Carvalho and Deco too costly

Inter Milan have been put off by Chelsea's asking price for both Ricardo Carvalho and Deco.

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Chelsea have placed a £14 million price tag on the two Portuguese players.

The Nerazzurri have reportedly offered only £5m for Carvalho and £2m for Deco.

Inter may not be forced to look elsewhere and Livorno's Alessandro Diamanti or Sampdoria's Antonio Cassano have both been shortlised.

In defence, Inter are considering a bid for Germany's impressive Under-21 international Jerome Boateng who plays for Hamburg.

Materazzi thrilled with new deal

Inter Milan defender Marco Materazzi has expressed his delight at being handed a contract extension till 2012.

Materazzi's deal was set to run out next summer but Inter have rewarded the former Italy international for his solid performances in recent seasons.

"Now I can officially say that I will be a Nerazzurro player for life because I have signed the contract," said Materazzi, who will turn 36 next month.

"I could not go on holiday any more satisfied.

"I have extended my contract until June 2012, hence, until the end of my career.

"It was something that I had desired since I became an Inter fan and a Nerazzurro player.

"Now I only want to try to win everything that is possible in Italy and hopefully in Europe."

The World Cup-winning defender joined Inter in 2001 and has made 245 appearances for the Nerazzurri, helping them to four consecutive Serie A titles.

Real add Benz to expensive fleet

Karim Benzema is poised to become the latest big-name arrival at Real Madrid after Lyon accepted a bid from Real.

The 21-year-old is set to join Kaka and Cristiano Ronaldo in signing a six-year contract at the Bernabeu after his French employers agreed to a 35million euro (£29.7million) approach from Madrid, who with this deal will see their summer spending spree pass the 200million euro mark.

Ribery rejects deal, Madrid beckons

Bayern Munich midfielder Franck Ribery has reject the offer of a new deal from Bayern Munich.

Ribery allegedly turned down a €8 million per year contract from the German giants, a figure that would have doubled his current earnings.

Reports in the Spanish press have stated that the proposed deal was an attempt to secure the Frenchman's services at the Allianz Arena.

With transfer rumours rife for what Zinedine Zidane calls the "jewel of French football" - the dismissal of a new Munich contract could very well be an indication of Ribery's discontentment at Die Bayern.

Previous clubs that have come knocking on Munich's door, namely Chelsea, Manchester United and Real Madrid, were greeted by a €100 million price tag for the talented attacker.

If Ribery does find himself on the transfer list, former Bayern coach Ottmar Hitzfield believes the club could let the player go for about €70 to €80 million - a steal for a ‘French jewel'.

Meanwhile, French publication L'Equipe had Ribery state his preference for Primera Liga action.

"I have made up my mind, I want to leave,

"It will be Real or nothing."

"I will wait to see how things pan out but I would like to hold talks with the Bayern management soon."

Bayern's general manager Uli Hoeness, however, begs to dffer:

"Does Franck want to go to Real?" he asked.

"For us, that changes absolutely anything. Life is not always a fairytale.

"Real have not made us a specific proposal and we do not need their money."

Chelsea aiming to stay Young

England and Aston Villa winger Ashley Young has emerged as a prime target of Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti.

According to skysports.com, Chelsea are looking to revitalise their ageing squad and has been following the former Watford winger for some time.

Young has recently issued a challenge to Villa to match his ambitions.

But the Midlands side has not only been quiet on the transfer front, they also sold their captain Gareth Barry to Manchester City.

Young enjoyed another fantastic season for Villa last term, being named in the PFA team for a second successive year and also scooping the Young Player of the Year award.

The winger was given the thumbs-up by former Chelsea interim coach Guus Hiddink as the club look to bring in more English talent.

Young has established himself as one of the most exciting players in the Premier League since bursting onto the scene at Watford and he would fit into Chelsea's plans of trying to introduce a brand of more attractive attacking football at Stamford Bridge.

However, Villa could find it hard to resist a big money offer for Young, with Chelsea hoping to lure him away with the prospect of Uefa Champions League football.

