Latest Premier League News

[sarahmic]

Latest Paper Talk at 11:33 BST

WEDNESDAY JULY 20

THE SUN:

Andre Villas-Boas has laid down the law to Chelsea's wayward stars.

Sir Alex Ferguson believes Dimitar Berbatov will stay at Man United and fight to get his first-team place back.

Gervinho insists he can come to the end of "sick" Arsenal and help end their six-year wait for a trophy.

Liverpool are offering Mexican wonderkid Marco Bueno a bumper five-year deal.

Shay Given knew he had no Man City future - as boss Roberto Mancini told him so.

Aston Villa and Spurs are locked in a battle with Lazio for Lyon's highly-rated midfielder Miralem Pjanic.

Scott Parker is set to play for West Ham against Copenhagen - despite doubts over his future.

Daniel Gabbidon admits he would be keen on a move to QPR.

DAILY MAIL:

Barcelona manager Pep Guardiola yesterday claimed Arsenal are finally willing to sell captain Cesc Fabregas.

Aston Villa are weighing up a move for Tottenham defender Kyle Naughton.

Sven Goran-Eriksson is ready to rival Bolton in an ambitious move for Nigel Reo-Coker.

Swansea are preparing an improved £1.3m bid for Nottingham Forest goalkeeper Lee Camp.

Blackburn's pre-season troubles took another turn for the worst yesterday after they ditched a planned trip to India amid claims of player unrest.

Man City last night agreed to pay £38million for Atletico Madrid's Argentina striker Sergio Aguero.

Yaya Toure is an injury doubt for the Community Shield derby with Man United after injuring his ankle in their 2-1 win over Vancouver Whitecaps yesterday.

DAILY MIRROR:

John Terry last night revealed his burning ambition to become Chelsea boss.

Barcelona chiefs are flying to London today to thrash out a deal for Cesc Fabregas.

Sir Alex Ferguson has warned Dimitar Berbatov he will have to get used to life on the Man United bench.

Arsene Wenger is furious with Roberto Mancini for showing him no respect in the pursuit of Samir Nasri.

Nigel Reo-Coker is ready to fly to America - to tie up a possible move to Bolton.

Roberto Mancini does not want Carlos Tevez back at Man City - and is prepared to strip him of the captaincy if he returns.

DAILY EXPRESS:

Pep Guardiola blew the lid on his attempt to sign Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas as Barcelona officials were due to arrive in London today in an attempt to finalise a £35million deal.

Mario Balotelli has vowed to fill the scoring gap if Man City lose Carlos Tevez.

Stoke are ready to turn their attention to Wigan's Hugo Rodallega after the collapse of Carlton Cole's move from West Ham.

Jack Rodwell has delivered an acerbic critique of his Everton career and accepted that he must start justifying his reputation.

DAILY STAR:

Arsenal are planning to offer Samir Nasri a £6m-a-year deal in a last-ditch bid to keep him.

Sir Alex Ferguson is convinced Dimitar Berbatov will stay at Manchester United.

Kenny Dalglish has admitted further arrivals this summer depend on players leaving Liverpool first.

Stoke boss Tony Pulis has joined the race for Tottenham striker Peter Crouch.

Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp fired a warning to Chelsea that he will do everything he can to keep Luka Modric by making him captain for his first pre-season game in South Africa.

John Terry claims Andre Villas-Boas' arrival at Chelsea gives him hope of one day becoming Blues boss.

Brian Kidd reckons Sir Alex Ferguson is right to be wary of Man City's title threat.

THE GUARDIAN:

Arsenal have given Barcelona until the end of next week to sign Cesc Fabregas.

THE INDEPENDENT:

The Barcelona manager Pep Guardiola raised the stakes yesterday in his pursuit of Cesc Fabregas by going public on the current negotiations with Arsenal over the midfielder's transfer and promising Barcelona will wait all summer if necessary to get their man.

THE TIMES:

John Terry described Andre Villas-Boas yesterday as an inspirational figure who can help him fulfil his ambition to manage Chelsea.

DAILY RECORD:

Ally McCoist was still waiting for Carlos Cuellar to commit to Rangers last night - despite setting the Spaniard a 24-hour to deadline to decide on his future.

 

[sarahmic]

Latest Paper Talk at 09:04 BST

THURSDAY JULY 21

DAILY MIRROR

Carlos Tevez faces humiliation at Manchester City as they pressed ahead with a deal for Sergio Aguero last night.

Blackburn are making a remarkable move for Schalke striker Raul.

Chelsea last night made a £15million bid for Anderlecht star Romelu Lukaku - but the striker has hinted the Blues might not be his first choice.

Cesc Fabregas has made an emotional plea to Arsene Wenger to let him join Barcelona.

Nicolas Anelka is ready to run down his Chelsea contract and secure a lucrative free transfer next summer.

Aston Villa are set to table a fresh bid for Wigan winger Charles N'Zogbia.

Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp has confirmed his interest in signing Manchester City striker Emmanuel Adebayor on loan.

Roma midfielder Daniele De Rossi has put Chelsea and Manchester City on alert after stalling on a new contract.

Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini is lining up a shock swoop for Bournemouth striker Danny Ings.

Blackburn are ready to sell striker Nikola Kalinic to Ukrainian side Dnipro.

Wigan striker Mauro Boselli is expected to complete a move back to Estudiantes by the weekend.

Bolton chairman Phil Gartside is ready to fly home early from the US to tie up an ambitious £5million swoop for Barcelona forward Jeffren Suarez.

Arsenal's hopes of landing Juan Mata were revived last night as Valencia admitted he is for sale after all.

Alberto Aquilani could be forced to stay at Liverpool next season as his high wages may prevent him joining Fiorentina.

Dougie Freedman is giving Antonio Pedroza Whitham the chance to join Crystal Palace - after the bitter end to the striker's dream of joining Tottenham.

Real Madrid have made a shock move to hijack Aston Villa's bid to sign Le Havre's Gueida Fofana.

Swansea have made a £1.5million bid for Nottingham Forest goalkeeper Lee Camp - but will have to offer more.

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is ready to sell Jay Emmanuel-Thomas - but he wants £1million for the forward.

Birmingham want to sign Newcastle striker Nile Ranger on loan.

Kenny Miller will leave Bursaspor to join Cardiff.

THE SUN

Carlos Tevez still wants to quit Manchester City - despite the collapse of his £40million move to Corinthians.

Arsene Wenger is under pressure from Arsenal's board to start spending.

Harry Redknapp has pleaded for patience from Tottenham 'genius' Luka Modric.

Southampton are willing to sell Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain - but only on their terms.

John Arne Riise insists Liverpool fans wanted him back before he agreed to join Fulham last week.

Nicolas Anelka last night insisted he will not be forced out of Chelsea.

Newcastle are back in the hunt for PSG forward Mevlut Erdinc.

Matt Taylor has flown home from Bolton's pre-season tour of the USA to seal a move to West Ham.

West Brom last night talked to Owen Hargreaves about a possible pay-as-you-play deal.

Wolves want to take Liverpool midfielder Jay Spearing on loan for the season.

QPR are set to make former Ipswich goalkeeper Brian Murphy their third summer buy.

Liverpool midfielder Alberto Aquilani could be on his way to Fiorentina.

DAILY STAR

Manchester City are lining up an £80million double bid for Sergio Aguero and Wesley Sneijder.

Goal-line technology could be introduced in the Premier League as early as next season.

Chelsea are desperately trying to beat Manchester City in the battle for Roma midfielder Daniele De Rossi.

Fiorentina want to end Alberto Aquilani's Anfield nightmare - but Liverpool are not keen on another loan deal.

Owen Hargreaves held talks with West Brom in the US last night over a move to the club.

Wigan winger Charles N'Zogbia is stalling on a move to Aston Villa in the hope of joining Sunderland.

Darren Bent admits Aston Villa will find it impossible to replace Ashley Young and Stewart Downing.

Swansea have launched a final bid to sign Fulham goalkeeper David Stockdale on loan.

Malaga have bid £15million for QPR playmaker Adel Taarabt.

Ipswich have failed with bid for Millwall winger James Henry, Nottingham Forest midfielder Guy Moussi and Cardiff's Peter Whittingham.

Reading striker Noel Hunt has ruled out a move to West Ham.

DAILY MAIL

Inter Milan have challenged Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson to back up his interest in Wesley Sneijder with hard cash.

Carlos Tevez has been told to return to training at Manchester City but can expect to lose the captaincy and his place in the team as the club close in on Sergio Aguero.

Romelu Lukaku was closing in on his dream move to Chelsea last night after the Blues tabled an £18million bid for the Anderlecht striker.

Steve Kean was facing fresh turmoil at Blackburn last night as it emerged he may have to cash in on defender Christopher Samba.

Kenny Miller looks set to join Cardiff today unless Rangers increase their offer for the Bursaspor striker.

Swansea have made an improved £2.5million bid for Swansea goalkeeper David Stockdale.

Birmingham have enquired about Doncaster striker Billy Sharp.

West Brom are still interested in talking to Owen Hargreaves about a move to the club.

