Tough Draw For Arsenal In Champions League Play-Off

Arsenal have been handed a Champions League play-off tie against Italian side Udinese.

Arsene Wenger's men collapsed at the end of the last Barclays Premier League season to finish fourth and so face a qualifying tie to secure safe passage to the lucrative group stages for a 14th season.

The Gunners were seeded for the draw in Nyon, and will face a two-legged fixture over August 16/17 and 23/24, which is sandwiched between some tough Barclays Premier League games against Newcastle, Liverpool and Manchester United.

Even though Arsenal were one of the seeds, there was no fixture weighting, meaning the Gunners will play the first leg at Emirates Stadium.

Wenger, though, must serve a one-match touchline ban following UEFA disciplinary action in the wake of last season's second-round exit to Barcelona in the Nou Camp, after being charged with "inappropriate language" directed towards referee official Massimo Busacca.

The Swiss official had controversially shown Robin van Persie a second yellow card for shooting at goal just one second after he had blown the whistle for offside - the Dutch striker claimed he had not heard it due to the noise of the 95,000-plus crowd.

The 10-men of Arsenal, who had beaten Barcelona in the first leg, went on to lose 3-1 to crash out of Europe.

Midfielder Samir Nasri was also sanctioned by UEFA for his outburst at Busacca, and will not be available, nor will van Persie, whose suspension was carried over into Arsenal's next European tie.

Other Play-Off Round Draw:

Wisla Krakow v Apoel FC

Maccabi Haifa v Genk

Dinamo Zagreb v Malmo

FC Copenhagen v Viktoria Plzen

BATE Borisov v Sturm Graz

Odense v Villarreal

FC Twente v Benfica

Bayern Munich v FC Zurich

Lyon v Rubin Kazan

Chelsea Sign Oriol Romeu

Chelsea on Thursday completed the £4.35million signing of Oriol Romeu from Barcelona on a four-year deal.

The 19-year-old is the second arrival of the Andre Villas-Boas era and will link up with his new team-mates at the end of Spain's Under-20 World Cup campaign.

Barca confirmed Chelsea had paid 5million euros for the midfielder, with the deal including a buy-back clause of 10million euros after one year and 15million euros after two.

The fee was agreed 11 days ago for the midfielder, who was quoted this week as saying: "Chelsea is a great option for me.

"Leaving Barca hurts, but you have to take your chances."

Oriol's agent, Magico Diaz, reportedly jetted out to Columbia this week to seal the deal.

That is where Oriol is currently based, having played 90 minutes in Spain's opening two 4-1 and 2-0 victories over Costa Rica and Ecuador respectively at the Under-20 World Cup.

His arrival at Stamford Bridge will help offset the loss of Michael Essien, who faces six months out with a serious knee injury.

Speaking after the fee had been agreed, Villas-Boas said: "It is a part of the squad in which we are struggling with numbers because of Michael Essien's injury and Oriol is a player with a bright future. He still has to evolve as a player.

Oriol, who is 6ft and can also play central defence, made his first-team debut for Barca at the end of last season but head coach Pep Guardiola deemed him surplus to requirements.

Stoke Joins Chelsea and Spurs in £8m Chase For West Ham Ace Scott Parker

Stoke City have joined the chase for Scott Parker after making an enquiry for the West Ham midfielder.

Aston Villa, Tottenham and Chelsea have all admitted a liking for the 30-year-old England international who is valued at £8million by West Ham and is on around £70,000 a week.

Stoke manager Tony Pulis wants five new signings for his side and has designs on Tottenham's Peter Crouch, Wilson Palacios, Arsenal's Nicklas Bendtner and Birmingham duo Scott Dann and Cameron Jerome.

The problem has always been about agreeing personal terms with the players as Stoke are reluctant to break their wage structure with Kenwyne Jones reputedly their top earner on around £40,000 per week.

Pulis is also interested in Newcastle's Joey Barton but although he is a free transfer he is also looking for wages of near £70,000.

Europe Prepares For Big Kick Off

The new season begins across Europe over the coming weeks with the continent's leading five leagues promising the usual glamour and excitement.

Here, we take a look at the season ahead in Spain, Italy, Germany, France and Holland.

SPAIN

It takes a special coach to escape the sack at Real Madrid after failing to win either La Liga or the Champions League.

But in 'The Special One' Jose Mourinho, the Spanish giants saw enough to believe he can eventually topple Barcelona.

Despite Barca still winning the title at a canter, Madrid made more of a fist of challenging their bitter rivals than in previous seasons and a memorable four-match series late in the campaign was closely fought.

Madrid's strengthening has been low key with Jose Maria Callejon, Fabio Coentrao, Hamit Altintop and Nuri Sahin coming in.

