Barclays Premier League: Fulham vs. Aston Villa

Bobby Zamora will lead the Fulham attack against Aston Villa despite having a broken hand.

The England striker suffered the injury playing at NK Split in the Europa League two weeks ago, but played the return leg while wearing a protective cast and will do the same on Saturday. John Arne Riise is likely to make his Premier League debut for the Cottagers but his brother Bjorn Helge is out with a minor hamstring problem and Simon Davies (knee) is also unavailable. Jol had worried that this weekend's clash in London would be called off due to the unrest in the capital.

With the game now being given the go-ahead, Jol is relishing his return to the English top flight after spending the last six weeks playing Europa League qualifiers against sub-standard opposition. "We are very happy that the game is on," Jol said. "The main thing was that we wanted to play football.”I don't see there is a lot of difference in playing friendlies (or playing in the Europa League qualifiers). It wasn't as if we were playing Inter Milan or Ajax. It was Crusaders and Split. "Hopefully it will have given us enough preparation for the season." Aston Villa manager Alex McLeish has virtually a full squad to pick from.

Striker Darren Bent and central defender James Collins have recovered from shoulder and back injuries respectively which prevented their involvement with England and Wales this week. Charles N'Zogbia and Shay Given are poised for their league debuts following their summer arrivals with Rangers target Carlos Cuellar (knee) the only player unavailable for selection. McLeish has called for patience from Aston Villa fans accustomed to demanding success as he sets his sights on a season of "steady progress." In an ideal world, McLeish would like to surpass the 2010-11 achievement of finishing ninth and challenge for a European spot. But he is also realistic after losing several experienced players this summer, including Stewart Downing and Ashley Young, and having to reduce a sizeable wage bill.

McLeish is looking for some of the club's promising youngsters, such as Fabian Delph, to make their mark plus players out in the cold under Gerard Houllier in Stephen Warnock and Stephen Ireland. The Scot said: "We've lost some very experienced players, don't forget, and we are looking for young players to make the breakthrough.”That might not happen so people may have to be patient in terms of where we finish in the league. We finished very healthily in ninth position after the first half of last season was difficult. "If we can maintain a steady progress throughout the season, that would be heading in the right direction.”Would a top 10 finish would be okay? I think that would terrific. I think that would be an achievement for the players but we will try and aim higher than that."

Betting Recommendation

Fulham’s new boss Martin Jol had the opportunity to gather a few competitive games thanks to the Europa League qualifying albeit against weaker sides. Fulham have beaten Crusaders from the Northern Ireland and Split of Croatia to qualify for the next playoff round. Thus, Martin Jol’s men should be match fit and more settled ahead of the clash with Aston Villa.

Meanwhile, Aston Villa, also with new manager, Alex McLeish, who made the controversial switch from relegated Birmingham City to cross-city rivals Villa in the off-season, have suffered from the lost of key men in Ashley Young and Stewart Downing. With both starting wingers leaving the club, McLeish will most likely field Marc Albrighton and his newly acquired winger from Wigan Athletic, Charles N’Zogbia, alongside with Stilian Petrov and Barry Bannan in the middle.

The lost of the key men in Downing and Young, in my opinion, has weakened the midfield area for Aston Villa. N’Zogbia prefers to take players on rather than putting crosses in for the always dangerous Darren Bent. Fulham to beat Aston Villa will be my choice for this game together with a small wager on Fulham winning to nil.

Arsenal Sign Costa Rica's Joel Campbell

Arsenal have agreed terms with the Costa Rican side Deportivo Saprissa to sign the striker Joel Campbell. The 19-year-old was in his country's squad for the Copa América and the Under-20 World Cup.

Arsenal revealed on Friday that the transfer is subject to the completion of "formal agreements and processes". The manager Arsène Wenger told www.arsenal.com: "Joel Campbell has already shown that he is a player with great ability and has also performed well on the international stage at a young age.

"We look forward to the formalities of the transfer being completed and working with Joel when he joins us at Arsenal."

Campbell is predominantly left-footed and has made six full international appearances, scoring twice. He scored on his debut in a 5-0 win over Cuba at this year's Concacaf Gold Cup, helping his side reach the quarter-finals.

Campbell has had two seasons in his native Primera División, where he played for Deportivo Saprissa and on loan at Puntarenas, making a total of eight league appearances.

Man United And Arsenal In £10m Battle To Sign France Playmaker

Manchester United and Arsenal are set to battle it out for highly-rated France playmaker Marvin Martin.

The Sochaux midfielder burst onto the scene last season with a series of outstanding performances that saw him dubbed the 'French Xavi'.

Interest is mounting in the 23-year-old, with free-spending PSG as well as Arsenal and Manchester keen on the France international.

