs are holding out for £30m.

A furious Ferguson told the sun: “I’m less optimistic today. I’ve no idea what is going on. "It is hard to communicate with some people in this life. We just have to get on with it.”

Spurs will be more likely to do business now having signed Roman Pavlyuchenko for £12m from Spartak Moscow. But the Londoners are determined to play hardball and have reported United to the Premier League for what they claim to be tapping up. Berba, 27, has handed in a transfer request. And last night White Hart Lane legend David Ginola insisted the striker should be allowed to leave.

The Frenchman said: “The problem for Berbatov is that he is playing for Spurs and they are not fighting for the title. They are not fighting for any place in the Champions League. “He is a young player who has propositions from big clubs and he wants to play at the top. “Players have more freedom nowadays. There is no point asking a player to play for you if he is not happy.”

I think Ferguson has every right to be angry with Tottenham for dragging this Transfer out. It is clear that Berbatovr does not wish to play for the club anymore, he has already signed a Man United shirt! I think Tottenham just need to let him go.

Scolari left in the dark over Robinho transfer

Phil Scolari is still waiting for the call to tell him Robinho is on his way to Chelsea.Blues chief executive Peter Kenyon is confident the Brazilian ace will move to Stamford Bridge from Real Madrid before the transfer window closes.But Madrid are keen to keep hold of their man and Scolari admits he is powerless to do anything about it.(the sun)

Big Phil said: "I don't know about Robinho because it is not my job to enter into talks about players."I said something to Peter a month ago and they tried to bring Robinho here but my job is on the pitch."If they can bring him here it will be down to board meetings and I have to think about Tottenham on Sunday, not about whether players have come or have not come."I don't know anything because I have not spoken to Peter for the last two days."

Scolari has only signed Deco since succeeding Avram Grant but the Blues boss has always had his sights set on Robinho.He added: "Robinho is a very good player and it is not only me that wants him, all the coaches in the world do too."But at the moment what is happening on the pitch is the only important thing for me."For my players to play well against Tottenham is what matters."

Another very boring transfer saga that seems to have dragged on and on. I think it is inevitable Robinho will sign for Chelsea in a matter of days.

Scolari left in the dark over Robinho transfer

Phil Scolari is still waiting for the call to tell him Robinho is on his way to Chelsea.Blues chief executive Peter Kenyon is confident the Brazilian ace will move to Stamford Bridge from Real Madrid before the transfer window closes.But Madrid are keen to keep hold of their man and Scolari admits he is powerless to do anything about it.(the sun)

Big Phil said: "I don't know about Robinho because it is not my job to enter into talks about players."I said something to Peter a month ago and they tried to bring Robinho here but my job is on the pitch."If they can bring him here it will be down to board meetings and I have to think about Tottenham on Sunday, not about whether players have come or have not come."I don't know anything because I have not spoken to Peter for the last two days."

Scolari has only signed Deco since succeeding Avram Grant but the Blues boss has always had his sights set on Robinho.He added: "Robinho is a very good player and it is not only me that wants him, all the coaches in the world do too."But at the moment what is happening on the pitch is the only important thing for me."For my players to play well against Tottenham is what matters."

Another very boring transfer saga that seems to have dragged on and on. I think it is inevitable Robinho will sign for Chelsea in a matter of days.

United rocked by injury to midfielder

Manchester United have today been rocked by the news that midfielder Owen Hargreaves has aggravated a previous knee injury. The England international hasn't appeared this season for the Premier League Champions due to the injury and it would appear now he is set for a lengthier spell on the sidelines.

Hargreaves, 27, was due to play 45 minutes in tonight's European Super Cup against Zenit St Petersburg in Monaco. The former Bayern Munich midfielder joined United last summer for a fee believed to be £18 million and has since then won the Premier League and Champions League.

It is really disappointing to see Hargreaves pick up yet another injury. I personally feel he has been a tremendous signing by Sir Alex Ferguson and I am sure all United fans will be devastated to see him injured again. This also rules him out of England's upcoming World Cup qualifiers.

