MANCHESTER, England (AP) - Carlos Tevez will leave Manchester United after the club said Saturday he rejected a five-year contract that would have made him one of the highest paid players on the Premier League champions.
The Argentina forward's exit will leave manager Alex Ferguson searching for another attacking player to complement Wayne Rooney and Dimitar Berbatov while still seeking a replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo, who is set to complete a move to Real Madrid.
Teenagers Federico Macheda and Danny Welbeck made impressive contributions last season, but lack the experience Man United requires as it seeks to rebound following its Champions League final defeat to Barcelona.
The Red Devils said they had wanted to keep Tevez and were willing to pay $41 million to turn his two-year loan deal into a permanent contract. But Tevez has decided to leave Old Trafford, having previously said that United disrespected him by not explaining why he was dropped so often from the team.
Tevez wants to continue playing in the Premier League and has been linked with United's crosstown rival, Manchester City, which has the financial resources to sign him.
"The club agreed to pay the option price of 25.5 million pounds and offered Carlos a five-year contract, which would have made him one of its highest paid players," United said. "Disappointingly, however, his advisers informed the club that, despite the success he has enjoyed during one of the club's most successful periods, he does not wish to continue playing for Manchester United."
Tevez was brought to England in 2006 through a contentious loan move to West Ham by the investment company that still owns his rights. He joined United before the 2007-08 season and quickly become a fan favorite. After the final home match of the season in May, more than a thousand supporters converged on the directors' exit and players' tunnel chanting: "Fergie, sign him up."
6/20/2009
Gomez buzzing after Latics switch
Jordi Gomez has spoken of his delight at being reunited with new Wigan manager Roberto Martinez and the 'buzz' of joining the Latics.
The former Espanyol midfielder enjoyed a loan spell under Martinez at Swansea last season and has now signed a three-year contract with the Latics.
Gomez could not hide his excitement when talking about the prospect of competing in the Premier League.
"I had a fantastic time at Swansea last season and I really got a taste for English football," he told Wigan's official website.
"Roberto is a great manager who likes to get his teams to play good football and to get the chance to play in the English Premier League under him is very exciting for me.
"I am looking forward to meeting all the players. I don't really know any of them personally, only by reputation, so it's a real buzz to be coming into such a talented squad and trying to make my mark."
The 24-year-old knows that holding down a first-team spot may prove to be a difficult task and is ready to fight for his place.
Gomez added: "Looking at the players already here, it's going to be tough to get in the team and keep my place but that's what I aim to do and I'll be doing my best in every training session and if I'm lucky enough to get selected.
"I just want to thank the club and Roberto for having faith in me and I can't wait to get started in July.
"I had a good relationship with the supporters at Swansea, and I hope the Wigan fans will see a player who gives everything, every time he puts on the shirt."
The former Espanyol midfielder enjoyed a loan spell under Martinez at Swansea last season and has now signed a three-year contract with the Latics.
Gomez could not hide his excitement when talking about the prospect of competing in the Premier League.
"I had a fantastic time at Swansea last season and I really got a taste for English football," he told Wigan's official website.
"Roberto is a great manager who likes to get his teams to play good football and to get the chance to play in the English Premier League under him is very exciting for me.
"I am looking forward to meeting all the players. I don't really know any of them personally, only by reputation, so it's a real buzz to be coming into such a talented squad and trying to make my mark."
The 24-year-old knows that holding down a first-team spot may prove to be a difficult task and is ready to fight for his place.
Gomez added: "Looking at the players already here, it's going to be tough to get in the team and keep my place but that's what I aim to do and I'll be doing my best in every training session and if I'm lucky enough to get selected.
"I just want to thank the club and Roberto for having faith in me and I can't wait to get started in July.
"I had a good relationship with the supporters at Swansea, and I hope the Wigan fans will see a player who gives everything, every time he puts on the shirt."
Robinho: Okay if Brazil wins without flair
CENTURION, South Africa (AP) - Fans shouldn't expect Brazil to put on a show every time it takes the field, Robinho said Saturday.
"Brazil's main objective is to win," the Manchester City striker said on the eve of Brazil's decisive match against Italy at the Confederations Cup.
"Of course we want to play well, too," Robinho added. "Sometimes you can do both, but sometimes you have to play ugly to win. The priority is always to win."