Martin has revealed he would be tempted to move if the terms on the table were acceptable to both Sochaux and himself, with the Ligue 1 outfit reportedly demanding a fee in the region of £10m.

The Red Devils are on the lookout for a replacement for the retired Paul Scholes and have turned to Martin after growing frustrated in their pursuit of Inter Milan's Wesley Sneijder, who is demanding a staggering £200,000 week in wages.

United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has received glowing reports on the France international having sent several scouts to monitor the youngster's Ligue 1 performances last term.

While Arsenal scout Giles Grimandi is big admirer of Martin having watched him progress from Sochuax's prestigious youth academy to the clubs first-team squad and has urged Arsene Wenger to make a move for the diminutive midfielder.

Martin is a number of candidates Wenger is considering to replace the soon to be departed Cesc Fabregas and Samir Nasri, with Valencia's Juan Mata and Shakhtar Donetsk’s Jadson linked with a move to the Emirates.

Spurs To Offer Cash Plus Bassong To Land Samba

Spurs have stepped up their interest in Blackburn defender Chris Samba and are ready to offer cash plus Sebastian Bassong as part of the deal.

The Congo international has expressed his desire to leave Ewood Park, despite signing a new five-year contract earlier this year.

It’s been reported that Arsenal is his preferred destination, but north London rivals Spurs look in pole position to land the 27-year-old stopper.

And they are ready to part company with 26-year-old Bassong, who has fallen down the pecking order at White Hart Lane, in a bid to push the deal through.

The Cameroon international joined Spurs from Newcastle in 2008 and started just 12 league games last season.

Catania Sign Free Agent David Suazo

Catania have snapped up free agent David Suazo, the club said via a statement on Friday.

The 31-year-old was expected to rejoin Cagliari after leaving Inter in June following the expiry of his contract at San Siro.

The forward spent a few weeks training with the Sardinian side, but recently left after being told that a deal was not forthcoming, giving Catania the chance to land him instead.

A statement on the club's official website reads:

"Calcio Catania S.p.A communicates to have acquired David Suazo on a permanent basis. Suazo signed a one-year deal until June 30, 2012, but he has to option to extend until 2013."

The Honduras international was at Inter last season but he never featured.

Roma Look At Thiago Alcantara

Roma are looking to another Barcelona and Spain young talent, as they resume a bid for Thiago Alcantara.

The 20-year-old has shot to fame in the last few months with pre-season appearances for Barça.

He also made his senior Spain international debut in their 2-1 friendly defeat to Italy this week.

Former Barcelona B Coach Luis Enrique has already brought Bojan Krkic over to Roma and is reportedly setting his sights on Alcantara.

His contract with Barcelona runs to 2013 and he has quickly become very hot property on the transfer market.

Thiago Alcantara was born in Italy because his father, Brazilian Mazinho, was playing for Lecce at the time.

He grew up largely in Spain and has opted to play his international football for his adopted country.

Zenit St. Petersburg's Fernando Meira Will Sign For Real Zaragoza

Zenit St. Petersburg coach Luciano Spalletti has confirmed that defender Fernando Meira is on the verge of joining Real Zaragoza.

The Portugal international has the subject of a rumoured move to the Zaragoza since last summer, when the Spanish side first baulked at the 33-year-old's transfer fee.

However, the two clubs now appear to be edging closer to an agreement for Meira, who joined Zenit from Galatasaray in 2009 for €4.5 million.

The centre-back has been a fringe figure at Zenit since the arrival of compatriot Bruno Alves from Porto last summer, and is looking to move on as a result.

"Yes, Meira will effectively be transferred to Zaragoza. He needs playing time, so he cannot stay in the team," AS quote Spalletti as saying.

The former Benfica and Stuttgart man is regarded as a replacement for Matteo Contini, who has been loaned out to Siena.

Man United Target £25m Ajax Starlet

Sir Alex Ferguson is reportedly considering a bid for Denmark wonderkid Christian Eriksen as the Old Trafford boss continues his search for a replacement for the retired Paul Scholes, according to caughtoffside.com.

Having brought in the likes of Javier Hernandez, Chris Smalling, David de Gea and Phil Jones over the past 18 months , Ferguson is continuing to target precocious young talent to help build for the Man United future.

The Scot is hoping young signings, alongside those coming through the club's own youth system, can help make up for the loss of experienced players over the past year.

With Paul Scholes, Gary Neville and Edwin van der Sar all retiring and the likes of Wes Brown and John O’Shea sold, the Man United boss is plotting moves for high-quality youngsters and is now targeting Ajax playmaker Eriksen.

The 19-year-old attacking midfielder is one of the hottest prospects in European football and is already a regular in the Denmark side.