DAILY EXPRESS

Sergio Aguero is still the number one target for Manchester City despite the collapse of Carlos Tevez's £40million move to Corinthians.

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is under pressure to make a move for a defender after failing with a £10million bid for Phil Jagielka.

Wigan have lined up Manchester City winger Shaun Wright-Phillips to replace Charles N'Zogbia.

Liverpool midfielder Jay Spearing could join Wolves on a season-long loan deal.

Rio Ferdinand believes the new faces at Manchester United will see the club continue to be winners for seasons to come.

THE GUARDIAN

Manchester City will press ahead with their attempt to sign Sergio Aguero despite the breakdown of Carlos Tevez's proposed move to Corinthians.

DAILY TELEGRAPH

Juventus, Inter Milan and Real Madrid are considering moves for Carlos Tevez after his switch to Corinthians broke down yesterday

DAILY RECORD

Rangers boss Ally McCoist was bracing himself for another painful blow last night as Kenny Miller made his way across Europe to sign for Cardiff.

Belgian goalkeeper Stijn Stijnen's move to Celtic could be back on.

 

[sarahmic]

WHAT THE PAPERS SAY

THE GUARDIAN: India's attempts to stop England wresting their number one Test ranking ran into immediate problems on the opening day of the series when Zaheer Khan, the most experienced member of their pace attack, fell prey to the sort of injury that has dogged his entire career. Also: Steve Waugh has revealed that as many as 56 international players have reported illegal approaches from bookmakers in the past year as opposition grows to his campaign to introduce lie-detector tests to fight corruption in cricket.

DAILY TELEGRAPH: Jonathan Trott is an old-fashioned batsman so it was felicitous that he should be confronted by a day of Test cricket at Lord's from a previous era. Also: Monty Panesar has defended his decision to have a private net session in the build-up to the Lord's Test with Sachin Tendulkar as "a valuable opportunity to bowl against the best''.

DAILY EXPRESS: Carlos Tevez's fractious relationship with Manchester City has become so bad manager Roberto Mancini has been unable to even talk to the striker. Also: Duncan Fletcher lamented the loss of India's most potent bowler, Zaheer Khan, on the opening day of the Test series at Lord's.

DAILY STAR: David Beckham last night taunted Manchester City, telling them: "You'll never be as big as United''. Also: Everton have laughed off Arsenal's bid to land Phil Jagielka on the cheap... Carlos Tevez is still expecting a stampede for his signature.

DAILY MIRROR: Roberto Mancini says he can't even get hold of Carlos Tevez to discuss the Manchester City striker's future. Also: Yossi Benayoun was booed throughout Chelsea's pre-match tour opener - because he is an Israeli.

THE SUN: Jonathan Trott has warned England not to get cocky after landing the first blow in their titanic clash with India. Also: David Beckham last night stuck the boot into old rivals Manchester City.

DAILY MAIL: Steve Waugh, on a personal crusade to combat corruption in cricket, yesterday made the astonishing claim that 56 international players had reported approaches from bookmakers in the past year. Also: David Beckham has dismissed Manchester City's bid to become the biggest club in England.

THE TIMES: David Beckham delivered a thinly-veiled attack on Manchester City yesterday by claiming that they would never match Manchester United's standing in the game, regardless of how much money they spend. Also: Mark Cavendish's hopes of winning the green points jersey, rewarding the best sprinter in the Tour de France, were hanging by a thread last night after he survived the key Alpine stage, won by Andy Schleck, only because of the leniency of the race commissaires.

THE INDEPENDENT: Advantage England. Just. But while a total of 127 for two at the end of a day cut short by bad weather is neither here nor there, the home team's position could look considerably stronger before a ball is delivered at Lord's today with India's key bowler, Zaheer Khan, under an injury cloud. Also: Chelsea were last night closing on the signing of Barcelona midfielder Oriol Romeu.

 

[sarahmic]

WHAT THE PAPERS SAY

THE GUARDIAN: All season he has threatened without quite getting there but finally yesterday, as the dank gloom of the first day was replaced by sunshine, Kevin Pietersen delivered. Also: Mohamed bin Hammam is believed to have turned down the opportunity to defend himself at the FIFA disciplinary hearing at which he is accused of attempting to bribe his way to the presidency of the world game's ruling body.

DAILY EXPRESS: Kevin Pietersen hailed his gutsy double century at Lord's as one of his greatest innings. Also: Samir Nasri still believes he could join Manchester City this summer and has told friends he has no intention of performing a u-turn over his Arsenal future by signing a new contract.

THE TIMES: Kevin Pietersen made his first Test century on English soil for almost three years to put England in a position of strength in the first npower Test match against India at Lord's yesterday. Also: Didier Drogba has shrugged off Fernando Torres' threat to his place in Chelsea's starting line-up and claimed that he is close to signing a new contract at Stamford Bridge.

THE INDEPENDENT: One by one, he has seen them all off - the men who try to take his place - and now Didier Drogba, the centre-forward with the boxer's build, still plans to be Chelsea's last man standing. Also: Amir Khan is now a Las Vegas star with his name in lights, and he is convinced that the man who knocked him senseless in 2008 made it all possible.

THE SUN: Samir Nasri is happy to sit out his Arsenal contract and quit for nothing next summer. Also: Roberto Mancini is set to land super striker Sergio Aguero for £38million.

DAILY MAIL: Roberto Mancini believes he needs to be given more control of affairs at Manchester City if he is to bring sustained success to the Etihad Stadium. Also: A thrilling double-hundred from Kevin Pietersen led England into a position of strength on the second day of the first Test against India at Lord's.

DAILY STAR: Cesc Fabregas' move to Barcelona last night reached make-or-break time. Also: Manchester City are in pole position to sign Atletico Madrid striker Sergio Aguero for £40million.

DAILY MIRROR: Didier Drogba insists he will fight for his Chelsea place - and is determined to finish his career at Stamford Bridge. Also: Roberto Mancini has demanded more control at Manchester City - so he can emulate the success of Sir Alex Ferguson.

DAILY TELEGRAPH: Charles N'Zogbia will miss Wigan's pre-season trip to Austria to go on holiday to Dubai as he continues to agitate for a move to Aston Villa. Also: Roberto Mancini wants to do things the English way by demanding greater control over affairs at Manchester City.

 

[sarahmic]

Latest Paper Talk at 09:34 BST


MONDAY JULY 25

DAILY MIRROR

David Beckham has identified Wesley Sneijder as the man to replace Paul Scholes at Manchester United.

Carlos Tevez has rubbished a claim he told Sir Alex Ferguson he was going to retire in 2013.

Joey Barton reckons he is almost certain to be staying at Newcastle this summer.

Nikola Kalinic snubbed a new call from Blackburn boss Steve Kean to join the team at the Asia Cup.

West Brom boss Roy Hodgson is closing in on a deal to take the £6million-rated Birmingham goalkeeper Ben Foster on a season-long loan deal.

Wolves want to sign former Aston Villa and West Ham midfielder Thomas Hitzlsperger.

Swansea have failed in a bid to sign Fulham goalkeeper David Stockdale.

Edin Dzeko has vowed to prove he is not a £27million flop and is worth every penny of his fee.

Ipswich boss Paul Jewell is set to sign Arsenal striker Jay Emmanuel-Thomas in a £1.1million deal.

Nigel Reo-Coker's move from Aston Villa to Bolton is in doubt over his wage demands.

Birmingham boss Chris Hughton wants Nile Ranger from his old club Newcastle.

Ibrahima Sonko is ready to return to Reading.

Owen Hargreaves is being chased by Vancouver Whitecaps.

French striker Rudy Gestade will sign for Cardiff today after a successful trial.

THE SUN

David Beckham says Manchester United should sign Wesley Sneijder.

Patrice Evra has told Samir Nasri to forget Arsenal and Manchester City and join him at Old Trafford.

Neil Warnock's future as QPR boss is in doubt after he was gagged by Bernie Ecclestone and Flavio Briatore.

Alan Smith can revive his flagging career with a switch to Orlando City.

Spurs have let defender Bongani Khumalo join Reading on loan for next season.

Cardiff have clinched the signing of Scotland striker Kenny Miller from Bursaspor.

DAILY STAR

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has hit out at rival clubs for tapping up his star players.

Alberto Aquilani and David Ngog have edged closer to the exit door at Liverpool.

Edin Dzeko admits his move to Manchester City last season messed up his head.

Alan Pardew believes Joey Barton will sign a new contract at Newcastle.

DAILY MAIL

Patrice Evra last night revealed he has told France team-mate Samir Nasri to move to Manchester United and not rivals City if he values success above money.

Alberto Aquilani is set to return to Serie A after Fiorentina offered to take the Liverpool midfielder on a season-long loan.

Sergio Aguero failed to show up for training at Atletico Madrid yesterday and is expected to finalise his £38million move to Manchester City over the next 48 hours.

Blackburn are interested in Partizan Belgrade midfielder Radosav Petrovic.

Newcastle are waiting to hear if Paris St Germain striker Mevlut Erdinc will agree a move after the clubs agreed a £7million deal in principle.

Leeds have revived their interest in Preston goalkeeper Andy Lonergan.

