funny pix

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Luis Enrique's Barcelona future not up for debate, insists Bartomeu

The Catalans' president has dismissed reports that the 45-year-old could be fired and says that they are already looking toward next season

Barcelona president Josep Bartomeu insists that head coach Luis Enrique will not leave the club this summer.

The 45-year-old replaced Gerardo Martino at the helm after an unsuccessful 2013-14 campaign for the Catalans but initially struggled to make his mark at Camp Nou and appeared to be facing the sack after falling out with star player Lionel Messi midway through the season.

Luis Enrique managed to turn things around, though, and was rewarded with the Liga title on Sunday following Barcelona's 1-0 win at Atletico Madrid, which put Barca just two wins away from a historic treble.

Rumours remain rife that the former midfield ace could yet depart this summer but Bartomeu is adamant that Luis Enrique will still be at Camp Nou next season.

"He has an ongoing contract, end of debate," Bartomeu was quoted as saying by Marca.

"We are presently focused on the competitions we are in. Luis Enrique's future is not something that we talk about.

"This is everyone's success. The players', the coach's. They do a magnificent job every week.

"La Liga was the main objective of the season. Now we look to the second one, the Copa del Rey.

"Next year there will be other challenges."

Barcelona meet Athletic Bilbao in the Copa del Rey final on May 30 before taking on Juventus in the Champions League showpiece in Berlin on June 6.

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Van Gaal sings with Man United fans

The Dutchman was signing autographs outside Old Trafford on Sunday evening when he was asked to join in with the supporters' chants... and he obliged!

Well this is an end-of-season treat for Manchester United fans!

Louis van Gaal may not have been able to deliver a victory against Arsenal in the final match at Old Trafford, and also kept his on-pitch speech short and sweet, but he has gone some way to making it up to supporters in the entertainment stakes.

While signing autographs on his way out of the stadium on Sunday evening, he was greeted by fans chanting "Louis van Gaal's red army"... and he joined in!

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Who is Juventus' Player of the Season?

With the Serie A title in the bag and two finals ahead, Goal takes a look at the Bianconeri's best performers in a thrilling campaign

However Juventus' season ends, there is no doubting the fact that 2014-15 has been a huge success for the Bianconeri. Massimiliano Allegri's first season in charge has seen the Turin outfit collect a fourth straight Scudetto and qualify for the finals of both the Coppa Italia and the Champions League.

If there has been one outstanding quality in the Old Lady's line-up this season it has been the way that every player has contributed superbly to their success across the three competitions. Whatever the challenge, whoever the adversary and whatever the tournament, the Old Lady's attitude and workrate have been magnificent.

Who was Juventus' star performer in their spectacular campaign, though? Goal looks at the three candidates to scoop up the Player of the Season award...

LEONARDO BONUCCI

Antonio Conte's decision to employ a 3-5-2 formation was widely accepted as a move to suit Leonardo Bonucci. While the former Bari defender struggled to play as a natural man-to-man marker, he proved to be one of the best sweepers in the modern game. As the spare man in the back three, Bonucci was commanding to say the least.

When Massimiliano Allegri switched his side back to a flat back four in the autumn, it was understandable that many worried about Bonucci's form. Yet the 28-year-old has responded superbly, with many excellent performances alongside Giorgio Chiellini both at home and on the continent. Andrea Barzagli's absence for much of the campaign has barely been noticed.

While there have been moments of worry, they have been far more fleeting than feared. Juventus have benefitted massively from the change of formation, and that would not have been possible without Bonucci showing such marvellous flexibility.

PAUL POGBA

There is no wonder the world can't stop linking Paul Pogba with a massive transfer this summer given the way he continues to thrill for Juventus. The 22-year-old had already gained a big reputation since his move from Manchester United in 2011, but in 2014-15 he took it up to a whole new level.

He soon stepped up from a cast-off at Old Trafford to a lively extra option at Juventus Stadium, and now he is quite possibly the Bianconeri's stand-out star. His countless domineering midfield displays, married to a host of crucial goals from midfield, have seen his importance to the Bianconeri soar beyond perhaps even Andrea Pirlo and Arturo Vidal.

Many of his strikes this season came at key times, including the winner against Olympiakos amidst a largely unconvincing Juve display. His arrow of a finish against Napoli in January also started a run of four goals in four games which would have a huge say in the Bianconeri pulling away from Roma in the title race.

CARLOS TEVEZ

Nobody since David Trezeguet has had the kind of touch in front of goal that Carlos Tevez has shown for Juventus in 2014-15. The Argentine is peaking at the age of 31, and the Bianconeri board are abundantly clear how irreplacable he is to the Old Lady.

But it is not only his goals which have had a massive effect during the past nine months. His ability to play his own way into games which could otherwise have passed him by has allowed Juve to find an out-ball so often in difficult circumstances.

Such qualities have helped to build his confidence in the final third, and goals of all descriptions have followed as a result. Not only has he scored 20 league goals, but he has also obliterated any memories of his Champions League drought of years gone by on his way to seven strikes on the continent.

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Transfer Talk Windows

BREAKING NEWS

It looks like Everton manager Roberto Martinez would sign his whole Wigan team if he could - he's only gone and bought yet another one of his former players!

Atletico Madrid and the Toffees have reached an agreement for the transfer of goalkeeper Joel Robles.

17:53 WAT

7/9/13

Meanwhile, here are the current standings for our second Poll of the Day:

We asked whether Luis Suarez has gone too far with the latest comments about his Liverpool future?