He notched up over 40 appearances last term as helped the Amsterdam club to their first domestic title in 7 years.

The teenager reportedly turned down a move to Man City at the weekend, and host of other top European sides are also tracking the youngster this summer.

Eriksen is expected to stay at Ajax for another season as he looks to enjoy his first Champions League foray, but Ferguson will hope that the allure of a move to Old Trafford will appeal to the former Odense youth team player.

Man United have been strongly linked with interest in Wesley Sneijder, Samir Nasri and Luka Modric but at present deals to bring in any of that trio appear to have hit the buffers and a move Eriksen would have more resonance with the current transfer policy Ferguson is adopting.

Arsenal Prepare £45m Double Swoop To Replace Star Duo

Arsenal will make a £45million double offer for Valencia’s Juan Mata and Lille’s Eden Hazard to replace Cesc Fabregas and Samir Nasri.

The Gunners boss Arsene Wenger has admitted defeat in trying to hold onto his current stars and will sell to Barcelona and Manchester City if the price is right.

Both Mata and Hazard have been linked with moves to the Emirates all summer with Wenger personally making enquiries into their availability.

Mata, 23, will replace Fabregas after impressing in La Liga last season and in the U21 European Championship during the summer.

Hazard, 20, is one of the most sought after young talents in Europe after bagging seven and eight assists to help Lille win the Ligue 1 title last year.

Barcelona is set to complete the Fabregas deal for a fee of £30million plus £5million in add-ons.

The amount is less than the £40million Arsenal had been holding out for and suggests Arsenal felt they had no choice but to sell a player who wanted to leave.

Wenger is also prepared to take £22million from City for Nasri, who has refused to sign a new contract and has only one-year remaining on his current deal.

The Arsenal manager had stated he was prepared for him to leave for nothing next summer but pressure from the board and the playmaker’s reluctance to play in pre-season has made Wenger think again.

The Gunners are also in the market for at least one defender with Gary Cahill and Scott Dann top of Wenger’s wanted list.

Interest in Phil Jagielka has cooled after Arsenal baulked at Everton’s £20million asking price for the 28-year-old.

Liverpool Competing With Inter Milan Over Transfer Of Gago

Liverpool are involved in a three-way fight over Real Madrid's Fernando Gago, according to Marca.

The Spanish daily claims that the Premier League club are competing with Inter Milan and Boca Juniors for the signature of the Argentina international. Gago is surplus to requirements at the Santiago Bernabeu with the club boasting a wealth of midfielders such as Sami Khedira, Xabi Alonso, and Lassana Diarra - all of whom are direct rivals for a starting spot.

The last season was a torrid one for the 25-year-old with a series of injuries to his knee and abductor muscle forcing him to watch much of the action from the sidelines. However, with the player eager for games, a move to Anfield would appear unlikely given the presence of Lucas Leiva, Charlie Adam, Steven Gerrard, Christian Poulsen and Jordan Henderson.

Boca Juniors are reportedly Gago's preferred destination though the asking price of around £7m might be just out of their grasp.

Hugo Rodallega Tracked By Arsenal

Arsene Wenger is preparing to table a bid for Wigan's Hugo Rodallega as he looks to boost his front line.

The Colombian striker has impressed in the Premier League since joining the Latics in 2009, scoring 22 goals in 81 games for a side struggling in and around the relegation zone.

Wenger is rumoured to be a huge fan of Rodallega and has followed his progress with some interest, the Mirror reports.

If the striker leaves the DW Stadium it is likely that Roberto Martinez will be looking for a ready-made replacement with Premier League experience.

Peter Odemwingie is rumoured to be the Wigan boss' main target and the club have approached West Brom over the striker's availability.

However, Baggies boss Roy Hodgson wants the Nigerian international to play alongside new £6.5 million signing Shane Long, but club chief Jeremy Peace is open to offers as Odemwingie is yet to sign a new deal at the Hawthorns.

The Arsenal board recently confirmed that the Gunners boss will be handed a huge transfer war chest if Cesc Fabregas makes his expected move to Spanish giants Barcelona.

Fabregas' move to the Catalan club could spark a great deal of activity at the Emirates, with Phil Jagielka, Gary Cahill, Jaun Mata and Scott Dann all on Arsene Wenger's radar.

Roma Make Move For Pablo Osvaldo

Tottenham and Blackburn target Pablo Osvaldo could be on his way to Serie A side Roma, according to reports in Italy.

Roma have reportedly opened negotiations with Espanyol and an offer of £16million has been made, despite the striker being valued at around £18.5m by his Spanish employers.

Roma boss Luis Enrique, who was a coach at Barcelona before taking over at the Serie A side earlier this summer, would have seen first hand what the Argentina-born Italian is capable of last season when he hit 13 goals in 24 La Liga appearances.

