[Football] Summer 2009 transfer thread

[Subject Delta]

Liverpool have rewarded Fernando Torres with a new contract that will keep him at Anfield until at least 2013.

Although the Spain striker still had four years remaining on his original six-year contract, Liverpool have offered him improved terms and added an option to take the deal through to 2014.

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez said: "Fernando is one of the best strikers in the game today and, at his age, can only get better."

He added: "Every major side would want him in their team, but he has shown how much he wants to achieve success at Liverpool by committing his future to the club.

"He's a special talent but still has the hunger to improve his game."

Benitez is looking to secure the futures of his key players after watching them push Manchester United all the way in the title race this season before settling for second place.

Dirk Kuyt, Daniel Agger, Steven Gerrard and Benitez himself have already signed new contracts in the last two months.

"We've made huge progress this season and now we need to take the next step," Benitez added on the club's website.

"We are building something special here and securing such important players on long-term deals means we can move forward with confidence. This sends out a very positive message to everyone connected with the club."

Source: ITV Sport

Really glad Fernando has improved his contract, there should be a solid foundation for Liverpool to mount an even stronger challenge in the coming years. Nice to know a guy that is probably the best all round striker in football is so committed to Liverpool.

[deuz]

i had a random thought...what if liverpool got micheal owen dirt cheap from new castle(2-5mil) and use him as kind of a back up striker to torres considering he is alway injured.

Edited May 28, 2009 by deuz

[Rappy Veteran]

Source: ITV Sport

Really glad Fernando has improved his contract, there should be a solid foundation for Liverpool to mount an even stronger challenge in the coming years. Nice to know a guy that is probably the best all round striker in football is so committed to Liverpool.

I can see Torres at liverpool to the end of his career.

[Martyn]

i had a random thought...what if liverpool got micheal owen dirt cheap from new castle(2-5mil) and use him as kind of a back up striker to torres considering he is alway injured.

We could get Michael Owen on a free, seeing as he is out of contract. He took a poo on us in 2004, he is now always injured and he is not the player he was. Swerve him in my opinion.

I can see Torres at liverpool to the end of his career.

We will see his best years, but he will be returning to Atletico in the future.

[Kralik]

A friend just told me that Barca are thinking of replacing Eto'o and Gudjohsen with Kun Aguero and Santa Cruz?! Anyone heard anything about this? I asked him the source but its the same.. friend of a friend and so on which makes me think he was making this up but sounds very interesting..

[Subject Delta]

We could get Michael Owen on a free, seeing as he is out of contract. He took a poo on us in 2004, he is now always injured and he is not the player he was. Swerve him in my opinion.

Agreed, there are several better options on the market at the moment. Like a lot of players, he got greedy and thought moving to Real Madrid would be good for his career, since then its gone downhill. Personally I see him staying at newcastle

We will see his best years, but he will be returning to Atletico in the future.

Not so sure about that one, I recall an interview being made where he said he would also like the chance to play in the Italian league one day. Presumably with AC or Inter, but I hope he spends most of his career at Liverpool

A friend just told me that Barca are thinking of replacing Eto'o and Gudjohsen with Kun Aguero and Santa Cruz?! Anyone heard anything about this? I asked him the source but its the same.. friend of a friend and so on which makes me think he was making this up but sounds very interesting..

I find it highly unlikely, the Barcelona frontline have hit 100 goals between them in all competitions. There isn't anything in their attack that needs changing IMO

[Weld_El_7aj]

A friend just told me that Barca are thinking of replacing Eto'o and Gudjohsen with Kun Aguero and Santa Cruz?! Anyone heard anything about this? I asked him the source but its the same.. friend of a friend and so on which makes me think he was making this up but sounds very interesting..

there is a rumor coming from Italy about a swap between Eto'o an Ibrahimovic that appeared today, personnaly i don't see it happening cause Eto'o is far a better striker than Zlatan even if Zlatan is more skillful. For Guddy, he didn't play much this season and he already stated that he will change this summer.

There is another rumor saying that Hleb is leaving to Bayern Munchen this summer as he got ****ed off of not being even a replacement in the CL final. I like him as a player and would like to see him demonstrate his football at Bar?a but in the few opportunities he got he did nothing.

I find it highly unlikely, the Barcelona frontline have hit 100 goals between them in all competitions. There isn't anything in their attack that needs changing IMO

they scored 104 goals only in La Liga!

[Rappy Veteran]

Chelsea are reported to have finalised the capture of Russian international Yuri Zhirkov for ?18.6million.

The Blues are known to have been long-term admirers of the 25-year-old, who can play anywhere down the left side.

One of Zhirkov's representatives is quoted in his homeland as stating that the CKSA Moscow man has already put pen-to-paper on a four-year deal.

It is believed that Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich personally brokered the deal with CSKA owner, and close friend, Evgeny Giner.

Chelsea's interim boss Guus Hiddink, who is leaving Stamford Bridge in the summer, has fully backed the move, as he knows all about the player from his role as Russian coach.

Hiddink feels Zhirkov is a huge talent, saying: "I know that Yuri is not just a nice person but one of the best attacking left sided players in the world."