66.8% said Yes

And only 33.2% have said No

17:51 WAT

7/9/13

Luis Suarez publicly stated that he was 'flattered' by interest in him from Arsenal. The Uruguay forward also told Liverpool that 'they know what he wants.'

Fulham re-signed Greek midfielder Giorgos Karagounis on a one-year deal.

Everton confirmed the signing of former Wigan defender Antolin Alcaraz.

And the world reacted to last night's official transfer request from Aston Villa striker Christian Benteke.

17:45 WAT

7/9/13

AND LOOK AT THE TIME...

Unfortunately, this here Blog will be coming to an end in less than 20 minutes! It's been an absolute pleasure bringing you all the latest transfer news today and - fear not - we'll be with you once again from 9am tomorrow!

There is one final order for the day, though, and that is a round-up of today's biggest stories...

17:43 WAT

7/9/13

BRAZIL UPDATE

Santos vice-president Odilio Rodrigues says Robinho must lower his wage demands if he is serious about returning to his former club.

"I hope Robinho will lower his wages again," Rodrigues told Gazeta Esportiva.

"AC Milan have set a very high valuation on the player and we hope this can be cut to make the operation more do-able."

Santos must lower his wage demands for a move.

17:34 WAT

7/9/13

NORWICH NEWS

Meanwhile, Norwich have confirmed that Scotland international Russell Martin has signed a new 3-year deal with the club.

17:28 WAT

7/9/13

But it seems the Antolin Alcaraz to Everton move is generating further negative feedback.

Here's our very own Ryan Benson's view on Twitter: 'The only good thing about Everton signing Alcaraz is that they aren't paying a transfer fee.'

Ouch.

17:24 WAT

7/9/13

CRYSTAL PALACE NEWS

Palace co-chairman Steve Parish has confirmed that the club have signed winger Jerome Thomas on a two-year deal.

Parish told the Croydon Advertiser: "The paper work has gone through, he's training with us in Portugal so it's all done.

"I'm not sure why it hasn't been announced yet though. It's a two-year deal for Jerome."

Full story here: Palace chief confirms Thomas deal.

17:19 WAT

7/9/13

Meanwhile, Kazeem Oluwatosin ‏- also on Twitter - wants to know the following:

'Why are Bayern Munich behaving like gold diggers who must always steal from their rivals?'

Well, I think what we have here is a strong case of 'because we can'...

17:11 WAT

7/9/13

Here's a strong view from Mason on Twitter, meanwhile: 'Why is Roberto Martinez buying ex-Wigan players? They got him relegated last season; will they help him do the same for Everton?'

17:04 WAT

7/9/13

More #AskPellegrinis!

Antonio Yarde ‏asks: 'Will we see a brand of football like the yellow Submarines (Villareal) played in the Champions League?'

And Mason wants to talk trophies: 'I would ask Pelligrini how long he thinks he will last and which trophies he thinks he can realistically win?'

Keep those hashtags coming! The best of the reaction will go into a special slideshow tomorrow.

17:00 WAT

7/9/13

DONE DEAL

Everton have confirmed the signing of Antolin Alcaraz on a two-year deal.

The former Wigan defender will join Arouna Koune in linking up with ex-boss Roberto Martinez at Goodison Park.

16:55 WAT

7/9/13

GERMANY UPDATE

Meanwhile, Bayern Munich president Karl-Heinz Rummenigge has more or less confirmed that the club will sign Robert Lewandowski from Borussia Dortmund after the current campaign.

This is big: Bayern will sign Lewandowski in 2014.

16:51 WAT

7/9/13

Daddydonmoh ‏asks: '#AskPellegrini Is Alvaro Negredo a target for Manchester City?'

Callum Ward ‏asks: 'What strikers he will buy and use!'

George ‏is similarly interested in matters up front: 'Are Negredo and Stefan Jovetic on there way to City? If not, what is he waiting for?'

And PierreFils ‏has a good one: 'Do you think u can do better than #Mancini who had brought 3 titles in 3 years. Can #City win the Champions League under you? #AskPellegrini"

16:46 WAT

7/9/13

With Manuel Pellegrini set to undergo his first official Manchester City press conference tomorrow, we asked Twitter (like we did with David Moyes) what questions YOU would want to ask him.

Coming up are some of your early responses...

16:36 WAT

7/9/13

AROUND EUROPE WE GO

The news is coming in thick and fast from the continent now; here are some important quotes from the Netherlands:

Martin Schoots, agent of Ajax's Christian Eriksen, told Danish medium Sporten.dk: "We still have contact with other clubs, but we never know if a transfer is really happening.

"We don't want to speculate, and we always said that Christian has no urge to leave Ajax. This is the first summer that he's open for a transfer."

Eriksen has a contract untill 2014 in Amsterdam. "He will only leave if he can develop at a new club. Otherwise he will stay at Ajax."

16:31 WAT

7/9/13

ITALY UPDATE

Fiorentina have set a whopping £26m valuation for striker Stefan Jovetic.

See all the details here: Fiorentina want huge sum for Jovetic.

16:22 WAT

7/9/13

GERMANY UPDATE

Meanwhile, Frankfurt have confirmed that they are nearing a deal for Arsenal striker Nicklas Bendtner.

Frankfurt close in on Bendtner deal.

16:18 WAT

7/9/13

And more calls to sell Suarez:

Bello Abiodun ‏tweets: 'I think it will be in the best interests of Liverpool to let Suarez go, his heart and mind are no longer with the club.'

