Klaas-Jan Huntelaar will not join Benfica, Barcelona or Juventus as Milan are in no mood to yield and sell him amid increasing interest from clubs.
Reports around Europe have linked the Dutchman with an end-of-season exit from the club. Portuguese paper Record claimed Benfica were keen, whereas Tuttosport reported a penchant from Juventus.
This morning Spanish press said Milan would use Huntelaar to facilitate a €35 million move for Barcelona's Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
However, Rossoneri sporting director Ariedo Braida has responded to all those reports, claiming Huntelaar is likely to stay at the club.
"Huntelaar to Benfica? I think that is impossible because we are speaking about a player who is not for sale," he told Record.
"We count on Huntelaar as a part of Milan's future. He has a three-year contract and we have no intention of selling him.
"No one from Benfica has ever contacted us. This is the first I have heard, and I can say there is nothing true."
Jumat, 28 Mei 2010
Rosella Sensi Reiterates That Daniele De Rossi Will Be Staying At Roma
Roma president Rosella Sensi has again rejected talk of an exit for Daniele De Rossi from the Olimpico after the midfielder left the door open on a summer move to Real Madrid.
De Rossi, speaking at Italy’s pre-World Cup training camp in Sestriere, said he would not turn down the Spanish giants if Roma opted to sacrifice him to balance their books.
But Sensi has moved quickly to try to put an end to speculation.
“I deliberately stopped to talk to the press last Saturday,” she explained to Sky Sport 24.
“I expected a question on Daniele. And I gave a precise answer. I am offended by being asked about this over and over.
“Our stance is unchanged: De Rossi is staying at Roma. He just answered a question, like everyone else would have done.”
And Roma boss Claudio Ranieri is also adamant that De Rossi will continue his career at his hometown club.
“Daniele is the feather in our cap,” he said.
“He is not going anywhere. If they call him ‘Captain Future’, there must be a reason…”
De Rossi, speaking at Italy’s pre-World Cup training camp in Sestriere, said he would not turn down the Spanish giants if Roma opted to sacrifice him to balance their books.
But Sensi has moved quickly to try to put an end to speculation.
“I deliberately stopped to talk to the press last Saturday,” she explained to Sky Sport 24.
“I expected a question on Daniele. And I gave a precise answer. I am offended by being asked about this over and over.
“Our stance is unchanged: De Rossi is staying at Roma. He just answered a question, like everyone else would have done.”
And Roma boss Claudio Ranieri is also adamant that De Rossi will continue his career at his hometown club.
“Daniele is the feather in our cap,” he said.
“He is not going anywhere. If they call him ‘Captain Future’, there must be a reason…”
Alberto Aquilani Snubs Juventus And Aims To Prove His Worth At Liverpool
Midfielder Alberto Aquilani has ended speculation over his future at Liverpool by insisting he is not interested in a summer move to Serie A giants Juventus.
Reports have suggested that the Italian is keen to return to his home country after failing to make an impact at Anfield since his €20 million move from Roma last summer.
New Juve boss Luigi Del Neri is believed to have added the 25-year-old to the Bianconeri’s list of summer targets, but he told Leggo newspaper: “I am staying at Liverpool to make up for many things.
“I have finally recovered from my ankle injury. Juve have approached me in the past and now I’m reading of their interest, but I really don’t know anything about it.”
Meanwhile, Roma star Daniele De Rossi has dropped a strong hint he could follow his former team-mate Aquilani out of the Olimpico this summer.
“I don’t think Daniele will ever leave Roma,” concluded Aquilani.
Reports have suggested that the Italian is keen to return to his home country after failing to make an impact at Anfield since his €20 million move from Roma last summer.
New Juve boss Luigi Del Neri is believed to have added the 25-year-old to the Bianconeri’s list of summer targets, but he told Leggo newspaper: “I am staying at Liverpool to make up for many things.
“I have finally recovered from my ankle injury. Juve have approached me in the past and now I’m reading of their interest, but I really don’t know anything about it.”
Meanwhile, Roma star Daniele De Rossi has dropped a strong hint he could follow his former team-mate Aquilani out of the Olimpico this summer.
“I don’t think Daniele will ever leave Roma,” concluded Aquilani.
Report: Barcelona Keen On Liverpool Midfielder Javier Mascherano
According to a report in El Mundo Deportivo, reigning Spanish champions Barcelona have re-ignited their interest in Argentinian international Javier Mascherano, currently under contract with Liverpool.
The Blaugrana were desperate to sign Mascherano in the summer of 2009, but the transfer eventually fell through after Barcelona failed to reach an agreement with Liverpool.