Carlos Tevez will complete his move from Manchester United to Manchester City by Monday, July 6 - the same day Cristiano Ronaldo will be presented as

Carlos Tevez will complete his move from Manchester United to Manchester City by Monday, July 6 - the same day Cristiano Ronaldo will be presented as Real Madrid's and the world's most expensive ever signing. The Tevez transfer, thought to be in the region of £30 million, has been on the cards ever since the season began drawing to a close and, in light of United's failure to successfully negotiate a deal with Tevez's owners at MSI (Media Sports Investment), the forward made clear to the press the insecurity surrounding his future at Old Trafford. Real Madrid, Inter, Chelsea and Liverpool were all at times on the trail of the Argentina international, but he was eager to stay in England, where he enjoys the football and his family are settled. Liverpool were financially unable to keep pace with Chelsea and City. City have long thought to have had the edge in negotiations and an unnamed source working closely in several of City's transfers told that though Tevez was tempted by Chelsea and perhaps even preferred Stamford Bridge, is now nevertheless excited to complete a move to across Manchester to City. "Carlos Tevez was keen on the Chelsea deal, as he wanted to be a regular in the Champions League and be immediately challenging for the title," he said. "However, the City offer was hard to refuse and it's an exciting project. "Besides, his family are settled and happy in Manchester, he has a great group of friends and, despite the rivalry between City and Manchester United, he believes his hand was forced. "All being well, the deal should be concluded by Monday evening, or even earlier if the paperwork is sorted." Due to his unique third party ownership, Tevez has a controversial transfer history, most infamous for West Ham United's illegal purchase of the player in 2006, when his goals helped keep them in the Premier League

Seedorf rejects Ajax return

Ajax coach Martin Jol has failed in an attempt to persuade Clarence Seedorf to return to the club.

The 33-year-old was approached by Jol last week, but told the former Tottenham boss he was not ready to return to Holland.

Jol told Voetbal International: "We have a group of players with a lot of youngsters in it.

"Seedorf has bags of experience and footballing qualities. Together with his positive attitude, he could have meant a lot to my youthful team.

"Clarence made clear to me that he isn't done yet abroad. It's a pity."

Seedorf, who played 65 games for Ajax, left Holland in 1995 to play in Spain and later Italy.

He said: "Ajax will always be a special club for me, but I left Holland years ago and I'm not done yet abroad.

"My contract at Milan runs for another two seasons. Martin Jol isn't the problem - he looks to me to be a interesting coach to work under. I wish him and Ajax the best.

"We've agreed that we will keep in contact. Who knows what the future will bring?"

Milito: Fans will understand move

Diego Milito does not think Genoa fans will hold a grudge against him after the striker completes his move to Inter Milan.

The Argentina international, 30, signed a four-year contract with the Italian champions after scoring 24 goals for Genoa last season.

That formed the cornerstone of a successful season for the club as they qualified for the Europa League by finishing the season in fifth place.

The significance of Milito's departure should be softened by the deal with Italy striker Roberto Aquafresca going in the opposite direction.

And Milito believes because of that, and his advancing years, the Genoa fans will be understanding of his move.

"People understood the transfer. They understood it was important for me, it was a profitable business for the club and I am 30 years old," he told Fox Sports.

"Genoa become stronger thanks to the players Inter gave them. It was good for all the parties. The goodbye in the last match was unique and I will remember it forever."

Milito will be unveiled to the media once Jose Mourinho's side begin pre-season training next month.

The striker said he had already been in contact with some of his Argentinian team-mates regarding Mourinho's coaching style, admitting he was looking forward to working under the Portuguese.

"He is a coach who likes talking to the players, he likes phoning them and knowing how they are," he added.

Man United sign Valencia

Manchester United have made their first signing of the summer after confirming a deal has been done for Antonio Valencia.

The 23-year-old Ecuador international has signed a four-year contract after moving for an undisclosed fee.

Valencia, who joins from Wigan where he scored three goals last season, is expected to help fill the void left by Cristiano Ronaldo following the star winger's £80million move to Real Madrid.

Valencia's signature is reported to have cost United in the region of £16 million with the winger describing the move as a "dream".

"Joining Manchester United is a dream come true for me," he told the club's official website www.manutd.com.

"I have enjoyed my time at Wigan, but I am thrilled to have the chance to challenge for the biggest honours in club football here.

"Playing in front of 76,000 fans alongside players like Wayne Rooney, Rio Ferdinand and Ryan Giggs will be an amazing experience. I can't wait to get started."

United manager Sir Alex Ferguson admitted he had tracked Valencia's progress since his arrival at Wigan two seasons ago.

"Antonio is a player we have admired for some time now, having spent the last two years in the Premier League with Wigan," he said.

"I am sure his pace and ability will make a significant contribution to the team."

Lyon confirm Benzema bid

Lyon have received a big-money offer for Karim Benzema but insist there is no agreement with Real Madrid.

The 21-year-old is one of the world's hottest properties at the moment, with Manchester United and Madrid reportedly among those in the to sign him.

