Real Madrid CF target Michael Essien keen on AC Milan move - report

Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich will reportedly reject an £18million bid from Real Madrid for Michael Essien - but the midfielder is interested in a move to AC Milan

According to The Sun, Chelsea's billionaire owner is ready to stop former Blues boss Jose Mourinho from taking the Ghana international to the Spanish capital this summer, with a source telling the newspaper that the Russian "is not going to sell."

But the Daily Mirror reports that the 28-year-old, who Mourinho took to Stamford Bridge in 2005 in a deal worth £24m, is keen on joining Milan.

The Serie A champions have been showing interest in Essien since the back end of last season, and city rivals Inter are also believed to be monitoring his availability.

And according to Wednesday's report, Essien has told friends he is open to a move to the San Siro if the price is right.

Essien's agent earlier this week denied that the midfielder was seeking a move away from Stamford Bridge, with Fabien Pivateau denying new Blues boss Andre Villas-Boas wanted to offload him.

"There's absolutely no chance of Essien leaving Chelsea," Pivateau told MTNFootball.com.

He added: "The new coach knows Essien very well having worked at the club before and he knows what Michael can do for the club.

"Michael is also focused on staying at the club because he has a very good relationship with the team's supporters, the new manager and the club owner.

"He is not leaving."

Edinson Cavani will cost Man Utd or Arsenal FC €100million claim Napoli

Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis insists Manchester United would have to pay €100MILLION to sign striker Edinson Cavani

The 24-year-old only signed a new contract with the Serie A club last month but reports have suggested clubs are still interested in signing him.

Earlier this month, Premier League champions United were believed to be considering a £25million bid for the Uruguay international as a possible replacement for Dimitar Berbatov, while Arsenal, Tottenham and Manchester City have shown interest, along with Spanish giants Real Madrid.

But De Laurentiis insists that Cavani, who is under contract with the Italians until 2016, insists any club wanting to try and lure the forward away from the club this summer will have smash the transfer record.

"They would have to revoke my president's licence if I sold Cavani for less than €100m [£89m]," he told Radio Marte.

"Plus, he would have to be annoyed as he is not worth that little.

"He is worth much more than what those in England have been writing."

De Laurentiis had earlier this year insisted he would reject any big money offers from Premier League clubs following reports that Arsenal and Man City had sent scouts to watch him in action.

Liverpool FC could let Raul Meireles join Inter Milan or Juventus FC - report

Liverpool could reportedly sell Raul Meireles this summer, with a move to Juventus or Inter Milan a possibility

Meireles is a huge favourite with many Liverpool fans but reports over the last week in Italy have suggested the 28-year-old could be sold to Juventus in a £13.5million deal.

And according to the Daily Mail, the rumours in Italy may well turn out to be true, as the Portugal international is said to be frustrated by the Merseysiders' failure to offer him a new and improved deal.

When Meireles moved to Anfield from Porto last August, he is believed to have done so on the understanding that talks over an improved contract would take place after twelve months.

But with no sign of talks taking place, both Juve and Inter Milan are interested in the midfielder.

The Reds have already been busy in the transfer market this summer, with Jordan Henderson joining the club in a £20million deal, and deals for midfielders Charlie Adam and Stewart Downing believed to be close.

To help balance the books, it looks increasingly likely that the Portuguese star will be offloaded in a move which will not go down well with fans.

Ashley Cole to join Real Madrid CF and Chelsea FC to sign Fabio Coentrao?

Chelsea and Real Madrid are reportedly set to battle to sign Benfica defender Fabio Coentrao - and the transfer could lead to Ashley Cole joining the Spanish giants

Jose Mourinho's side have been trying to sign Coentrao for several weeks, but a deal has stalled over the past few days, with the two clubs unable to agree a fee.

Coentrao has on several occasions stated that he wants to quit the Portuguese club to move to the Bernabeu, with his comments getting him into trouble with his current club.

But with a move to the Spanish capital in danger of collapse, the Daily Mirror reports that new Chelsea boss Andre Villas-Boas is ready to battle with mentor Mourinho to try and sign the 23-year-old.

Coentrao has a buy-out clause in his Benfica contract worth around €30million.

And while Real have thus far been unwilling to meet that amount, Tuesday's report suggests the Blues are prepared to pay the release clause.

Should that happen and should the former Liverpool target move to London, that could lead to England international Ashley Cole leaving Stamford Bridge for Spain.

Reports at the weekend suggested the former Arsenal left-back is considering a move abroad and has signalled to ex-wife Cheryl that he is prepared to move to Spain - providing she moves with him.

Caughtoffside.com on Monday reported that Los Blancos boss Mourinho is ready to make a move for the 30-year-old, who was linked with a move to the Bernabeu last year.

And should Coentrao be heading to SW6, then the chances of that deal happening will increase.

Liverpool FC target Florent Malouda to be sold by Chelsea FC - report

Chelsea are reportedly ready to offload Florent Malouda, who has been linked with a move to Liverpool
The Daily Star reports that the 31-year-old will become the first victim of new Chelsea manager Andre Villas-Boas' clear-out at Stamford Bridge this summer.
The France international has reportedly been told he is surplus to requirements at the club as Villas-Boas looks to overhaul his squad in time for the start of the new Premier League season in August.
Malouda is one of a number of players rumoured to be heading for the exit door at Stamford Bridge this summer and Liverpool have been linked with the former Lyon player for some time.
Reports earlier this month claimed the Merseysiders were preparing an £8million bid for the wide man, who earlier this year was linked with Spanish side Hercules.
AC Milan, Inter Milan and Roma are also said to be interested in Malouda, who has twelve months remaining on his contract.

Chelsea aim to keep Didier Drogba from the clutches of Marseille

• French club president suggests club could afford Drogba
• Blues to offer striker a one-year contract extension