The Liga champions are in the market for a new holding midfielder due to the ongoing uncertainty about the future of Yaya Toure, who is continually being linked with a move to the Premier League, and Barca supposedly see Mascherano as the perfect replacement.
Mascherano's current Liverpool deal runs until the summer of 2012, but the Reds could be tempted to cash in on the 25-year-old in the upcoming summer transfer window if a good offer comes in.
The holding midfielder has stated in the past that he'd be interested in joining Barcelona and Liverpool's failure to qualify for Champions League football could very well have increased Mascherano's desire to leave the Premier League side this summer.
The Blaugrana were desperate to sign Mascherano in the summer of 2009, but the transfer eventually fell through after Barcelona failed to reach an agreement with Liverpool.
The Liga champions are in the market for a new holding midfielder due to the ongoing uncertainty about the future of Yaya Toure, who is continually being linked with a move to the Premier League, and Barca supposedly see Mascherano as the perfect replacement.
Mascherano's current Liverpool deal runs until the summer of 2012, but the Reds could be tempted to cash in on the 25-year-old in the upcoming summer transfer window if a good offer comes in.
The holding midfielder has stated in the past that he'd be interested in joining Barcelona and Liverpool's failure to qualify for Champions League football could very well have increased Mascherano's desire to leave the Premier League side this summer.
Palermo's Simon Kjaer Won't Force Premier League Move
Palermo defender Simon Kjaer has said he could still remain in Serie A, despite his agent Mikkel Beck having hinted at a Premier League move.
On Tuesday Beck, who played in the Premier League for Middlesbrough, told Goal.com UK that he was trying to push his client towards England as reports linked Kjaer with Manchester United, Liverpool and Arsenal.
"He is ready to leave for sure, and he is already ready to play in a big team," he said.
"I try to give him the best advice I can, and I'm fortunate to have had the experience of playing in a country like England."
Kjaer has since responded, and he has said a Sicilian stay could still happen.
"I would be 100 per cent happy if I stay at Palermo. I am really happy in this city and I am looking forward to playing in Europe next season," he told Sporten.dk.
"They offered me a new contract with a higher salary, and I accepted. But since then we have not talked about a contract. I will just wait and see what happens."
Kjaer had a clause in his contract that stipulated foreign clubs interested in him would have to pay €12 million for his release.
But Tuttomercatoweb.com have said that has expired, leaving the door still open for interested parties to come in and table a bid.
His deal at the Rosanero expires in 2013.
On Tuesday Beck, who played in the Premier League for Middlesbrough, told Goal.com UK that he was trying to push his client towards England as reports linked Kjaer with Manchester United, Liverpool and Arsenal.
"He is ready to leave for sure, and he is already ready to play in a big team," he said.
"I try to give him the best advice I can, and I'm fortunate to have had the experience of playing in a country like England."
Kjaer has since responded, and he has said a Sicilian stay could still happen.
"I would be 100 per cent happy if I stay at Palermo. I am really happy in this city and I am looking forward to playing in Europe next season," he told Sporten.dk.
"They offered me a new contract with a higher salary, and I accepted. But since then we have not talked about a contract. I will just wait and see what happens."
Kjaer had a clause in his contract that stipulated foreign clubs interested in him would have to pay €12 million for his release.
But Tuttomercatoweb.com have said that has expired, leaving the door still open for interested parties to come in and table a bid.
His deal at the Rosanero expires in 2013.
Real Madrid's Guti Praises Manuel Pellegrini As Jose Mourinho States He Is Out
Real Madrid veteran Guti has leaped to the defence of sacked coach Manuel Pellegrini after incoming coach Jose Mourinho stated that the 33-year-old had no role to play in his side.
Guti is reported to have told general manager Jorge Valdano of his desire to remain at the Bernabeu next season, to see out the remainder of his contract, apparently backtracking on earlier comments that this would be his last season at Madrid.
The midfielder even mooted the possibility of linking up with former team-mate Wesley Sneijder at Inter, with Galatasaray and Zenit St Petersburg said to be interested but Mourinho's comments suggest his future won't be at Madrid.
"Guti, for me, is out. I read his statements and for me that is what counts. He said goodbye to the fans and left the field," the Portuguese coach told AS.
Despite a reported bust-up with Pellegrini during the half-time break of the 4-0 defeat to lowly Alcorcon last season, it now appears Guti was a supporter of the Chilean coach.
"To Pellegrini I can only have words of love. He's a great coach and I wish him well. He is a coach that should've stayed in Madrid," Guti stated.