And it is understood that Enrique sees Osvaldo as a suitable strike partner for Bojan Krkic, who he signed from Barcelona in June.

Spurs and Blackburn have both been keeping tabs on the 25-year-old and could be ready to table bids of their own given Roma's renewed interest.

It has also been reported that Atletico Madrid have offered around £14m for Osvaldo, although it is thought to fall way below Espanyol's valuation.

Arsenal To Sign Brazilian Sensation Jadson

It is being reported by L’Equipe that Arsenal are about to sign Shakhtar Donetsk player Jadson as a replacement for the Barcelona bound Cesc Fabregas.

Jadson has a contract with Shakhtar for three more years, but an offer of around €10m should be enough for the Ukrainian side to let him go.

The attacking midfielder started has made over 200 appearances for Shakhtar since joining in January 2005 from Atletico Paranaense and made he made his international debut for Brazil in the match against France earlier this year.

Chelsea Make Surprise Transfer Move For Celtic Striker

Chelsea is close to sealing a deal for young Celtic striker Islam Feruz, according to the Scotsman.

Feruz is just 15 years of age, but Celtic officials cannot match the £2500 per week that Chelsea is reportedly offering.

The Glasgow club is now expected to have to settle for compensation of around £300,000, which is far less than perhaps they would receive should Feruz develop as expected and become a first team player.

Neither Celtic nor Chelsea agreed to comment on the matter - with a Stamford Bridge official stating:

"Until an official press release is made by Chelsea FC, we cannot make any comments regarding signing speculations."

Porto Lead Chase For Spurs And Everton Target

Tottenham and Everton target Eliaquim Mangala is the subject of a bid from Porto.

Both English clubs have been monitoring the Standard Liege defender's progress in the Belgian league but the Portuguese champions are believed to have beaten them to the negotiating table.

Liege is believed to want £6m for the France Under-21 international and Porto have tested their resolve with a bid of £5m according to newspaper A'Bola.

The 20-year-old centre-back's agent Fabrizio Ferrari said: "In the first days of next week the matter will be closed"

Liege's general director Pierre Francois added: "We are now waiting for a response from Porto who is studying the details of the deal."

Sunderland Ready To Pounce For Niko Kranjcar

Sunderland boss Steve Bruce has confirmed he wants to sign out-of-favour Tottenham midfielder Niko Kranjcar on loan.

The Croatia international has grown frustrated at White Hart Lane after fallen out of favour with Spurs manager Harry Redknapp, making just two Premier League starts last season.

Kranjcar, 26, has already expressed his desire to leave Spurs this summer and Bruce could be set to make the former Portsmouth man his eleventh recruit of the transfer window.

Redknapp will be content to let the winger move to the Stadium of Light, but would prefer any deal to be permanent.

Bruce told the Daily Star: "Bringing someone in on loan remains an option and Kranjcar is a quality player who we are very much aware of."

Bruce has also been linked with out-of-favour Manchester City forward Craig Bellamy this summer, but it remains to be seen whether a move will materialize.

QPR Clinch Perone Deal

QPR have confirmed the signing of Brazilian defender Bruno Perone, subject to international clearance.

The 24-year-old, who can also play in midfield, has signed a one-year deal with the Premier League newcomers.

Sao Paulo-born Perone has been on trial with the west London side for the last month, featuring in several pre-season matches.

QPR boss Neil Warnock told his club's official website: "Bruno has fitted in very well in the time he has been with us.

"He did well during pre-season. He has still got lots to learn but when the time comes I am sure we will be able to put him in the team with confidence.

"One of the things he has got to learn is the language. At the moment Ali Faurlin is helping him out.''

If the international clearance proves no problem, Perone will join fellow newcomers Jay Bothroyd, Kieron Dyer, Danny Gabbidon, DJ Campbell and Brian Murphy at Loftus Road.

La Liga Set For Delayed Start As Spanish Players' Union Calls Strike

La Liga and Segunda División players will go on strike for the first two weekends of the new Spanish season as the players' union steps up pressure on the league for a new deal over conditions.

The AFE president Luis Rubiales told a news conference: "We are unanimous and firm in our decision to call a strike. The league will not start until a new agreement [between the league and the players] has been signed."

At the heart of the dispute is the union's demand for a larger emergency fund to help players not being paid by clubs who are in financial administration.

The La Liga and Segunda División seasons are scheduled to start on the weekend of 20-21 August.

The AFE were supported by more than 100 top-flight footballers in a Madrid hotel where the event was held. The Spain internationals Iker Casillas and Carles Puyol were among the players and there were union representatives from France, Germany and Italy among others to lend their support.

Rubiales said the players had been negotiating with the Spanish football league (LFP) over a series of protective measures for players that are commonplace in other leagues in Europe but which Spanish players do not have.