Spanish media today claimed that Benzema could soon put pen to paper on a deal at the Bernabeu in the next after Lyon accepted the an increased offer of 35 million euros from Real.

However, Lyon's director of communications insists they have not agreed to sell the France forward.

"We certainly did receive an offer of a sum appreciably superior to the sum that has been mentioned, but nothing says that it comes from Real," communications director Olivier Blanc told L'Equipe.

"There is no agreement with anyone."

United coach Sir Alex Ferguson has long been an admirer of Benzema and the Barclays Premier League team could decide to use some of the £80 million earned from the sale of Cristiano Ronaldo to Madrid to tempt the striker to Old Trafford.

Benzema came through the ranks with the French giants and burst onto the scene in the 2007-08 season with 31 goals in 51 games, a streak that saw him named Ligue 1 player of the year as well as top the league's scoring charts.

The last campaign was less impressive for both club and player, as Lyon ended the season without the Ligue 1 title for the first time in eight years, but Benzema nevertheless scored 23 goals in all competitions - an average of a goal every other game.

Zidan claims Valencia interest

Borussia Dortmund’s Egyptian international Mohammed Zidan disclosed he has been contacted by Valencia to discuss a move.

Zidan, whose name bears an uncanny resemblance to that of a certain French superstar, has shown the potential to live up to his namesake.

He produced some excellent displays at the Confederations Cup in South Africa, where he netted a brace against Brazil, and led Egypt to an upset over Italy.

Zidan also told Egyptian TV channel Modern Sports that Valencia's representatives contacted his agent, but that he is still considering his options for the future.

The striker's agent is apparently in Spain discussing the offer. Zidan has played for Dortmund and Hamburg in the Bundesliga, but will no doubt be interested in playing on a bigger stage.

The 27 year old has also been linked with Premier League side Blackburn Rovers, but it now appears as though he could be moving to Spain.

Milan warn Chelsea off Pato

AC Milan have warned Chelsea they have no intention of selling Brazil striker Alexandre Pato.

Reports in England claim that Chelsea are preparing a bid of 60million euros to lure Pato to Stamford Bridge.

However, AC Milan club administrator Adriano Galliani believes the Blues would be wasting their time as they recently turned down a "monster" offer made by an English club for Pato.

Galliani said: "We previously received a superior offer to this one (60million euros) and we already said no to that, so the answer would be no."

Milan are keen to keep Pato at the San Siro having sold Kaka to Real Madrid this month.

Pato finished as Milan's second stop scorer behind his compatriot in Serie A, with 15 goals in 36 league appearances last season.

He is under contract with the Rossoneri outfit until June 2012.

Guiza keen on Valencia move

Dani Guiza is hoping Carlos Marchena can put in a good word for him at Valencia as he searches for a return to La Liga.

Guiza followed his Euro 2008-winning coach Luis Aragones to Fener last summer after a memorable first season at Real Mallorca, where he scored 27 goals during the 2007/08 campaign to finish as the leading scorer in the Primera Division.

After only one season in Turkey though, the 28-year-old admits he is already thinking about going back to his homeland and he is looking at Valencia - who could be on the look out for a striker if David Villa leaves - as a possible destination.

"I would like to return to play in Spain," Guiza said in Spanish newspaper AS.

"I'll see if my mate Marchena can give me a little hand to play at Valencia."

Guiza was speaking after coming off the bench and scoring two late goals to help Spain finish their Confederations Cup campaign with a 3-2 win over South Africa.

That was only Guiza's second appearance in the tournament, but he made sure he made the most of the opportunity to impress both coach Vicente del Bosque and any watching La Liga scouts.

"I work hard to have minutes and I've had the fortune to score two goals," he added. "It's not easy to get into the national team, and I must thank the coach."

Villarreal in the hunt for Pavlyuchenko

Villarreal are looking to sign Tottenham striker Roman Pavlyuchenko, according to reports in the English press.

The Sunday Mirror claimed that Villarreal are looking to sign the 27-year-old Russian international but may not be willing to accept the price tag of around €16 million that Spurs have put on Pavlyuchenko.

While Tottenham are said to be willing to let go of the Russian, they will demand a figure that matches the price they paid Spartak Moscow for his services, which Villarreal may not agree to.

While Villarreal are looking to strengthen their options up front as rumours abound that Italian starlet Giuseppe Rossi is set to leave, the €16 million price is expected to be well beyond their means.

Whether negotiations over the price will continue or Villarreal will hunt for someone else remains to be seen, but over in North London there is expected to be a summer of change under Harry Redknapp.