Guti is reported to have told general manager Jorge Valdano of his desire to remain at the Bernabeu next season, to see out the remainder of his contract, apparently backtracking on earlier comments that this would be his last season at Madrid.
The midfielder even mooted the possibility of linking up with former team-mate Wesley Sneijder at Inter, with Galatasaray and Zenit St Petersburg said to be interested but Mourinho's comments suggest his future won't be at Madrid.
"Guti, for me, is out. I read his statements and for me that is what counts. He said goodbye to the fans and left the field," the Portuguese coach told AS.
Despite a reported bust-up with Pellegrini during the half-time break of the 4-0 defeat to lowly Alcorcon last season, it now appears Guti was a supporter of the Chilean coach.
"To Pellegrini I can only have words of love. He's a great coach and I wish him well. He is a coach that should've stayed in Madrid," Guti stated.
Mexico Striker Javier Hernandez Granted Work Permit Ahead Of Manchester United Move On July 1
Mexican forward Javier Hernandez has been granted a work permit, paving the way for him to complete his move to Manchester United on July 1.
A £7 million deal with his former club Chivas Guadalajara was initially agreed in April, but there were fears that the 22-year-old would fail to meet the Home Office's strict work permit guidelines — especially as Hernandez has not played in 75 per cent of his country's games over the last two years.
But United's presentation to the FA panel responsible for overseeing such matters, where they argued that the striker was an 'exceptional talent', has been successful and a work permit has been issued. Having already agreed personal terms and passed a medical the forward, nicknamed Chicharito, will thus join up with his new team-mates after the World Cup, on the Philadelphia leg of July's pre-season trip to the USA and Canada.
Hernandez was a second half substitute in Monday's friendly between Mexico and England at Wembley, and scored after starting in a second friendly against Holland two days later.
A £7 million deal with his former club Chivas Guadalajara was initially agreed in April, but there were fears that the 22-year-old would fail to meet the Home Office's strict work permit guidelines — especially as Hernandez has not played in 75 per cent of his country's games over the last two years.
But United's presentation to the FA panel responsible for overseeing such matters, where they argued that the striker was an 'exceptional talent', has been successful and a work permit has been issued. Having already agreed personal terms and passed a medical the forward, nicknamed Chicharito, will thus join up with his new team-mates after the World Cup, on the Philadelphia leg of July's pre-season trip to the USA and Canada.
Hernandez was a second half substitute in Monday's friendly between Mexico and England at Wembley, and scored after starting in a second friendly against Holland two days later.
Philippe Mexes Confirms He Is Staying At Roma
Roma defender Philippe Mexes has confirmed his intention to stay at the Lupi, and not move during the summer transfer window.
The 28-year-old has been strongly linked with a possible departure from the Giallorossi, after struggling to find a spot in the center of defense.
The arrival of Nicolas Burdisso on loan from Inter saw the Argentine forge a solid defensive partnership with Juan, and left Mexes relegated to the bench.
"I don't see why I should have to leave Roma," the Frenchman told Romanews.eu. "I love living here, love the club and have a contract that I intend to respect."
Mexes had been linked with moves to AC Milan, Juventus and Arsenal.
The 28-year-old has been strongly linked with a possible departure from the Giallorossi, after struggling to find a spot in the center of defense.
The arrival of Nicolas Burdisso on loan from Inter saw the Argentine forge a solid defensive partnership with Juan, and left Mexes relegated to the bench.
"I don't see why I should have to leave Roma," the Frenchman told Romanews.eu. "I love living here, love the club and have a contract that I intend to respect."
Mexes had been linked with moves to AC Milan, Juventus and Arsenal.
Agent: Mauro Camoranesi Wants To Join River Plate
Juventus winger Mauro Camoranesi has finally made a decision regarding his future, and wants to join River Plate following the World Cup in South Africa this summer, according to his agent.
"I’ll meet with [River president Daniel] Passarella next week,” Camoranesi’s agent, Sergio Fortunato, who just days ago urged the Juventus board to offer his client a new contract, told Argentinian daily Clarin.
“I'm optimistic following Mauro’s request that he wants to play for River,” he continued.
“He will play in the World Cup and then he has a strong intention to settle in Argentina. He is a fan of River and he loves the idea of playing there.”
Fortunato had claimed that he had already spoken to Passarella and that the club were unable to finance a move for his client, however, reports now suggest that River believe they can negotiate an affordable pay packet for the former World Cup winner.