Chelsea intend to open talks with Didier Drogba aimed at extending the Ivorian's stay at Stamford Bridge after his former club Marseille suggested publicly they would be capable of structuring a deal to bring the veteran striker back to France.
Drogba, a £24m signing from Marseille in 2004 and a key player through the Roman Abramovich era at Stamford Bridge, will find his position at Chelsea challenged next season, with the new manager, André Villas-Boas, – who is to be presented to the media on Wednesday – still hopeful that Radamel Falcao will follow him to the Premier League from Porto. The Colombian could yet be joined by the much-coveted Brazil teenager Neymar, though Real Madrid remain the favourites to secure the 19-year-old from Santos.
Regardless of Chelsea's success in that pursuit and their interest in Anderlecht's Romelu Lukaku, Drogba is still considered a mainstay at Stamford Bridge and, as he enters the final 12 months of his contract, the club intend to offer him a one-year extension. Preparatory talks have been held with his representatives and formal negotiations are expected to commence ahead of the player's return for pre-season training next week, aimed at deflecting interest from Galatasaray and, in particular, Marseille.
Drogba has consistently stated that he would only be interested in leaving Chelsea to return to the Stade Vélodrome, where he enjoyed a successful single campaign in 2003-04 and was welcomed back as a returning hero for a Champions League group game last December.
The French club's president, Vincent Labrune, suggested on Tuesday that Marseille would be capable of funding his purchase and wages, albeit only after instigating their own player sales.
"The question would be whether in terms of salary – not a transfer fee – Marseille have the means to pay Didier Drogba for four years and the answer is 'yes'," he said. "Though only if we had some departures [from the squad]."
Yet Chelsea will apparently resist that interest, effectively meaning it would take Drogba requesting to leave Stamford Bridge for his departure to be smoothed. Interest is retained in Neymar, though Chelsea – like Manchester City – have been quick to distance themselves from suggestions made by the Santos president, Luís Alvaro de Oliveira Ribeiro, that they were among five European clubs who have agreed to meet the striker's £40.3m release clause.
Reports in Spain and Brazil had suggested Real, Barcelona, Chelsea, City and the Russian club Anzhi Makhachkala had been willing to trigger Neymar's purchase. "We don't want to sell the player but, of course, there is a release clause in his contract that can be paid," said Ribeiro.
"Five European clubs have offered to match the clause. I cannot name them because there is an agreement between Santos and the clubs, but they are the most important European clubs. They have asked to speak to the player and, obviously, we've allowed them to do so."
Chelsea made offers for Neymar last summer only to be knocked back, with Santos apparently unimpressed with their conduct at the time. "The clubs have behaved ethically this year," said Ribeiro. "They sought out Santos first and were willing to pay the clause. Last year, Chelsea's attitude was different. Their first action was to seek out the player's representatives. These clubs can come and make their offers, but if he wants to stay at Santos then he'll say no and stay at Santos."
Neymar's coach, Muricy Ramalho, has urged the forward to move to Barcelona if he intends to leave the Brazilian club, though the teenager is apparently keen to move to the Bernabéu.

Roberto Di Matteo set to return to Chelsea as assistant manager

• 41-year-old Italian sacked by West Brom in February
• Won FA Cup twice in six years' playing career at Chelsea

Roberto Di Matteo is set to return to Chelsea as No2 to André Villas-Boas when the Portuguese manager unveils his backroom staff on Wednesday morning. The Italian, who spent six years at Stamford Bridge as a player, is the Portuguese's surprise choice as his assistant.
Di Matteo has been out of work since his sacking as West Bromwich Albion manager in February. The 41-year-old was dismissed despite having led the West Midlands side back into the Premier League from the Championship at the first time of asking. The Italian has been on gardening leave since, but is now expected to return to football as Chelsea's No2 as Villas-Boas reshapes the coaching set-up at Stamford Bridge.
The Portuguese is bringing two compatriots, José Mario Rocha and Daniel Sousa, with him from Porto to act as his physical fitness coach and chief opposition scout respectively but his initial hopes of being joined by Vitor Pereira in London were dashed when his former assistant was appointed as his successor.
Di Matteo is best remembered at Stamford Bridge for scoring his side's opening goal, after only 42 seconds, in the 1997 FA Cup final against Middlesbrough,and he was also a scorer in the 1998 League Cup final against the same opponents and, in 2000, against Aston Villa in the FA Cup final at Wembley. He also won the European Cup Winners' Cup and Uefa Super Cup while at the club before a triple leg fracture suffered against the Swiss club St Gallen in a Uefa Cup tie in September 2000 forced his retirement from the game at the age of 30.
His appointment as a No2 is eye-catching given that Di Matteo's experience as a player and as a manager is arguably more extensive than that of Villas-Boas, although he has spent less time working in a domestic top flight.
He finished third in League One as manager of MK Dons in 2009 before taking over at West Bromwich Albion, with whom he finished second in the Championship a year later.
It remains to be seen whether another former Chelsea midfielder, Eddie Newton, who was Di Matteo's assistant at the Hawthorns and conducted much of the coaching during their time together at the club, will also return to old haunts as part of Villas-Boas's revamped coaching team. A vacancy has been created with the dismissal over the weekend of the assistant first-team coach, Paul Clement.
The Portuguese will be formally unveiled as the seventh manager of Roman Abramovich's eight-year ownership at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday morning and is expected to be flanked by his backroom staff. Significant squad strengthening is expected over the next few weeks – the players depart for a pre-season tour of east Asia on 17 July – with further changes still to be made behind the scenes. The Lille club doctor, Franck Le Gall, is expected to join Chelsea following the decision to release Bryan English over the weekend. English, like Clement and the fitness coach, Glen Driscoll, remains on gardening leave while compensation is negotiated.

Chelsea back in for Sergio Aguero with release clause set to drop from £42m to £32m

Chelsea are monitoring developments with Sergio Aguero after his advisers held talks with Atletico Madrid in an attempt to get his release clause reduced from £42m to £32m.
Chelsea, who made an enquiry for the Argentinian in January, remain interested despite strong interest from Juventus and Atletico's fierce rivals Real Madrid.
Meanwhile, Chelsea and Manchester City have not lodged £40m bids for Neymar despite hints to the contrary from Santos president Luis Alvaro de Oliveira Ribeiro. Only Real Madrid have matched the asking price for the Brazilian teenager at this stage.

Barcelona eyeing shock move for Nani if Sanchez bid fails

Barcelona may turn their attention to Nani if they fail in their pursuit of Alexis Sanchez, according to reports in Spain.

The Spanish and European champions are hopeful of concluding a deal for the Udinese star, who is one of their long-term targets, but with interest from Manchester City, Chelsea and other Italian clubs, his future remains unclear.
But, should they miss out on Sanchez, Spanish newspaper Sport have claimed that Barca view Manchester United winger Nani as an adequate contingency plan.
The Portugal international was one of United's star performers last season, scoring nine goals and setting up 18 more in the Premier League alone.
But his form did not guarantee him a place in Sir Alex Ferguson's starting line-up with the likes of Antonio Valencia and Ji-Sung Park sometimes preferred to Nani.
That competition for places has further increased following the £20million arrival of fellow winger Ashley Young from Aston Villa already this summer.
And mindful of his desire to first-team football, Juventus and Bayern Munich have already expressed an interest in Nani, and now Barca could offer him a fresh challenge if Sanchez does not move to the Nou Camp.

EXCLUSIVE: McLeish wants Real Madrid starlet to replace Young

New Aston Villa boss Alex McLeish wants Real Madrid starlet Sergio Canales to be his first big signing - and fill Ashley Young's shoes.

McLeish has approached the Spanish giants and wants to tie up a season-long loan deal for the talented attacking midfielder, who he hopes will light up his side.
The Villa chief has moved ahead of Everton, Villarreal and Atletico Madrid in the chase for Canales, who joined Real from Racing Santander a year ago only to be left in the cold by Jose Mourinho.
Real do not want Canales - the star of Spain's Under-20 side - to go to Villarreal or Atletico, and while Everton's interest depends on them raising funds, Villa's approach is straightforward.
The fact that McLeish wants Canales on loan, giving him first-team football at a high standard, is ideal for the Real heirarchy, who still see the youngster being a player for them once Mourinho moves on.
Canales is one of the most popular players among Real's young supporters because of his style and looks.
He would be a massive capture for McLeish, who is having to juggle his squad without spending massive sums.
The Scot may have to sell again to buy players, so the chance to take Canales - who can play in several positions and would make up for the loss of Young to Manchester United - on a wages-only deal is a no-brainer for him.
The Villa chief is prepared to fly to Madrid as soon as possible for a face-to-face meeting with Canales to talk him into the transfer.
He wants the move tied up before the Real starlet goes to the Under-20 World Cup finals, which begin in Colombia at the end of July

Gerrard enthused by Reds progress

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard says the club now have in place the right structure to start winning trophies again.