United rocked by injury to midfielder

Manchester United have today been rocked by the news that midfielder Owen Hargreaves has aggravated a previous knee injury. The England international hasn't appeared this season for the Premier League Champions due to the injury and it would appear now he is set for a lengthier spell on the sidelines.

Hargreaves, 27, was due to play 45 minutes in tonight's European Super Cup against Zenit St Petersburg in Monaco. The former Bayern Munich midfielder joined United last summer for a fee believed to be £18 million and has since then won the Premier League and Champions League.

It is really disappointing to see Hargreaves pick up yet another injury. I personally feel he has been a tremendous signing by Sir Alex Ferguson and I am sure all United fans will be devastated to see him injured again. This also rules him out of England's upcoming World Cup qualifiers.

Spurs prepare £15 million bid for Gunners target

Tottenham are eyeing up a possible £15 million move for Sporting Lisbon midfielder Miguel Veloso. The Portuguese international has been linked with a move to the Premier League all summer, with Arsenal and Manchester United also believed to be interested. (The Guardian)

Veloso, 22, has been in the Sporting first team for the past two years after progressing through the club's highly aclaimed youth system, the same youth academy which Manchester United's Cristiano Ronaldo progressed from.

Veloso has seven caps for portugal and is widely regarded as one of Europe's most promising midfield players. Spurs boss Juande Ramos is keen to add one ore two more faces to his Spurs squad before the close of the transfer window on Monday and Veloso is understood to be one of his top targets.

I personally feel Veloso would be an incredible signing for Spurs. I have always thought Spurs lacked a quality holding midfield player, Zokora has done ok there, but the signing of Veloso would sure up the Spurs midfield. I think £15 million represents good value for money considering how much potential the player has.

Spurs prepare £15 million bid for Gunners target

Tottenham are eyeing up a possible £15 million move for Sporting Lisbon midfielder Miguel Veloso. The Portuguese international has been linked with a move to the Premier League all summer, with Arsenal and Manchester United also believed to be interested. (The Guardian)

Veloso, 22, has been in the Sporting first team for the past two years after progressing through the club's highly aclaimed youth system, the same youth academy which Manchester United's Cristiano Ronaldo progressed from.

Veloso has seven caps for portugal and is widely regarded as one of Europe's most promising midfield players. Spurs boss Juande Ramos is keen to add one ore two more faces to his Spurs squad before the close of the transfer window on Monday and Veloso is understood to be one of his top targets.

I personally feel Veloso would be an incredible signing for Spurs. I have always thought Spurs lacked a quality holding midfield player, Zokora has done ok there, but the signing of Veloso would sure up the Spurs midfield. I think £15 million represents good value for money considering how much potential the player has.

Spurs to complete deal to sign £12 million striker

Tottenham are on the verge of completing a £12 million deal to sign Spartak Moscow striker Roman Pavlyuchenko. The Russian ace impressed during his country's run the the semi-finals of this summer's European Championships leading Juande Ramos to splash the cash on the 25-year old.

Pavlyuchenko flew into London this morning after receiving his visa to travel to the country, where he should tie up the loose ends of his deal to join the Premier League side. It had been speculated that his Russian team-mate Andrei Arshavin would join him at White Hart Lane but that deal appears dead in the water now.

I feel Pavlyuchenko will prove to be a tremendous signing for the North London club. With Dimitar Berbatov likely to join Manchester United, I think it was vital for Juande Ramos to have another striker lined up and I personally feel Pavlyuchenko will become a Spurs fan favourite within weeks.

Spurs to complete deal to sign £12 million striker

Tottenham are on the verge of completing a £12 million deal to sign Spartak Moscow striker Roman Pavlyuchenko. The Russian ace impressed during his country's run the the semi-finals of this summer's European Championships leading Juande Ramos to splash the cash on the 25-year old.