Well said.

16:12 WAT

7/9/13

More on Suarez-Gate!

Thulasikumaran ‏tweets: 'Letting Suarez go to Real Madrid will give Liverpool Angel Di Maria and Gonzalo Higuain. They can even ask for Jose Callejon.'

That's ambitious, at best.

Meanwhile, Matt Walker says: 'Suarez needs to bail out our club ASAP. "I want to leave England" now he's flattered by Arsenal.'

It's easy to see through im, isn't it?

16:06 WAT

7/9/13

Our first replies are in:

Scarface (nice) on Twitter: 'Yes he has gone too far !!! I think he has disrespected Liverpool... A club that stood by him during challenging times.'

Remember the T-shirts... All for nothing.

CR11 ‏tweets: 'Guess he needs Champions League experience. Deserves better."

Does that justify his behaviour, though?

16:01 WAT

7/9/13

Here we are then, vote away!

Has Suarez gone too far this time?

15:53 WAT

7/9/13

These Suarez quotes have been so explosive that we are going to be having another Poll of the Day soon.

Yes, another!!

15:47 WAT

7/9/13

And back to Suarez-Gate once more. Here's a stat for you:

263 - Luis Suarez had 263 ball touches in the opposition box in the Premier League in 2012-13; 140 more than any other player. (Opta)

Can Liverpool really afford to lose him?

15:43 WAT

7/9/13

ITALIO-SPANISH UPDATE

Appropriately, Juventus midfielder Arturo Vidal has spoken about Real Madrid's seductive powers...

"I am honoured that a big club [like Real Madrid] is interested. They would seduce every player [into joining them]," he told Gazzetta dello Sport.

Full story here: Real Madrid would seduce any player - Vidal.

15:33 WAT

7/9/13

THE RESULTS ARE IN

Meanwhile, here are the standings of our poll on another wantaway striker: Christian Benteke.

Is Benteke wrong to hand in a transfer request?

44.9% say Yes
55.1% say No

15:30 WAT

7/9/13

Back to our infamous headline maker now, though, and here is some reaction on Facebook to the Uruguayan's (kind of) outburst:

David Sylvester Haskins says: 'Suarez should be flattered, moment of madness from Wenger that should not be repeated! We should have been in the market for all the sensible buys Tottenham and Chelsea have been involved in. Arsenal is losing grip of being London's finest - fast! C'mon Wenger!'

And David Niblett thinks Suarez will end up abroad: 'He'll hold out for a move abroad, he can't stand the British press, British News ,the FA and whoever says he's a "Naughty Boy" even though it's his fault!!! If I was LFC I'd hold out for the inevitable £40m bid from Spain and sell him...And this is coming from a Liverpool fan!'

15:23 WAT

7/9/13

ALAN NOT SO ANGRY ANYMORE

Meanwhile, Newcastle boss Alan Pardew has confirmed his side's interest in strikers Darren Bent and Loic Remy.

"Both of those players are on our list. I make no bones about that," Pardew told the Northern Echo.

"But they are under contract at other clubs. It's difficult, you have to be careful. It's nice for our fans to hear names, but I don't want to disrupt other clubs' preparations.

Pardew confirms Newcastle interest in strikers.

15:21 WAT

7/9/13

CONFIRMED

West Brom have also signed Dynamo Kiev defender Goran Popov on a season-long loan.

West Brom sign Kiev defender Popov.

15:19 WAT

7/9/13

THIAGO UPDATE

Before we press on, however, here is a report that will concern all Manchester United and Barcelona fans:

Thiago set for Barcelona training with future still uncertain.

15:17 WAT

7/9/13

It seems our debate has gone straight from Argentina to Uruguay, will Luis Suarez ever stop making the headlines?

15:07 WAT

7/9/13

UNBELIEVABLE

Just as we discuss Higuain, Arsenal and Luis Suarez, check out these HUGE quotes from the latter:

“There have been no offers yet, but Liverpool know exactly what is going on and what I want,” Suarez told Uruguayan radio station Sport 890.

“My agent is in charge, he knows what I want, I am resting and relaxed. I am due back in about ten days, on the 21st of July, [but] a phone call could change everything.

“Is good to know that I am still valued by teams like Arsenal. Friends call me up to ask if I am moving to Chelsea, to which I laugh.”

Suarez 'flattered' by Arsenal interest.

15:02 WAT

7/9/13

Back to the transfer in hand...

Enyi Chad ‏appears to be in dreamland: 'Very disappointed [if Higuain doesn't join Arsenal] but if we get Wayne Rooney & Marouane Fellaini, it'll be all good...and maybe Luis Suarez too!!!

Baafs ‏says: 'Not particularly. In fact Gomez's transfer to Fiorentina could pave the wave for Stefan Jovetic, who could prove to be a better signing.'

Siôn has concerns: 'It would be hugely disappointing, there isn't another forward of the same calibre as Higuain available for us who won't cost £30m+'

14:57 WAT

7/9/13

ITALIO-GERMAN UPDATE

There will of course be more on Higuain to come, but for now let's briefly venture to Germany, where Bayern Munich legend Franz Beckenbauer has given Mario Gomez's move to Fiorentina his full backing.

"I think Mario Gomez has made the right decision," the 67-year-old told Sky Sport.

"Bayern Munich has an overbalance up front, and Guardiola prefers player types like Mario Gotze. Therefore it's important to separate."

Gomez made the right decision, says Beckenbauer.