Cardiff expect former France Under-19 striker Rudy Gestede to be confirmed as boss Malky Mackay's ninth signing.

Middlesbrough are interested in Arsenal striker Rhys Murphy while Nottingham Forest are keen on Middlesbrough striker Leroy Lita.

DAILY EXPRESS

Alberto Aquilani and David Ngog have edged closer to leaving Anfield as Kenny Dalglish delivered a blunt warning to his Liverpool players that they must earn the right to feature in his plans.

Cardiff are close to signing Scotland striker Kenny Miller from Turkish side Bursaspor.

Joey Barton has played down his chances of leaving Newcastle this summer.

THE TIMES

David Beckham hopes that FIFA is serious about cleaning up its act after admitting that he has been left "sickened" by the allegations of corruption within football world's governing body.

DAILY RECORD

Dorin Goian jetted into Glasgow last night desperate to complete his move to Rangers and plunge straight into the Champions League cauldron.

 

[sarahmic]

THE SUN: Nigel De Jong has warned Mario Balotelli: Sort yourself out or you will waste your talent. Also: Kevin Pietersen reckons it could be 2005 all over again after England thumped the world's best.

DAILY STAR: Joey Barton has labelled Mario Balotelli a lunatic after his latest Manchester City bust-up. Also: Kevin Pietersen last night told England fans to get ready for a summer as special as the 2005 Ashes triumph.

DAILY MIRROR: Andrew Strauss set his sights on world domination after England's "perfect" triumph at Lord's. Also: Mario Balotelli has been warned to grow up quick - or risk throwing his career away.

DAILY EXPRESS: Andrew Strauss saluted "the perfect bowling performance" as England beat India by 196 runs in a thrilling finale to the Lord's Test. Also: Mario Balotelli landed back in Manchester yesterday with the criticism of boss Roberto Mancini for his backheel showboating still ringing in his ears.

DAILY MAIL: Andrew Strauss last night hailed his bowling attack as 'close to perfect' after they moved a step towards the summer's goal of becoming the world's No 1 test nation. Also: Mario Balotelli has been warned by his Manchester City team-mates that he is in danger of 'wasting his talent'.

THE TIMES: James Anderson led the bowling attack brilliantly in what Andrew Strauss, the captain, called a near-perfect performance as England beat India by 196 runs at Lord's in the 2,000th Test match. Also: "Maybe in a beer league, things like that go on. Not in a game like this." That was how Mike Magee, the Los Angeles Galaxy striker, summed up the mood of bemusement at Mario Balotelli's bizarre antics in the United States.

THE INDEPENDENT: England took another big step towards the top of the world at Lord's last night when they completed a stunning, and thoroughly deserved, 196-run victory over India in the first Test. Also: Aston Villa have agreed a fee, believed to be in the region of £9.5m, with Wigan Athletic for the signing of winger Charles N'Zogbia.

DAILY TELEGRAPH: It is unfair that the terms used to describe brilliant bowlers have negative connotations. Batsmen achieve, build or stage a good innings. Bowlers blast out, wreck or destroy oppositions. Also: Thierry Henry insists he will play out his career in the United States after claiming he is "done with Europe" and has no intention of seeking a loan move in the MLS off-season.

THE GUARDIAN: Any disgruntled Wolverhampton Wanderers player on Twitter might want to think twice before expressing their inner thoughts next season after Mick McCarthy stated his intention to clamp down on the social networking site that he fears will be used by a "disgruntled numpty" within his squad to reveal his starting line-up. Also: The best Test team in the world have been beaten.

 

[sarahmic]

THE SUN: Alan Pardew is preparing a dramatic swoop for Tottenham striker Jermain Defoe. Also: Usain Bolt plans his next world record romp for London 2012.. Sergio Aguero is expected to fly into Manchester today to seal his £39million move to City.

DAILY MIRROR: Birmingham are struggling to pay their bills and could be forced to sell more players to survive. Also: Fernando Torres last night insisted he had not forgotten how to score... Steve Kean reckons he can get Blackburn into the Champions League within four years.

DAILY STAR: Samir Nasri has told Arsenal he is staying at the club for this season. Also: Ambitious Steve Kean last night vowed to get Blackburn into the Champions League within three years... Fernando Torres claims he has not forgotten how to score goals - and will fire Chelsea to glory this season.

DAILY EXPRESS: Sergio Aguero will take a big step towards completing a £40million switch to Manchester City today when he arrives in London for transfer talks. Also: England may be forced to ring the changes to their fast-bowling unit at Trent Bridge on Friday after the gruelling victory over India in the first Test at Lord's... Bradley Wiggins says he is willing to ride the Tour de France next year, even if it means risking his Olympic dream.

DAILY MAIL: Manchester City hope to sign striker Sergio Aguero by the end of the week after agreeing a price of around £38million for the South American. Also: Charles van Commenee has admitted that he does not have a single friend in the world of British athletics - and he prefers it that way... This is London calling. Today the president of the IOC, Jacques Rogge, will stand in Trafalgar Square and invite 205 nations to gather exactly one year from now to compete in the greatest extravaganza in world sport - the Games of the XXX Olympiad.

THE TIMES: Olympic athletes who test positive for cocaine and Ecstasy should not face an automatic ban from competing, the British anti-doping agency has said. Also: Lord Coe has told Britain to get ready for "an amazing summer of sporting carnival" as the 12-month countdown to the London 2012 Olympics gets under way today... Charles van Commenee says his flatlining relationship with Phillips Idowu will not harm Great Britain's medal prospects.

THE GUARDIAN: England's coach, Andy Flower, has expressed anger that the International Cricket Council has failed to employ stronger leadership and overrule India on their insistence at using a watered-down umpire decision review system in the Test series against England. Also: Karl-Heinz Rummenigge, the chairman of the European Club Association (ECA), has called for a club-led "revolution" against the "corrupt people" who govern football and called for his members to have a say in Fifa's decision-making process... Lord Coe has said it should be left up to athletes whether they want to take part in the opening ceremony that will take place in the Olympic Stadium in east London a year from today and vowed to make it as easy as possible for them to do so.

THE INDEPENDENT: England yesterday accused the International Cricket Council of weak leadership. Also: Much to their own surprise, as well as everyone else's, Wakefield are still in Super League, thanks to Crusaders falling on their sword with an 11th-hour decision to withdraw their application to continue playing in the competition... Bradley Wiggins has said that he will be riding the Tour de France come what may next year, even if it puts his participation at the London Olympics at risk.

DAILY TELEGRAPH: UK Athletics head coach Charles van Commenee has urged his athletes to embrace the positive energy of next year's Olympics, dismissing those who succumb to pressure and anxiety as "unprofessional". Also: A year before the UK Anti-Doping agency takes responsibility for drug testing at the London Olympics, its chief executive has called for cheats who have served their bans to be allowed to compete in the Games... Sergio Aguero flew out of Buenos Aires last night bound for the Premier League after Manchester City agreed a club-record £35million fee with Atletico Madrid for the forward.

 

[sarahmic]

WHAT THE PAPERS SAY

THE INDEPENDENT: Chelsea have written a formal letter of complaint to the Malaysian FA, protesting about what what the club claim was racist behaviour towards their Israeli midfielder, Yossi Benayoun. Also: Manchester City were last night close to finalising their biggest deal of the summer, with their £38m capture of the electrifying Argentine striker, Sergio Aguero.

THE SUN: Chris Samba has stunned Blackburn by pleading: Let me join Arsenal. Also: Manchester City took their spending to new heights by signing Sergio Aguero in a deal that will cost a staggering £90million.

DAILY MAIL: Sergio Aguero will become the most expensive player in Manchester City's history today. Arsenal were last night closing in on the £17.5million signing of Juan Mata from Valencia.

DAILY STAR: Chelsea are set to make a final £30m offer for Luka Modric and well tell Tottenham: Take it or leave it. Also: Manchester United will speed up their contract talks with Javier Hernandez in a bid to secure his long-term future at Old Trafford.

DAILY MIRROR: Sergio Aguero completed the second-biggest move in British history - and fired Manchester City into the title race. Also: Arsene Wenger was last night closing in on a £15million deal for Juan Mata - paving the way for Cesc Fabregas to go to Barcelona.

THE GUARDIAN: European clubs will break away from Fifa and Uefa and create their own super league unless the world governing body urgently addresses their growing concerns over international fixtures and finances. Also: Sergio Aguero has arrived at Manchester City to complete his club-record £38m transfer from Atletico Madrid.

THE DAILY TELEGRAPH: Sergio Aguero will today complete his £35 million move to Manchester City. Also: Fifa would turn to the United Nations for advice on how to remove the cloud of corruption from the organisation, Sepp Blatter said yesterday.

DAILY EXPRESS: Argentina striker Sergio Aguero last night became Manchester City's latest superstar signing. Also: Christopher Samba last night issued a 'come and get me' plea to Arsenal.

 

[sarahmic]

WHAT THE PAPERS SAY

THE SUN: Arsenal hope to seal a stunning £34million double swoop for Juan Mata and Phil Jagielka. Also: Javier Hernandez was sick in Manchester United's hotel before being rushed into hospital with concussion.