"It is lamentable. As it stands we are at the bottom of the pile in Europe. We don't want more money, we want the clubs to honour the contracts they sign with their players. We don't want palliative measures. We have put forward proposals which exist in Holland, Germany, France and England which are preventative. In these countries if a club shows it can't pay its players the club doesn't compete.

"We have asked that players who are owed more than three months [wages] can break their contracts. It seemed like we had an agreement but it was left out."

Rubiales said that, despite the lengthy negotiations, the LFP had imposed a new settlement at the beginning of August which the players rejected.

"Enough is enough," he said. "This does not mean we are refusing to negotiate any more. We will do for the good of the players and football in general. But the league will not start until a new collective agreement is signed."

Lemoine Signs For St Etienne

St Etienne have announced the signing of Fabien Lemoine on a four-year deal from Rennes for an undisclosed fee. 

Lemoine, 24, missed five months of last season through injury following a nasty collision during a match against Nancy.

It was later revealed he had badly damaged his kidney in the incident, which meant it had to be removed.

The defensive midfielder has become St Etienne's seventh signing of the summer as they look to build a squad capable of bringing them their first Ligue 1 title since 1981.

St Etienne began their season with a win over Bordeaux last weekend but will face stiff competition from free-spending Paris Saint Germain for the title.

Lemoine will miss this weekend's match with Nancy, as he still serving a suspension.

Aston Villa And Hamburg SV Vying For Nicklas Bendtner

Aston Villa have joined Bundesliga club Hamburg SV in the hunt for Arsenal forward Nicklas Bendtner and may be in a position to offer up to £9m.

Hamburg have been interested since the player became available however they have since admitted that it would be difficult for them to sign the Dane given the transfer fee expected by the North London club. Alex McLeish’s Aston Villa meanwhile are still looking to add a striker to help Darren Bent up front and believe the 23 year old would fit in well.

Arsenal still have business of their own to sort out but are in no rush to sell Bendtner and will wait for the right offer to come in, it is also worth noting that Bendtner is particular about which club he would like to join with certain teams in Portugal also interested in his signature.

Eto'o Close To Agreeing Russia Move

Samuel Eto'o's Italian agent claims the Cameroon forward could soon be on his way to Russia with Anzhi Makhachkala.

It was revealed on Tuesday that Anzhi is prepared to dip into their deep pockets to finance a big-money move for the Inter Milan striker.

And Inter has announced they are prepared to consider the offer put to them.

Anzhi now believe it has every chance of luring one of the most potent forwards in European football to Russia.

Eto'o's representative believes an agreement could be struck, with initial talks regarding a transfer having already been held.

Claudio Vigorelli told sports.ru: "We have almost reached an agreement with Anzhi. We now hope that the clubs can agree with each other."

While Inter has done little to rule out an imminent exit for their 30-year-old striker, owner Massimo Moratti insists there is no guarantee that a sale will be sanctioned.

He said: "At the moment Eto'o is not going anywhere and we are not negotiating for someone else to come in.

"We are only answering other teams that are interested in our players.

"I don't want to offend those who have made interesting offers for our players, offers that are right for the players' value.

"Then it will be up to us and the player to decide if we want to accept an offer or not.

"I have to say that, luckily, almost all of our players are sought-after."

Inter Milan Target Tevez Loan Deal As Eto'o Set For Exit

Inter Milan have made an offer to sign Manchester City striker Carlos Tevez on a loan basis with a view to a permanent move next summer.

Tevez has made no secret that he wants to leave Manchester City and saw a move to Corinthians fall through during the summer.

Inter Milan are now in pole position to clinch his signature and reports in Italy today suggest they have opened talks over a season-long loan.

Manchester City are determined to do a straight cash deal for the Argentine superstar, but they could change their mind if Inter agree to sell Wesley Sneijder as part of the deal.

Inter are considering an offer from mega-rich Russian club Anzhi Makhachkala for striker Samuel Eto'o and see Tevez as the ideal replacement.

Paris Saint-Germain Set Sights On Sevilla's Mouhamadou Dabo

The Ligue 1 side were previously hot on the trail of Porto's Alvaro Pereira, but his €30 million release clause, coupled with reported interest from Liverpool and Arsenal, has seen the French outfit turn their attention towards Dabo.

PSG director Leonardo is desperate to add a left-sided defender to the squad and Dabo could return to France just a year after leaving Saint-Etienne for Spain.

The Senegal native is tied to Sevilla until 2014, but a serious offer from PSG could tempt the Spanish outfit to part company with the 24-year-old.

The French capital club were stunned 1-0 at home by Lorient in their Ligue 1 opener on Saturday and Leonardo is keen to make some last-minute changes to the squad so they can mount a serious title challenge.