14:52 WAT

7/9/13

The responses continue...

Collins O. Eze ‏urges more prudence: 'It would be a heart-breaker to lose Higuain. Arsene Wenger should do more to get him and other quality players!'

Ugly Boy ‏(don't be too hard on yourself) says: 'Gutted, already missed Falcao, David Villa and likely Luis Suarez - falling behind Europe's big boys again.'

And Olawunmi Tawose ‏adds: 'If he doesn't come it wouldn't shatter my world but I'd have lost hope in Arsenal's prospects for any kind of success.'

14:48 WAT

7/9/13

So we asked Twitter (specifically Arsenal fans) whether people would be disappointed if the Gunners' bid for Gonzalo Higuain failed to materialise. Here is the early reaction:

EYEdea ‏tweets: 'Not going to be that disappointed because Christian Benteke would be a better option.'

Clement Grenier ‏(not the footballer, I'm pretty sure) says: 'I will cry, recover, then cry some more.'

Subhodeep, meanwhile, has this to say: 'Arsenal fans are now clever enough to know when #Wenger is taking them for a ride. Bidding for Luis Suarez exposed his game really.'

Gbeminiyi would be 'very, very disappointed': 'Very very, because they kept our hopes high of a potential signing. Seeing them dashed will be sad.'

Elsewhere, Alejo makes a fair point: 'As an Arsenal fan, I'm used to disappointment every transfer window!'

14:39 WAT

7/9/13

Stay tuned for some of your views on Gonzalo Higuain!

14:35 WAT

7/9/13

Elsewhere, Arouna Kone says he is 'delighted' to be re-united with former boss Roberto Martinez at Everton.

"I feel delighted. I'm really happy about joining this team," Kone said after his move.

"It's an honour to be back working with the manager once again. Last season he really helped me a lot.

"For my first season I did the absolute best I could, but I think that joining up with him [Martinez] at this club is like another dimension for me and I hope that I'm going to continue to improve alongside him."

Was it the right move for the Ivory Coast international or could he have done better? Let us know your thoughts!

Kone delighted to be back alongside Martinez.

14:25 WAT

7/9/13

Meanwhile, we have TWO big new rumours for you:

First, Voetbal International claim that PSV midfielder Kevin Strootman is travelling to Italy to hold talks over a £17.2 million move to Roma.

And here's an interesting one: talkSPORT are reporting that Blackpool boss Paul Ince is in the running to become the new England Under-21s manager.

14:20 WAT

7/9/13

FULHAM NEWS

Great news for Fulham fans: Giorgos Karagounis (that's a handful to spell) has signed a new one-year deal with the club.

Karagounis signs new deal.

14:05 WAT

7/9/13

After securing the services of Nicolas Anelka earlier this week, West Brom boss Steve Clarke is eyeing another former Chelsea player. The Scottish manager has his sights set on Lille's Saloman Kalou, but while the Ivory Coast international says the Baggies are "a very good club", he remains happy to stay in France.
 

13:53 WAT

7/9/13

Snub alert! New Sunderland signing Cabral - or, to give him his full name, Adilson Tavares Varela - says he preferred the challenge of joining Paolo Di Canio's Black Cats over sitting on the bench for Arsenal, Everton or Tottenham.

"I wanted to come to Sunderland and play in the Premier League. I’d prefer to come to Sunderland than Arsenal, Everton or Tottenham where I might only be on the bench.

"I’ve got the chance to play regularly for a good club like Sunderland. But most of all, I chose Sunderland because of Di Canio."

13:28 WAT

7/9/13

Some managerial news now, and Celtic boss Neil Lennon has revealed he hopes to extend his stay at the club.

"There was speculation regarding me in the summer, but that's all it ever was, speculation," Lennon told reporters.

"I still have a one-year rolling deal, but negotiations are ongoing and hopefully we will have something resolved in the next few weeks."

13:22 WAT

7/9/13

Alan Pardew has confirmed Newcastle United are interested in signing striking duo Darren Bent and Loic Remy.

"Both of those players are on our list. I make no bones about that," Pardew told the Northern Echo.

"But they are under contract at other clubs. It's difficult, you have to be careful. It's nice for our fans to hear names, but I don't want to disrupt other clubs' preparations."

13:10 WAT

7/9/13

NEW RUMOUR

According to Sky Sports, Antolin Alcaraz has agreed a two-year deal with Everton. The former Wigan defender is a free agent having left the DW Stadium at the end of last season and is looking to re-unite with old boss Roberto Martinez.

13:00 WAT

7/9/13

Meanwhile, Real Sociedad president Jokin Aperribay has insisted there is no agreement in place with Real Madrid over the sale of Asier Illarramendi.

"As of today, Illarramendi continues to be a Real Sociedad player. We are counting on him for this season," Aperribay told reporters.

"If Madrid meet his buy-out clause then it's up to them and the player to agree terms.

"I must say that Real Madrid have been behaving very well during negotiations so far."

Illarramendi to Madrid not a done deal yet.

12:52 WAT

7/9/13

CAPTAIN CARDIFF

Good news for Cardiff City fans! Skipper Mark Hudson has penned a new two-year deal.

Full story here: Hudson extends Bluebirds stay.

12:49 WAT

7/9/13

An interesting view, that lsat one. When you think about it, Barcelona haven't had much luck with strikers recently, have they?

Still, just look at their success in the last few years regardless. When you have Lionel Messi, you perhaps don't need an out and out forward.

Besides, the Nou Camp could soon belong to Neymar, anyway...