DAILY MIRROR: Sergio Aguero has revealed he has not spoken to Carlos Tevez about joining Manchester City. Also: Arsene Wenger is on the brink of breaking Arsenal's transfer record to sign Juan Mata - while getting tough over Cesc Fabregas.

DAILY MAIL: Manchester City are facing a contract rebellion from three first-team players following the £38million capture of striker Sergio Aguero. Also: Sepp Blatter revealed yesterday he would look again at Qatar hosting the 2022 World Cup if any evidence of corruption emerges from FIFA investigations.

DAILY EXPRESS: Arsene Wenger has finally dusted down his chequebook and agreed to smash Arsenal's record transfer fee by paying £18million for Valencia winger Juan Mata. Also: Andrew Strauss maintained he has total confidence in Tim Bresnan's ability to fill Chris Tremlett's boots against India in the second Test at Trent Bridge today.

DAILY STAR: Sergio Aguero last night promised not to moan about life in Manchester and vowed to "fight to the death" for Manchester City. Also: Peter Hill-Wood last night told Barcelona to get a move on or lose out on Cesc Fabregas.

THE TIMES: Andrew Strauss has told his players of their responsibility to live up to the growing hype around the India series as they move ever closer to becoming the best team in the world. Also: Sir Alex Ferguson moved to play down concerns over Javier Hernandez's health yesterday after the former doctor of the Manchester United striker's old club in Mexico claimed that the player had a pre-existing neurological condition.

DAILY TELEGRAPH: Tim Bresnan looks certain to return to the England team for today's second Test against India at Trent Bridge after Chris Tremlett failed to complete yesterday's net practice and Steven Finn earned a late call-up. Also: Arsenal were last night attempting to complete a deal for the Everton centre-back Phil Jagielka after submitting a new bid of around £15million.

THE GUARDIAN: England take the next step in their attempt to become the world's leading Test nation today with their captain, Andrew Strauss, saying they have to match the hullabaloo their performances have generated. Also: The government is due to give English football a deadline of shortly after the 2012 Olympic Games to undertake a radical overhaul of its governance arrangements or it will legislate to force change.

THE INDEPENDENT: Four years ago, England's chances of beating India did not amount to a hill of beans. They return to the scene of the crime today for the second Test as a mature team at ease with themselves and pretty good at being noble. Also: The honeymoon is officially over. Rory McIlroy was yesterday accused of being "childish", "immature" and a "spoilt brat" after an extraordinary attack on a former European Tour professional turned BBC commentator who criticised his "shocking course management" and caddie.

 

[sarahmic]

WHAT THE PAPERS SAY

DAILY MIRROR: Thierry Henry reckons Arsenal should give manager Arsene Wenger a job for life. Also: Stuart Broad turned England's nightmare collapse into a swingers' party at Trent Bridge yesterday.

THE SUN: Roberto Mancini is tipping Sergio Aguero to push Manchester City closer to the title, but insists he still needs two more players to win it. Also: Arsene Wenger has opened the door to Cesc Fabregas' Barcelona move - by questioning his skipper's commitment.

DAILY STAR: Arsene Wenger last night told Cesc Fabregas: Sort your head out or I'll give up on you. Also: Sven-Goran Eriksson has urged the FA to offer Jose Mourinho the England job when Fabio Capello quits.

DAILY EXPRESS: Millions of Formula One fans will have to subscribe to Sky television to watch all the races live from next season after a shock U-turn by Bernie Ecclestone in a £375million deal. Also: Stuart Broad believes England still have a great chance of winning the second Test after leading a glorious fightback yesterday.

DAILY MAIL: Stuart Broad last night insisted England can turn the second Test around after leading a one-man fightback at Trent Bridge. Also: Formula One for the first time will no longer be available live to British audiences on free-to-air television.

THE GUARDIAN: The resurgence of Stuart Broad's career continued here yesterday with a counter-attacking innings which set India's dominating bowlers back on their heels in the final session and he said he is "champing at the bit" over the prospect of having a similar impact with the ball this morning. Also: An influential parliamentary committee has called for "urgent reform" of the Football Association to enable it to take on the task of overseeing a new club licensing system, including a new an "rigorously applied" fit and proper persons test.

DAILY TELEGRAPH: It was a fightback within a comeback, as Stuart Broad hit a thrilling 64 to counter the headlong charge of India's bowlers to get back into this series. Also: Manchester City and Inter Milan will hold talks over a swap deal involving Carlos Tevez and Samuel Eto'o this weekend.

THE INDEPENDENT: Stuart Broad and his fast-bowling pals are "champing at the bit" to resume their work at Trent Bridge today. Also: Arsene Wenger increased the pressure on Cesc Fabregas when he suggested yesterday the Arsenal captain had lost his focus amid Barcelona's pursuit of him this summer.

THE TIMES: Stuart Broad, who was playing on the Trent Bridge outfield even before he was old enough for infant school, came to England's rescue with a flamboyant half-century on a dramatic first day of the second npower Test. Also: Arsene Wenger said yesterday that he will not select Cesc Fabregas for Arsenal's remaining pre-season matches because his captain is not in the right mental state.

 

[sarahmic]

WHAT THE PAPERS SAY

THE SUNDAY TELEGRAPH: Stuart Broad's brilliant hat-trick propelled England back into contention in an extraordinary second Test against India. Also: England received a draw for the 2014 World Cup that should hold few fears for Fabio Capello's successor after being paired with Montenegro, Poland, Ukraine, Moldova and minnows San Marino in Group G.

DAILY STAR SUNDAY: David Beckham is set to sensationally team up with his former England boss Sven Goran Eriksson at Leicester City. Also: England will have to battle Montenegro and Ukraine if they want to qualify for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

THE OBSERVER: A sensational Stuart Broad hat-trick, abetted by India's reluctance to embrace the decision review system, transformed this match and entralled the packed, sun-baked stands. Also: Liverpool's hopes of making a strong start in their effort to regain a Championship League place next season have been set back after Steven Gerrard was ruled out until September due to an infection related to his groin injury.

INDEPENDENT ON SUNDAY: Stuart Broad admitted last night that the third hat-trick of his career will lose a lot of its shine if England fail to beat India in Nottingham. Also: Steven Gerrard's injury problems have not been eased by the summer break and he will miss the start of the new season after his troublesome groin injury became infected.

THE MAIL ON SUNDAY: Frank Lampard's career as a first-choice England midfielder is finally over. Also: Any England supprters still trying to argue that Stuart Broad should have been dropped before the start of the series against India will now be taken to their beds for a long lie down and asked to stay there until the feeling passes.

SUNDAY EXPRESS: Stuart Broad's stunning hat-trick left India reeling as England roared back into contention following a pulsating day at Trent Bridge. Also: Sunderland boss Steve Bruce is planning a double swoop on Manchester City with moves for Adam Johnson and Craig Bellamy.

DAILY MIRROR: Stuart Broad produced a superb display to take five wickets for no runs in 16 deliveries at Trent Bridge. Also: Steven Gerrard and Theo Walcott will miss the start of the new season.

THE PEOPLE: Steven Gerrard is in hospital for tests on a blood problem - turning Liverpool's pre-season into a near disaster. Also: Fabio Capello, England's £6million man, will have no say whatsoever in the search for his replacement. Stuart Broad took a sensational hat-trick as England rallied to dismiss India for 288.

THE SUNDAY TIMES: England must successfully negotiate a series of menacing trips to eastern Europe if they are to reach the next World Cup finals. Also: Not long ago, Stuart Broad appeared to be struggling to live up to the hype of being England's next great all-rounder.

 

[sarahmic]

WHAT THE PAPERS SAY

THE DAILY TELEGRAPH: Cesc Fabregas intends to make his first Arsenal appearance since April against Benfica on Saturday, despite being willing to take a pay cut to join Barcelona. Also: Chelsea assistant manager Roberto di Matteo talks of how he won his battle with depression.

THE GUARDIAN: Rory McIlroy has turned his back on Europe for the US. Also: Newcastle United remain resolute in their intention to offload Joey Barton and will ignore any attempts from the midfielder to broker a truce.

THE SUN: Eric Cantona has taken a huge swipe at homesick Manchester City stars Carlos Tevez and Mario Balotelli. Also: Mike Ashley is set to hand Joey Barton a shock lifeline by getting him to stay.

THE TIMES: Carlos Tevez's desire to leave Manchester City could see him becoming part of Roberto Mancini's persistent efforts to sign Samuel Eto'o. Also: Joey Barton's future remains as unclear as ever this morning after the Newcastle United midfield player threatened to see out his contract at St James' Park, despite interest from a host of top clubs.

THE INDEPENDENT: Eric Cantona voiced doubts about what he perceives as Manchester City's attempts to buy their way to greatness last night. Also: Cesc Fabregas is fit again and will be in the Arsenal squad for tomorrow's flight to Lisbon for Saturday's friendly with Benfica, as his putative move to Barcelona drags out into the last month of the transfer window.

DAILY STAR: Kenny Dalglish last night vowed to carry on spending in his bid to end Liverpool's trophy drought. Also: Arsenal are threatening to stop Cesc Fabregas playing for Barcelona in the Champions League this season.