Barca's marquee signing of Alexis Sanchez is an appetizing one but they have failed so far to bring in bodies to increase their strength in depth.

In the 'best of the rest' category, the usual suspects of Valencia, Villarreal and Sevilla are joined by ambitious Malaga following the Andalucian outfit's recruitment drive.

Joaquin, Jeremy Toulalan, Ruud van Nistelrooy and Sergio Sanchez are among the stellar names brought in so far and after being backed so heavily, Manuel Pellegrini will at least be expected to make a push for the top four.

At the bottom, Real Betis should have enough about them to stay up after promotion while Granada and Rayo Vallecano will surely struggle. Previous years have shown, however, that such minnows cannot be written off before a ball is kicked.

ITALY

Italian football remains in a transitional period - the old names are there but the quality is not.

The likes of champions AC Milan, rivals Inter Milan and fallen giants Juventus are left fighting for the scraps left by their English, Spanish and even Brazilian counterparts in the transfer market.

Milan have failed to really strengthen aside from bringing in centre-half Philippe Mexes on a free from Roma, but neither have they been seriously weakened, with Andrea Pirlo their only major loss, to Juventus.

Inter have also been relatively low key, but Juve are at least trying to make a fight of it.

The Turin side has brought in Pirlo, Stephan Lichtsteiner, Alessandro Matri and Arturo Vidal, while also securing Fabio Quagliarella and Simone Pepe long-term.

But if Napoli holds on to the big names who helped them to third last season they can push the traditional big names even further this time around.

Marek Hamsik, Ezequiel Lavezzi and Edinson Cavani are all Champions League quality but must reproduce last year's form on both fronts this year.

At the bottom, traditional yo-yo clubs Atalanta and Siena, fresh from promotion, must scrap it out with fellow newcomers Novara plus the likes of Cesena and Lecce.

GERMANY

The world's best-value league swings into action on August 5 as the Bundesliga season gets under way with champions Borussia Dortmund squaring off with Hamburg in something of a glamour tie.

Jurgen Klopp's men captured the imagination by claiming the trophy last season with a pleasing blend of creative expression and earnest efficiency.

The fact they duelled with Bayer Leverkusen for the crown rather than more traditional powerhouses such as Bayern Munich, Stuttgart or Wolfsburg added to the enjoyment for German football fans.

They face a stiff task to retain their crown, particularly following the departure of Turkish midfielder Nuri Sahin, but the squad remains largely intact and their rivals have not significantly strengthened.

Leverkusen have lost coach Jupp Heynckes as well as stellar utility man Arturo Vidal to Juventus, while fallen giants Bayern have not pulled up any trees in the transfer market.

In Heynckes, though, the Bavarians have a canny coach and will surely make a decent fist of a title push.

Hamburg is the dark horses after a busy summer of transfer activity under new sporting director Frank Arnesen.

FRANCE

Ligue 1 may not compare with the likes of England, Spain and Italy for quality, but it is rarely predictable these days.

After Lyon's decade of dominance the landscape has changed in France with Bordeaux, Marseille and Lille grabbing the initiative and enlivening Le Championnat by sharing the last three league titles.

Last season's feel-good story was undoubtedly Lille's sudden ascension to the top table, winning the title at a canter in the end.

Few expect Rudi Garcia's side to retain the crown, but equally nobody can say with any authority who will take it from them.

The champions have lost key men over the summer as the vultures circled to take key creator Yohan Cabaye, forward Gervinho and defender Adil Rami.

However, Dmitri Payet's arrival from St Etienne is shrewd business, Benoit Pedretti is an experienced campaigner and the retention of Rio Mavuba, Eden Hazard and last season's top marksman Moussa Sow could be crucial.

Marseille have been relatively low key with Alou Diarra their marquee signing, while Bordeaux, under Francis Gillot and without anchor Diarra, may struggle to crack the top three once more.

Lyon will be an unknown quantity under new boss Remi Garde having opted against making big-name signings, but all eyes will be on notorious under-achievers Paris St Germain after they were bought out by the Qatar Investment Authority.

Kevin Gameiro's signing is an interesting one and he is joined by various new faces. Whether they gel properly and finally bring the title back to the capital remains to be seen.

New faces Dijon, Evian and Ajaccio will surely struggle, as will Nice - who have lost key men - and plucky but under-qualified Brest.

HOLLAND

The Eredivisie rarely fails to deliver drama and excitement, even if the standard cannot live up to the other 'big five' leagues.

Aristocrats Ajax reclaimed the title last term under Frank de Boer after struggling for six barren years. It was their 30th and they will be expected to add to that again this season.