12:45 WAT

7/9/13

Here's another view from one of our readers, who appears to be a keen follower of this here blog. Our type of person!

Jay Skidd, once again, on Sergio Aguero: 'Aguero should stay put at Manchester City. Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Alexis Sanchez and David Villa all failed as replacements for Samuel Eto'o. I think he would fail just as they did.'

12:35 WAT

7/9/13

For more confirmed transfer deals, visit our Done Deals section, which has details of every single completed transfer known to man!

12:30 WAT

7/9/13

DONE DEAL

Lazio have completed the signing of Felipe Anderson from Santos for an undisclosed fee.

The 20-year-old made his debut for Santos in October 2010 and initially struck a deal with Lazio in January but the move fell through following complications over the necessary paperwork.

Lazio sign midfielder Anderson - not the Manchester United one.

 

12:25 WAT

7/9/13

"It's a statement of intent to spend £10 million on one player and I'm sure it won't be the only big signing," Britton told the South Wales Evening Post.

"I think it's important to keep trying to improve and keep adding to the squad. The better the players we get, the higher we will finish up the table."

If confirmed, Bony would become Michael Laudrup's seventh signing this summer.

Bony Pursuit shows Swansea's intent - Britton.

12:20 WAT

7/9/13

SWANSEA UPDATE

Swansea City midfielder Leon Britton believes his side's pursuit of Wilfried Bony shows a real sign of intent from the Welsh club.

Bony Pursuit shows Swansea's intent - Britton.

 

12:10 WAT

7/9/13

Meanwhile, a running joke on Twitter at the moment seems to be that Bebe is on his way to Real Madrid. Is there something I'm missing, here!?!

12:05 WAT

7/9/13

BACK TO BENTEKE

And with perfect timing as ever on Goal, here's our betting special on which club Benteke will be scoring goals for next season:

Odds slashed on Benteke departure.

 

12:01 WAT

7/9/13

It's early days but the standings in the Benteke Transfer Request poll are currently as follows:

Is Benteke wrong to hand in a transfer request?

46% say Yes
54% say No

11:56 WAT

7/9/13

How would you feel if this man left you for the Spanish giants, Tottenham fans? Would you miss this smile?

11:54 WAT

7/9/13

Another popular man, it seems, is Gareth Bale. But the Welshman looks to be even more adored in Spain than on these shores.

In a poll conducted by Marca, Real Madrid fans said Bale was the player they wanted to sign the most - not a striker.

Real fans want Bale signing.

 

 

 

11:50 WAT

7/9/13

Time for a brief detour as Goal International's Peter Staunton offers his view on Mario Gomez's pending move from Bayern Munich to Fiorentina:

He tweets: 'Mario Gomez will absolutely batter Serie A senseless. I predict 30 league goals.'

What are your thoughts, readers - as many as 30!?

11:45 WAT

7/9/13

KEEP POLLIN', POLLIN', POLLIN'...

There was A LOT of reaction to Christian Benteke's transfer request on Twitter and Facebook this morning so we decided it was only natural to make it the subject of our Poll of the Day.

Vote here and we'll keep you up to date with the standings throughout the day:

Poll of the Day: Is Benteke out of order to hand in a transfer request?

 

11:40 WAT

7/9/13

Meanwhile, what are your thoughts on the rumour that Sergio Aguero is being hunted by Barcelona? Would he be the right man for the Blaugrana and would they be the right club for him?

For more rumours, check out our Transfer Talk page.

11:37 WAT

7/9/13

With that, one of our readers thinks Suarez should leave the Reds:

Jay Skidd on Twitter: 'Suarez should leave Liverpool. I don't know why Real Madrid are playing hardball with Gonzalo Higuain. Suarez should be at Madrid next season.'

11:33 WAT

7/9/13

It seems Luis Suarez is a very popular man this morning, with the Sun now adding their name to the growing list of newspapers carrying a story about the Uruguay man.

The striker has told Liverpool he wants to leave Anfield because he wants to play in the Champions League, according to their report.

 

11:28 WAT

7/9/13

NEW RUMOUR

Here's a big European story from Sport, who have told the tale of Barcelona interest in Manchester City forward Sergio Aguero!

Following David Villa's departure to Atletico Madrid, the report suggests Aguero will be brought in as the club's only pure 'number 9.'

11:24 WAT

7/9/13

What do you think Liverpool fans? Will Aspas make a big difference to your side this year? Let us know, as ever, through comments, Facebook and Twitter!

Your country needs you, click that button.

11:21 WAT

7/9/13

LIVERPOOL UPDATE

Brendan Rodgers has hailed new signing (he would, wouldn't he!) Iago Aspas, claiming he has a 'winning mentality.'

"When we sat down last year we felt we needed to bring more of that mentality into the group - players with quality but also players with a winning mentality," Rodgers told the club's official website.

"Iago is a real competitor but he's also got quality as well. We're really looking forward to seeing him in action."

Aspas brings winning mentality to Anfield.

 

11:18 WAT

7/9/13

Just a gem from Diamond Plated... 'No I don't think so, because I believe he is yet to prove that he deserves a bigger club.'

A fair view but he did tear Premier League defences apart at will last season.

Akbar Karenga, meanwhile, tweets: 'He is not good enough for Chelsea. Benteke has never been better than Romelu Lukaku.'

I dream of the day those two play together at both club and international level!

Finally, Tosysmart tweets: 'Yes, Aston Villa can't give him what he needs, Chelsea or Tottenham would be better. Better to leave when the ovation is loudest.'