Though Pavlyuchenko only joined Spurs last summer, his showing of just five goals in 28 appearances means Harry Redknapp will have no qualms offloading him.

The Russian's team mates Darren Bent, Didier Zokora, Tom Huddlestone, David Bentley, Giovanni Dos Santos, Jamie O'Hara and Jermaine Jenas are all expected to leave White Hart Lane as Tottenham look to rebuild their squad.

Adebayor on his way to Milan?

AC Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani has revealed he has talked to Arsenal about the possibility of signing Emmanuel Adebayor.

The Rossoneri's first choice remains Wolfsburg star Edin Dzeko but with the Bundesliga club remaining firm that he is not for sale, Milan are starting to look at alternatives.

Galliani indicated on Thursday that they might be interested in Adebayor and it now appears that the Serie A side have stepped up their interest in the Togo international.

"We don't have any agreement with Dzeko," said Galliani. "He is a Wolfsburg player.

"Dzeko has expressed his liking for a move here but at this moment there are no negotiations yet.

"We wrote to Wolfsburg and they responded that he is not for sale. If Wolfsburg change their minds we have agreed they will call Milan. If they do I am ready to immediately leave and go there.

"There's no fee yet, at the moment Dzeko is not for sale. If he becomes for sale then we will start talking sums.

"Adebayor and (Sevilla striker) Luis Fabiano are the alternatives. For Adebayor there has been a telephone call, during which (Arsenal manager Arsene) Wenger was friendly."

Speculation has been rife that midfield duo Andrea Pirlo and Gennaro Gattuso would be joining former coach Carlo Ancelotti at Chelsea.

However, Galliani reiterated that no offers have been made for Pirlo, while Gattuso has offered to take a pay cut to extend his stay at the San Siro.

Galliani said: "There have been no offers for Pirlo and Thursday night with Ancelotti was just a dinner between old friends, seeing as Carletto was in Milan for his daughter's graduation.

"Wednesday night I was at dinner with Gattuso who told us that he was ready to reduce his salary.

"He still has two years left on his contract, so it will move to three years, reducing the salary.

"Gattuso is an example, a true man, extraordinary."

Meanwhile, Davide di Gennaro returns from Genoa after Milan won a blind auction to buy out the other club's half of the players' rights.

The Rossoneri also confirmed that they have beaten off competition from several other Serie A clubs to the signature of 18-year-old Treviso striker Gianmarco Zigoni.

Deco begs Inter to follow through

Deco has once again voiced his unhappiness with life at Chelsea, and has urged Inter to follow up on their interest in him.

The Portuguese playmaker has struggled during his first season at Stamford Bridge, and is looking to end his Blues nightmare with a move to Inter Milan.

Inter Milan president Massimo Moratti has revealed that he wishes to reunite Deco with Inter manager Jose Mourinho, who also managed the midfielder at Porto, winning the UEFA Cup and Champions League.

"For me, this year has been difficult after good seasons with Porto and Barcelona," Deco said.

"I arrived at Chelsea with Luiz Felipe Scolari, I started well and then I had some difficulties with the medical staff.

"I have been injured for a long time and I didn't manage to recover. It wasn't a wonderful experience.

"Now I am looking for another club where I can be well. I know Inter have shown their interest in me. Even President Moratti confirmed it.

"I would like to play in Milan after this difficult year," he concluded.

Dzeko: I am not happy

Edin Dzeko has declared that he is staying at Wolfsburg against his own wishes.

The Bosnian international who has a contract with the Bundesliga champions until 2013 has been targeted by AC Milan throughout the off-season.

However, a deal has failed to materialise with Wolfsburg's new boss, Armin Veh, determined to keep the star striker.

Dzeko told Sky Sport 24, "I am staying at Wolfsburg,

"But I am not happy. I would like to join Milan, but I am tied to a contract and the club have decided not to release me."

The 23-year-old forward scored 26 goals in 32 appearances last season to lead Wolfsburg to their first-ever Bundesliga title and has been one of the most sought-after players this summer.

Milan legend backs Galliani

Former AC Milan defender, Alessandro Costacurta reckons Adriano Galliani is taking the club in the right direction.

Costacurta spoke at an inauguration ceremony at Forte dei Marmi and was full of praise for Milan's directors.

"I completely agree with all the choices made so far by the Milan directors and namely Galliani," said Costacurta.

"The Rossoneri have sent a message out to the rest of the football world - it is unfeasible to continue working at a loss," he added.

He also warned rival clubs and critics not to write off Milan's chances in the upcoming season.