Twente's Theo Janssen is an exciting signing as Ajax gamble on his undoubted ability but highly questionable temperament.

Old rivals PSV Eindhoven will be there or thereabouts to ensure the Amsterdammers do not have it all their own way.

They have not pulled up any trees in the personnel department, but have gone about their business quietly with some sensible, under-stated signings. However, winger Balazs Dzsudzsak's defection to Russia's Anzhi Makhachkala was a real blow.

After Steve McClaren won Twente the title in 2010, Michel Preud'homme did well to secure second place and the KNVB Cup last season, but he has also moved on and replacement Co Adriaanse must utilize his wealth of experience to keep them at the top table.

Utrecht have been decimated by transfer outgoings and might find themselves embroiled in the relegation scrap, while Excelsior's time might finally run out.

Barcelona 1 - 4 Chivas de Guadalajara

Chivas de Guadalajara earned its first win of the World Football Challenge Wednesday by beating Barcelona 4-1 in Miami. The Goats did the damage in the second half, with a Marco Fabian brace setting the stage for the come-from-behind win.

A South Florida-record 70,000 fans crammed into Sun Life Stadium to watch the friendly.

"We're so happy the stadium was crowded," Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola told reporters. "The game was good. There were many, many goals and many chances. For us, it's an honor, just to say thank you to the people for the support. I hope to come back next year or in the next two years."

Barcelona got the ball rolling early. A raking Gerard Pique ball out of the back sprung the Chivas offside trap in the fourth minute, and David Villa scooped the ball out from under his feet just in time to slot past Luis Ernesto Michel.

Later in the half, Jona Dos Santos tried a similar ball. Villa collected on his chest and chipped the keeper with a delicate lob, but his shot nicked the crossbeam on its way out.

Fabian made his mark after an hour of play and within two minutes had scored two highlight-reel goals. The equalizer was a 30-yard lightning bolt of a shot into the upper corner, and the second an athletic first-time volley in the box to smash home Omar Arellano's cross.

The marking on both goals was lackluster, but not as bad as the acre of green Barcelona gave Giovani Casillas. The youngster had enough room to flub his first attempt and still recover in time to poke home his side's third.

"I am not surprised by Chivas' performance," Guardiola said. "Mexican football is very dynamic and entertaining."

José Luis Verduzco scored to ice the game in injury time after a fumbling punch by Jose Manuel Pinto.

"Our team was able to capitalize on its opportunities," Chivas coach Jose Luis Real told reporters. "Even in the first half, we had our chances. I was very proud how we kept our composure when the shots didn't go in."

Portugal's Sporting Secures Barcelona's Jeffren

Portugal's Sporting has announced to the Portuguese stock market (CMVM) it has signed Barcelona winger Jeffren for 3.7 million euros.

The 23-year-old midfielder has penned a five-year contract with the Portuguese club, with a 30 million euro buy-out clause inserted into the deal.

Sporting has revealed that Barcelona will be entitled to 20 percent of the profit of a future sale of Jeffren, with no mention of a buy-back clause for the Catalan club, which had been suggested by the Portuguese media over the last few days.

Jeffren, a product of Barcelona's youth ranks, has opted for a new challenge after being told he would have little room to operate at the Camp Nou in the new season.

The Spain Under-21 international has become Sporting's 14th signing this summer, and the second Spaniard to arrive at the Estadio do Alvalade in the transfer window, following the acquisition of Sevilla's Diego Capel for 3.5 million euros last month.

It is believed that Jeffren will immediately join up with the rest of the team as they will participate in the Ramon de Carranza trophy at the weekend, together with Cadiz, Malaga and Udinese.

QPR Complete Campbell Transfer

QPR have signed striker DJ Campbell from Blackpool for a fee believed to be in the region of £1.25 million.

Campbell, 29, was a revelation for the Tangerines in the Premier League last season - scoring 13 goals as Ian Holloway's side narrowly succumbed to relegation on the last day of the season.

The former Birmingham frontman will have the opportunity to test himself in the top flight again after completing his switch to Loftus Road, where he will likely partner fellow new signing Jay Bothroyd in Neil Warnock's attack in the coming season.

Warnock had been chasing Campbell for some time and has finally landed his man, a player with a proven Premier League pedigree following his excellent 2010-11 campaign for Blackpool. The move to QPR marks a return to West London for Campbell, who was born in Hammersmith and made his professional debut for Brentford after being signed from non-league Yeading in 2005.

"It's a club that I supported as a kid," an excited Campbell told QPR's official website. "I grew up around here and QPR have played a massive part in my life. This was my first club, from 6-16, so to finally be back here at the age of 29 is really special. It's a massive club and it means a lot to me to be back here where it all began.