Chelsea, Tottenham, Arsenal, Liverpool... They'll all surely be interested in the Belgium man.

11:12 WAT

7/9/13

Sticking to that theme, the responses to our 'Question Time' special on Christian Benteke earlier were so fantastic that I think you guys deserve another round.

Nwa-bia-lu-ije ‏on Twitter says: 'No, I believe he should have continued being diplomatic about pushing for a move. Besides no club has put in a formal bid...'

Football and diplomacy don't often go hand in hand, unfortunately.

James King, meanwhile, tweets a straightforward point: 'Who in their right mind wouldn't want to leave relegation candidates for a Champions League team?'

Emile Heskey? A regular guest on our Transfer Talk show by the way...

Farouk Akande on Twitter: 'Yes, when a player is ripe he would surely get offers and the player himself will wish to prove himself in the other club side.'

Another big fat 'yes' then!

11:02 WAT

7/9/13

We just love controversial Premier League strikers, don't we?

11:00 WAT

7/9/13

"And it's not the first time talk of a massive offer has emanated from Anfield, either," Lee continues. "Manchester City were linked with a £40m bid during last season, something those at the Etihad appeared to know very little about.

"So it's not unreasonable to believe that the Reds are trying to engineer a bidding war for Suarez, who has spent much of his bite ban talking up a move elsewhere - just as he did when he was banned for biting last time – while Arsenal are hoping to use the link to bag Higuain. Watch this space."

10:58 WAT

7/9/13

And in a special treat for you guys, Goal UK's Assistant Editor Sammy Lee has some exclusive analysis on the Suarez situation:

"Arsenal's £30 million bid for Luis Suarez is an interesting one. Goal understands the Gunners have been in touch about the Uruguayan, but the suggestions of a concrete bid seem to have originated in Merseyside.

"These reports seem to suit both teams. Arsenal hope any supposed move for the controversial striker will catch the attention of Real Madrid, who want to buy Suarez and are currently playing hardball over Gonzalo Higuain."

10:55 WAT

7/9/13

BETTING SPECIAL

Back to the enigmatic Luis Suarez, our man Al Hain-Cole has taken a look at where the Uruguay striker may be plying his trade next season:

Arsenal interest throws the betting wide open on Suarez's next club.

 

10:50 WAT

7/9/13

CALLED OFF

Meanwhile, Hull City's move for Burnley striker Charlie Austin has been cancelled after the 24-year-old failed his medical.

Boss Steve Bruce told talkSPORT: "There has been a bit of a problem with his medical, which is the worst scenario for everybody concerned.

"It's an awful situation we find ourselves in but the medical is not great so it looks as if it is a non-starter at the moment. I think he is surprised because he has not missed many games over the last couple of years."

Austin not joining Tigers, after all.

 

10:45 WAT

7/9/13

GERMANY UPDATE

Liverpool target Henrikh Mkhitaryan officially completed his move to Borussia Dortmund today (sad face), with the German giants claiming he is the perfect replacement for outgoing attacker Mario Gotze.

Mkhitaryan completes BVB move.

10:40 WAT

7/9/13

More rumours, rumours, rumours!

Leroy Fer could be on his way to Norwich City, according to De Telegraaf, with the Premier League club reportedly willing to pay €5 million (£4.3m) for the FC Twente midfielder.

The Daily Star are reporting that West Ham are in talks with Liverpool over a move for winger Stewart Downing.

And staying with the Reds (I told you we'd be hearing more about this man, didn't I!) the Daily Star are also saying that Liverpool will look to beat Chelsea and Arsenal to the signing of Aston Villa striker Christian Benteke.

Everyone

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Faus: Messi, Neymar or Suarez could leave Barcelona

The Catalan says that the Blaugrana would be powerless to prevent one of the star trio departing if they wanted to accept the bigger salaries on offer elsewhere

Barcelona economic vice-president Javier Faus has conceded that the club could lose Lionel Messi, Neymar or Luis Suarez to richer rivals such as Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain.

The 51-year-old Catalan says that the Blaugrana have every intention of keeping the prolific attacking trio together for the foreseeable future but conceded that the Liga leaders are not in a position to the match the salaries now on offer at the likes of Stamford Bridge and the Parc des Princes.

"We can no longer pay the most in terms of wages," Faus told German publication Handelsblatt. "That's now Chelsea and PSG.

"You have to understand that players [in Spain] always compare their net pay to those of the Premier League or the Bundesliga, who have pushed costs up dramatically.

"It will be a challenge but we want to avoid letting Messi, Neymar or Suarez go.

"But if a club has the potential to take them away because of their chequebook, then they will go.

"The players have a very short career and are entitled to charge what other clubs can pay for their services."

Faus, of course, infamously clashed with Messi in December 2013 when he claimed that the Argentina international had demanded a pay rise.

The diminutive forward denied that accusation and countered by stating that the Blaugrana director "does not know anything about football".

However, despite the very public spat, Faus insists that the pair now enjoy a mutually beneficial working relationship.

"Messi is right: I do not understand football," he added. "It was just a misunderstanding that we clarified with his father and him.

"Then, we agreed a new contract and now we have a kind of partnership: we help him increase his market value and he helps us to project the Barca brand. "

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Gallery: 'Nigerian Ronaldo' to Liverpool? Mikel to Real Madrid? - Nigerian transfer rumour round-up

'Ogenyi Onazi to Merseyside' rumours show no sign of subsiding, with Liverpool linked with a £10 million deal (or £8 million-plus-Fabio Borini) for the Lazio man this summer. Everton may look to contest the deal, while Tottenham Hotspur are also rumoured to be interested in the central midfielder.