"Given there are a number of individuals on the Milan staff that know how to an extremely good job, I would think twice before writing off the Rossoneri," he exclaimed.

Real and United to battle for Benzema

Transfer market foes Real Madrid and Manchester United are ready to do battle again over the signature of Karim Benzema.

Both clubs have expressed interest in signing the highly rated Frenchman, who currently plies his trade for Lyon.

Zinedine Zidane is one of the main proponents of Madrid's advances, but with the club having already spent huge sums of money on the transfers of Kaka and Ronaldo, and potentially also for Franck Ribery, they will not be willing to pay over the odds.

Sir Alex Ferguson has already been in contact with representatives of Lyon and asked the club to set a realistic price for the striker.

Accoring to reports the club has slapped a £25.5million (€30million) price tag on the 21-year-old.

Lyon president Jean Michel Aulas is apparently keen to accept an offer in this region, with Lyon already preparing a move for Porto's Lisandro Lopez.

Everton chase Atletico's Reyes

David Moyes' Toffees are ready to put a bid in for Atletico Madrid winger Jose Antonio Reyes.

Reyes who was once considered as one of the best Spanish talents in his time at Sevilla had a good spell at Arsenal under the tutelage of Arsene Wenger but has seen his career go southwards since returning to Spain.

He spent last season out on loan to Portuguese side Benfica but has not impressed them enough to offer him a permanent slot.

Atletico are reportedly keen to sell him and several clubs have already signalled their interest.

Roma, AC Milan and Fiorentina are the three main clubs eyeing the speedy winger but Everton have joined the queue to sign Reyes.

The Sunday Mirror reported that Moyes is ready to offer Steven Pienaar as part of the deal which could see them leapfrog the other suitors and secure the Spaniard's signature.

Reyes won a Premier League title and the FA Cup in his time as a Gunner.

Saviola completes Benfica switch

Benfica have completed the signing of Javier Saviola from Real Madrid.

Saviola has signed a three-year deal with the option of a fourth with the Portuguese giants after agreeing personal terms and passing a medical.

The Argentina international has been seeking a move away from Real for some time after failing to establish himself at the Bernabeu.

Saviola started less than 20 league games during his two seasons in the Spanish capital and Real are willing to let him leave following the arrivals of Cristiano Ronaldo and Kaka.

Agent: Aguero is going nowhere

Sergio Aguero will not be leaving Atletico Madrid anytime soon according to the player's representative, Jose Segui.

Segui has moved to play down speculation surrounding the future of the his client, saying that Aguero has no intention of leaving the Vincente Calderon.

"He wants to remain with Atletico Madrid," claimed Segui.

"We have not received any offers. I do not know if Atletico have spoken with anyone else."

The 21-year-old striker has been heavily linked with a move to England with either Chelsea or Manchester United, or even a possible move to Serie A with Inter Milan.

Aguero is currently on vacation with his family, his first since the birth of his son, Benjamin, early this year

City's Eto'o bid was monstrous!

Barcelona president Joan Laporta has revealed that Manchester City has made a "stratospheric offer" for Samuel Eto'o.

Speculation has been rife about where Eto'o will be next season as, with his contract set to expire next summer, Barca were keen to either tie him to a new deal or cash in on the Cameroon striker.

Reports suggest the Catalan giants have accepted a 30 million euro bid from City and Laporta believes the temptation of a mega salary would prove too much for Eto'o.

"Eto'o has a stratospheric offer from City, which would convert him into the best paid player in the world," he told Catalan radio station iCat FM.

"It's starting to become clear that he has this monster offer.

"He wants to stay but an offer like this is very difficult to refuse.

"If Eto'o accepts this stratospheric offer we will have to bring in someone."

Eto'o contributed 36 goals last season as Barca claimed an unprecedented Primera Division, Copa del Rey and Champions League treble.

Should the 28-year-old leave the Nou Camp, Barca would likely step up their efforts to land Spain and Valencia striker David Villa.

"No one thinks Arsenal can win"

Robin van Persie wants to become the best player in the world while donning Arsenal colours.

The Dutch striker has been rumoured to be on the target list of many top European giants but he insists that his only aim is to help Arsene Wenger's team win titles.

Speaking to News of the World, "I'm not in negotiations with any other club - just Arsenal," explained the striker.

"I want to become the best player in the world. My career will only be a success when I consider myself the best. Anything less won't do."

He also maintained his belief that the young Gunners can achieve success if everyone stays fit.

"I see the potential at Arsenal. We have to do it. One fact which aggravates me is that in the five years I've been at Arsenal, we've won exactly the same number of trophies as I did at Feyenoord - ONE - that's not enough. When I arrived here, Arsenal were winning trophies for fun," he said.