The Reds' last piece of silverware was the 2006 FA Cup, in which Gerrard played a starring role, but the England midfielder feels they are now better placed to end that drought.
"What I can say to the fans is that Liverpool will be back among the trophies sooner rather than later because we are moving in the right direction," he said.
"We have got fantastic players, the structure of the club is healthy from top to bottom and when that is the case then the team won't be too far away from winning."

Gerrard also believes Liverpool's wait for another league title, which now stands at 21 years, has a greater chance of being ended.
Despite a total of 18 league titles over the years, Liverpool have yet to claim the Premier League crown.
The Merseysiders saw their tally of titles overhauled by Manchester United in 2010/11 and Gerrard is determined to help the Anfield aces get back on level terms.
"We will get the championship again. It's difficult to say when because that adds a lot of pressure to the team," he added.
Gerrard missed the final weeks of last season with a troublesome groin injury but expects to be fully fit and firing for the new campaign when Liverpool hope to be pushing strongly for honours.

Macheda relishing England return

Manchester United striker Federico Macheda believes his career will benefit by returning to England.

The Italian forward spent six months on loan with Italian side Sampdoria having joined in January but was unable to help the team avoid relegation.
The 19-year-old, who is under contract with United until June 2013, failed to score in 14 Serie A appearances for the Genoa outfit.
"Psychologically it was not easy because to go from United to Sampdoria and to fight to avoid the drop was a difficult situation," Macheda said.
"I wanted to have an experience in Italy but now I want to remain in the Premier League. England is better suited for young players.
"I arrived in Genoa with great enthusiasm. The first few games the team and I did very well but after the defeat to Napoli, I did not find continuity."
Macheda shot to prominence with United in April 2009, scoring a spectacular last-minute winner against Aston Villa on his debut and following that up with the decisive goal at Sunderland in his second match.
He struggled to maintain the momentum in 2009/10, netting just once in five Barclays Premier League appearances.
He played seven times for the Red Devils in the Barclays Premier League in 2010/11, again notching one goal before being loaned out to Sampdoria.
Now though he is aiming to reassert himself in what he hopes will be a big season at Old Trafford.

Davies expects Cottagers to attack

Fulham midfielder Simon Davies believes the Cottagers have an exciting season ahead under new manager Martin Jol.

The former Tottenham Hotspur manager was appointed as Mark Hughes' replacement at Craven Cottage earlier this month on a two-year deal. Jol's first match at the helm comes on Thursday in a Europa League qualification first round tie with NSI Runavik of the Faroe Islands.
The players returned to training last week and Davies has already been impressed by the new man in charge. He told the club's official website: "He's a manager that very much promotes an attacking outlook."
He added: "He likes his teams to be expansive and to get down the flanks. We'll get forward, attack and create lots of chances and that's the big thing for me.
"If we can get things right then it could be an exciting season ahead. One thing is for sure, we'll certainly be good to watch.
"He's a football man and one that has a great knowledge of the game. He's been in the game for a while now so he comes in with plenty of experience.
"He did very well in his last spell in the Premier League when he was at Tottenham, so he knows what to expect in terms of the league. He also did well at Hamburg and Ajax, so he has experience of European football too.
"He gets very involved in the training sessions and likes to instil confidence in his players. He has a philosophy that we can all relate to and hopefully we'll see the benefits of that."
Davies may well play a part on Thursday, although Clint Dempsey and Carlos Salcido are unavailable.
Both players featured in the CONCACAF Gold Cup for the United States and Mexico respectively, with the latter defeating the former 4-2 in the final.
www.fulhamfc.com

Hodgson hopeful on Mulumbu

Manager Roy Hodgson expects midfielder Youssouf Mulumbu to remain at West Bromwich Albion.

Roy Hodgson is aware of the speculation surrounding the Congo international who enjoyed an impressive campaign, scoring seven goals in 34 Barclays Premier League appearances.
Reports in Italy have suggested that Mulumbu is wanted by Serie A outfit Fiorentina.
They are not the only European club said to be expressing an interest, with the 24-year-old having considerably enhanced his reputation during his two years in England. Hodgson, though, has made it clear that the Baggies have no plans to part with Mulumbu, especially as he is tied to the club until 2014.

"I don't know if there has been any contact between Fiorentina and our board regarding a deal for Mulumbu," Hodgson said.
"I only know that if anyone is interested, they should be talking to my bosses because the player doesn't have a voice in this situation.
"Youssouf has a long contract that has to be respected and he has given no indication that he plans to break that commitment.
"Talk of a transfer is just fantasy at the moment.
"I think it will be very difficult for anyone to take him. I think in the end Mulumbu will not go, at least not for another year.
"A lot of big international clubs are looking at him but if West Brom do not give them the green light, he will remain a dream for everyone."

Delph hoping to stay injury-free

Fabian Delph is hoping two years of injury misery are finally behind him at Aston Villa.

Delph made the £6m move from Leeds United to Villa Park during the summer of 2009 and was viewed as an exciting talent by the then manager Martin O'Neill.
But the midfielder has suffered a series of injury setbacks, including ankle ligament damage on the final day of last season against Liverpool.
Delph said: "I think I'm due an injury-free season and hopefully this season coming up will be the one.
"It has been up and down for me since I joined Villa but I've stayed positive and think I've got stronger mentally.
"Hopefully I can break through under the new manager and do him proud.
"I've met him and he seemed really hungry for the season to start and for the lads to push on and do well.
"I also want to repay the chairman (Randy Lerner) for the contract he has given me."
Delph signed a new four-year deal in March which will keep him at Villa until 2015.
Follow Aston Villa in the run up to the Barclays Asia Trophy in Hong Kong this July on the official tournament page www.facebook.com/BarclaysAsiaTrophy.

New deal for Craddock

Wolverhampton Wanderers defender Jody Craddock has signed a new one-year contract at Molineux.

And the veteran centre-back has pledged he is ready to fight for his place next season.
The 35-year-old was offered a new deal after helping Wolves to survive in the Barclays Premier League for a third successive season and has finally put pen to paper.
Craddock knows he will face competition for his spot with Reading centre-back Matt Mills among Wolves manager Mick McCarthy's potential targets. But he is prepared for the battle.

He said: "It's good news that the contract is all done and dusted and I can concentrate on the year ahead.
"This time last year I was thinking it would be my last season so to get another 12 months is a big achievement.
"There may be competition but it's never a problem for me when a new centre-half comes in.
"It's all about what benefits the club. If I have to scrap it out with another centre-half, so be it.
"I just need to give myself the best opportunity to be involved at the start of the season."
Craddock, an accomplished artist, was Wolves' player of the year for the 2009/10 campaign but injury problems meant he missed most of last season before returning for the run-in.
He made 15 appearances in the Barclays Premier League in 2010/11 playing a key role and using his experience to help the club survive.

Potters ready to buy British

Stoke City have scaled down their European scouting operation in order to concentrate on the British market.