"I’ll meet with [River president Daniel] Passarella next week,” Camoranesi’s agent, Sergio Fortunato, who just days ago urged the Juventus board to offer his client a new contract, told Argentinian daily Clarin.
“I'm optimistic following Mauro’s request that he wants to play for River,” he continued.
“He will play in the World Cup and then he has a strong intention to settle in Argentina. He is a fan of River and he loves the idea of playing there.”
Fortunato had claimed that he had already spoken to Passarella and that the club were unable to finance a move for his client, however, reports now suggest that River believe they can negotiate an affordable pay packet for the former World Cup winner.
Report: Kaka Keen To Leave Real Madrid For Chelsea And Carlo Ancelotti
Real Madrid midfielder Kaka is ready to quit the club to join up with his former manager Carlo Ancelotti at Chelsea, according to reports.
Italian newspaper Tuttosport have reported that the 28-year-old, already unsettled at the Santiago Bernabeu, is concerned about Jose Mourinho's prospective arrival as Real Madrid's new coach this summer, and would thus consider leaving the club after just one season there.
The former AC Milan playmaker would welcome the opportunity to link up with Ancelotti again — especially considering that the Blues are prime contenders for Premier League and Champions League glory next term.
Ancelotti worked with the Brazilian midfielder for six years at Milan, where they won a Champions League and Serie A title together.
After Ancelotti left the club last summer — going on to win the Premier League and FA Cup double in his first season in England — Kaka also exited San Siro for Madrid in a then-world record £65 million deal. But after a season affected by injury and poor form, the Spanish club might be open to an offer that allows them to recoup some of the money spent on the 2007 Ballon d'Or winner.
Kaka made 25 La Liga appearances for Los Blancos last season, scoring eight goals and providing six assists.
Jumat, 21 Mei 2010
Agent: Only Huge Offer Will See Liverpool Sell Alberto Aquilani
The agent of Liverpool midfielder Alberto Aquilani has insisted it would take a "very heavy offer" for the player to leave Anfield.
Juventus were linked this week with a swap deal involving Felipe Melo to end the 25-year old's nightmare stay on Merseyside. Aquilani suffered with persistent injury problems throughout his debut season with the Reds following his £20 million move from AS Roma last summer.
Speaking to Tuttomercatoweb, however, agent Franco Zavaglia argued his client was not ready to call time on his Premier League adventure.
"For now Alberto was not required and I think it is not easy to bring him to Juventus," Zavaglia said.
"In this season, when he did not have ankle problems, he has always played and never had any problems, either with Benitez or with Liverpool.
"So they won't part with Aquilani unless they receive very heavy offers."
Juventus were linked this week with a swap deal involving Felipe Melo to end the 25-year old's nightmare stay on Merseyside. Aquilani suffered with persistent injury problems throughout his debut season with the Reds following his £20 million move from AS Roma last summer.
Speaking to Tuttomercatoweb, however, agent Franco Zavaglia argued his client was not ready to call time on his Premier League adventure.
"For now Alberto was not required and I think it is not easy to bring him to Juventus," Zavaglia said.
"In this season, when he did not have ankle problems, he has always played and never had any problems, either with Benitez or with Liverpool.
"So they won't part with Aquilani unless they receive very heavy offers."
Michael Ballack: Chelsea Are My 'First Option'
Chelsea midfielder Michael Ballack has insisted that staying with the Blues is his preference as he looks to secure a new contract.
The German international's current deal expires in the next few weeks and he is keen to negotiate a longer stay at the club despite reported interest in securing his services from Schalke 04.
"Chelsea are absolutely my first option," the 33-year-old told Germany's Bild newspaper.
"We are in contact with the club. The coach first of all wants to discuss things internally and then he will approach the players in a week."
Ballack, meanwhile, is set to miss the World Cup after sustaining an ankle injury in the FA Cup final against Portsmouth.
Despite that set-back, he does not believe that his international career is over yet.
"I won't let my international career come to an end because of a foul like this," he added.
"I never said that I would retire after the World Cup. I want to continue playing at the highest level and I will consider things in calm over the next few weeks.
"I gave everything for the goal of South Africa and now the World Cup has been taken away from me in a brutal way.
"It is bitter to be hacked down in such a way in the last game of the season. It hurts."
Ballack now feels it is time for other players to step up at this summer's tourment and help coach Joachim Loew lead the team to victory in South Africa.
"Schweini [Bastian Schweinsteiger] has got to do it now and take on more responsibility," he said.
"He is self-confident and has the class. I don't see anybody else who shows such a presence and sets the tone like him.
"As for the captain, I don't want to add to the speculation - it is hard enough for the coach.