CSKA always knew that Chelsea, who say it is currently paper talk, wanted Zhirkov and coach Zico admitted he would fit in well at Stamford Bridge.

"I will not stand in the way of this transfer," said Zico earlier this month.

"A player of Zhirkov's quality could very well play in the English Premier League.

"I see him as a player in the London club's starting XI."

[Subject Delta]

they scored 104 goals only in La Liga!

That's the whole team, I was referring to the front 3

[Kralik]

According to a report in the British tabloid The Sun, Bolton Wanderers are the latest Premier League club looking to sign Paul Scholes from Manchester United during to close season.

It was reported on Friday that Stoke City are considering offering the 34-year-old a player-coach role at the Britannia Stadium for the 2009/10 campaign.

However, it is claimed that should the midfielder opt to leave Old Trafford, he may prefer to join the Trotters as their training ground is only thirty minutes from his home, while he would have to make a three-hour round trip to Stoke.

:blink:

[Subject Delta]

Scholes has been a great servant to united, will be interesting to see how this plays out

[Rappy Veteran]

MANCHESTER CITY believe they have won a ?42million race for Carlos Tevez and Gareth Barry.

The richest club in the world are ready to rubber-stamp a ?32m deal to steal Tevez away from city rivals United. And they will offer ?10m-rated Barry ?90,000 a week to see off Liverpool, Arsenal and Spurs.

The move for Argentinian striker Tevez, 25, also blows Liverpool and Chelsea out of the chase with City happy to meet Kia Joorabchian's ?32m asking price.

Liverpool's bid for the former West Ham forward was the lowest offer received. Boss Mark Hughes will also pay Tevez nearly ?140,000 a week in a four-year deal.

Joorabchian will have one final meeting with Old Trafford chiefs this week to find out whether Sir Alex Ferguson sees Tevez as anything more than a bit-part player.

Those assurances are unlikely - leaving the way clear for City.

Hughes is in the Middle East to talk about transfer targets with City's Abu Dhabi owners and has made it clear he sees Tevez as vital to the club.

City are much further down the road with Tevez than Barry. But they are confident their financial clout will get them the Aston Villa captain.

Liverpool felt they were in pole position after their abortive attempt to land Barry, 28, last summer.

But the Reds are unable to match the Arabs' vast wealth.Barry could yet decide he values Champions League football over money but Eastlands officials are confident of getting their man.

Of course this is the News of the World we are talking about here so read the above with a pinch of salt...if even :rofl::rofl:

[Weld_El_7aj]

That's the whole team, I was referring to the front 3

Sorry, I misunderstood you,

the 3 titular forwards have scored 98 goals

[Subject Delta]

Well if Barry and Tevez are happy to languish in mid table mediocrity for more pay then fair enough

[Kralik]

Well if Barry and Tevez are happy to languish in mid table mediocrity for more pay then fair enough

I feel with Tevez and Robinho they have a chance to finish close to top 4.. they are building a team the wrong way.. but its modern football and teams just want that big money..

I just read that Genoa signed Crespo from Inter.. he's a handy striker

Also Utd are interested in Benzema and it seems they have more or less lost Ribery to Chelsea but lets see.. Bayern want atleast 45M Euros for him..

Also rumors again abt Barca wanting to sign Cesc but I can't see where they will play him? Who will lose a spot? Iniesta? Xavi? Only place he can have is on the bench..

Edited May 31, 2009 by Kralik

[Kralik]

Kaka has apparently resisted the overtures of another big-money English team ready to bring him to the Premier League, as the Brazilian, according to reports in the British press, has rejected an advance from Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich to swap Milan's San Siro for Stamford Bridge.

Broadsheet newspaper The Times claims that Bosco Leite, the player's father who also acts as his representative, met Abramovich whilst the Russian oligarch was in Italy sealing the deal to bring Carlo Ancelotti to the Blues as manager. Apparently the Chelsea owner was willing to shatter the world transfer record to bring the attacker to London, and, whilst an agreement was reached with AC Milan, the player's representative has proved a little less willing to negotiate.

The Rossoneri are resigned to the South American's departure, but it is understood that Leite informed Abramovich that his son would prefer to move to Real Madrid, who could announce Kaka's capture as soon as this week.

Oh wow! Brazilians certainly don't want to play at Chelsea. Last season it was Robinho and now Kaka.. He will go to Madrid.. Perez wants a lot of more big names.. and subsequently some players will leave Madrid.. I am expecting a yard sale at Barnabeu this summer :p

"We have lost big players, but the boss knows what he is doing," Cesc Fabregas told Setanta Sports.

"The days of signing a new player aren’t finished.We need someone in the middle to make competition and make a difference, plus give us a new dimension.

"I think that is all we need. The rest is perfect."

Alonso was the subject of reports today that claimed he was on his way to Real Madrid, before his manager at Liverpool, Rafa Benitez, issued a strenuous denial this afternoon.

Whatever the truth of that situation, Fabregas would welcome Alonso's quality with open arms.