According to director of football John Rudge, the Potters are ready to keen to secure home-grown talent.
Although Rudge and manager Tony Pulis have travelled to the continent recently, their main targets are closer to home.
"We haven't scoured Europe like we did last year," Rudge said.
"Just recently all the staff have been out to several different European countries, but that's only been over the last couple of months.
"We have scaled it down from what it was a couple of years ago, although no door is ever closed.
"We still have our contacts out there, so we can follow up recommendations whenever we have to.
"Tony would prefer English players if he can get the right quality at the right price but he has never ruled out a foreign player and we shall certainly take a long, hard look at those recommended."
The FA Cup finalists have yet to make a major summer signing but Pulis will be keen to bolster the ranks in readiness for the new campaign which will see the Potters competing in the Europa League.

Gueye eyeing first-team run

Everton striker Magaye Gueye is determined to make an impact on the Barclays Premier League next season.

The Frenchman, who joined the Toffees from Strasbourg last year, showed plenty of promise in his debut season with the Blues, but is eyeing a more regular place this term.

He is eager to add to his five Barclays Premier League appearances and hopes to do that by impressing manager David Moyes, starting with the opening day match at Tottenham Hotspur.
"Next season hopefully I can play more games," Gueye told the club's official website. "I think this first year was more about settling in and learning about English football.

"I think I have already got better in my time here. I have got more used to the style of play as it is different from France where the football is not as physical. That is the biggest difference I have had to get used to.

"My objective is to come back and have a really good pre-season, get really fit and strong, impress the manager and get into the team for the first game. I need to get a bit stronger, keep working hard and believe in myself.

"If I am on the pitch then I am happy," he added. "I like it at Everton and I am here for five years. My aim is to play more games now and improve as a player in the English league."
www.evertonfc.com

Harper ready for first team battle

Newcastle United goalkeeper Steve Harper will return for pre-season ready to fight for his first team place.

The 36-year-old, who waited for so long in the shadow of Shay Given to get his chance, finally established himself as number one at St James' Park in the wake of the Irishman's departure for Manchester City in February 2009.
However, Dutch youngster Tim Krul deputised well for him during two injury spells last season and is desperate to establish himself in manager Alan Pardew's long-term plans, while Fraser Forster is back on Tyneside after a successful loan stint at Celtic.
Harper said: "The manager, once we were safe, wanted to put Tim in and have a look at him, and I had no problem with that.
"He did very well and I had no problem with him playing as I had to get my knee right and come back firing on all cylinders in pre-season because the two young lads behind me are champing at the bit and ready to take the jersey from me.
"Every season, it gets harder. Fraser did very well at Celtic, which is a massive club with similar crowds to here, and the expectations there will have done him the world of good.
"Tim ended the season in the team and played 20 Premier League games. He will want to add to that tally next year and get more games in.
"Every season, the managers always said, 'Nobody is number one - it's up to you to convince me in pre-season who deserves the shirt' and I'm sure it will be no different this time."
Newcastle have rejected a bid of £1.5m from Celtic for Forster, who has also been linked with Norwich City, where he also shone on loan two seasons ago, while Harper himself has been touted as a potential target for both the Bhoys and West Bromwich Albion.
Krul made his senior international debut for Holland against Brazil earlier this month and is keen to secure regular first-team football to enhance his chances on the bigger stage.

Morgan: O'Hara has pulling power

Wolverhampton Wanderers chairman Steve Morgan thinks Jamie O'Hara will help to attract new signings to Molineux.

The midfielder completed his permanent move from Tottenham Hotspur last week after an inspirational loan spell in the second half of last season.
O'Hara helped keep Wolves in the Barclays Premier League and scored in the final day defeat to Blackburn Rovers and the strike proved crucial in securing safety.
Wolves are chasing the likes of Reading's Matt Mills and Morgan is hopeful that the perceived quality of O'Hara and other established first-team players could prove valuable.

Morgan said: "Other players will be attracted to Wolves by the likes of Jamie. But there's also Wayne Hennessey, Matt Jarvis, Kevin Doyle, Stephen Hunt... I could go on and on.
"There's a lot of very high quality players here and I am quite excited about next season because I think we are getting ourselves a really good squad.
"Compared to this time last year they all have an extra year's experience. And last season was definitely an experience - a fraught one at times!
"But I think we can look back at some of the silly errors that were made in some matches. You think that if we could stamp even half of them out it would make a massive difference to where we finish in the league."

Villas-Boas plays down expectations

New Chelsea manager Andre Villas-Boas has played down the significance of his arrival at Stamford Bridge

The new Blues boss has told fans: "Don't expect something from one man".
Villas-Boas has been confirmed as Chelsea manager on a three-year contract after the west Londoners agreed to pay a reported £13.3m to release him from his Porto contract.
It is a significant outlay from Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich for the 33-year-old Portuguese, who has earned a burgeoning reputation after leading Porto to domestic and European success last term.
Given those circumstances obvious parallels have been drawn with Jose Mourinho's appointment at Chelsea seven seasons ago.
However unlike his countryman, who famously labelled himself as the 'Special One' upon his arrival in England, Villas-Boas has used his first interview to tell fans that any success under his stewardship will be down to the club rather than him alone.
"Don't expect something from one man," he told the official club website.
"Expect us to create a group dynamic of everybody getting together, with the fans getting together, with people getting excited with the motivation that is in and around us.
"In the new way of communicating and the new leadership - this is the most important thing.
"It is not about my arrival. It is about the continuous success of this club."
Villas-Boas is no stranger to the west London club, working there under as part of the backroom staff under Mourinho, whom he followed to Inter Milan.

During that time Villas-Boas saw the club's elevation to perennial title-contenders and he is determined to maintain the strides made in that time.
"Let's reflect on the success of the past six years at this club and what we have achieved and now what we can achieve in the next six years again," he added.
"There is no doubt that the challenge for me is to keep winning.
"I am an individual who has that hunger for success and I want to keep it that way."
Chelsea confirmed that Villas-Boas is due to begin work immediately after labelling him as the "outstanding candidate" for a job that has been vacant since Carlos Ancelotti was sacked immediately after the final day of last season.
Villas-Boas tendered his resignation with Porto on Tuesday, with Tuesday night's confirmation of the receipt of the compensation payment paving the way for him to move on to a new club
Follow Chelsea in the run up to the Barclays Asia Trophy in Hong Kong this July on the official tournament page www.facebook.com/BarclaysAsiaTrophy.
www.chelseafc.com

Sunderland sign duo

Sunderland manager Steve Bruce has signed free agents Keiren Westwood and Sebastian Larsson. .

The Black Cats have agreed terms with out-of-contract Coventry goalkeeper Westwood and Birmingham midfielder Larsson, who remain contracted to their current clubs until 30th June but will officially become Sunderland players on 1st July.
A club statement said: "Sunderland AFC today confirmed that terms have been agreed with Republic of Ireland goalkeeper Keiren Westwood and Swedish international midfielder Sebastian Larsson.
"The players will officially sign with the club on July 1, 2011."

Westwood was on Wearside earlier this week to finalise the deal and undergo a medical, and fellow 26-year-old Larsson followed him on Wednesday as Bruce finally tied up two deals which he had been pursuing for several weeks.
There were suggestions that the Black Cats could face late competition for Larsson from Aston Villa, now managed by former Birmingham boss Alex McLeish, but they moved swiftly to get their man.
Bruce had identified the pair as two of three Bosman signings he hoped to make during the early weeks of the summer transfer window, and having missed out on Lorient midfielder Morgan Amalfitano, will be delighted to have succeeded.