"But, if everyone is fit, we have a heck of a team and it's up to me to ensure we go out and win these trophies."

Wenger has been scrutinised for his refusal to bring in experienced players with his emphasis focused on buying unpolished gems at a young age and grooming them into superstars.

Club captain Cesc Fabregas amongst many other players have all expressed their concern over the club's future and another barren season could see a mass exodus of Arsenal stars.

Chelsea: 59 million for Franck

Chelsea are reportedly ready to offer a mega-bid of 59 million euros to lure Franck Ribery to England.

The French winger has been the subject of intense transfer speculations in the last few months with Manchester United, Barcelona and Real Madrid all keen to add him to their roster.

New Chelsea boss, Carlo Ancelotti wants Ribery to be part of his London revolution but it is still uncertain if Ribery will be sold.

His club, Bayern Munich, has repeatedly knocked back all the transfer talk by claiming that their star player is set to stay in the Bundesliga.

However, the Sunday Express reported that the Blues are throwing in a mouth-watering bid which the German giants would find hard to refuse.

Whether the player himself would fancy a move to the Premier League is another matter as he has always hinted that Spain would be his preferred destination.

A question mark still hangs over the talented playmaker's head as to where he will be plying his trade next season. England, Italy, Spain or Germany?

Make a guess?

Carlo gets £100million welcome

Carlo Ancelotti will be getting an enormous welcome gift at Chelsea. £100million to buy whoever he wants!

News of the World reported that Roman Abramovich has decided to give the former AC Milan boss a huge transfer kitty to buy the players he wants.

The priority signing for Ancelotti will be Brazilian striker Alexandre Pato with Chelsea reportedly ready to offer 50 million pounds after their 45 million pound bid was rejected by Milan.

Besides Pato, the Blues have already secured the signature of CSKA Moscow attacker, Yuri Zhirkov for 19 million pounds.

Manchester City's 19-year-old wonderkid, Daniel Sturridge has also signed up for the London giants.

A mammoth 59 million pound bid is in the works for Bayern Munich's Franck Ribery.

Many have predicted that Ancelotti will head back to the San Siro in a bid to bring some of his former players like Andrea Pirlo to England.

Liverpool's Xabi Alonso and Arsenal's Cesc Fabregas are the other two big names that Ancelotti wants.

With a whole list of stars probably joining Chelsea, the club are said to be willing to let England midfielder Joe Cole and Portuguese right-back Jose Bosingwa leave.

Chelsea fans will be an eager bunch this Wednesday as the arrival of Ancelotti will kickstart their transfer regime.

Vieira PSG move takes shape

Patrick Vieira is looking increasingly likely to be on his way out of Inter Milan, with Paris Saint Germain his likely destination.

Vieira, now 33, has fallen out of favour with Inter manager Jose Mourinho after struggling with injuries last season.

PSG have emerged as the frontrunners for the former Arsenal man's signature, with the Parisian club reportedly willing to pay in the region of £6million to £7million.

A key element in the deal is the fact that Vieira's close friend Claude Makelele is also currently playing for PSG.

One issue which may prevent the deal from going through is Vieira's immense contract, which may prove too expensive for the club, although the France international is said to be ready to take a pay cut in order to return to France.

Milan eye Mertesacker deal

AC Milan are reportedly interested in bringing Werder Bremen and Germany defender Per Mertesacker to the San Siro.

Milan have been searching around for a new centre-back following the retirement of Paolo Maldini, a problem compounded by Alessandro Nesta's continued struggle for fitness.

The Rossoneri have apparently found their man in 24-year-old Mertesacker.

Mertesacker, nicknamed ‘the pole' due to his tall, thin frame, made his debut for the German national team aged 19, and has already picked up an incredible 55 caps, amazing considering his young age.

The young German would add height to the Milan back line, and also bring plenty of top-class experience to the San Siro.

Werder will not let the talented defender go easily though, with the team from northwestern Germany apparently slapping a £12m price tag on Mertesacker.

United prepare huge Villa bid

Manchester United are prepared to launch a massive bid for Valencia's David Villa, despite the player's desire to stay in Spain.

United are reportedly willing to take the Villa saga to new heights with a bid worth £40million (€47million).

Although Valencia have so far managed to hold on to the Spain international striker, such an enormous offer would no doubt be too good to refuse.

If Valencia were to accept the offer it would then only be a matter of convincing the player to make the move to England and negotiating a contract.