"There are [Philipp] Lahm, Schweini and [Miroslav] Klose.
"Miro has had an unfortunate season, but he has a high standing in the national team. His experience is important.
"And, being captain could give him a boost."
The German international's current deal expires in the next few weeks and he is keen to negotiate a longer stay at the club despite reported interest in securing his services from Schalke 04.
"Chelsea are absolutely my first option," the 33-year-old told Germany's Bild newspaper.
"We are in contact with the club. The coach first of all wants to discuss things internally and then he will approach the players in a week."
Ballack, meanwhile, is set to miss the World Cup after sustaining an ankle injury in the FA Cup final against Portsmouth.
Despite that set-back, he does not believe that his international career is over yet.
"I won't let my international career come to an end because of a foul like this," he added.
"I never said that I would retire after the World Cup. I want to continue playing at the highest level and I will consider things in calm over the next few weeks.
"I gave everything for the goal of South Africa and now the World Cup has been taken away from me in a brutal way.
"It is bitter to be hacked down in such a way in the last game of the season. It hurts."
Ballack now feels it is time for other players to step up at this summer's tourment and help coach Joachim Loew lead the team to victory in South Africa.
"Schweini [Bastian Schweinsteiger] has got to do it now and take on more responsibility," he said.
"He is self-confident and has the class. I don't see anybody else who shows such a presence and sets the tone like him.
"As for the captain, I don't want to add to the speculation - it is hard enough for the coach.
"There are [Philipp] Lahm, Schweini and [Miroslav] Klose.
"Miro has had an unfortunate season, but he has a high standing in the national team. His experience is important.
"And, being captain could give him a boost."
Barcelona’s Xavi Delighted With David Villa Capture
Barcelona midfielder Xavi has expressed his delight with the club’s acquisition of David Villa.
“Villa is here to make a difference, it is a pleasure to have Villa in any team,” he told Sport.
“He is a great striker and is able to play in the center or on either of the two wide positions. He is very dynamic and is always looking for the opposing goal. You could say that his game is similar to Samuel Eto'o,” he added.
Barcelona announced today that they had completed the €40 million capture of the Valencia hitman and Xavi went on to say he is confident his Spanish international team-mate will have no problems settling into his new club.
"He has played with many of us in the national team and he has been playing in La Liga for many years, so there are no problems of adaptation.”
Finally, Xavi said he was already looking forward to next season and hoped Villa wouldn’t be the last of the summer signings in Catalonia.
“I hope to continue making a lot of goals to help us win trophies," he said. "Villa and Cesc [Fabregas], if he comes too, are welcome to help us to continue playing the football that characterizes us and achieve further success.”
“Villa is here to make a difference, it is a pleasure to have Villa in any team,” he told Sport.
“He is a great striker and is able to play in the center or on either of the two wide positions. He is very dynamic and is always looking for the opposing goal. You could say that his game is similar to Samuel Eto'o,” he added.
Barcelona announced today that they had completed the €40 million capture of the Valencia hitman and Xavi went on to say he is confident his Spanish international team-mate will have no problems settling into his new club.
"He has played with many of us in the national team and he has been playing in La Liga for many years, so there are no problems of adaptation.”
Finally, Xavi said he was already looking forward to next season and hoped Villa wouldn’t be the last of the summer signings in Catalonia.
“I hope to continue making a lot of goals to help us win trophies," he said. "Villa and Cesc [Fabregas], if he comes too, are welcome to help us to continue playing the football that characterizes us and achieve further success.”
Real Madrid Closing In On Valencia Star David Silva
Primera Division outfit Valencia appear to be on the verge of losing yet another star player. Los Che sold David Villa to Barcelona on Wednesday and tricky midfielder David Silva could very well be the next star to leave the cash strapped side.
According to a report in Marca, Real Madrid have made signing the Spanish international their primary target of the summer transfer window and the Blancos are expected to make an offer for Silva in the upcoming days.
The 24-year-old is continually being linked with a move away from Valencia and English giants such as Chelsea, Manchester United and Arsenal are all keeping tabs on the left footed midfielder.
Real Madrid are determined to sign the highly rated playmaker before any of the Premier League sides make a move and the transfer could be a done deal by the end of this week.
Valencia are being plagued by financial problems and president Manuel Llorente stated on Wednesday that he could not rule out any more departures after the loss of Villa.
According to a report in Marca, Real Madrid have made signing the Spanish international their primary target of the summer transfer window and the Blancos are expected to make an offer for Silva in the upcoming days.