Wolves sign De Vries

Wolverhampton Wanderers have signed goalkeeper Dorus de Vries from Swansea City on a three-year contract.

Dutchman De Vries was available on a Bosman transfer, his contract with the Barclays Premier League newcomers expiring on 1st July.
The 30-year-old played in all of the Championship play-off winners' 49 league matches last season, and has only missed six league fixtures in the last four seasons for The Swans.
Upon his arrival De Vries revealed he is ready for a battle for the Wolves number one shirt with Wayne Hennessey and Carl Ikeme.

"I'm really pleased and positive about the move," De Vries told the club's official website.
"As soon as I got the call from Wolves I had a really good vibe about it and a positive feeling.
"I thought this would be the fresh step I need in terms of progressing.
"That's all I look for as a player - to progress every year on and off the pitch both as a goalkeeper and as a person.
"This is a totally different challenge for me.
"At Swansea I have been number one for a couple of years now having three great seasons and seeing the club go from League One up to the Premier League.
"We got promoted through the play-offs at Wembley which was a great experience but this is the next step for me.
"All throughout my career I've been first choice goalkeeper and I carefully chose my clubs on the basis on where I would be able to play and establish myself.
"I'd always wanted to progress and can look back and say I've played a lot of games and built up my experience.
"Now this is the next step, to challenge for a place in the Premier League, and all I can do is get to know the guys and train really hard and show what I can do."
He follows in the footsteps of midfielder Jamie O'Hara, who on Tuesday signed from Tottenham Hotspur in a £5m deal.
www.wolves.co.uk

Odemwingie 'not for sale'

West Bromwich Albion have stressed that striker Peter Odemwingie is not for sale.

The likes of Arsenal and Chelsea have been mooted as potential suitors for the Nigeria international following a fine debut campaign in the Barclays Premier League.
Odemwingie signed for the Baggies from Lokomotiv Moscow last summer and went on to score 15 goals in all competitions.
His displays have led to speculation that he could be targeted this summer, but West Brom have no plans to sell, instead opening talks over a new deal for the player.
Technical director Dan Ashworth told the club's official website: "Our aim is to retain our core players and try to strengthen our squad around them.
"I want to make it clear that Peter Odemwingie is not for sale and remains a key member of our squad.
"We have not received any offers for Peter and we have placed no valuation on his head.
"He has two years left to run on his current Albion contract and talks over a new deal are ongoing."
www.wba.co.uk

Wolves plan Doyle talks

Wolverhampton Wanderers chairman Steve Morgan is hoping the club can tie Kevin Doyle down on a new contract.

The Republic of Ireland international still has two years remaining on his current deal at Molineux, but the club are prepared to offer him improved terms.
With the likes of Newcastle United and Sunderland having been linked with a move for the 27-year-old in the recent past, Wolves are keen to keep him out of the clutches of a Barclays Premier League rival.
That will mean handing him another deal, but Morgan is prepared to dig deep in order to keep key men at the club.
Talks regarding an extension have yet to be opened, but Wolves are confident they will soon sit down with Doyle and his representatives.
Morgan said: "I am sure we will have those conversations with Kevin and his agent at the right time.
"Kevin has been a fantastic signing for this club and is a really, really key player for us.
"We'd like to secure his services going forward."

Houllier: Give McLeish a chance

Gerard Houllier has urged Aston Villa fans to give his successor Alex McLeish a chance to prove himself.

Former Birmingham City manager McLeish has upset some sections of Villa supporters by making the move across the city to replace Houllier.
But Houllier, who was forced to quit because of health reasons three weeks ago, believes McLeish should be given the opportunity to show his credentials.
He said: "I think Gabby Agbonlahor (Villa striker) said some comments about giving him (McLeish) a chance - and I agree.
"He's football through and through and I think he's a good signing for the club.
"I've known him a long time and he's a nice person and a straightforward guy. I think Alex is strong enough. He's got the personnel to win football matches."
McLeish will give a fresh chance to players such as Stephen Ireland, Stephen Warnock and Habib Beye, who had little opportunity to play under Houllier.
He said: "There will be a clean slate for not only the young players but also the players already here.
"That includes those who perhaps were probably in the doldrums, those not playing at their best. Maybe we can give them a spark by coming in. It's a clean slate for everybody."
Follow Aston Villa in the run up to the Barclays Asia Trophy in Hong Kong this July on the official tournament page www.facebook.com/BarclaysAsiaTrophy.

Pulis: Sorensen wants Stoke stay

Stoke City goalkeeper Thomas Sorensen wants to extend his contract with the club, according to manager Tony Pulis.

However, the Denmark stopper is keen to alter the terms of a deal which currently has a year left to run as it is reportedly appearance-weighted and the 35-year-old spent most of last season on the bench behind Asmir Begovic.
If that is not an option there is a chance Sorensen will ask to leave the Britannia Stadium, but Pulis is determined to hang on to the experienced international.
"We are in a situation where Thomas has come to us about renewing his contract and that is brilliant for us," he said.
"Thomas is a vital member of the squad. We will sit down and talk to him and his agent and hopefully get something sorted out."

Chelsea blow as Neymar agrees Real Madrid move

Neymar is set to snub Chelsea in favour of a move to Real Madrid - who will agree a fee with Santos in the next week.
New Chelsea manager Andre Villas-Boas has pinpointed the Brazilian starlet as a priority target but sources in Spain have revealed that Neymar is now set for La Liga.
It has been reported the 19-year-old is ready to pen a six-year deal worth around £26.75m with Madrid as soon as the two sides can agree a fee.
Santos have insisted they will not discuss the deal until after the second leg of the Copa Libertadores against Penarol tonight but will demand £40m from Madrid when they open talks.
But it is still not clear whether the La Liga side are prepared to pay so much for a relatively unproven teenager, leaving Chelsea with a glimmer of hope of still completing a deal.

Copa Libertadores: Santos 2 Penarol 1

Santos have clinched the Copa Libertadores with a 2-1 defeat of Penarol on Wednesday, in a match marred by an ugly post-game brawl.
Tensions were high throughout the second half at Santos' home ground, the Estadio do Pacaembu, after Brazilian starlet Neymar opened the scoring with a deft finish on 47 minutes.
Penarol, who carried a 0-0 aggregate into their away leg, attempted to muscle their way into the match but were stonewalled in their efforts.
Santos defender Danilo stretched the hosts' advantage with a threaded shot through traffic on 69 minutes, but team-mate Durval handed that one back to Penarol with an own goal 10 minutes from injury time.
In their desperation to equalise the Uruguayan club were repeatedly found wanting at the back, though Santos spurned several gilt-edged opportunities in near-comical fashion.
Their wastefulness proved insignificant, however, as the final whistle sounded on Penarol's hopes of clinching a sixth Libertadores title.
Santos, celebrating their third title and their first since Pele led the club to back-to-back successes in 1962 and '63, were set upon by Penarol and the two sides exchanged punches and kicks before police intervened.

It was an ugly end to what could be Neymar's last match with his Brazilian club. The talented 19-year-old is reportedly close to sealing a big-money move to Spanish giants Real Madrid.