Robinho, who scored his first goal of the tournament against the United States on Thursday, said it's natural the Brazilians are always facing pressure to display their usual flair, but that most times things get blown out of proportion when it comes to Brazil.
"It's complicated," he said. "When we play bad, it's not always as bad as people say. When we play well, it's also not always as well as they say, either. We may be going through a good moment right now, but if we lose (all changes)."
The 25-year-old Robinho was the first to acknowledge he struggled in Brazil's opening 4-3 win over Egypt on Monday, missing several passes and failing to threaten. But he recovered and was one of the team's top players in the 3-0 victory over the Americans.
The speedy and skillful Robinho is one of Brazil's most experienced players at this year's Confederations Cup. He is the only player in the squad who also was with the team in the 2007 Copa America, the 2006 World Cup and the 2005 Confederations Cup.
Defending champion Brazil needs a draw against Italy in Pretoria on Sunday to secure a spot in the semifinals of the eight-team competition in South Africa.
"Brazil's main objective is to win," the Manchester City striker said on the eve of Brazil's decisive match against Italy at the Confederations Cup.
"Of course we want to play well, too," Robinho added. "Sometimes you can do both, but sometimes you have to play ugly to win. The priority is always to win."
Robinho, who scored his first goal of the tournament against the United States on Thursday, said it's natural the Brazilians are always facing pressure to display their usual flair, but that most times things get blown out of proportion when it comes to Brazil.
"It's complicated," he said. "When we play bad, it's not always as bad as people say. When we play well, it's also not always as well as they say, either. We may be going through a good moment right now, but if we lose (all changes)."
The 25-year-old Robinho was the first to acknowledge he struggled in Brazil's opening 4-3 win over Egypt on Monday, missing several passes and failing to threaten. But he recovered and was one of the team's top players in the 3-0 victory over the Americans.
The speedy and skillful Robinho is one of Brazil's most experienced players at this year's Confederations Cup. He is the only player in the squad who also was with the team in the 2007 Copa America, the 2006 World Cup and the 2005 Confederations Cup.
Defending champion Brazil needs a draw against Italy in Pretoria on Sunday to secure a spot in the semifinals of the eight-team competition in South Africa.
Campbell prepared to be patient
Manchester United striker Fraizer Campbell insists he will not think about his club future until the European Under- 21 Championship is over.
Campbell is currently in Sweden on international duty, trying to help Stuart Pearce's young England side claim glory at a major tournament.
He is expected to complete a move to Hull City upon his return after United accepted a £6million offer for the striker.
But Campbell is not thinking that far ahead and is staying focused on his England commitments.
"I am just concentrating on this tournament. I can worry about that kind of stuff after," he said in the Hull Daily Mail.
Tigers chairman Paul Duffen remains convinced that a deal will go through, once a severance payment from United can be agreed.
"He's playing his football over in Sweden and his father is out there watching him," Duffen explained.
"As we stand, it's a bit of a stalemate.
"It's not an issue with our offer to the player, I believe that he wants to come to us.
"But we have to be patient and let him and Manchester United come to an agreement."
Campbell is currently in Sweden on international duty, trying to help Stuart Pearce's young England side claim glory at a major tournament.
He is expected to complete a move to Hull City upon his return after United accepted a £6million offer for the striker.
But Campbell is not thinking that far ahead and is staying focused on his England commitments.
"I am just concentrating on this tournament. I can worry about that kind of stuff after," he said in the Hull Daily Mail.
Tigers chairman Paul Duffen remains convinced that a deal will go through, once a severance payment from United can be agreed.
"He's playing his football over in Sweden and his father is out there watching him," Duffen explained.
"As we stand, it's a bit of a stalemate.
"It's not an issue with our offer to the player, I believe that he wants to come to us.
"But we have to be patient and let him and Manchester United come to an agreement."
US treating must-win game as World Cup preparation
RUSTENBURG, South Africa (AP) - With the Confederations Cup staged in part to help prepare teams for the following year's World Cup, United States midfielder Landon Donovan wants a determined performance in his team's final group game against Egypt.
The United States is on the verge of elimination after losses to Italy and Brazil, but Donovan said his teammates won't stop trying to bounce back for the big win that could yet send them through to the semifinals.
After all, what if the Americans find themselves in the same position at the 2010 World Cup?
"As these last couple of games have gone on, my mind set has been to take this like: If this might happen this time next year, how are you going to respond?" Donovan said Saturday. "And so in that sense it's a very good opportunity and it's not one that you want to waste."