"There were other clubs in the Premier League that showed an interest but when I heard QPR were in for me it was an offer I couldn't refuse - this is my club."

Warnock said he is looking forward to working with the new No. 9, saying: "He is someone I have admired for a while now and he had a fabulous season in the Premier League with Blackpool last year. He is a QPR fan and you can tell he has a great desire to do well for the club he supports.

"That shone through when I met up with him - he can't wait to play for us. He also gives us that extra element of pace which we need and I am sure he will prove to be a big hit with the fans at Loftus Road this season."

Campbell is the fourth signing of the summer, following the moves of Bothroyd, Kieron Dyer and Danny Gabbidon to last season's Championship winners.

Arsenal Secure Real Madrid Ace Transfer

Arsenal is set to raid Spain again with a move for Real Madrid starlet Jose Rodriguez - and Cesc Fabregas has played a vital role in the transfer.

The 16 year-old Rodriguez was mightily impressive during the U17 World Club Championship in June, and was voted player of the tournament.

Arsenal scout Francisco Cagigao was watching throughout, and has recommended him to Arsene Wenger.

The Daily Mail reports that Rodriguez was recently shown around Arsenal's training complex and youth accommodation, with a financial offer also laid out based on expected progression through the ranks.

The newspaper also claims that Gunners skipper Cesc Fabregas spoke to Rodriguez personally to advise him to move to London.

Now only a compensation package for Real Madrid lies in the way of Jose Rodriguez transferring to Arsenal.

Man United Boss To Make Move For German Teenager

Sir Alex Ferguson is once again showing interest in Borussia Dortmund playmaker Mario Gotze and is ready to make an offer for the youngster if he fails to secure Inter Milan star Wesley Sneijder this summer.

The Old Trafford boss is very much planning for the future and has expressed an interest in the teenage German international in the past and may try to tempt Gotze into making a move to the Premier League champions. Though the 19 year old helped his side to a Bundesliga triumph he may have been dismayed at the departure of hugely influtential midfielder Nuri Sahin to Real Madrid in May.

Man United are very much going through a period of transition having lost veterans Paul Scholes, Edwin van der Sar and Gary Neville in recent months and Ferguson has been looking for long term replacements to those who have retired and indeed those who may do so in the coming season or two.

With that in mind Ferguson signed David de Gea and Phil Jones and last summer brought in Javier Hernandez and Chris Smalling, all these youngsters would then mould with those coming through the ranks, players like Tom Cleverley and Daniel Welbeck will expect more first team action having served their time out on loan.

Gotze is a creative midfielder who is considered one of the hottest young prospects in Europe, a player who has been linked with many of Europe’s elite and Sir Alex will want to beat the likes of Barcelona and Real Madrid to the punch.

In his first full season in the Dortmund first team Gotze was a virtual ever present, notching eight goals and 11 assists from midfield and becoming a regular in the senior German national team set-up.

Inter Distance Themselves From Eto'o-Tevez Swap Deal

Inter Milan have played down talk of Samuel Eto'o joining Manchester City, according to reports in Italy.

City have been linked with a move for the former Barcelona star in a possible player-plus-cash deal including wantaway striker Carlos Tevez, a move the Cameroon striker is said to be interested in.

But Italian newspaper Gazetto Dello Sport claims Inter have rubbished talk of that deal happening by insisting the 30-year-old is going nowhere this summer.

Eto'o is currently in Beijing with Inter Milan as they prepare for the Super Cup Final against rivals AC Milan this weekend.

Rossoneri Move For Montolivo

Riccardo Montolivo's agent is of the understanding that AC Milan has held talks with Fiorentina over the midfielder.

The 26-year-old has been at the centre of intense speculation this summer as he is now into the final 12 months of his Viola deal.

It is understood that Montolivo will not be penning an extension, with the Rossoneri heavily linked with his services.

Montolivo's agent Giovanni Branchini insists his client is not rocking the boat and would happily see out of the remainder of his deal.

However, Branchini believes Milan are in talks and that his client will only discuss personal terms if a deal can be agreed between the clubs.

"Not extending Montolivo's contract with Fiorentina is within the player's right," he told gazzzetta.it.

"These things happen all over the world without being the subject of 'soap operas', as what has unfortunately happened in Fiorentina.

"Montolivo has put himself totally at the disposal of Fiorentina. He's not asked to leave and is ready to see out his contract in Florence.

"I think that Milan has spoken with Fiorentina. We'll talk with them once Viola have accepted their offer."