"Xabi would be great. He’s experienced and can score goals. I’m sure the boss is aware of that fact," he concluded.

and the fans will welcome signing him too but that is if Rafa sells him.. :p but I can't understand who Wenger will bench if we sign Xabi? Arshavin??! God I hope not.. Arshavin was sensational for the 3 odd months he got to play for us and that too and not 100% fitness!! Can only imagine what we can do when he's perfectly fit.

I want this midfield:

Walcott Cesc Nasri/Xabi Rosicky and Arshavin in front to support the striker..

or to play a bit defensively.. (it happens at Arsenal too)

Walcott Cesc Arshavin Rosicky and Xabi behind them.. or Walcott Cesc Xabi Rosicky and Diaby or Song behind them.

But lets see who comes in this summer and whether Wenger feels he need anyone in this position at all.. but I given the choice I'd rather bench Nasri than Arshavin..

Edited June 1, 2009 by Kralik

[Martyn]

I still hope to hell that Alonso stays at Liverpool.

[Subject Delta]

I feel with Tevez and Robinho they have a chance to finish close to top 4.. they are building a team the wrong way.. but its modern football and teams just want that big money..

I just read that Genoa signed Crespo from Inter.. he's a handy striker

Also Utd are interested in Benzema and it seems they have more or less lost Ribery to Chelsea but lets see.. Bayern want atleast 45M Euros for him..

Also rumors again abt Barca wanting to sign Cesc but I can't see where they will play him? Who will lose a spot? Iniesta? Xavi? Only place he can have is on the bench..

I just can't see it happening personally. Even with the spending they made so far they still finished in the bottom half of the table, I can't see them finishing in the top 4, its pretty unlikely to me

[Weld_El_7aj]

Chelsea and Madrid have their new coaches.

Chelsea have a deal with Ancelotti from AC Milan while Real will sign Pellegrini from Villareal.

[Rappy Veteran]

Chelsea and Madrid have their new coaches.

Chelsea have a deal with Ancelotti from AC Milan while Real will sign Pellegrini from Villareal.

Quite surprised at that but anyone is better then Ramos :p

[Martyn]

Ramos is a great manager.

[Kralik]

I just can't see it happening personally. Even with the spending they made so far they still finished in the bottom half of the table, I can't see them finishing in the top 4, its pretty unlikely to me

I didn't say IN top 4 :p I said near.. they can be where Villa or Everton were this season.. top4 will be will the same with a change of order and we winning Emirate Stadium's one of four trophies ;)

btw interesting..

Arsenal are reportedly interested in signing Everton’s Joleon Lescott and are willing to offer the Toffees ?12 million for the defender, claims the Daily Star.

but its the Star so.. :rolleyes::

[Kralik]

Juventus president Giovanni Cobolli Gigli has made it clear what he expects from the club's new coach: attractive football and the ability to mould a squad that can attain important targets.

Cobolli Gigli also revealed that the name of the new coach who will lead the team from next season will be announced by early next week.

"He will be young, in mentality, with the will and ability to motivate the squad," explained the Old Lady's president to GR Parlamento. "And he must also be Italian.

"[General manager Jean-Claude] Blanc is preparing a short-list of names, but between the end of this week and the start of next week I think that we shall close the deal."

That's interesting.. an Italian side wanting to play 'attractive' football.. maybe they'll do well in UCL but what about Serie A? :D

Who do you guys reckon it is from all those hints? I feel its Roberto Baggio.. possible? :huh:

[Rappy Veteran]

Zidane joins Real revolution

Zinedine Zidane is back at Real Madrid after accepting a role under Florentino Perez's new regime.

The former Los Blancos star will act as an advisor to the new president, following his appointment at Santiago Bernabeu on Monday.

Zidane was taken to Real by Perez in 2001, during his first stint at the helm of the capital club.

Meanwhile, Jorge Valdano, who previously worked as sports director under Perez, has been appointed as director general and assistant to the president.

Miguel Pardeza takes over from the already-departed Predrag Mijatovic as the club's new sporting director.

Symbol

Perez, who helped to oversee the 'Galacticos' era at Real during his first spell at the club, has also outlined his ambitious plans for the future.

"We will devote all our effort to building a spectacular team, with great players who are role models on and off the pitch," he said.

"A club where ethics are indestructible, and where solidarity will be a basic cornerstone of behaviour.

"The challenge that today begins for all of us is possibly the biggest and most difficult that we have ever taken on, but I assure you that we will make this Real Madrid a great symbol and example.

"We are going to rebuild and reassert the dreams of all Madridistas. We have a lot of work ahead. There is a lot to do, so let us begin."

[Rappy Veteran]

Gareth Barry Holds City "Talks"

Aston Villa have confirmed that midfielder Gareth Barry is holding discussions with Premier League rivals Manchester City.

The England international's future has been the subject of widespread speculation since a move to Liverpool collapsed last summer.

The Reds were unwilling to meet Villa's ?18million valuation of Barry, who is keen to play UEFA Champions League football, but money-rich City could be prepared to offer the desired fee.

City will not be playing in Europe next season, but they have aspirations to become a top-four Premier League club following the arrival of Sheikh Mansour in 2008.

Barry's current contract with Villa expires at the end of next season and boss Martin O'Neill has previously stated that deal will be allowed to expire if the player does not commit.