DAILY MIRROR: Eric Cantona has told Sir Alex Ferguson to land Wesley Sneijder because "he reminds me of myself". Also: Inter Milan are ready to offer their Brazilian defender Maicon in part-exchange for Carlos Tevez.

DAILY MAIL: Manu Tuilagi will make his Test debut for England at Twickenham on Saturday in another giant step towards forcing his way into the World Cup squad. Also: Joey Barton has threatened Newcastle United with the nightmare scenario of staying for the remainder of his contract.

DAILY EXPRESS: The civil war between Newcastle United and maverick midfielder Joey Barton was silenced last night by a shock truce. Also: In a surprise turnaround, Rory McIlroy will rejoin the US Tour at the start of next year.

 

[sarahmic]

WHAT THE PAPERS SAY

THE SUN: Alex Ferguson has set Manchester United a target of 84 points to win the title again. Also: Paul Scholes signed off his glittering career the only way he knows... with a goal; Joe Hart has been rewarded for a stunning season with Manchester City and England with a five-year deal worth £25million.

DAILY MAIL: Sir Alex Ferguson believes his rival Roberto Mancini will only get the complete control he craves at Manchester City when he wins more trophies. Also: Arsenal's nightmare Champions League qualifying draw has thrown the future of Cesc Fabregas into even more confusion; Martin Johnson has dramatically opened the door to a renewed contest for the England captaincy just a month before the World Cup, by revealing that Lewis Moody is not certain to fill the role.

DAILY MIRROR: Samir Nasri moved a step closer to the exit door at Arsenal after an apparent row with Arsene Wenger. Also: Sir Alex Ferguson will leave £16million ace Ashley Young on the bench against Manchester City.

DAILY EXPRESS: Sir Alex Ferguson has warned Roberto Mancini he will need to win a lot more trophies to match the control he has at Manchester United. Also: England captain Lewis Moody knows he faces a battle to keep the job beyond today's World Cup warm-up match against Wales at Twickenham and into the tournament in New Zealand next month; The Cesc Fabregas saga took a fresh twist last night when he failed to fly to Benfica for a friendly after Arsenal rejected an improved £30million Barcelona bid.

DAILY STAR: Roberto Mancini has told his Manchester City bosses to sign him three new stars in the next week. Also: Arsenal last night turned down Barcelona's latest offer for Cesc Fabregas - insisting they will only sell him for £40m; Manchester United's growing fears for Javier Hernandez were confirmed last night when he was ruled out of the start of the new season.

THE DAILY TELEGRAPH: Martin Johnson, the England manager, has left his squad in no doubt about the intensity of competition for places in the 30-man World Cup squad by challenging Lewis Moody to prove he remains the right man to captain the side in New Zealand. Also: Cesc Fabregas appears increasingly likely to miss the start of the season for Arsenal after withdrawing from the squad for the club's final friendly of the summer against Benfica.

THE TIMES: Roberto Mancini stated yesterday that Manchester City are now only "five yards" behind Manchester United, their opponents in the Community Shield tomorrow, but added that he will need more reinforcements over the next seven days if his team are to win the Premier League. Also: Sir Alex Ferguson admitted yesterday to having been bamboozled when eh implied to a French television station that he would sell Dimitar Berbatov to Paris St Germain, but the Bulgaria forward's future at Manchester United is still clouded by uncertainty.

THE GUARDIAN: Roberto Mancini goes into the Community Shield tomorrow believing Manchester United are "five yards" ahead of Manchester City and warning that the Eastlands club can forget about winning the Premier League unless they sign at least two more players. Also: Martin Johnson has refused to confirm who will captain England at next month's World Cup, making clear Lewis Moody still has to earn his place in the squad on merit.

THE INDEPENDENT: Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini declared yesterday that Manchester United remain "five yards" ahead of his own club and nine players better off, as the two sides head into a Community Shield at Wembley tomorrow where possibly their most absorbing struggle for supremacy will get under way. Also: 'The Chubby Slam' may sound like a canvas-rocking tactic employed by the likes of Giant Haystacks in the Seventies wrestling scene but, in fact, it could be the most remarkable achievement in the history of British sports management.

 

[sarahmic]

WHAT THE PAPERS SAY

THE SUNDAY TIMES: Wesley Sneijder's pay demands look certain to prevent the Dutch international from completing a move to the Premier League. Also: The first World Cup warm-up game took a toll on players, coaches and spectators. Stephen Jones failed to make kick-off with a late calf injury, while the man who replaced him, Morgan Stoddart, was taken off on a stretcher with a broken ankle, a devastating blow so close to the World Cup.

THE OBSERVER: Roberto Mancini believes that the increased physical strength, speed and stamina of modern footballers has been matched by a decline in their mental robustness. Also: The England captain Lewis Moody will have a scan on his right knee tomorrow after suffering a recurrence of an injury that forced him to miss the entire Six Nations campaign earlier this year during his side's 23-19 World Cup warm-up victory over Wales at Twickenham.

THE MAIL ON SUNDAY: A star was born yesterday at Twickenham, but his captain faces a nervy 48 hours as England experienced the promise and the pitfalls of World Cup warm-up matches. Also: Liverpool's new £16million midfielder Jordan Henderson will try to emulate England pal Jack Wilshere when he is thrust into the limelight at the beginning of the Premier League season.

THE INDEPENDENT ON SUNDAY: As Martin Johnson, the England team manager, had said during the build-up to this first of three World Cup warm-ups, it is easy to copy what the All Blacks do but quite another to do it as well as them. Also: Warren Gatland's Wales teams continue to promise much yet deliver only a few crumbs for their passionate followers.

THE PEOPLE: Manchester City are sparking a transfer war with Manchester United by making a late bid for Inter Milan's Wesley Sneijder. Also: Roberto Mancini admits he needs psychotherapy after being driven batty by Mario Balotelli.

DAILY STAR SUNDAY: Man City have made a sensational £34m bid to hijack Wesley Sneijder's move to neighbours United. Also: Fabio Capello will never pick Joey Barton because he's "too dangerous".

SUNDAY EXPRESS: Manchester City have made a sensational attempt to snatch Wesley Sneijder from under the noses of rivals Manchester United. Also: Jonny Wilkinson last night gave Martin Johnson a World Cup headache after pulling the strings in England's World Cup warm-up win over Wales.

SUNDAY MIRROR: The Glazers are preparing to sell a stake in Manchester United. Also: Wales were dealt an horrific World Cup blow at Twickenham yesterday when Morgan Stoddart broke his leg.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH: Manchester United striker Danny Welbeck has been called up to England's squad for the midweek friendly against Holland. Also: England batsman Jonathan Trott has been ruled out of the third Test against India starting on Wednesday at Edgbaston.

 

[sarahmic]

DAILY TELEGRAPH: Wayne Rooney yesterday claimed Manchester United's stunning comeback to snatch the Community Shield from Manchester City proved the champions remained the country's premier side, even describing the 3-2 win as a "footballing lesson". Also: Kyle Walker is expected to make his full England debut against Holland on Wednesday at right-back, despite having made just three appearances for Tottenham over the past two years.

THE GUARDIAN: Wayne Rooney said that Manchester United had shown their neighbours City who was boss in their 3-2 Community Shield comeback victory, handing them what he described as a "footballing lesson" which set down a marker for their Premier League title defence. Also: England will await the result of a scan on Lewis Moody's right knee today before assuming the worst about his chances of leading them to the forthcoming World Cup.

THE TIMES: Wayne Rooney said that Manchester United had given their cross-city rivals a painful reality check after coming from two goals down to win the Community Shield yesterday. Also: India's problems have worsened before the third npower Test at Edgbaston on Wednesday.

THE INDEPENDENT: Five goals, one shield and no sense of community. If Manchester's two clubs gave us a taster of the Premier League season that awaits us on Saturday, then roll on the weekend. Also: Fabio Capello is on course for a major disagreement with Arsene Wenger over plans to play Jack Wilshere against the Netherlands on Wednesday, despite the Arsenal manager's reservations about the midfielder's fitness.

DAILY EXPRESS: Wayne Rooney claimed Manchester United had handed out a footballing lesson after coming from behind to beat their city rivals 3-2 in the final minute of yesterday's Community Shield at Wembley. Also: Fabio Capello's relationship with Arsene Wenger is under fresh strain over plans to play Jack Wilshere in England's friendly against Holland.

DAILY MAIL: Wayne Rooney last night told Manchester City they had been given a 'footballing lesson' after Roberto Mancini's side took a beating on and off the pitch at Wembley. Also: Arsenal have stepped up their interest in Gary Cahill after the central defender Thomas Vermaelen was injured in Saturday's defeat at Benfica.

THE SUN: Wayne Rooney taunted bitter rivals Manchester City after the most amazing Community Shield game ever. Also: Wesley Sneijder has put Manchester United and City on alert by pleading: Come and get me.

DAILY MIRROR: Wayne Rooney last night claimed Manchester United gave their noisy neighbours a "footballing lesson". Also: Blackburn Rovers are trying to sell a handful of players in a secret list that reveals the salaries of Steve Kean's unwanted men.