The 24-year-old is continually being linked with a move away from Valencia and English giants such as Chelsea, Manchester United and Arsenal are all keeping tabs on the left footed midfielder.
Real Madrid are determined to sign the highly rated playmaker before any of the Premier League sides make a move and the transfer could be a done deal by the end of this week.
Valencia are being plagued by financial problems and president Manuel Llorente stated on Wednesday that he could not rule out any more departures after the loss of Villa.
Sir Alex Ferguson Given Green Light To Buy Real Madrid's Karim Benzema And Aston Villa's James Milner
Manchester United's owners have given manager Sir Alex Ferguson permission to chase star duo Karim Benzema and James Milner, according to The Mirror.
The Glazer family are reported to have loosened the purse strings at the club and have handed the Scot the money to bid for the pair despite being £734 million in debt.
United are understood to have readied a £20 million bid for Benzema, just one year after they were rebuffed by the player as he moved to Real Madrid. A miserable season in the Spanish capital and subsequent drop from the French World Cup squad are understood to have changed his mind about a switch to Old Trafford.
Ferguson is also ready to go head-to-head with rivals Manchester City to seal Milner's signature. The Blues have already had a £20 million offer rejected for the England international and United are ready to swoop in and buy him.
The Glazer family are reported to have loosened the purse strings at the club and have handed the Scot the money to bid for the pair despite being £734 million in debt.
United are understood to have readied a £20 million bid for Benzema, just one year after they were rebuffed by the player as he moved to Real Madrid. A miserable season in the Spanish capital and subsequent drop from the French World Cup squad are understood to have changed his mind about a switch to Old Trafford.
Ferguson is also ready to go head-to-head with rivals Manchester City to seal Milner's signature. The Blues have already had a £20 million offer rejected for the England international and United are ready to swoop in and buy him.
Roma Director Gian Paolo Montali Denies Philippe Mexes Will Be Sold
roma director Gian Paolo Montali affirmed that defender Philippe Mexes will not be moving away from the Giallorossi during the summer transfer window.
The 28-year-old has found it tough to claim a position in the starting XI, because of the center-back combination of Juan and Nicolas Burdisso.
Mexes has been linked to AC Milan, Juventus and Arsenal, but Montali says that the Frenchman will stay at the Stadio Olimpico.
"Mexes is a major part of this Roma side, and we have absolutely no intention of getting rid of him," Montali told Parla con me, a show broadcast on Rai Tre.
Montali also thanked coach Claudio Ranieri for all the work he did this season.
"For approximately 40 minutes, we were the Champions of Italy, and we are very proud of our season.
"A particular thank you goes to Ranieri, who totalled 80 points," he added.
The 28-year-old has found it tough to claim a position in the starting XI, because of the center-back combination of Juan and Nicolas Burdisso.
Mexes has been linked to AC Milan, Juventus and Arsenal, but Montali says that the Frenchman will stay at the Stadio Olimpico.
"Mexes is a major part of this Roma side, and we have absolutely no intention of getting rid of him," Montali told Parla con me, a show broadcast on Rai Tre.
Montali also thanked coach Claudio Ranieri for all the work he did this season.
"For approximately 40 minutes, we were the Champions of Italy, and we are very proud of our season.
"A particular thank you goes to Ranieri, who totalled 80 points," he added.
Manchester United, Chelsea and Manchester City Eye £46 million Swoop For Barcelona's Zlatan Ibrahimovic
Barcelona superstar Zlatan Ibrahimovic could be set for a £46 million switch to Manchester United, Chelsea or Manchester City after David Villa's arrival at the Nou Camp.
The Catalan giants have agreed a £34.2 million deal with Valencia to bring the lethal centre forward to the club. Sport has reported this has pushed Ibrahimovic towards the Premier League as Barcelona look to balance the books.
United have been linked all summer with a move for a top-line centre forward to support Wayne Rooney. City's billions and the presence of Ibrahimovic's ex-Inter Milan manager Roberto Mancini makes them a possible destination, while Chelsea are in the market for a "marquee signing".
Ibrahimovic has struggled to win over the fans at the Nou Camp since his £60 million move last summer. Despite grabbing 21 goals in all competitions, he could be forced out after just one campaign.
The Catalan giants have agreed a £34.2 million deal with Valencia to bring the lethal centre forward to the club. Sport has reported this has pushed Ibrahimovic towards the Premier League as Barcelona look to balance the books.
United have been linked all summer with a move for a top-line centre forward to support Wayne Rooney. City's billions and the presence of Ibrahimovic's ex-Inter Milan manager Roberto Mancini makes them a possible destination, while Chelsea are in the market for a "marquee signing".