Aston Villa Ponder Loan Bid For Barcelona Midfielder

Former Arsenal star Alexander Hleb could be on his way to Premier League rivals Aston Villa.

Barcelona's Belarus winger is once again on the loan market, alerting a host of Premier League clubs, including Villa.

The 30-year-old spent last season on loan at Birmingham, where Alex McLeish was manager before his move to their Midlands rivals.

Hleb is currently recovering from a knee injury and Barcelona sports chief Andoni Zubizarreta revealed: "He continues to recover in Munich. We're looking for a club he can join on loan."

Hleb moved to Barcelona from Arsenal back in 2008 for £11.8million.

Newcastle Make Surprise Transfer Move For Manchester United Star

Newcastle United is to bid for Manchester United winger Gabriel Obertan, according to local paper the Evening Chronicle.

The 22 year-old flyer has found first team opportunities difficult to come by since moving to Old Trafford in 2009, and with two years remaining on his contract is reportedly considering moving on.

With Ashley Young adding to the competition on the flanks alongside Nani, Antonio Valencia, Park Ji-Sung and Ryan Giggs at Old Trafford, it is clear to see why Obertan is looking elsewhere.

St James' Park is fast becoming a haven for French players, and Obertan would fit in well in theory.

Sylvain Marveaux, Mehdi Abeid, Yohan Cabaye, and Demba Ba have been signed by Alan Pardew this summer, and all are native French speakers.

Gabriel Obertan cost Manchester United £3m two years ago, and his price is unlikely to have inflated due to his fleeting appearance record.

Perhaps Obertan could finally make his mark in English football - albeit at a different club to the one he first signed for.

Nice Target Trezeguet

Nice have confirmed they are among the sides looking to bring David Trezeguet back to France.

The former Monaco and Juventus striker is keen to return to his homeland this summer after severing ties with Spanish outfit Hercules.

He is now 33 years of age, but he has enjoyed a glittering career and continues to enjoy a lofty standing within the game.

Nice are aware Trezeguet's reputation could work against them, with the financial demands required to complete a deal expected to push them to their limit.

Club chairman Jean-Pierre Rivere said: "We will try to see if we can go any further. Of course we would like to get him.

"It is too early to say what will happen at the moment. I do not know if we have the means and I do not know if he would want to join Nice.

"We will try to meet with him as we have held no talks so far."

Trezeguet's agent has refused to comment on the interest from Nice, but has admitted a deal for his client could be close.

Antonio Caliendo told L'Equipe: "David will make a decision (on his future) very soon."

Bundesliga Preview: Dortmund vs Hamburg

As reigning German champions Dortmund have the honour of kicking off the 49th Bundesliga season on Friday evening. Dortmund will play at home, and in front of an exuberant home- crowd this game should hopefully be an absolute cracker. Hamburg will bring a sizeable contingent of fans too, 6500 fans from the Hanseatic town are expected at the Westfalenstadion.

For the second time in a row, the opponent for the champion will be Hamburg. But this season’s HSV has very little to do with the Hamburg from last season. Almost all older, experienced players were sold or let go during the transfer period, instead Hamburg seems to be following the model established by other Bundesliga clubs in bringing in youth players to Hamburg (including four Chelsea reserve players, HSV sporting director Frank Arnesen be thanked).

However, this great changeover in personnel means that it is difficult to predict exactly how they will do this coming season. Apparently Hamburg had a mixed pre- season, with some good games during the LIGA TOTAL! Cup but also some disappointing friendlies, like yesterday, where they lost 2-1 to Valencia and looked pretty ordinary.

Coming to Dortmund, first off, the bad news. It seems that the injury that Lucas Barrios sustained during the Copa America is worse then expected. At first there was talk about him missing just two to three weeks, now the official Dortmund website says that they expect him to be out for at least five to six weeks! Dortmund officials are not happy with the Paraguayan FA, saying that they tried to downplay the seriousness of Barrios injury, and only a MRT scan back in Germany showed the extent of the damage caused.

Anyway, no use crying over spilled milk now, Barrios injury means that Robert Lewandowski should be the certain starter for the opening match. He scored two goals during the DFB Pokal, so he should be in good form.

Apart from that, the only other first-teamer that will be missing is Marcel Schmelzer, though his recovery is going well, and there are hopes that he’ll be fit for the game against Hoffenheim. Chris Löwe will in all probability be the one to replace him. The other big question concerning the starting line- up is between Kehl and Bender. Bender is fit again, and since it seems that Gündogan will start as the more attacking defensive midfielder, meaning that one of Bender and Kehl will have to sit on the bench. Apart from that I think that the team is pretty fixed, Weidenfeller in goal, Subotic, Hummels, Piszczek and Löwe in defense. The offensive midfield should be made up of Götze, Kagawa and one of Großkreutz/Perisic. Lewandowski will be the lone striker.