Moses Simon, nicknamed the 'Nigerian Ronaldo', is set to be in demand this summer. Major sides such as Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur and Fenerbahce have been eyeing this talented youngster who appears to have the world at his feet

Despite his troubled season in Turkey, Emmanuel Emenike continues to be linked with a move to the Premier League; London giants Chelsea and Spurs continue to be identified as potential suitors for the forward, although it's hard to envisage how he would fit in, certainly at Jose Mourinho's Pensioners

The Daily Star have reported that Real Madrid are looking to sign John Obi Mikel from Chelsea. The 28-year-old's agent has not moved to deny reports that the Premier League winner is wanted at the Bernabeu. Would this be a good move for the Super Eagles superstar, or would he be destined to spend even more time on the bench?

Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham United have previously been linked to Ahmed Musa. Can the Super Eagle do as Tijani Babaginda recommended and improve his consistency enough to see the big teams take another look?

Kenneth Omeruo looks no closer to a starting berth at Chelsea, and with the club now linked to Everton defender John Stones, it is hard to foresee the Nigerian breaking into Jose Mourinho's first-team plans next term. If Middlesbrough are promoted, an extended loan might be ideal, while Queens Park Rangers-freshly relegated from the Premier League-have been linked in the past and will be looking to reconfigure their ageing defence

Unlike the other players on this list, Anthony Ujah's summer move has already been confirmed, with Werder Bremen having paid the player's contract-release clause to take him from Bundesliga rivals FC Koln

With no future forthcoming at Chelsea, a permanent move to Stoke City looks likely. Mark Hughes has indicated that is keen to keep the Super Eagle at the Britannia Stadium, where, despite his injuries, the 24-year-old appears to have rediscovered his verve

Out of contract with Reading, will Yakubu stick around in England or return to one of the world's more lucrative leagues? Having not scored a single league goal for the Royals, it remains to be seen if Steve Clarke will look to offer him an extension at the Madejski Stadium

When Anichebe's good, he's very good, but unfortunately those moments come along far too rarely for West Bromwich Albion. The Mirror have indicated that Baggies coach Tony Pulis is keen to offload the £5 million-man this summer

Peter Odemwingie is another veteran Nigerian forward who risks being out of work this summer as his current deal at Stoke City ends. Mark Hughes may spy a good opportunity to shift an ageing high-earner from the wage bill, although Odemwingie has outlined his desire to stick around. Would anyone else take a punt on the 33-year-old who recently missed eight months due to injury?

Vincent Enyeama hasn't been as glittering as usual in Ligue 1 for LOSC Lille this season, but he still remains one of the best guardsmen in the French top flight; Besiktas and Liverpool have both been keeping tabs on the Super Eagles No. 1 and may move for the veteran this summer

Despite a brief purple patch earlier in the year, Ideye Brown has failed to justify his big-money transfer to the Hawthorns, and news that West Bromwich are keen on Dieumerci Mbokani does not bode well. Sunderland have previously been linked to the player, will the Throstles look to cut their losses this summer?

Deemed surplus to requirements at Toronto, Bright Dike has been sent out on loan to NASL side San Antonio. Might another Major League Soccer outfit be tempted by this powerful forward? Chicago Fire, who already have a two-man stable of Nigerian strikers, have been linked with a permanent deal

Before Watford had secured promotion, striker Odion Ighalo had been linked with West Bromwich Albion; Tony Pulis may still look to add to his stable of Nigerian strikers this summer, but it's surely more likely that the new Super Eagle remains at Vicarage Road to help his new side upon their return to the EPL

Having seen his role at Celtic reduced somewhat over the last few months, Efe Ambrose may in line for a departure; Crystal Palace and West Ham United were linked to the defender in January, while more recently, Queens Park Rangers and Fulham have been named as potential suitors by the British media

The likely departure of Jason Denayer this summer means that Celtic have a void to fill in defence; Evian Thonon Gaillard defender and Ghana international is favourite to make the move to Glasgow, but Heerenveen's Nigerian stopper has also been linked with a move to join the Buoys

Another Dutch-based Nigerian defender linked to Celtic Park is William Troost-Ekong, who has admitted that he will not be extending his current deal at Groningen, meaning he will be available on a free transfer at the end of next month

One-time Nigerian wonderkid Joel Obi has been linked with a move away from Inter Milan, with newly-promoted Serie A minnows Carpi looking to make him a key part of their side for next season

Sammy Ameobi's contract at Newcastle United ends this summer, and having made a scant impact this term, few would be surprised if he was let go. Wolves, West Bromwich Albion and Crystal Palace are keeping a close eye on proceedings

Shola Ameobi's short-term Crystal Palace contract ends this summer. Coach Alan Pardew has expressed a desire to keep the forward around due to the positive impact he has on the squad's younger players, but will Palace owner Steve Parish want to tie money down on a 33-year-old who hasn't made a single EPL start this term?

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Muhammadu Buhari‘I’ll make Nigerians proud,’ President-elect promises

Buhari also promised that his administration would reform relevant sectors in the country and combat corruption among other things.

President-elect, General Buhari
(Ynaija)

President-elect, Muhammadu Buhari has said that he will make Nigerians proud to be citizens of the country.