Serie A Flyer Set For Manchester City Switch

Manchester City have reignited their interest in Fiorentina winger Alessio Cerci.

The 24-year-old winger has been strongly linked with the Blues and a deal was on the cards earlier in the summer, but both clubs failed to agree a fee.

Now City boss Roberto Mancini is ready to re-open negotiations with the Italian side have started once again and the Citizens are prepared to increase their offer to £5m as they look to finalise his a deal.

Cerci is highly-rated in Serie A and Mancini is hoping the addition of his fellow countryman will help increase competition in midfield as City try to mount a successful challenge in both the Premier League and Champions League.

The Italian is hoping to land a four-year deal and will double his wages if he make a move to the Etihad Stadium.

A Fiorentina source said: "We are optimistic and hope a deal can be agreed in the next week."

Chelsea Striker Linked With Shock AC Milan Move

Didier Drogba could quit Chelsea to join AC Milan. The Ivorian has been coveted by the Giallorossi for several years who have tried - and failed - to sign him on two previous occasions but fancy their chances on making it third time lucky. They are hoping that the chance to play for one of football's most venerable institutions coupled with the potentially fewer first team opportunities at Chelsea could be enough to turn the player's head.

Drogba has enjoyed a fine pre-season whoich has seen him back to his dominant best but he knows he will have to jostle with £50m signing Fernando Torres and imminent teenage arrival Romelu Lukaku for a starting berth. With Nicolas Anelka, Salomon Kalou and the in-form Daniel Sturridge also in the mix, the compeiton for places will be fierce.

Blues boss Andre Villas-Boas is known to be a fan of the 33-year-old but might consider using the player as leverage in his attempts to bring Alexandre Pato to Stamford Bridge. The Brazil international has been a long-term target of the club's and the Portuguese manager is thought to have given a green light to his pursuit. However, until a formal approach for Drogba is made by the Italians he will remian a key figure in West London.

Manchester United Striker Becomes Surprise Arsenal Target

Arsenal are reportedly interested in bringing Manchester United's Danny Welbeck to the Emirates Stadium.

The Gunners are facing a player exodus with Samir Nasri, Cesc Fabregas, Carlos Vela and Nicklas Bendtner all eyeing the exit door which would leave manager Arsene Wenger short of options in attack. With Robin van Persie likely to miss the start of the season, the need for a striker is brought into even sharper focus and that has led to the interest in Welbeck.

The 20-year-old had an impressive season on loan at Sunderland last campaign scoring six goals in the process. His form was enough to earn him a first international cap in a friendly with Ghana earlier this year though with Welbeck also eligible to play for the African nation through both his parents' nationality, there was also a hint of opportunism behind the selection on the FA's behalf.

United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has always spoken in glowing terms about his striker - even recommending him to Fabio Capello as a potential member of his 2010 World Cup squad - so it would be something of a surprise were he to entertain the thought of selling him to one of his main rivals. However, with Wayne Rooney, Javier Hernandez, Dimitar Berbatov, Michael Owen, Mame Biram Diouf and Federico Macheda all competing for a first team place, a decent bid in the region of £11m and the promise of more regular football could be enough to turn both United's and Welbeck's head.

Inter Hold Talks With Napoli Regarding Ezequiel Lavezzi

Inter are targeting Napoli striker Ezequiel Lavezzi as a replacement for Samuel Eto'o, who looks set to leave the club this summer.

Eto'o, 30, is currently in negotiations with Anzhi Makhachkala after Inter received a mega offer from the Russian club.

Inter director of sport Marco Branca has now been in talks with Napoli for the Argentina international.

Branca spoke with Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis, but have been told it will take at least a £27 million (€31m) bid to land the 26-year-old.

However, the Coppa Italia winners are willing to tempt the San Paolo-based club with a cash-plus-player deal.

Goran Pandev, MacDonald Mariga and Davide Santon could be used as leverage to lower what appear to be high demands.

Inter have also been linked with Manchester City's Carlos Tevez, but the feeling in Italy is Lavezzi a significantly cheaper alternative in terms of wages.

It has been reported the Argentine currently earns around £1.2m (€1.4m) per annum at Napoli.

Lazio Join Lugano Chase

Juventus will face competition from Lazio for Diego Lugano of Fenerbahce, reports Sky Sport Italia.

The Old Lady are looking for a new centre-back to boost their options and the Uruguayan is a possibility.

Lugano, 31, could apparently be signed for as little as €3.5m from his Turkish club this summer.

Given the attractive nature of the fee, Lazio are now also monitoring the South American’s situation.

Lazio have been paired with Lugano on numerous occasions in the past.