Ibrahimovic has struggled to win over the fans at the Nou Camp since his £60 million move last summer. Despite grabbing 21 goals in all competitions, he could be forced out after just one campaign.
Franck Ribery Agrees To Extend Bayern Munich Contract To 2015
French midfielder Franck Ribery will put pen to paper on a new deal that will keep him at Bayern Munich for another five seasons, thus ending seemingly ceaseless speculation about his future, according to German publication Bild.
The 27-year-old attacking midfielder, who will sit out the Champions League final against Inter at the Bernabeu due to suspension, will instead sign a new deal that will see him become the highest earner in the club's history with an annual salary believed to be in the region of £8.5 million.
Ribery had been linked with a move to a number of Europe's top clubs this season, most notably Real Madrid in Spain and English Premier League sides Chelsea and Manchester United.
Reports from Spain earlier this year even went as far as suggesting that Ribery's agent, Alain Migliaccio, had agreed terms with Real Madrid president Florentino Perez but those claims now appear well wide of the mark.
It is understood that Ribery's representatives, Migliaccio and Jean-Pierre Bernes, met with a Bayern contingent, that included Uli Hoeness and Karl-Heinz Rummenigge, on Thursday at the team hotel in Madrid to thrash out the terms of the new deal.
Despite enduring a season besieged by injury, off-field controversies and transfer speculation it now appears that Ribery's long-term future has finally been clarified and he will sign a four-year extension that will keep him at the Bavarian outfit until he is 32.
The 27-year-old attacking midfielder, who will sit out the Champions League final against Inter at the Bernabeu due to suspension, will instead sign a new deal that will see him become the highest earner in the club's history with an annual salary believed to be in the region of £8.5 million.
Ribery had been linked with a move to a number of Europe's top clubs this season, most notably Real Madrid in Spain and English Premier League sides Chelsea and Manchester United.
Reports from Spain earlier this year even went as far as suggesting that Ribery's agent, Alain Migliaccio, had agreed terms with Real Madrid president Florentino Perez but those claims now appear well wide of the mark.
It is understood that Ribery's representatives, Migliaccio and Jean-Pierre Bernes, met with a Bayern contingent, that included Uli Hoeness and Karl-Heinz Rummenigge, on Thursday at the team hotel in Madrid to thrash out the terms of the new deal.
Despite enduring a season besieged by injury, off-field controversies and transfer speculation it now appears that Ribery's long-term future has finally been clarified and he will sign a four-year extension that will keep him at the Bavarian outfit until he is 32.
Manchester City Forward Robinho Wants To Remain In Brazil With Santos
Manchester City striker Robinho has announced he wants to leave the club and remain in Brazil, where he is currently on loan with Santos.
The Brazilian claims he has no intention of returning to Eastlands next year and is now looking at securing himself a move away from Roberto Mancini's side after deciding his future lies elsewhere.
Robinho cost City a British record £32.5 million when he signed from Real Madrid two years ago but has become increasingly disillusioned with life in Manchester.
On his arrival at Eastlands, Robinho talked about his desire to become one of the greatest players in the world and shone in his first season at the club.
However only a single goal this term, against lowly Scunthorpe United in the FA Cup, meant he fell down the pecking order for The Citizens and struggled to regain his starting berth.
Loaned out to Brazilian side Santos at the start of 2010, Robinho has enjoyed some relative success in his homeland, scoring six goals in 11 games.
"I will return to Brazil after the World Cup and, God willing, I will stay to play in the Copa Libertadores," he said, according to Sky Sports.
However, Santos are not thought to have enough funds to secure a permanent move for Robinho, so he may have to explore all the possibilities available to him after the tournament in South Africa.
The Brazilian claims he has no intention of returning to Eastlands next year and is now looking at securing himself a move away from Roberto Mancini's side after deciding his future lies elsewhere.
Robinho cost City a British record £32.5 million when he signed from Real Madrid two years ago but has become increasingly disillusioned with life in Manchester.
On his arrival at Eastlands, Robinho talked about his desire to become one of the greatest players in the world and shone in his first season at the club.
However only a single goal this term, against lowly Scunthorpe United in the FA Cup, meant he fell down the pecking order for The Citizens and struggled to regain his starting berth.
Loaned out to Brazilian side Santos at the start of 2010, Robinho has enjoyed some relative success in his homeland, scoring six goals in 11 games.
"I will return to Brazil after the World Cup and, God willing, I will stay to play in the Copa Libertadores," he said, according to Sky Sports.