DAILY STAR: Wayne Rooney claimed Manchester United have put bitter rivals Manchester City in their place by winning the Community Shield. Also: Arsene Wenger fears losing both Cesc Fabregas and Samir Nasri by the time the Premier League starts this weekend.

 

[sarahmic]

Latest Paper Talk at 08:00 BST

TUESDAY AUGUST 9

THE SUN

* Football bosses fear England's friendly with Holland tomorrow will be called off if the London riots continue.

* Tom Cleverley is praying the England match goes ahead - so he can make a dream debut.

* Alex Chamberlain last night got an early birthday present - a £15million switch to Arsenal.

* Carlos Tevez was back in a Manchester City shirt yesterday - but was warned he faces a battle to face Swansea on Monday.

* Joey Barton looks more likely to stay at Newcastle after training with the first team.

* Harry Redknapp's bid to bring Lassana Diarra to Tottenham has hit the buffers in a row with Real Madrid over the ex-Chelsea man's £20million price tag.

* Simon Grayson admits places are up for grabs at Leeds after Saturday's surrender at Southampton.

* Stewart Downing thinks his £20million move to Anfield will help him Kop a regular England place.

* Nicklas Bendtner last night confirmed he will leave Arsenal.

* Arsenal will allow Samir Nasri to join Manchester City - but the world's richest club have been ordered to stop penny-pinching.

* West Ham are preparing a £2million-plus bid for Rangers ace Kyle Lafferty.

* West Brom are set to smash their transfer record after Roy Hodgson made a £7million swoop for Reading's Shane Long.

* Newcastle moved closer last night to sealing a £7million deal for Dutch defender Erik Pieters.

* Juventus look ready to increase their opening offer of £7million for Chelsea central defender Alex. The Blues want £10.5million for the Brazilian ace.

* Blackburn have told striker Benjani he can sign a new deal - or leave.

* Jinxed Jonathan Woodgate could win an improved deal at Stoke after doing well on a pay-as-you-play basis.

DAILY STAR

* Arsenal last night completed a stunning £15million swoop for teenage star Alex Chamberlain.

* Police will meet today to decide whether to allow England's friendly with Holland to take place amid fears over the spreading London riots.

* Arsene Wenger last night won the war of words with Fabio Capello over Jack Wilshere.

* Kyle Walker was hailed as the new Roberto Carlos - but he would rather be the next Gary Neville.

* West Brom are on the verge of smashing their transfer record to land Shane Long in a £6.5million move from Reading.

* Chelsea are expected to complete the £18million signing of Romelu Lukaku within the next 72 hours.

* Kenny Dalglish has moved for Birmingham star Scott Dann after Liverpool's pre-season defensive shambles.

* Chris Smalling reckons Manchester United's young stars can help inspire Sir Alex Ferguson's side to more glory.

* Joe Hart reckons Manchester United might have done their bitter rivals a favour by beating them in the Community Shield.

* Patrice Evra laid down the challenge to Manchester United's title rivals last night and told them: 'Catch us if you can'.

* Manchester United have agreed a deal to take 14-year-old keeper Dean Henderson from League Two Carlisle's centre of excellence.

DAILY MIRROR

* Carlos Tevez was forced to swallow his pride and train with Manchester City - after vowing never to return to the club.

* Arsene Wenger finally got his cheque book out yesterday but left fans raging over who he HASN'T signed.

* Tom Cleverley has been compared to Paul Scholes after his superb Wembley display was rewarded with a first England call-up.

* Wesley Sneijder last night opened the door for a move to Manchester United.

* Joe Hart admitted Manchester City's Community Shield defeat was the "kick up the backside" Roberto Mancini's side needed ahead of the new season.

* Fabio Capello sent out a statement of intent to all Premier League bosses by demanding Jack Wilshere's England attendance.

* Frank Lampard was last night ruled out of England's friendly with Holland - leaving Fabio Capello short in midfield.

* Joey Barton wants to come in from the cold and play for Newcastle again.

* Teenage sensation Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain says his new boss Arsene Wenger is the man to turn him into an England star.

* Stewart Downing admits that the British nucleus at Liverpool attracted him to the club.

* West Brom are close to breaking their transfer record by landing Shane Long for £6.5million.

* Chelsea scouting chief Michael Emenalo is set to run the rule over Ghana defender Samuel Inkoom tonight.

* Brendan Rodgers will sign Middlesbrough defender Matthew Bates in time for Swansea's Premier League baptism of fire at Manchester City next Monday.

* Birmingham may bring back former hero Darren Carter after unloading Spanish flop Michel on the cheap.

* Blackburn are skating on thin ice in their attempt to use new transfer 'fixer' Krish Naidoo - because he is an unlicensed agent.

* Leeds boss Simon Grayson has asked Aston Villa to let him have Chris Herd on loan.

DAILY EXPRESS

* Arsene Wenger has taken a huge gamble on Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain after agreeing a £15million fee with Southampton for the teenage winger.

* Tom Cleverley is in line to be handed a surprise England debut at some stage during tomorrow's friendly with Holland after Fabio Capello's midfield options were left depleted by injury and illness.

* Patrice Evra says Tom Cleverly can be the new Paul Scholes - big noise on the pitch, quiet man off it.

* David De Gea admits he needs to improve - and quickly - after his Community Shield nightmare for Manchester United.

* Sir Bobby Charlton has urged his fellow knight Sir Alex Ferguson to scotch any thoughts of retirement and drive Manchester United on to more glory.

* Carlos Tevez returned to a rain-soaked Manchester yesterday less than two months after swearing he would never set foot in the city again.

* Joe Hart has paid tribute to the help and support he received from Shay Given in becoming Manchester City and England's number one keeper.

* Glen Johnson is set to miss the start of the new season for Liverpool after being ruled out for up to two weeks.

* Tottenham are still in talks with Real Madrid over signing defensive midfielder Lassana Diarra.

* Blackburn hope to push through a deal to sign Bruno Ribeiro to solve their defensive crisis ahead of the new season.

* Swansea have made a late move to hijack Daniel Ayala's £800,000 switch to Hull City.

* Leicester have agreed terms with defender Michael Ball, who is Sven-Goran Eriksson's 11th summer signing.

DAILY MAIL

* Manchester United youngster Tom Cleverley is lined up for a shock England debut against Holland tomorrow night after Fabio Capello was left staring at a midfield injury crisis.

* Carlos Tevez returned to Manchester City on time yesterday but is expected to lose the club captaincy to Vincent Kompany.

* England's football and cricket teams found themselves caught up in Britain's riot madness last night.

* Ashley Young yesterday spoke of how training with Manchester United is as demanding as a full-blooded Premier League match.

* Arsenal have finally landed Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, the player Arsene Wenger and chief scout Steve Rowley view as the country's no 1 attack-minded teenager.

* Republic of Ireland boss Giovanni Trapattoni has welcomed Shane Long's move back to the Premier League and told the striker to prove he is worth his £7million price tag.

* Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp will look to reshape his central midfield by landing Real Madrid's Lassana Diarra and offloading Wilson Palacios to Stoke.

* Newcastle will unveil new signing Gabriel Obertan from Manchester United today but have been told Tottenham want £14million for striker Roman Pavlyuchenko.

* Liverpool are ready to hold further talks over Birmingham defender Scott Dann.

* Everton striker Victor Anichebe will be the target of a £3million bid from Championship big spenders Leicester.

* Chelsea are facing a battle with big-spending PSG over Porto wing-back Alvaro Pereira.

DAILY RECORD

* Ally McCoist risks losing out on another priority target after his bid to land Roland Juhasz broke down for the sake of less than £200,000.

* Gregorz Sandomierski is leaning towards a Celtic move - bu the Hoops must up their £1.4million offer to land the highly-rated Polish keeper.

* Kris Commons limped ut of Scotland's HQ yesterday with a foot in a protective boot - then pleaded for one last chance to prove he's fit to face Denmark.

 

[sarahmic]

Latest Paper Talk at 11:35 BST

WEDNESDAY AUGUST 10

DAILY MIRROR

* Samir Nasri will get his move to Manchester City after Arsenal finally put a price on his head last night.

* The Premier League launch this weekend faces being wrecked by the riots sweeping the country.

* The FA are eager to host the cancelled match with Holland at Wembley next year - although no date has yet been fixed.

* Wales skipper Aaron Ramsey reckons Arsenal can win the Premier League with or without Cesc Fabregas.

* Peter Schmeichel says it is "ridiculous" new Manchester United keeper David De Gea is being critised for his Community Shield debut.

* Stoke boss Tony Pulis last night snapped up England defender Matthew Upson on a free transfer just four days before the start of the campaign.

* Gabriel Obertan is desperate to prove a point to Manchester United.

* Sylvain Distin believes his Everton team-mate Phil Jagielka is staying at Goodison Park.

* Wesley Sneijder will thrash out his future over the next 48 hours - as his move to Manchester United took a major step forward last night.

* Stoke boss Tony Pulis has joined the race to sign Manchester City outcast Shaun Wright-Phillips.

* Bolton boss Owen Coyle is bringing Turkish star Tuncay Sanli back to the Premier League - after a brief spell in Germany with Wolfsburg.