Juventus, meanwhile, have also been paired with Chelsea stopper Alex and Bruno Alves of Zenit St Petersburg.

Manchester City Considering First Option Deal For Newell's Old Boys Starlet Eugenio Isnaldo

Manchester City look set to snap up one of Argentina's top prospects after Newell's Old Boys director Jorge Ricobelli confirmed that his club have sent Manchester City their teenage starlet Eugenio Isnaldo for a trial.

Speaking to Cruz del Sur, the Argentine club's treasurer revealed that Roberto Mancini's side had requested a first-hand look the 17-year-old prospect.

Ricobelli explained if City were impressed by the trial, they would have the opportunity to sign a first-option agreement with Newell's.

He stated: "The kid [Isnaldo] has gone to play in a tournament, and do a kind of trial so that he can be viewed.

"If they like him, an agreement will be signed through Newell's in which the club will receive a sum of money."

The Argentine club's official also added that the Argentines would earn around £170,000 from a first option deal.

If an agreement is made between the two clubs, it would mean that City would have first refusal on the midfielder when Newell's decide the time is right to sell.

However, Ricobelli did add he would not be rushed into a sale, stating: "Please make it clear that this kid will play in the Newell's first-team.

"The only thing that Manchester City are doing is assuring the possibility of matching a future offer when the player is ready to be sold."

Blackburn Sign Petrovic

Blackburn has completed the signing of Partizan Belgrade midfielder Radosav Petrovic for an undisclosed fee.

Petrovic, 22, has signed a four-year contract with Blackburn after having received a work permit. The 6ft 4in defensive midfielder has made 19 appearances for Serbia, having made his debut for the country in August 2009.

Petrovic started his career at hometown club FK Jedinstvo Ub. A move to Radnicki Obrenovac followed, before he moved to Partizan in the summer of 2008.

He was named in the Serbian league team of the year for the last two seasons and is currently with his international colleagues ahead of Serbia's international match against Russia in Moscow.

Blackburn face a race against time to make sure Petrovic is eligible for Saturday's Premier League opener against Wolves at home.

He is the club's second signing this summer, following Dundee United striker David Goodwillie to Ewood Park.

Newcastle Seal Deal For Manchester United Star

Newcastle has completed the signing of Manchester United winger Gabriel Obertan, confirming the transfer on their website.

The former France Under-21 international has joined the Magpies on a five-year deal after failing to establish himself as a Manchester United regular in two seasons at Old Trafford.

"Gabriel is a player I've watched for the last couple of seasons since he arrived at Manchester United," Newcastle boss Alan Pardew said.

"He has great pace and excellent technique and he has improved his power in the last 12 months and is ready now to make a real impact in the Premier League.

"I contacted Sir Alex about him early at the start of the summer to see if there was an opportunity to bring him to Newcastle, but it wasn't until Wayne Routledge joined Swansea that we were able to bring him in.

"His best years are ahead of him which is exactly what we want at this club, and with the backing of our magnificent fans I'm sure he will prove an excellent signing for us," he added.

Obertan's signing makes the 22-year-old the fifth French-born player to arrive at St James Park this summer following the signings of Yohan Cabaye, Demba Ba, Sylvain Marveaux and Mehdi Abeid.

Vitesse Sign Kazaishvili

Vitesse Arnhem have signed 18-year-old Georgian winger Valeri Kazaishvili on a three-year contract.

Kazaishvili has signed from Olimpi Rustavi on a contract which has an option for a fourth year.

Vitesse technical director Ted van Leeuwen revealed Kazaishvili had been watched by the club for some time and would go straight into the first team squad.

"In the past six years he has developed enormously and we have signed him immediately after his 18th birthday," van Leeuwen told the club’s website.

"Basically he is a player for the future, but (his career) can also go (develop) very quickly. He will also immediately be part of the first team selection."

Vitesse have applied for a work permit Kazaishvili who was in his second season with Olimpi.

Birmingham City Midfielder Michel Joins Getafe

Birmingham City midfielder Michel has joined Spanish La Liga side Getafe for an undisclosed fee.

The 25-year-old arrived in January 2010 from Sporting Gijon for £3m but made just 12 appearances for Blues.

Michel, whose full name is Miguel Marcos Madera, was brought to St Andrews by former manager Alex McLeish.

But he failed to make an impression and spent the second half of last season on loan at AEK Athens, featuring 15 times for the Greek side.

The Spaniard had made 138 appearances for Sporting Gijon during five years at the club, and scored seven times for the La Liga side before his move to England.

AC Milan Open Door To Pato Chelsea Move

Long-term Chelsea target Pato could be allowed to leave AC Milan, Barbara Berlusconi, daughter of AC Chairman Silvio Berlusconi has announced.