United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has told the club's board that every possible option should be taken to secure Villa's signature, leaving the door open for even higher bids to follow.

United received £80million (€94 million) from Real Madrid for winger Cristiano Ronaldo, and are looking for a forward to replace him as well as striker Carlos Tevez, who appears to be on his way to rivals Manchester City.

Villa has been linked heavily with a move to either Barcelona or Real Madrid, but with United prepared to offer so much for the player, they may manage to hijack the deal from right under their noses.

The Red Devils are also said to be pursuing Lyon forward Karim Benzema, another endeavor which could see them clash with representatives from Real Madrid.

Pato tops £100m Chelsea wish-list

With Chelsea ready to spend £100million on summer transfers, Milan's Alexandre Pato has emerged as the Blues' top target.

New Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti will get a substantial welcome gift from club owner Roman Abramovich in the form of £100million to spend on building his squad for the 2009/10 season.

With Chelsea already declaring their desire to secure two "stellar signings," numerous big-name players from leagues all across Europe have been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge.

Ancelotti has handed the Blues a transfer wish list, with Pato emerging as the Italian's main target, topping a list which also includes Andrea Pirlo, Frank Ribery, Fernando Torres, Xabi Alonso and Cesc Fabregas.

Chelsea had a recent £45million bid for Pato turned down by Milan, but are ready to launch an increased bid of £50million to land the 19-year-old.

The London side have already secured the signature of several players, including CSKA Moscow midfielder Yuri Zhirkov, Manchester City's Daniel Sturridge and Middlesbrough keeper Ross Turnbull.

Along with negotiating deals to bring players to the club, Ancelotti has also offered new deals to striker Didier Drogba, defender Ashley Cole and midfielder Michael Essien worth £125,000-a-week.

No such deals have been negotiated for Joe Cole or Jose Bosingwa though, and both look set to be on their way out of the club.

Man City seal deal for Eto'o

Premier League moneybags Manchester City have splashed the cash again by signing Samuel Eto'o from Barcelona.

According to reports in this weekend's News of the World tabloid, the Cameroon international will travel to Eastlands this week to finalise personal details on a five-year deal before agreeing to a transfer thought to be in the region of £25million.

The news comes despite desperate attempts by Barcelona to keep one of their prized assets.

Eto'o's contract expires at the end of next season and with Barca keen to avoid losing one of their key players on a free transfer, it had been expected that he would move on this summer.

But after a season in which Eto'o contributed 36 goals as Barca claimed an unprecedented treble - winning the Primera Liga, Copa del Rey and Champions League - club president Joan Laporta was hoping the 28-year-old would sign a new contract.

However, City's recent high profile transfer activity - which has already seen them spend some £30million on Gareth Barry and Roque Santa Cruz - has convinced Eto'o that Mark Hughes' side is well and truly on the up.

"The player could have earned similar money at Barca," a City insider told the newspaper.

"But Eto'o and his people think City could be going places and is excited by the type of players they are attracting."

According to the paper, Eto'o's move finally fell into place after Barca turned their focus on Palmeiras star Keirrison who will be loaned to Valencia in return for them allowing David Villa to sign for Pep Guardiola's team.

Fernando Torres Wants David Villa, Silva Or Juan Mata At Liverpool

Fernando Torres has urged the powers that be at Liverpool to draft in creative, attacking talent - or, to be more specific, the likes of his fellow Spain stars David Villa, David Silva and Juan Mata.

The Valencia trio are among the Primera Division's most exciting players, and Torres believes the Reds need to buy someone of that ilk if they wish to catch Manchester United next season.

According to the News of the World, he said, "We have some very good players but maybe we need other players. I hope Liverpool will bring people like Silva, Mata or Villa.

"These are small players with quality like United had with Carlos Tevez and also with Paul Scholes. They are clever players and maybe they can make the difference."

However, Liverpool's relatively tight budget means that unless a Xabi Alonso or Javier Mascherano is sacrificed, Los Che's star attackers are almost certainly out of reach.

But Torres has said in the past that he doesn't believe big spending is necessary to keep the Kop club competitive, and he pointed to one of Rafa Benitez's bargain buys as proof.

"Yossi Benayoun plays like these kind of players and I hope we can bring more like that so then we have different options to play against all the sides," he said.

For while the Anfield giants were impressive against their direct rivals last term, they struggled regularly to break down weaker opposition - particularly, and alarmingly, at home.

Thus, Torres is eager to see a jinking genius or two arrive on Merseyside this off-season, as he reckons this type of player will be crucial in getting the better of the lesser sides in the Premier League.