THE SUN

* The Premier League's big kick-off is in danger of being ravaged by riots - especially in London.

* Wesley Sneijder has confirmed he would like to join Manchester United.

* Cesc Fabregas and Samir Nasri have been included in Arsenal's Champions League squad for their play-off tie with Italians Udinese.

* Chelsea were last night told: Forget Luka Modric - he is DEFINITELY staying at Spurs!

* Arsenal's new teen sensation Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has revealed his footballing hero - Chelsea legend Gianfranco Zola.

* Charles N'Zogbia says he is fit to face Fulham in Aston Villa's Premier League opener.

* Everton will be without Seamus Coleman for up to six weeks after scans revealed he has torn an ankle ligament.

* Turkish striker Tuncay is heading back to the Premier League - with Bolton waiting to snap him up.

* Gabriel Obertan is out to prove he is no Premier League flop at Newcastle United.

* Blackburn are lining up a £3million move for Leicester's Sol Bamba.

* Matthew Upson forgot his bad blood with Robert Huth to join Stoke yesterday.

* Sylvain Distin believes Arsenal are wasting their time trying to tempt Phil Jagielka away from Everton.

* Roy Hodgson says his West Brom squad is "close to being complete" after the £7million signing of Shane Long.

* Roy Keane is convinced Manchester United will win the title "comfortably" as their rivals collapse.

* Aaron Ramsey has told people to write off Arsenal's Premier League chances at their peril.

DAILY STAR

* Premier League chiefs will hold an emergency summit tomorrow to decide whether Saturday's football programme can go ahead.

* England's footballers have pleaded for peace across the country.

* Wesley Sneijder last night admitted for the first time: "I want to join Manchester United".

* Gabriel Obertan plans to transform himself from Manchester United flop to Toon hero, following his £3million move to Newcastle.

* Arsenal new boy Alex Chamberlain wants to follow in the footsteps of Theo Walcott and break into the England squad.

DAILY EXPRESS

* The Premier League will decide tomorrow if the start of the new season is to be decimated by the riots that prompted England's friendly with Holland to be postponed amid fears over the safety of players and supporters.

* Newcastle manager Alan Pardew has endured plenty of hard days over the summer, but yesterday was a harmonious one following Gabriel Obertan's £3million move to St James's Park.

* When Romelo Lukaku finally signs up tomorrow Chelsea will not just be getting one of Europe's most exciting young strikers, they will also be signing up a walking football encyclopaedia.

* West Brom boss Roy Hodgson believes new signing Shane Long will only get better after the striker completed his record-breaking move.

* West Ham have pulled out of a move to sign Fulham's former England striker Andy Johnson.

* Jamie Carragher has backed Steven Gerrard to prove he still has what it takes to lead from the front at Liverpool.

DAILY MAIL

* Chelsea are ready to use Yossi Benayoun as bait in their attempt to prise Luka Modric away from Tottenham.

* Tottenham are preparing a £35million bid for Porto striker Hulk.

* Arsenal assistant boss Pat Rice and chief scout Steve Rowley watched Birmingham centre-half Scott Dann play in a friendly match against Tottenham yesterday.

* Colombia coach Hernan Dario Gomez has resigned following reports that he struck a woman in a bar in Bogota last Saturday night.

* Bolton manager Owen Coyle is trying to bring Turkish striker Tuncay Sanli back to the Premier League.

* Wesley Verhoek has turned down a move to Nottingham Forest for fear of becoming homesick.

* Swansea hope to complete the £1.6million signing of goalkeeper Michel Vorm from FC Utrecht later today.

* Wesley Sneijder paved the way for a move to Manchester United last night when he admitted he has spoken to the Premier League champions about a move to Old Trafford.

* Joey Barton is in line for an unlikely start in Newcastle's season opener at home to Arsenal after returning to first-team training yesterday.

* Jamie Carragher has insisted that Steven Gerrard's return to fitness is as crucial as any of Liverpool's summer transfer signings.

DAILY RECORD

* The SPL is reeling under the loss of 600,000 fans who have wiped out £10million in profits.

* Emotional Wesley Verhoek pulled the plug on his move to Nottingham Forest at the 11th hour yesterday - and then insisted he has no intention of signing for Rangers either.

* Arsenal legend Steve Bould believes Kyle Bartley's loan spell at Rangers last season transformed him from a boy to a man.

 

[sarahmic]

Latest Paper Talk at 11:35 BST

THURSDAY AUGUST 11

THE SUN

* Cesc Fabregas is on the brink of sealing his dream move to Barcelona. But the Spanish midfielder will have to fork out £4.5million from his own pocket to do it.

* Tom Cleverley is at the centre of a David and Goliath battle between League Two side Bradford and Manchester United. * Harry Redknapp wants Premier League stars to help find an answer to Britain's riots.

* Chelsea last night stepped up their pursuit of Brazilian strike ace Neymar.

* Gary Neville has told old rivals Liverpool their desperate 21-year wait for the title is set to continue.

* Kenny Dalglish has pleaded with Sunderland fans not to give Jordan Henderson a rough ride on Saturday.

* Manchester City are ready to sign Italian winger Alessio Cerci if they fail to land Arsenal's Samir Nasri.

* Fernando Torres is a doubt for Chelsea's Premier League opener at Stoke on Sunday, after getting crocked playing for Spain in Italy.

* West Brom have issued a hands-off warning to both Newcastle and Wigan over striker Peter Odemwingie.

* Steve Bruce has confirmed he wants Niko Kranjcar as his 11th Sunderland summer signing.

* Real Madrid winger Pedro Leon has sparked a three-way battle for his signature after he turned down a move to Getafe. Everton, Villa and Fulham are keen on the 24-year-old.

* Chelsea midfielder Yossi Benayoun can choose a move to Tottenham or Newcastle.

DAILY STAR

* QPR owner Bernie Ecclestone claims football should stick two fingers up to the rioters and kick off as planned this weekend.

* Frank Lampard will be fit to start the season for Chelsea - despite pulling out of the England squad with a sore throat.

* Nigel Winterburn fears Arsenal's season could be a write-off by the end of August.

* Danny Welbeck has vowed not to be the loser in Manchester United's striker battle.

* Manchester City are pressing to seal a £6million deal for Fiorentina winger Alessio Cerci with their bid to land Samir Nasri in limbo.

* Cesc Fabregas' switch from Arsenal to Barcelona could finally be completed in the next 48 hours.

* Stoke chairman Peter Coates told Tottenham he will not pay more than £17million for Peter Crouch and Wilson Palacios.

* Kenny Dalglish reckons Sunderland's boo-boys will not target Jordan Henderson this weekend.

* Bolton hope to wrap up a double striker deal with Liverpool reject David Ngog set to follow Tuncay to the Reebok.

* Steve Bruce is weighing up a swoop for Tottenham's Niko Kranjcar if he fails to land Manchester City outcast Craig Bellamy.

DAILY MIRROR

* Gary Neville has told Arsenal fans to lay off Arsene Wenger.

* Tottenham goalkeeper Heurelho Gomes has admitted the riots have left the club living in fear.

* Stoke boss Tony Pulis is in talks with Newcastle's Joey Barton about a surprise move to the ambitious Potters.

* Barcelona believe they have finally got their man after making a new £36million move for Cesc Fabregas.

* Inter Milan striker Samuel Eto'o is set to earn an incredible £300,000 a week by joining Russian club Anzhi Makhachkala.

* Fernando Torres was substituted after just 14 minutes of Spain's defeat by Italy after suffering concussion.

* QPR owner Bernie Ecclestone last night said it would be a "terrible messag" if Premier League chiefs called off this weekend's matches because of the riots.

* Wigan want West Brom hitman Peter Odemwingie - fearing Arsenal will move for their striker Hugo Rodallega.

* Nottingham Forest are set to land Ishmael Miller from West Brom for £2million.

* Leeds boss Simon Grayson's move for French midfielder Alexandre Mendy has controversially collapsed.

* Bolton boss Owen Coyle is read to make an increased offer of £4million for Liverpool's French striker David Ngog.

* Everton are ready to sell Joseph Yobo to Turkish giants Fenerbahce - giving David Moyes a financial lifeline.

DAILY EXPRESS

* The Cesc Fabregas transfer saga appears finally to be coming to a close after Barcelona's improved £35.7million bid for the midfielder.

* Manchester City are plotting a £6million deal for Fiorentina winger Alessio Cerci as they enter a 'who blinks first' stand-off with Arsenal over Samir Nasri.

DAILY MAIL

* Barcelona are certain they have finally succeeded in their long pursuit of Cesc Fabregas with a package worth around £31million.

* Arsenal have expressed an interest in FC Twente striker Bryan Ruiz.

* Manchester City have re-opened talks with Fiorentina over a deal for winger Alessio Cerci.

* Tottenham have had an initial offer rejected for Real Madrid's Lassana Diarra.

* Newcastle are considering a move for Bayer Leverkusen striker Eren Derdiyok.

* Stoke are in danger of being priced out of a double move for Tottenham pair Peter Crouch and Wilson Palacios.

* Nottingham Forest have pipped Derby for former Blackburn striker Matt Derbyshire.