Bojan Krkic to join AS Roma from FC Barcelona in €10million deal

Roma and Barcelona have reportedly agreed a fee for the sale of striker Bojan Krkic, who has been linked with a move to Liverpool

Catalunya Radio reports that the two clubs have reached an agreement for the 20-year-old, who will sign with the Serie A club after returning from the European Under-21 Championships in Denmark.

According to reports in Spain, Bojan will join Roma for around €10million, while as part of the deal, Spanish champions Barcelona will have an option to re-sign the young forward.

The Spaniard was keen to move to Roma following the appointment of Luis Enrique as the club's coach.

Enrique knows Krkic well from his time at Camp Nou, where he was Bojan's former coach at Barcelona B.

Krkic earlier this month had rejected the chance to join Udinese as part of a potential deal that would have taken Alexis Sanchez to Camp Nou.

FC Barcelona want to sign David Luiz from Chelsea FC in €30million deal

Barcelona are reportedly keen on signing Chelsea defender David Luiz in a €30million deal
The 24-year-old only joined the Blues last January, moving to Stamford Bridge from Benfica on transfer deadline day in a deal worth around £21m.
But according to Sport, the Spanish champions are preparing to make a shock bid for the Brazil international - and Luiz could be tempted to leave west London after just six months at the club.
Barca are keen on bringing in a top quality centre-back this summer as doubts continue to linger over the long-term fitness of captain Carles Puyol.
The Catalans last week said they expect Puyol to be fit in time for the start of the new La Liga season, but at the age of 33 and with little first team football under his belt in the last six months, coach Pep Guardiola is believed to be keen on signing a long-term replacement.
Reports in Spain suggest Luiz is willing to listen to offers from Barcelona, but only if Chelsea give him permission to speak to other clubs.
Whether permission is granted may now depend on whether incoming manager Andre Villas-Boas sees the Brazilian in his long-term plans or if he is planning to bring in his own new faces and overhaul the Blues' back four.
Guardiola has reportedly asked the club's sporting director, Andoni Zubizarreta, to pursue the matter following talks between Barca president Sandro Rosell and Luiz's agent, Giuliano Bertolucci.

USA reach Gold Cup final

The United States have reached their fourth consecutive CONCACAF Gold Cup final as Clint Dempsey scored in the 77th minute to give them a 1-0 victory over Panama on Wednesday.

Dempsey scored off a cross from Landon Donovan to avenge the Americans 2-1 loss to Panama earlier in the group stage of the tournament. Freddy Adu, 22, helped set up the winning goal with a long pass up the field to a streaking Donovan.

Donovan then made a perfect pass across the Panama goal to Dempsey, who redirected the ball into the open side of the net.

The Americans next play the winner of the Honduras-Mexico semi-final in the championship at the Rose Bowl stadium in Los Angeles on Saturday.

Spain and Switzerland London bound

Spain and Switzerland qualified for the Men’s Olympic Football Tournament on Wednesday evening, but both needed extra time to do it in their respective semi-finals at the UEFA U-21 European Championships in Denmark.

The Spanish had Adrian Lopez to thank as they came from behind to defeat Belarus 3-1 in Viborg. Indeed La Rojita needed an 89th-minute equaliser from Adrian to avoid defeat, before the same player headed them in front and Jeffren Suarez clinched the win.

For the majority of the match, it looked as though the eastern Europeans were going to book a place at London 2012. Andrei Voronkov's overhead kick after 38 minutes, along with a remarkably disciplined team performance, was almost enough to defeat the side who were many people's tournament favourites.

Meanwhile, Admir Mehmedi fired Switzerland to the Olympic Games – and the final of the tournament - as his extra-time winner in Herning ended the stubborn resistance of the Czech Republic.

Mehmedi’s spectacular strike in the 114th minute set up a match with Spain on Saturday for the Swiss, who are yet to concede a goal in 390 minutes of football in Denmark. The forward’s shot from 25 yards bounced over the outstretched hand of Tomáš Vaclík and landed in the bottom corner.

Belarus and Czech Republic meet in Aalborg on Saturday to play-off for the competition’s bronze medal – and Europe’s last remaining place on offer at the Olympics.

Canuck keeper turns hero in England draw

Substitute goalkeeper Quillan Roberts scored a sensational equaliser for Canada against England in their second Group C contest in Pachuca. His thumping free-kick from well inside his own half was enough for a 2-2 draw and gives the North Americans their first point in the history of the tournament. It is also the first-ever goal scored by a net-minder in any FIFA competition.

Even starting with ace striker Hallam Hope on the substitutes’ bench, England began the brighter of the two sides, and a shot from Crewe Alexandra’s Nick Powell splattered off the post after only 11 minutes. The Canadians were without their outstanding No1 Maxime Crepeau, who injured his knee in a collision in the opener with Uruguay, and his stand-in between the posts, Roberts, was under heavy pressure in the early going. Ten minutes after their first chance, England’s Adam Morgan hit out on a rampaging run past his marker up the left, but he could only slam his effort into the wrong side of the netting.

The towering Matthew Regan’s header, just seconds later from a corner-kick, was pushed over the bar by Roberts, who was holding his own in his first start of Mexico 2011. The pressure began to mount on the North Americans midway through the first half, but they stood firm and didn’t allow the English, clearly the better team of the period, to get on the scoresheet.

The Europeans wasted no time getting on the board after the restart, however. Powell’s free-kick from the left curled through the penalty area and was flicked home by the head of Morgan to give them a 1-0 edge. Unfortunately, though, the Canadians wasted no time drawing level. Keven Aleman’s sizzling shot was blocked by Jordan Pickford, but Sadi Jalali raced through to slam home the rebound from close range in the 50th minute.

England coach John Peacock decided to push more into attack, withdrawing midfielder Powell for his club team-mate Max Clayton. But it was the Canadians who had the first chance after the switch, Aleman firing in another wicked shot that had Pickford scrambling in the 65th minute. The English manager then made one last adjustment, bringing in Blair Turgott, who fired home from just outside the box in the 77th minute.

But it wasn’t over yet, as stand-in Canadian goalkeeper Roberts’ free-kick from well behind midfield took one bounce in the English area and flew over his opposite number into the back of the net in the 87th minute. The historic goal not only gives Canada their first point in a FIFA U-17 World Cup, but is also the first goal scored by a goalkeeper in any FIFA finals competition.

England now move on to Torreon, where they will take on Uruguay, who are through to the knockout rounds, on 25 June. Canada remain in Pachuca, where they will face Rwanda with hopes still alive of reaching the next round.

Kiwis Czech’ed by Julis

A wonder-goal from Lukas Julis lifted Czech Republic to a 1-0 victory over Group D opponents New Zealand in Torreon. The Czechs were the more impressive side prior to the break, but after an open second half, the Kiwis will be left ruing several chances, denied by the outstanding Lukas Zima in goal.

While New Zealand began the match the more confident side, the nervy Czechs began to settle down soon enough, charging forward and taking their opportunities from every angle outside the area.

After an early header chance from Tim Payne, New Zealand were forced behind the ball. Czech Republic assumed majority possession and began their assault on the Kiwis’ defence through Jindrich Kadula. The midfielder fired a stunning shot that went just wide of the right post. But it would only be another two minutes before the Czechs found their first goal at the finals. Lukas Julis ripped a rocket from outside the area that travelled crosswise into the upper-right corner in the 28th minute, giving Basalaj almost no chance to make the save.