However, Santos are not thought to have enough funds to secure a permanent move for Robinho, so he may have to explore all the possibilities available to him after the tournament in South Africa.
Kamis, 20 Mei 2010
Cesc Fabregas Tells Arsene Wenger He Want To Join Barcelona in 'Emotinal' Face To Face Meeting
The Arsenal manager is believed to have taken the decision calmly and asked him to stay at Emirates Stadium for one more season, but the 23-year-old has set his heart on returning to his boyhood club this summer.
Fabregas, who had already said that he wanted his future decided before the World Cup, has spent the last few days thinking long and hard about whether his ambitions could be fulfilled in north London.
He fears that he will miss out on major honors if he does not commit the prime years of his career to a Barcelona side that is in the middle of a golden era.
Comment | Sulmaan Ahmad
"... the needs and wants of Cesc Fabregas come first and both are pulling stronger than ever in the direction of Camp Nou. All Arsene Wenger has to do now is let go."
The shattering news for Arsenal supporters follows a claim by Barcelona’s vice-president hat Fabregas had expressed the same view to them.
Rafael Yuste told the Catalonian radio station Ona FM that he remained confident that deals for Valencia's David Villa and Fabregas were both on: “Negotiations are progressing well, especially in the case of Villa.
"The situation with Cesc is different because even if you have the will of the player it is very important to talk to his club and, if you can, find an agreement. But what makes it easier is that both players want to come to Barca.”
Barcelona are now expected to table a £30 million bid for the player who Arsenal signed for nothing from Camp Nou in 2003.
However, the Londoners are likely to demand more than £40m for a player who is regarded at the club as irreplaceable and one of the finest midfielders in the world.
Fabregas, who played alongside Lionel Messi in the Barcelona youth teams before moving to Arsenal, had previously said he “would like to go to Barcelona”, but had maintained that no move was imminent.
“I am happy at Arsenal and I am not in a rush to leave. Before I go to the World Cup I want my future sorted out because it benefits nobody if I go into the tournament with something else on my mind.”
Arsene Wenger Hopes To Persuade Cesc Fabregas To Stay At Arsenal
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger will attempt to persuade Cesc Fabregas to change his mind about leaving, according to a report from The Daily Mirror.
Although the Catalan playmaker has indicated that he is ready to return to his roots at Barcelona, Arsenal have insisted that they do not want to sell the player
The Gunners boss will apparently draw attention to the fact that reinforcements are on the way to the Emirates, with striker Marounae Chamakh set to lead a raft of new arrivals.
Wenger is apparently hopeful of persuading Fabregas to stay for one more season as skipper, just as Thierry Henry did in 2006-07, and will also point out that whilst the Catalan is the heartbeat of Arsenal's team he is not even guaranteed a starting spot at Camp Nou.
Whether such inducements can deflect Fabregas from re-joining Barca remains to be seen, as the Spanish champions continue their summer recuitment campaign.
Barcelona's David Villa: I Will Give Everything For This Club
As reported by Marca, David Villa, Barcelona's new superstar signing, was officially presented as a Barca player today.
El Guaje was all smiles as he put on the Barca shirt and believes that he has made the right decision to sign for the Blaugrana, a team he has called the "best in the world".
Txiki Beigiristain, the Catalan club's sporting director, began the press conference voicing his appreciation for the effort the Barca organization made in completing the transfer.
"One needs to thank the president and the board of directors for the signing of David Villa".
After Txiki's words, El Guaje's moment arrived and the player showed his delight from the first moment.
"It is an honour, a source of pride and great happiness. I have taken a big step in my career to be able to be here today".
Villa promised hard work at his new team.
"I am going to give everything for this club. I hope that all Cules be happy with what I can show on the pitch. In as much as it is up to me, I will make sure of that".
Barca agree Villa move with Valencia
FC Barcelona and Valencia CF closed a 40 million euro deal for Spanish striker David Villa on Wednesday morning.
The Spanish international is due in Barcelona on Thursday evening and will have a medical on Friday morning. Villa will sign a four-year deal with an option for a further year.
Villa will be officially unveiled as a Barca player at 1.30 in the Paris Room of the Camp Nou. He’ll then make an appearance on the Camp Nou pitch. The stadium doors will be opened to the public.
In his first two seasons in the First Division (2003-05) with Zaragoza, he caught the eye with his effectiveness in front of goal and earned a move to Valencia. The 28-year-old spent the next five seasons with Valencia, scoring 107 goals in 166 league matches.
Villa is a regular first choice in the Spanish national team and made a huge contribution to winning EURO 2008.
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