WFC Preview: Barcelona Meet Chivas In Record Match

A meeting of two giant clubs from Spain and Mexico will set a new attendance record for South Florida soccer on Wednesday in the 2011 Herbalife World Football Challenge match between FC Barcelona and CD Guadalajara from Sun Life Stadium.

More than 60,000 fans will be on hand for a match-up of two similarly dynamic, possession-oriented, attack-minded teams that play a wide-open style and trust in their younger academy products to carry through that same system of play.

While both teams enter the match winless thus far in the World Football Challenge, Guadalajara should enjoy the fitness edge as they plays their third Mexican league match this Saturday against Pumas UNAM. FC Barcelona face Real Madrid in their first competitive match of the season on Aug. 14.

This will mark the third time the two clubs have faced each other in the last four years. Back in 2008, FC Barcelona beat Chivas 5-2 at Soldier Field in a match which saw Javier “Chicharito” Hernández net a goal. One year later, the two sides tied 1-1 in San Francisco with the now departed Bojan Krkic canceling out a goal by former Chivas legend Ramón Morales.

Another one of the storylines of the match involves the two managers. Barcelona’s Josep “Pep” Guardiola closed out his career in Mexico with Dorados of Sinaloa in the 2005-2006, when current Chivas manager José Luis Real was the sporting director for the club.

FC BARCELONA

The 2-1 loss to Manchester United in their World Football Challenge debut last weekend did not create much alarm in Barça’s camp, especially since the defeat came early in the Spanish champions’ preseason (1-1-2 in four matches). However, as they continue to build up their fitness, the Blaugrana will hope to generate better scoring opportunities against Chivas on Wednesday.

Although the team will be missing injured forward Ibrahim Afellay, Sporting Clube de Portugal transfer target Jeffren Suárez, recovering defenders Carles Puyol and Maxwell, in addition to five members of its South American contingent still on vacation (Lionel Messi, Gabriel Milito, Javier Mascherano, Dani Alves and Alexis Sánchez), manager Pep Guardiola can count on reinforcements in his club’s first-ever match in Miami.

Brazilian fullback Adriano has rejoined the team a week early and defender Sergi Gómez and forward Gerard Deulofeu took to the field for practice on Tuesday night after helping Spain win the Under-19 European championship in Romania against the Czech Republic. Star players Xavi Hernández and Gerard Piqué will also see their first minutes of the preseason on Wednesday after starting off slowly to safeguard Achilles and calf injuries, respectively.

CD GUADALAJARA

This young all-Mexican side led by Real is off to a strong start in league play, with two victories against Atlante and Jaguares that offset Chivas’ two World Football Challenge losses to Real Madrid and Juventus. The confidence gained during league play will be put to the test against the European champions.

Real has been upfront in his plans to start his regular lineup against FC Barcelona. While likely to lose defender Jonny Magallón to a muscle strain, Guadalajara will gain a veteran defender as Héctor Reynoso rejoins the fold, claiming he now feels 100 percent after injuring an adductor against Real Madrid in the club’s first 2011 World Football Challenge appearance.

While forward Omar Arellano leads the team with two of the club’s four goals in league play, the club will be missing five of its top young players, including Erick “Cubo” Torres, due to their participation in the FIFA Under-20 World Cup with Mexico.

KEY PLAYERS

FC Barcelona: Thiago Alcántara

The midfielder continued his magical run with his fourth goal in the last three preseason matches for Barcelona. He’s quick, extremely technical and showed against Manchester United he can strike from distance. Will his coming out party rage on?

CD Guadalajara: Marco Fabián

The 22-year-old, who already has a goal to his credit in league play, has the talent to take over matches and his form will determine how well Chivas can threaten Barcelona’s back line, if at all.

Fiorentina Winger Wants Manchester City Move

Alessio Cerci has told Fiorentina he wants to join Manchester City, according to reports in Italy.

City manager Roberto Mancini has been linked with a move for the Italian winger, who is rated at around £6m by the Serie A side.

But the Premier League side club is unwilling to pay that much for the 24-year-old, who is still largely unproven having made less than 50 appearances in Serie A.

But Fiorentina could be ready to drop their asking price slightly with Cerci apparently desperate to link up with Mancini at Etihad Stadium.

The winger made it clear in a recent interview that his future lies away from Fiorentina, where he has struggled to settle since arriving from Roma a year ago.

And it has even been suggested that City are willing to offer him a contract worth around £1.75m a year, which is reportedly double what he is currently earning at Fiorentina.