Czech Republic were knocking on the door for another - Julis with an effort blocked by the Kiwi defence and Ales Cermak forcing Basalaj into a punching near-post save over the bar. New Zealand were much improved in the second half, though, with Payne and hat-trick hero Stephen Carmichael igniting their attack. Ten minutes after the interval, Carmichael hit for the Kiwis’ best chance of the game, but keeper Zima was up to challenge. Marek Strada responded, defying two defenders at the touchline to slot back to Kadula waiting atop the area, but the midfielder hit his chance over the crossbar.

However, the Young All Whites were not to be taken lightly, as Payne caused plenty of trouble for the Czech defence. The No9 dribbled several defenders in the box, and notably forced Zima into a fingertip save in the 69th minute. The match was open for either team to find the net, but Julis missed his chance to put the game away after he ballooned a wide-open shot over the New Zealand crossbar. And successive efforts in the 85th minute from Payne and Carmichael, both incredibly hungry for a goal, made for a nervy end for the Czechs.

The final round of matches will prove critical in Group D, with New Zealand, USA, and Uzbekistan all sitting on three points. New Zealand are set to face the Americans on 25 June in Pachuca, whice Czech Republic will meet Uzbekistan in Torreon.

Uzbekistan shock flat-footed USA

Uzbekistan saw off a stunned USA for a historic 2-1 victory in Torreon, securing their first-ever three points at the FIFA U-17 World Cup. The Americans had impressed in their opener against the Czech Republic, while the Uzbeks suffered a heavy blow against New Zealand. It was a reverse of fate though on the day, as the debutants capitalised on a flat outing from the Americans.

The Uzbeks took advantage of an abject performance throughout the USA midfield and defense. Setting the tempo, and showing little resemblance to the nervy performance they put in against New Zealand, Uzbekistan took advantage of several USA mistakes within the first quarter-hour. After some unfortunate defending that saw Zachary Carroll slice his clearance straight into the air, the Uzbeks had a wonder-strike from their youngest player Bobir Davlatov to put them ahead. The 15-year-old received the ball at the top of the area from Timur Khakimov after the defensive mix-up, and with a one-time effort, hammered home into the top corner.

USA were given another warning just a minute later, as Uzbekistan were eyeing a second goal, only to be called for offside. The Americans were unable to muster any real threat on Ganisher Kholmurodov’s net and frustrations began to mount for the United States when Paul Arriola with a clear attempt on goal, headed his chance wide. Four minutes later the United States thought they had found an equaliser, but Mario Rodriguez's header across the line was discounted due to a foul in the area. Before the interval, Uzbekistan hoped to double their lead with a curling free-kick effort, but Kendall McIntosh did well to block the near-post threat.

After the restart, USA seemed to have reconciled their first-half misfortunes and came out firing for an equaliser. Super-sub Alfred Komora immediately proved his worth, netting his second goal in as many matches, in the 47th minute. He found himself through on goal, proving too strong for his marker, and hit his shot into the bottom-left corner. The Uzbek boys retaliated with a flurry of chances of their own, but the US defence did much better to block their attempts.

However, the day went from bad to worse for USA defender Carroll when the No2 conceded a foul in the area that would result in a penalty for Uzbekistan. Captain Abbosbek Makhstaliev stepped up to take the spot-kick, and despite McIntosh’s dive in the right direction, evaded the goalkeeper to give the confident tournament debutants the lead once again. Unwilling to miss their chance at a first-ever victory at the finals, Uzbekistan assumed control, protecting their lead against a shocked USA.

The Americans will now have their work cut-out for them when they face New Zealand on 25 June in Pachuca, while Uzbekistan will meet Czech Republic in Torreon with plenty to be proud of.

Stingy Uruguay break Rwandan hearts

Rwanda were just seconds away from earning their first point at a FIFA finals when Uruguay goalkeeper Jonathan Cubero slammed a hopeful free-kick up the field and Leonardo Pais headed home to break the African debutants’ hearts. It was a bitter pill to swallow for the newcomers in their second Group C game in Pachuca, but the Uruguayans, who defended stoutly, are now into the round of 16.

Rwanda, in need of a win after dropping their opener against England, came out flying against Uruguay, showing determination and taking firm control of midfield. Inside the first five minutes, the Africans had a pair of fine chances to score their first-ever goal at a FIFA competition; both came from free-kicks from captain Emery Bayisenge. The first slammed off the bottom of the post, beating Jonathan Cubero, and the second curled over the crossbar.

The Africans were dictating the pattern of play as the half wore on, but coach Richard Tardy was forced into an early substitution, losing defender Faustin Usengimana to what looked a painful knee injury. The South Americans took advantage of the switch in the Rwandan rearguard to push up into attack a bit, if only through the occasional counter-attack. Elbio Alvarez had a decent chance go begging when he rounded the keeper, but failed to take advantage of the open goal after collecting a long ball out of midfield.

Shortly after, in the 27th minute, Uruguay missed a glorious chance to open the scoring. Juan San Martin found himself all alone in front of Marcel Nzaroza’s net, but he fluffed his lines, somehow side-footing wide of the target to a howl of laughter from the crowd. The Rwandans breathed a sigh of relief and finished the half strongly, with both Mwesigye Tibingana and Andrew Buteera testing Uruguay’s keeper from an acute angle.

The Uruguayans kicked-off the second half in the mood to attack. Gaston Silva hit a sharp free-kick, but Marcel Nzaroza was up to the task with a fine save. Juan Cruz Mascia, Uruguay’s most potent attacking threat, followed up with a try of his own, but it soared over the bar from 12 yards in the 63rd minute.

Uruguay were pressing. Substitute Heber Ratti hit inches wide of the Rwandan post after 73 minutes when he found himself in front of goal unmarked. Alvarez then followed up seconds later by ballooning his try well over after cutting inside nicely. In the end, Uruguay pulled out the win with Pais heading home with the last action of the game.

The South Americans next play against England in Torreon on 25 June with coach Fabian Coito able to rest some of his players. They also keep up their record of not conceding at these finals. Rwanda finish up their group account against Canada, in search of that elusive first point and technically still alive.

Young nears United switch

Aston Villa winger Ashley Young has edged closer to becoming Manchester United's second signing of the summer after undergoing a medical with the Premier League champions.
The England international was in Manchester today to undergo a series of physical examinations prior to completing his transfer to Old Trafford for a reported £15 million. The 25-year-old Young has just a year left on his contract at Villa Park and made it clear to the club he had no intention of extending that deal.
New Villa manager Alex McLeish admitted earlier this week Young was destined to depart this summer. "It's not confirmed yet but it does seem likely," the Scot told talkSPORT. "In my humble opinion it will be very difficult (to keep hold of him)."
United have already secured the signing of Blackburn Rover's England U-21 defender Phil Jones for £16.5 million and are likely to strengthen further with Atletico Madrid goalkeeper David de Gea as a replacement for the retired Edwin van der Sar.

It's not confirmed yet but it does seem likely.