Buhari also promised that his administration would reform relevant sectors in the country and combat corruption among other things.

The President-elect made the statements on Wednesday, May 13, 2015, during a meeting with an All Progressives Congress (APC )delegation from Delta State at the Defence House in Abuja.

“I thank you for mobilizing yourselves to come and congratulate me for winning the presidential election this year. I assure you that my objective of remaining consistently in partisan politics is to make sure that Nigerians are given their inherent right as citizens of Nigerians to choose whoever they want to lead them,” Buhari said.

“I assure you that what I will concentrate on ensuring that Nigerians will be proud to be Nigerians wherever they are,” he added.

Buhari also assured members of the delegation that his administration would prosecute electoral offenders who unleashed mayhem in Rivers and other states.

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#TrekForGEJTrekkers land in Delta, receive royal welcome The duo of Oladele John Nihi and Gloria who are trekking to Otueke to celebrate President Jonathan are getting closer to the end of their journey. Published: 11.14 , Refreshed: 11.44 Isaac Dachen Print eMail Oladele John and Gloria play Oladele John and Gloria (Twitter) #TrekForGEJ Man starts trek from Abuja to Otuoke to honour Pres. Jonathan Two Is A Company Man trekking to Otuoke for GEJ gets female partner #TrekForGEJ More support for man trekking to Otuoke for President Jonathan Loneliness GEJ trekker sad as female companion ends journey #TrekForGEJ President Jonathan trekker gets financial support from the UK The duo of Oladele Nihi and his female counterpart Gloria (yes, she went back to complete the trek after dropping out some days back), undertaking the road trip from Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory, to Otuoke in Bayelsa State, the hometown of President Goodluck Jonathan to honour him as the hero of Nigeria's democracy, have made tremendous progress as they have entered Delta State, a state which is not too far from their target destination. As it was in most places they have passed through, there was a kind of royal welcome for them as the Chairman of Ika South local government area, members of his cabinet, PDP stalwarts, and other supporters of the President came out enmasse to welcome the determined young Nigerians. Even men of the Nigerian Police and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), were not left out as they showered Nihi and Gloria with so much love and gifts. Taking to their Twitter handle, the duo posted photos of their progress just as the PDP members accompanied them to trek to Agbor area of the state in solidarity with their efforts. See the tweets here.

TrekForGEJTrekkers land in Delta, receive royal welcome

The duo of Oladele John Nihi and Gloria who are trekking to Otueke to celebrate President Jonathan are getting closer to the end of their journey.

Oladele John and Gloria
(Twitter)

The duo of Oladele Nihi and his female counterpart Gloria (yes, she went back to complete the trek after dropping out some days back), undertaking the road trip from Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory, to Otuoke in Bayelsa State, the hometown of President Goodluck Jonathan to honour him as the hero of Nigeria's democracy, have made tremendous progress as they have entered Delta State, a state which is not too far from their target destination.

As it was in most places they have passed through, there was a kind of royal welcome for them as the Chairman of Ika South local government area, members of his cabinet, PDP stalwarts, and other supporters of the President came out enmasse to welcome the determined young Nigerians.

Even men of the Nigerian Police and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), were not left out as they showered Nihi and Gloria with so much love and gifts.

Taking to their Twitter handle, the duo posted photos of their progress just as the PDP members accompanied them to trek to Agbor area of the state in solidarity with their efforts.

See the tweets here.

  View image on Twitter

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What A Man Can Do...Lebanese woman leads gang operating as EFCC officials

A Lebanese woman and her gang members have been arrested for parading themselves as EFCC operatives and robbing unsuspecting Nigerians.

Amirah Abdallahi and her gang
(New Telegraph)

This is the end of the road for a 32-year-old Lebanese woman, Amira Abdallahi, who is the alleged leader of a gang of fraudsters and robbers that has been impersonating operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), as she and five other members of her gang has been nabbed by the Special Anti-Robbery Squad of the Lagos Police Command.
The sum of N20 million cash and other stolen items including three Toyota Highlander jeeps, a Toyota Sienna 2012 model, Toyota 4 Runner, one unregistered Toyota Camry saloon car,  one single-barrelled pistol with four cartridges and a Bryco pistol with six rounds of 5.56mm ammunition, were recovered from the gang whose other members include Princewill Eze, 55, Daniel Okpara, 30, Paul Irior, 37, Bassey Ekpenyoung, 39 and Royal Nwabuike, 32.
The gang, according to the police, often disguised as officials of the anti-graft commission by wearing its branded vests while on their operations.
It was gathered that they allegedly defrauded some Bureau de Change outlets in Lagos and Abuja in the process.
First to be arrested was Eze who was arrested SARS operatives on February 27 at his house in the VGC, Ajah area of Lagos, and his confession led to the arrest of other suspects, including Abdallahi.
While being paraded by the police, Abdallahi, whose father is a Lebanese and mother is from Ishan, Edo State, said she had done six deals with them where she realised about N10m.
She said:
"I was born in Nigeria and I grew up in Lagos. I stay in Lekki area with my family. I am married with five daughters. The first money I got from the deals was $5,000. I could not stop because the money was tempting.
I was formerly doing interior decorations work. That was how I met Eze, who is nicknamed Senator. I did some interior design jobs for him in a hotel he owned. That was around March 2014.
I had done about six deals with the gang. My role is just to talk on phone with our would-be victims. They think I am a foreigner, and they are willing to trust us.
I have made about N10m so far, but all the accounts have been drained now. I handed everything over to the police."

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