The eight-team Confederations Cup helps organizers make sure things will run smoothly for the World Cup, giving them a chance to solve problems in areas such as transportation, stadiums and logistics.
But teams can find it just as useful, giving them a taste of the facilities, climate and the kinds of pressure and situations that might arise.
"We've talked about this whole tournament as a test run for hopefully when we are here next year, and from the players' standpoint we have to prepare no matter how unlikely it might be that we advance tomorrow," Donovan said. "It might happen next year that we win the first game or tie the first game and have a bad second game.
"And how quickly do you mentally and physically get ready for the third game?"
After the 2006 World Cup, the United States players already have experience of the kind of must-win game facing them on Sunday.
The Americans lost their opening game to the Czech Republic but rallied to draw with Italy. They could have advanced to the second round with victory over Ghana, but lost 2-1.
"When we talk about the experience of these kinds of tournaments, it's being able to make a quick turnaround to be able to understand what you're there for," coach Bob Bradley said. "Every team arrives, be it the Confederations Cup or World Cup, with high hopes and usually it doesn't always work that every game goes your way.
"We hurt ourselves badly with a nervous start against Brazil but now we have to make those kind of adjustments and go for the three points with full commitment against Egypt."
The United States is on the verge of elimination after losses to Italy and Brazil, but Donovan said his teammates won't stop trying to bounce back for the big win that could yet send them through to the semifinals.
After all, what if the Americans find themselves in the same position at the 2010 World Cup?
"As these last couple of games have gone on, my mind set has been to take this like: If this might happen this time next year, how are you going to respond?" Donovan said Saturday. "And so in that sense it's a very good opportunity and it's not one that you want to waste."
The eight-team Confederations Cup helps organizers make sure things will run smoothly for the World Cup, giving them a chance to solve problems in areas such as transportation, stadiums and logistics.
But teams can find it just as useful, giving them a taste of the facilities, climate and the kinds of pressure and situations that might arise.
"We've talked about this whole tournament as a test run for hopefully when we are here next year, and from the players' standpoint we have to prepare no matter how unlikely it might be that we advance tomorrow," Donovan said. "It might happen next year that we win the first game or tie the first game and have a bad second game.
"And how quickly do you mentally and physically get ready for the third game?"
After the 2006 World Cup, the United States players already have experience of the kind of must-win game facing them on Sunday.
The Americans lost their opening game to the Czech Republic but rallied to draw with Italy. They could have advanced to the second round with victory over Ghana, but lost 2-1.
"When we talk about the experience of these kinds of tournaments, it's being able to make a quick turnaround to be able to understand what you're there for," coach Bob Bradley said. "Every team arrives, be it the Confederations Cup or World Cup, with high hopes and usually it doesn't always work that every game goes your way.
"We hurt ourselves badly with a nervous start against Brazil but now we have to make those kind of adjustments and go for the three points with full commitment against Egypt."
Unhappy Eboue quiet on PSG link
Arsenal midfielder Emmanuel Eboue claims he knows nothing about a move to Paris St Germain after being linked with the Ligue 1 club.
The Ivory Coast international, who made just 17 Premier League starts last season without really impressing, has been tipped to leave the Emirates Stadium this summer.
Eboue has confirmed he is unhappy at his lack of first-team football under manager Arsene Wenger, but points out he remains contracted to the Gunners.
The 26-year-old has admitted PSG are a good side, but his preferred objective is to stay with Arsenal and fight for his first-team place rather than seeking a move elsewhere.
"I'm not aware of any contact with PSG. They are a good team, however, I have a contract with Arsenal," he told skysports.com.
"My ambition is to stay and play but because of a lack of first-team play, I'm not happy. I want to play."
Reports in France claim PSG are ready to table a £5.9million bid for the defender.
The Ivory Coast international, who made just 17 Premier League starts last season without really impressing, has been tipped to leave the Emirates Stadium this summer.
Eboue has confirmed he is unhappy at his lack of first-team football under manager Arsene Wenger, but points out he remains contracted to the Gunners.
The 26-year-old has admitted PSG are a good side, but his preferred objective is to stay with Arsenal and fight for his first-team place rather than seeking a move elsewhere.
"I'm not aware of any contact with PSG. They are a good team, however, I have a contract with Arsenal," he told skysports.com.