The news is even more remarkable given the fact that 27 year old Barbara is currently dating the Brazilian striker.

Not only that, but she is also a director at the Milan football club her father owns, and so could have a particularly large part to play should an offer from Stamford Bridge be forthcoming.

Pato recently denied claims he may be about to leave the San Siro, but it now appears that the AC board don't deem him as indispensable, and even the 22 year old Brazilian star may have a price.

In an interview with fashion magazine Vanity Fair, Ms. Berlusconi is quoted as saying:

"Everyone is transferable and Pato is no different," she said. "This is a delicate matter that does not concern me. I'd rather not talk about it. We are simply enjoying ourselves and taking things one day at a time."

Atletico Madrid Poised To Land Turan

Atletico Madrid appears to have won the race to sign long-term Liverpool target Arda Turan.

Liverpool has been keen on the Turkey international for over two years and scouts have tracked his progress with Galatasaray.

Turan's career has taken off with the Turkish giants and he is keen for a new challenge, having previously stated his admiration for Liverpool.

Numerous clubs across Europe want the 24-year-old, with Liverpool among them, but officials from Madrid have been in contact with Galatasaray regarding the winger.

Liverpool is keen on bolstering their options on the wings and has already signed Stewart Downing this summer.

Turan, however, looks to be heading to Madrid, with Galatasaray said to be resigned to losing him.

Manchester United And Man City Fight For Italy International Enforcer

AS Roma star Daniele de Rossi has rejected the latest contract offer from I Giallorossi, resurrecting talk of a transfer abroad in the process.

His current deal at Stadio Olimpico has just 10 months remaining, and though Roma have offered him a new deal of approximately £67,000 per week - placing him towards the top of the club wage hierarchy - he has received better offers.

Corriere dello Sport claim that Manchester City have offered £118,000 per week - not short of double Roma's offer - and de Rossi has begun to think again about leaving a city that has not always treated him well in recent times.

Manchester United are likely to join their city rivals in the pursuit of the Italy international star though, with a holding midfielder perhaps more urgently required than the playmaker more widely written about in the press.

Wesley Sneijder would cost far more than de Rossi, but would the Italian be a more worthwhile signing for either Manchester club?

Lorient Linked With Loan Swoop For Arsenal's Carlos Vela

Lorient is lining up an ambitious move to bring striker Carlos Vela from Arsenal on loan, according to France Football.

Christian Gourcuff's side have reportedly shown more than a passing interest in the Mexico international and it is possible that a six-month loan deal could be negotiated.

The publication also states that the two clubs share a positive relationship, as a number of players have left Lorient to join Arsenal in recent times, with Laurent Koscielny being the most prominent transfer, as well as the likes of Gilles Sunu and Francis Coquelin.

The 22-year-old has found first-team opportunities in north London increasingly difficult to come by, and the recent arrival of Gervinho has only pushed him further down Arsene Wenger's pecking order, forcing him to branch out to West Brom on a temporary basis during the second half of last season.

The Guadalajara youth product has made 61 appearances for the Emirates outfit, scoring 11 times.

Anzhi Makhachkala Step Up Chase For Arsenal Star

Russian club Anzhi Makhachkala will step up their interest in Andrey Arshavin by approaching Arsenal over the player's availability this week.

Playmaker Arshavin has had a mixed time in England since his move from Zenit in 2009.

The highlight of his three year stay at Arsenal would undoubtedly be his four-goal haul in their 4-4 draw with Liverpool towards the end of the 2008/09 season.

But Arshavin was well short of his best form last season and failed to nail down a regular starting spot.

Anzhi are now keen on offering him a route back to Russia, with Suleyman Kerimov, the club's billionaire owner, eager to add more big-name signings to the team having signed Roberto Carlos earlier this year.

According to sources in Russia, Kerimov is ready to sanction a move for Arshavin and Anzhi are keen on approaching Arsenal to set up talks.

Chelsea And Real Madrid Set For Battle Over Porto Star

Chelsea manager Andre Villas-Boas could be set to go head-to-head with former boss Jose Mourinho in a transfer battle over Porto star Fredy Gaurin.

The west Londoners and Real Madrid are the two clubs believed to be leading the race to sign the 25-year-old Columbian.

Guarin made 22 league appearances for the Portuguese champions under Villas-Boas last season, however, he was unhappy at starting just ten of those matches and at one point made his feelings public via Twitter.

The former Saint Etienne player, who can play in central midfield or on the right, did score five goals in Porto's successful Europa League campaign, and that sort of strike rate from the centre of the park would enable to the new Chelsea boss.

Gaurin played just the final 34 minutes of the Super Cup game against Vitoria Guimaraes at the weekend and it appears he may not fit in with the style new manager Vitor Pereira is planning to play at Porto.