Alex McLeish, Aston Villa manager

Young, like Jones, was also a target for Liverpool, but United manager Sir Alex Ferguson appears to have once again beaten Kenny Dalglish to the player's signature. Young made his league debut as a Watford player at the age of 18 and went on to become a regular in the second tier before flourishing under the management of Aidy Boothroyd.
He progressed to the Premier League with the Hornets in the 2006/07 season and was one of the side's standout players. He attracted the attention of several clubs, with Aston Villa's Martin O'Neill securing his services for a fee rising to £9.75 million.
Since then Young has become a key figure at Villa Park, operating on the wing as well as in a free role behind the strikers. His international pedigree has also been established in recent times, with 15 England caps and two goals to his name.

Villas-Boas to start Chelsea reign with £80million deals for Falcao, Moutinho and... Neymar!

Andre Villas-Boas has lined up an £80million triple swoop when he becomes Roman Abramovich's seventh Chelsea manager in seven years.
Villas-Boas will be confirmed as Carlo Ancelotti's Stamford Bridge successor in the next 24 hours after Chelsea bankrolled the 33-year-old's £13.2m extrication from his contract with the Portuguese champions.
The Portuguese, who was the chief opposition scout during Jose Mourinho's SW6 reign, flew into London last night after breaking his ties with Porto and hopes to persuade Abramovich to land Colombian striker Radamel Falcao and Portuguese playmaker Joao Moutinho and give him two players who will be dressing room disciples.
Chelsea are also closing in on Brazilian teenager Neymar with a £40m bid being prepared after he plays for Santos in the second leg of their Copa Libertadores final against Penarol tonight.
Israeli agent Pini Zahavi has flown to Sao Paulo to help Chelsea complete their swoop for the South American after his club Santos turned down the initial £30m aproach, with a deal expected to go through before the weekend.
Villas-Boas is also keen on bringing at least two members of his coaching staff with him, physical trainer Jose Mario Rocha and opposition scout Daniel Sousa, although Porto have named his assistant Vitor Pereira as their new boss.

Pereira said: "Andre asked me if I wanted to come with him to Chelsea but I told him my dream was to stay as coach of Porto. This is the club where I want to succeed.
"Andre made his history, of which I am proud. I thank Andre for his friendship and trust but the past is the past. Andre knows that Porto will continue to win."
Porto President Pinta Da Costa refused to discuss Villas-Boas' exit last night as Chelsea prepared for an imminent announcement after Porto last night confirmed to the Portuguese Stock Exchange that the buy-out clause money has been deposited.
Villas-Boas has agreed to take up the toughest job in club football, on a three-year deal worth £6.2m per season and just as Mourinho brought in Paulo Ferreira and Ricardo Carvalho from Porto to spread the gospel according to the Special One, so then new man will follow that blueprint with his own two chosen signings.
Falcao, the star of the Portuguese season seems set on following Villas-Boas to Chelsea after ditching his former agent, Claudio Mossio, and employing Portuguese super-agent Jorge Mendes, who represents Villas-Boas, Mourinho and Cristiano Ronaldo among others.
The former River Plate striker, 25, who moved to Portugal from the Argentinian side in 2009, has scored a staggering 73 goals in 85 appearances for Porto, including a record-breaking 17 in the Europa League campaign he sealed with the only goal against Braga in Dublin last month.
Porto has set a minimum release clause price of £26.5m for his services while they are likely to want at least £14m for Mourinho, despite spending just £9m to land him from Sporting Lisbon last summer.

Fiesta time for Mexico as duo close in

THE DAY REPLAYED - The first two games on this rain-soaked Tuesday ended in 1-1 draws, with Korea DPR keeping up their reputation for counter-attacking efficiency and sharing the points with reigning European champions the Netherlands, who kept up their reputation for missing chance after chance in front of goal. Over in Monterrey, Japan were able to battle back and earn a point against France, who for some reason started the game without Yassine Benzia, scorer of two goals in their stunning opening-day win over Argentina. Despite the result, both sides look poised to reach the next phase on four points with one game to go.

The later contests provided a bit more spark for the local crowds, especially the fans in Morelia who saw their homeboys edge a 2-1 thriller against Congo to become the first side to reach the knockout stages of the FIFA U-17 World Cup. The Congolese, sadly, ended the game with nine men, becoming the first side to receive multiple red cards at these finals. Jamaica also made a bit of history with Zhelano Barnes scoring the country’s first and only goal at a U-17 finals in five tries. He celebrated extravagantly, although the party ended at the final whistle as Argentina ran out 2-1 winners.

Results
Korea DPR 1-1 Netherlands
Mexico 2-1 Congo
Japan 1-1 France
Jamaica 1-2 Argentina

Goal of the day
Lucas Pugh 63’, Jamaica-Argentina
Argentina’s Lucas Ocampos raced forward, hoping to add to his side’s 1-0 lead against Jamaica in Monterrey. Without even picking up his head, he let loose an inch-perfect through ball that beat two defenders and landed on the toe of his River Plate team-mate Lucas Pugh, who didn’t have to break his stride. There seemed to be something near telepathy involved in this move, the kind that only comes from players who train together and share a locker-room week in and week out. Pugh made no mistake with his part of the move, either, slamming into the top corner of Nico Campbell's goal with authority.

Memorable moments
Sombre silence observed
It was a sad day at the finals in Mexico, and for football as a whole, as news of the death of top Russian referee Vladimir Pettay spread around the globe. Fresh from officiating his 100th Russian Premier League game between Dinamo Moscow and Rubin Kazan, his plane crashed, killing him and 43 others under heavy fog in Petrozavodsk. All four games of the U-17 finals on Tuesday began with moments of silence in memory of Pettay, all impeccably observed by fans and players alike.

All change for France, Gonfalone
Most coaches wouldn’t dare shuffle their pack after opening a tournament with a 3-0 demolition of South American powers Argentina, but Patrick Gonfalone is his own man. The Tunis-born former winger made no fewer than three changes to his side, even benching Yassine Benzia, two-goal hero from the first match. His replacement, Timoue Bakayoko, had a hand in the opening goal of the 1-1 draw with Japan. One wonders if the coach will change back to the side that won when they meet Jamaica in their final game.

Fickle fans take a stand
The fans at the Estadio Morelos fell in love with Congo in their first game, when their flicks and tricks paved the way to a shock 1-0 win over European champions the Netherlands. Mavis Tchibota was their favourite, too, his brilliant moves up the flank roared on by the crowd. This time, though, up against hosts Mexico, the elegant skill merchant was treated far less kindly. Feared as he was for his irrepressible skills, his every touch was booed mercilessly. At one point, midway through the first half, he lined up to take a corner-kick and was booed wildly by the fans just over his shoulder. His response: a laugh, a drop of the head, a wide smile and a round of applause back to the crowd.

The stat
8 - the number of shots on target Korea DPR’s sharp-shooters needed to get their two goals at these finals. In their opener with Mexico, they scored with their first shot of only four. This afternoon, in their 1-1 draw with the Dutch, they scored with their second effort on goal, and they only put two more on frame (four again). In a city like Monterrey – renown for its artistic spirit – the North Koreans have mastered the art of opportunistic finishing.

Up next
22 June 2011
Uruguay-Rwanda (Pachuca 15.00)
USA-Uzbekistan (Torreon 15.00)
Canada-England (Pachuca 18.00)
Czech Republic-New Zealand (Torreon 18.00)