Cerci scored seven times in 24 appearances for Fiorentina last season and the club had hoped he would become a more regular member of the side in the coming campaign.

But they could be ready to sell him for around £5m, which would net them a profit of over £1m in just one year at the club.

Juventus Battle Bayern Munich For Alex

Juventus will have to again tussle with Bayern Munich should they want to sign Chelsea stopper Alex.

The Old Lady is searching for a new centre-back and the Stamford Bridge defender has been linked.

Alex, formerly of Santos and PSV, could be allowed to leave Chelsea this summer for a fee in the region of €9m.

Juventus director general Beppe Marotta is keen on the Brazilian international, 29, but so too are Bayern Munich.

A war of words broke out between both clubs last month when the Italian outfit netted Arturo Vidal from Bayer Leverkusen.

Bayern claimed that the Chilean had agreed to join them before putting pen to paper on a contract with the Bianconeri.

Chelsea Prepare Final £36m Bid For Main Striker Target

Chelsea will approach Santos with a new $60m (£36m) bid for their star striker Neymar after being given fresh hope in their attempts to sign the youngster.

The Blues seemed to be out of the running for the player's signature after Real Madrid showed their hand though Santos president Luis Alvaro Ribeiro has dismissed that possibility after he revealed to a Brazilian website that they had rejected the offer from the Spanish giants. The fact that the two parties could not reach an agreement - believed to be due to the size of the transfer fee requested - has prompted Chelsea into action, according to those close to the Stamford Bridge club.

The Londoners have been tracking the 19-year-old prodigy for 18 months and had a £23m offer turned down last summer. Since then the forward has become a regular for the Brazil national team and recently scored a goal for his club against Flamengo of such sublime beauty that could only be scored by a very special footballer. Neymar has spoken positively about Chelsea's interest in the past, admitting that a life in London is tempting, and his suitors will hope to exploit that affection in order to tempt him to the Premier League.

Manager Andre Villas-Boas had been eyeing up a move for his international team mate Alexandre Pato but the latest twist in the Neymar saga has persuaded him to give the pursuit of this prodigious talent one last chance.

Tottenham In Sensational Swap Deal For £12m Blackburn Stopper

Tottenham last night proposed a shock player-plus-cash deal for Blackburn defender Chris Samba, according to The Mirror.

Arsenal and Everton are also keeping tabs on Samba, but it appears that Spurs have stolen a march on their rivals for the £12million-rated centre-back.

However, Spurs do not want to spend that much and have instead offered £10m plus the choice of either Jermain Defoe, Robbie Keane, David Bentley or Sebastian Bassong.

Samba is understood to be keen on a move to Tottenham or Arsenal but both have failed to meet Rovers' asking price so far.

The Gunners have made a centre-back a priority this summer and have also targeted Everton's Phil Jagielka, but the North London club has been put off by his £18m price-tag.

Arsene Wenger could still be ready to make Samba an offer, who would cost less and demand a lower wage.

While Blackburn are likely to turn down Spurs' bid, boss Harry Redknapp remains in the driving seat for the Congo international.

Liverpool Switch Attention To Dutch International To Help Fill Problem Area

Liverpool’s reported search for a first choice left back has reportedly led to PSV Eindhoven’s Erik Pieters. Anfield boss Kenny Dalglish is said to have expressed an interest in the adaptable 23 year old who can also effectively fill the centre back berth, another area that the Merseyside club may look to strengthen as defensive frailties became all to clear during recent pre-season matches.

Pieters has been a regular at the Philips Stadion since his arrival at the club from FC Utrecht back in 2008 and has been a virtual ever present at left back for the Dutch national team following the retirement of veteran Giovanni van Bronckhorst following the 2010 World Cup.

The powerfully built 23 year old defender may well be tempted by a move to the Premier League club, not least as PSV have had a few lean years, with three seasons outside the Eredivisie top two which could be considered a big drop in form given that the Eindhoven club won the domestic title for the four previous campaigns.

Liverpool have been linked with a number of prospective purchases to help fill the left back spot, Gael Clichy was reportedly approached by the Arsenal man chose to join Man City. Newcastle United full back Jose Enrique may feel even more compelled to leave St James’ Park after the club chose to transfer list Joey Barton but the Magpies are thought to want a substantial fee for the Spaniard who has just one year left on his current contract.

A move for Pieters may be more cost effective and perhaps the fact that his international team-mate Dirk Kuyt is already at the club will aid any potential move.

Liverpool used a number of players in the left back role last term and Dalglish is seemingly not too enamored with the options in his current squad. Paul Konchesky has left for Leicester City, Emilio Insua and Fabio Aurelio have not impressed and youngster Jack Robinson at 17 is probably too young for regular Premier League action.