"It was frustrating but football is difficult against the smaller teams. We need players with quality to try to win these matches and I want Liveprool to sign players like this," the striker said.

"We finished four points behind United but we are improving. We are getting more points every season. I know that every year we can finish with more points.

"I have recommended the names to Benitez and I hope we have the money."

Manchester United And Real Madrid To Launch Bidding War For Benzema - Report

Real Madrid and Manchester United could be involved in another transfer showdown, this time over Karim Benzema.

According to the Daily Mail, both clubs are desperate to sign the French international, having given up on their other targets. Zinedine Zidane is at the forefront of Madrid's push, although their extravagant spending in the Kaka and Cristiano Ronaldo deals means that they will not be paying over the odds.

Sir Alex Ferguson, meanwhile, has asked Lyon to name a realistic price for the player. According to the Daily Star, Manchester United are preparing a bid of around €30 million, a deal which Lyon president Jean Michel Aulas is keen to accept, with a move for Lisandro Lopez already in the pipeline.

It remains to be seen whether Real Madrid will consider improving on Man United's offer.

Chelsea Still Hoping To Sign Franck Ribery

Chelsea are still pursuing their interest in Bayern Munich's Franck Ribery, despite the German club's claims that he will not be moving this summer, according to The Telegraph.

The French midfielder has been the subject of much speculation this summer with Real Madrid, Manchester United, Barcelona and the Blues all reportedly after his signature.

Madrid are looking to add another Galactico to their collection, while United are reportedly chasing the France international as they see him as a replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo, who will move to Madrid on July 1.

But new Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti is looking to improve his squad ahead of the new Premier League season, and is looking to make the Frenchman his major summer signing.

Blues owner Roman Abramovich has stated that he will make the necessary funds available for Ancelotti to improve the team, as the pair gear up for a new revolution at Stamford Bridge.

The Blues are also interested in veteran AC Milan midfielder Andrea Pirlo, who could make the move to the Premier League, but have given up on Gennaro Gattuso, who is set to stay at the San Siro.

The club have also set more low profile transfer targets, with Ross Turnbull, Yuri Zhirkov and Daniel Sturridge said to be on their wish list.

Barcelona Considering Bid For Fiorentina's Felipe Melo - Report

Barcelona are considering a move for Felipe Melo, should their bids for Javier Mascherano and Daniele De Rossi not come to fruition.

With Yaya Toure and Seydou Keita set to miss most of January due to the African Nations Cup, Barca coach Pep Guardiola is desperate for midfield reinforcements. According to El Mundo Deportivo, Guardiola has eyed Melo as a suitable alternative, as negotiations for Mascherano and De Rossi continue to drag on.

After a stellar season for Fiorentina, Melo has established himself as a regular in Dunga's Brazil team. He also has considerable experience of La Liga, having played for Mallorca, Racing Santander and Almeria previously.

However, a move is still a distant possibility, as the player has repeatedly spoken of his desire to stay with La Viola, who have no intention of selling him. It is believed that Barca would have to offer a minimum of €20 million to begin to interest Fiorentina.

Internazionale, Juventus, Arsenal, Manchester City and Real Madrid have all been linked with the player in the recent past.

Milan Have Called Arsenal For Adebayor - Adriano GallianiMilan Have Called Arsenal For Adebayor - Adriano Galliani

Milan vice president Adriano Galliani has underlined the club's intention with regards to signing Emmanuel Adebayor from Arsenal.

Galliani revealed on Thursday that Edin Dzeko was still first choice, but he hinted at turning his hand to the Togo international. Milan are waiting for Wolfsburg to make a decision on Dzeko, but they are clearly not prepared to wait all summer as Galliani makes early contact with the Gunners.

The chief has revealed he has spoken with the North London club over the possibility of signing the hitman. Adebayor has constantly been linked with the Rossoneri and it seems they are now set to take their interest further. The next step will be to make a bid as Galliani opens up the possibilities of signing alternatives.

"Adebayor is the alternative to Edin Dzeko and I have called Arsenal to inform them of our interest," Galliani told Sky Sport Italia.

"I Spoke to Arsene Wenger and Adebayor was part of the conversation."

Galliani did not reveal he had made an offer to the club, but Sky Sport Italia are speculating that figures were mentioned during the call between the Milan chief and the London-based club. Furthermore, the Italian sports news channel claims Arsenal are willing to sell Adebayor to the Rossoneri following the chief's revelations.

According to reports, Dzeko is due to have a meeting with Wolfsburg over joining Milan today, but the Rossoneri have other plans if they fail to land the Bosnian from the German champions.