* Bolton have agreed a loan deal for Wolfsburg forward Tuncay and are considering a £3.5million move for Birmingham striker Cameron Jerome.

DAILY RECORD

* Celtic were last night warned to move quickly or lose the race to sign top target Grzegorz Sandomierski.

* Ally McCoist's woes were mounting last night after defensive stalwart Sasa Papac was struck down with pneumonia.

 

[sarahmic]

Latest Paper Talk at 09:14 BST

FRIDAY AUGUST 12
THE SUN

* Manchester City and Arsenal were last night locked in talks over Samir Nasri's £22million switch.

* John Terry insists Chelsea are not too old to win the Premier League and Champions League double this season.

* Jose Enrique insists his £6million switch from Newcastle to Liverpool is all about glory - not cash.

* Leicester manager Sven-Goran Eriksson is lining up a surprise £3million bid for Tottenham striker Robbie Keane.

* Chris Hughton insists Arsenal have not made a formal approach for defender Scott Dann.

* Chelsea midfielder Yossi Benayoun is wanted by Italian giants Roma.

* Tuncay is taking a huge drop in wages to join Bolton.

* Stoke City are closing in on Joey Barton and Nicklas Bendtner.

* Jordan Henderson will change the habit of a lifetime tomorrow - and kick off the season hoping Sunderland cop a hiding.

DAILY STAR

* Manchester City have given Arsenal 48 hours to sell them Samir Nasri.

* Scott Dann is the man for Arsenal after the Gunners opened talks with Birmingham for the defender.

* John Terry has ordered Chelsea to win the Champions League AND the Premier League - to keep Andre Villas-Boas in a job.

* Sir Bobby Charlton has delivered a snub to Jose Mourinho by insisting no-one is good enough to replace Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United.

* Jay Bothroyd has revealed he rejected bigger clubs to sign for QPR after Neil Warnock promised to turn him into an England star.

* Leicester boss Sven-Goran Eriksson is preparing a shock £3million bid for Tottenham striker Robbie Keane.

* Shaun Wright-Phillips has been left in limbo as a financial row threatens to scupper his move to Bolton.

* Joey Barton will not be in the Newcastle side which kicks off the season against Arsenal tomorrow evening.

* Jose Enrique finally became a Liverpool player yesterday as Kop boss Kenny Dalglish continued his summer rebuilding policy.

* Steve Kean believes he has got a young Wayne Rooney on his hands in hot Scot David Goodwillie.

DAILY MIRROR

* Arsene Wenger wants his two star players out of Arsenal today so he can start rebuilding the crisis club.

* John Terry last night insisted Andre Villas-Boas will make Chelsea winners again - as he IS the new Special One.

* Matt Upson is on a quest to rebuild his reputation with Stoke City after enduring a year from hell.

* Neil Warnock claims he can get more games out of Kieron Dyer at QPR this season than he had in his entire spell at West Ham.

* Steve Bruce has insisted Jordan Henderson left him no choice but to sell him - and backed the £20million man to be a hit at Liverpool.

* Roy Hodgson believes Sir Alex Ferguson's Manchester United "empire" will continue to terrify Premier League rivals.

* Arsene Wenger's job is on the line for the first time in 15 years as Arsenal manager.

* Peter Odemwingie has told West Brom he is willing to snub their Premier League rivals - but he wants £40,000 a week to stay at The Hawthorns.

* Disgraced former Chelsea striker Adrian Mutu and West Brom defender Gabriel Tamas have been banned for life by the Romania team.

* Southampton manager Nigel Adkins is hoping Burnley's Jay Rodriguez will be the second part of a shock £7million twin deal.

* Stoke boss Tony Pulis has stepped up his bid to sign Joey Barton and Nicklas Bendtner - but has admitted defeat in his battle to lure Peter Crouch away from Spurs.

* Birmingham are going for more Bosman signings as they prepare to sell Scott Dann and Cameron Jerome.

* Alex McLeish has admitted he would like Thomas Hitzlsperger back at Aston Villa.

* Robbie Keane is poised to become Sven-Goran Eriksson's final signing for Leicester this summer.

DAILY EXPRESS

* Owen Hargreaves has been given a potential Premier League lifeline by West Brom after a three-year injury nightmare which led to him being released by Manchester United in July.

* Leicester manager Sven-Goran Eriksson is preparing a shock £3million bid for Robbie Keane.

* Tony Pulis is stepping up his bid to land Joey Barton and Nicklas Bendtner.

* Arsene Wenger last night gave Manchester City an ultimatum over their pursuit of Samir Nasri.

* Tottenham hope to seal a loan deal for Manchester City outcast Emmanuel Adebayor.

* Manchester City have told Inter Milan there is no chance of them loaning out Carlos Tevez.

* Alex McLeish has handed Aston Villa's fans a reality check after admitting his team are a "work in progress".

DAILY MAIL

* Manchester United have given up on signing Wesley Sneijder from Inter Milan.

* Newcastle are ready to rival Stoke for Arsenal striker Nicklas Bendtner after being rebuffed by another target - Bayer Leverkusen's Eren Derdyiok.

* Aston Villa have expressed interested in former Juventus star David Trezeguet.

* Bolton have made a £3.5million bid to sign Liverpool striker David Ngog.

* Arsenal are planning their next swoop for a teenage sensation after checking out Ipswich's highly-rated midfielder Byron Lawrence.

* Owen Coyle has told Manchester City winger Shaun Wright-Phillips he must take a pay cut to save his £2.5million move to Bolton from collapsing.

* Blackburn's new £2.8million signing David Goodwillie says he had to leave Scotland to save his career from being wrecked by off-the-field controversies, including being arrested on three occasions for alleged assault.

* Arsene Wenger last night conceded defeat in his battle to keep Cesc Fabregas and Samir Nasri and urged his board to push through the sales quickly and find replacements.

* Newcastle boss Alan Pardew says Joey Barton could play for the club again if the controversial midfielder commits to giving his all for the North East team.

DAILY RECORD

* David Goodwillie insists he had to choose the Premiership over Rangers to escape the goldfish bowl of Scotland.

* Socceroos star Matt McKay last night pleaded for the chance to fire Rangers into the Europa League group stage.

* Neil Lennon breathed a huge sigh of relief last night when Scott Brown was given the all-clear by Celtic's medical team.

* Rangers last night insisted Bosnian doctors blundered by diagnosing Sasa Papac with a bout of pneumonia.

 

[sarahmic]

HE SUN: Arsenal have sensationally told Manchester City: Give us Carlos Tevez and you can have Samir Nasri. Also: Alex Ferguson last night said he is not planning to sign Wesley Sneijder.

DAILY STAR: Roberto Mancini has told Carlos Tevez he is staying at Manchester City - because nobody else wants him. Also: Cesc Fabregas is finally on the brink of joining Barcelona. The Arsenal skipper was last night waiting to fly to Spain to complete a £35m switch after being left out of the Gunners squad for today's Premier League opener at Newcastle.

DAILY MIRROR: Arsene Wenger last night appeared to be losing the plot as he insisted nobody would be leaving the club. Also: Kenny Dalglish admits he is 'like a kid at Christmas' on the eve of a season for which he can barely contain his excitement.

DAILY EXPRESS: Cesc Fabregas said goodbye to his team-mates yesterday after training with them for a last time, while beleaguered Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger still maintained that the only reason the player is not travelling to Newcastle is because he is not match fit. Also: Alastair Cook scored England's sixth highest individual score of all time yesterday but then revealed he was devastated to miss out on a "granddaddy hundred".

DAILY MAIL: Alastair Cook compiled a monumental 294 at Edgbaston yesterday as England continued to treat India with contempt in the third Test. Also: Chelsea manager Andre Villas-Boas has introduced a zero tolerance regime ahead of his first Premier League match in charge tomorrow against Stoke City.

DAILY TELEGRAPH: Arsene Wenger yesterday began the most scrutinised season of his managerial reign by passionately defending himself from his critics among Arsenal's supporters and those who chronicle the club's fortunes. Also: England need a win at the Millennium Stadium this afternoon for reasons of morale and momentum; Wales crave one for their very World Cup credibility.

THE INDEPENDENT: Alastair Cook went on and on yesterday. For most of the time he looked as if he would go on some more, all the way until England was once again a green and pleasant land. Also: It seems typical of racing that one of its greatest celebrations, as a game without frontiers, should be overshadowed by a reminder that the most perilous boundaries can be those closest to home.

THE TIMES: Cesc Fabregas' imminent transfer from Arsenal to Barcelona took a comical turn yesterday when he was forced to return to London while on his way to the airport to fly to Catalonia. Also: In the absence of confirmation from the world's least talkative club owner, a widely held belief is that Carlo Ancelotti was brought in by Roman Abramovich to win the Champions League and dispatched after twice failing to get anywhere near the only trophy to elude the Russian.

THE GUARDIAN: The cemeteries, Arsene Wenger pointed out yesterday, are full of irreplaceable people. "We're all replaceable, you know," he said. Also: Roberto Mancini has renewed his criticism of the Manchester City board, describing himself as "worried" because of the club's inability to conclude their transfer business earlier in the summer.