Pavlyuchenko flew into London this morning after receiving his visa to travel to the country, where he should tie up the loose ends of his deal to join the Premier League side. It had been speculated that his Russian team-mate Andrei Arshavin would join him at White Hart Lane but that deal appears dead in the water now.

I feel Pavlyuchenko will prove to be a tremendous signing for the North London club. With Dimitar Berbatov likely to join Manchester United, I think it was vital for Juande Ramos to have another striker lined up and I personally feel Pavlyuchenko will become a Spurs fan favourite within weeks.

Berbatov move to United becomes even likelier as Saha leaves Old Trafford

Manchester United's chances of signing Tottenham striker Dimitar Berbatov today look greater than ever after the Premier League Champions got rid of Louis Saha to Everton. The French international has struggled during his five year spell at Old Trafford and he is now on the verge of signing for Everton.

This would seem to open the door wide open for Spurs striker Dimitar Berbatov who has been linked with United all summer. Sir Alex Ferguson yesterday admitted he is in the dark over a possible deal for the Bulgarian but now that he has got rid of one his strikers, it leads many people to believe Berbatov is close to completing a £25 million deal to join the Reds.

I would be extremely surprised not to see Berbatov sign for United before Sunday and I would be even more surprised to see Ferguson not go out and buy a new striker at all. United now only have two main strikers at the club in Rooney and Tevez and I am sure United fans will be praying another one comes in the door before the close of the window.

Berbatov move to United becomes even likelier as Saha leaves Old Trafford

Manchester United's chances of signing Tottenham striker Dimitar Berbatov today look greater than ever after the Premier League Champions got rid of Louis Saha to Everton. The French international has struggled during his five year spell at Old Trafford and he is now on the verge of signing for Everton.

This would seem to open the door wide open for Spurs striker Dimitar Berbatov who has been linked with United all summer. Sir Alex Ferguson yesterday admitted he is in the dark over a possible deal for the Bulgarian but now that he has got rid of one his strikers, it leads many people to believe Berbatov is close to completing a £25 million deal to join the Reds.

I would be extremely surprised not to see Berbatov sign for United before Sunday and I would be even more surprised to see Ferguson not go out and buy a new striker at all. United now only have two main strikers at the club in Rooney and Tevez and I am sure United fans will be praying another one comes in the door before the close of the window.

Gunners close on £12 million midfielder

Arsenal are closing on the signing of Feyenood midfielder Jonathan de Guzman after weeks of speculation about the player's future. The Dutch international has also been linked with a move to fellow Premier League side Everton in recent weeks but it would appear now Arsene Wenger has the upper hand over David Moyes.

de Guzman, 20, recently represented Holland in the Beijing Olympics and has admitted he would be interested in a move to the Emirates. "My dream clubs are Arsenal and Barcelona. If clubs of that stature are interested in you then you cannot say no," De Guzman told The Sun. "I'm certainly open to interest from Arsenal and from what I hear Feyenoord are happy to hear from them as well."

I have seen and heard great things about de Guzman and it comes as no surprise to me to see Arsene Wenger ready to splash £12 million on such a young player. de Guzman has made over 80 appearances for Feyenood during his three years at the club, scoring over a dozen goals in the process.

Gunners close on £12 million midfielder

Arsenal are closing on the signing of Feyenood midfielder Jonathan de Guzman after weeks of speculation about the player's future. The Dutch international has also been linked with a move to fellow Premier League side Everton in recent weeks but it would appear now Arsene Wenger has the upper hand over David Moyes.

de Guzman, 20, recently represented Holland in the Beijing Olympics and has admitted he would be interested in a move to the Emirates. "My dream clubs are Arsenal and Barcelona. If clubs of that stature are interested in you then you cannot say no," De Guzman told The Sun. "I'm certainly open to interest from Arsenal and from what I hear Feyenoord are happy to hear from them as well."

I have seen and heard great things about de Guzman and it comes as no surprise to me to see Arsene Wenger ready to splash £12 million on such a young player. de Guzman has made over 80 appearances for Feyenood during his three years at the club, scoring over a dozen goals in the process.