Spurs Winger Wanted In African Striker Deal

Manchester City will attempt to prize Aaron Lennon away from White Hart Lane in a deal that would see Emmanuel Adebayor join Spurs.

The Daily Mirror claims the Citizens are attempting to make a 'sensational swoop' for the England international, and are willing to offer the Togolese striker to the White Hart Lane outfit.

Harry Redknapp is known to be in the market for a forward this summer, with the Spurs boss already missing out on Giuseppe Rossi, Diego Forlan and Leandro Damiao in the current window.

Adebayor has also been placed on the Tottenham Hotspur radar in the past, although it's unclear if fans of the north London club would be keen on the move given his Arsenal connections.

The British paper claims 'high-level' talks are already underway between both clubs over the deal, but Real Madrid could yet provide a stumbling block between the two parties.

Adebayor enjoyed a successful loan spell at the Bernabeu last season, and with the Spanish giants yet to tie up a deal for Brazilian starlet Neymar, talkSPORT claims Jose Mourinho is targeting the player as part of his 'contingency plans'.

It's also unknown if Lennon would be interested in leaving Spurs this summer, with competition for places on the flanks fierce at Eastlands alongside Adam Johnson and Sean Wright-Phillips.

With Redknapp claiming earlier in the summer that players will have to be sold before additions are made at Tottenham Hotspur, a swap deal might be the best way of bringing fresh faces to north London, although this particular deal still has a way to go before becoming complete.

Bastian Schweinsteiger Targets Champions League Final With Bayern Munich

Bastian Schweinsteiger says Bayern Munich are desperate to make an impact in the Champions League in 2011-12 and stated that they have set their sights on making it to the final at the Allianz Arena.

The German giants made it to the same stage in 2010 when they were beaten 2-0 by Inter, while the Italians proved to be too strong in the round of 16 last term.

Nevertheless, Schweinsteiger is aware of the fact that they have to qualify for the group stage of Europe's elite club tournament first and admitted that the road to the final is long.

"It is our goal to qualify for the Champions League final in Munich. However, we know that it won't be easy. We have to qualify first. We don't have any influence on who will be our opponents in the play-offs. Nevertheless, I think that our upcoming opponents have more reasons to be disappointed than we with the draw," Schweinsteiger said to Goal.com.

"I think that we can go a long way once we've managed to progress to the group stage. We don't feel any pressure to go all the way though. We dream of making it to the final and it's our objective, but we realise that it's still a long way to go."

The midfielder then went on to discuss his side's domestic ambitions and made it clear that Bayern want to regain their Bundesliga trophy.

He added: "The domestic trophies are very important for us. Everybody expects us to win the Bundesliga again this year. That won't be easy though and we have to take it one game at a time."

Bayern start the 2011-12 Bundesliga campaign with a home match against Borussia Monchengladbach on August 7.

Juventus Ready To Include Amauri & Jorge Martinez In Deal For Juan Vargas

Juventus are keen to add Fiorentina winger Juan Vargas to their roster this summer and are ready to include Amauri and Jorge Martinez in the deal in an attempt to convince the Tuscans to let go of the Peruvian, Tuttosport reports.

The Turin side have long been after a new left winger and have been linked with players such as Lyon's Michel Bastos, Real Madrid's Royston Drenthe and Sevilla's Diego Perotti in the past few weeks, but they have now apparently turned their attention to Vargas again.

The Fiorentina man has a contract with his current club until the summer of 2013 and the Artemio Franchi outfit is keen to hold on to the 27-year-old.

Nevertheless, Juve are hopeful that the inclusion of Amauri and Martinez will change their Serie A rivals' stance.

Amauri, 31, is no longer needed at the Turin giants following the arrival of Mirko Vucinic earlier this week, while the 28-year-old Martinez has been unable to make an impact since joining Juventus from Catania and is ready to move on again.

Juventus have yet to table an official offer for Vargas, but could make a formal approach for the wide-man in the coming days.

Gonzalez In Roma Link

Marseille are ready to sell Lucho Gonzalez to Roma, but agreeing personal terms may be a problem.

Reports from France suggest that the two clubs have reached an agreement over a transfer fee for the 30-year-old.

Nevertheless, in order for the move to be completed, the Argentine midfielder would have to accept a pay-cut at the Olimpico.

Gonzalez reportedly earns around €3m a season, while the Giallorossi don’t want to go over the €2m mark.

Roma boss Luis Enrique yesterday asked for reinforcements ahead of the 2011-12 campaign.

Gonzalez started his career at Huracan, before moves to River Plate and then Porto. He joined his present side in 2009.