"My ambition is to stay and play but because of a lack of first-team play, I'm not happy. I want to play."
Reports in France claim PSG are ready to table a £5.9million bid for the defender.
Brazilians know Italy well ahead of decisive match
CENTURION, South Africa (AP) - With several of its players in Italian football, Brazil feels it knows what to expect from Italy in the teams' decisive Confederations Cup match on Sunday.
Not counting Kaka, who has just moved from AC Milan to Real Madrid, Brazil has six members of its squad playing in the Italian league - Julio Cesar and Maicon with Inter Milan, Juan and Julio Baptista with AS Roma, Felipe Melo with Fiorentina and Alexandre Pato with AC Milan.
"The fact that some players play in Italy makes this match much more special," Julio Cesar said Saturday.
Brazil faces Italy on Sunday in a Group B match that could send one of the teams home from the Confederations Cup. Italy needs a victory by two goals to secure a spot in the semifinals without depending on other results, while a draw will be enough for Brazil.
With so many players on the inside, the Brazilians don't expect surprises at the Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria.
"We know how they play," Felipe Melo said. "The Italian players are used to winning titles, they are world champions, have a lot of experience and confidence. Italian football relies a lot on strength and contact, but today the Brazilians are used to that."
Of the six Brazilians playing in Italian clubs, Felipe Melo, Julio Cesar, Maicon and Juan are expected to start in Dunga's team on Sunday. Pato and Julio Baptista should begin the match on the bench.
Dunga also has strong connections with Italy, where he played from 1987-1993 with Pisa, Fiorentina and Pescara.
"Each nation has its own school, the difference is the characteristics of the players," Dunga said. "Italy is used to decisive matches and it always relies on its own characteristics, taking advantage of the opponent's mistakes and playing very tight (in defense)."
Dunga dismisses any thoughts that Brazil has acquired an Italian style of play with so many Brazilians playing in Italian clubs.
"My team has a Brazilian characteristic," Dunga said. "But it plays competitive football. When we don't have the ball we defend, when we do have the ball we move forward to try to score."
After six years with AC Milan, Kaka said he is a better player thanks to his time in Italian football.
"I learned a lot in Italy, especially about tactics," Kaka said. "I learned how to move around the field, how to understand the match better from inside. I picked up the characteristics from (Italian) style, and I'm happy for that."
Julio Cesar also thanks Italian football for being considered one of the best goalkeepers in the world at the moment.
"After I arrived in Italy I matured a lot as a goalkeeper, and that's important in my position," Julio Cesar said. "The Italy school is very good."
Five-time world champion Brazil and four-time world champion Italy have faced each other 13 times, with Brazil winning six matches, losing five and drawing two. The Italians haven't beaten Brazil since the second round of the 1982 World Cup in Spain, and the last encounter was a 2-0 Brazil win in a friendly in London in February.
Sunday's match will take place on the same date as the 1970 World Cup final in which the Brazilians - led by Pele - won 4-1. "We hope we can beat Italy again on Sunday and dedicate the win to the players from the 1970 World Cup, they deserve it," Maicon said.
Not counting Kaka, who has just moved from AC Milan to Real Madrid, Brazil has six members of its squad playing in the Italian league - Julio Cesar and Maicon with Inter Milan, Juan and Julio Baptista with AS Roma, Felipe Melo with Fiorentina and Alexandre Pato with AC Milan.
"The fact that some players play in Italy makes this match much more special," Julio Cesar said Saturday.
Brazil faces Italy on Sunday in a Group B match that could send one of the teams home from the Confederations Cup. Italy needs a victory by two goals to secure a spot in the semifinals without depending on other results, while a draw will be enough for Brazil.
With so many players on the inside, the Brazilians don't expect surprises at the Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria.
"We know how they play," Felipe Melo said. "The Italian players are used to winning titles, they are world champions, have a lot of experience and confidence. Italian football relies a lot on strength and contact, but today the Brazilians are used to that."
Of the six Brazilians playing in Italian clubs, Felipe Melo, Julio Cesar, Maicon and Juan are expected to start in Dunga's team on Sunday. Pato and Julio Baptista should begin the match on the bench.
Dunga also has strong connections with Italy, where he played from 1987-1993 with Pisa, Fiorentina and Pescara.
"Each nation has its own school, the difference is the characteristics of the players," Dunga said. "Italy is used to decisive matches and it always relies on its own characteristics, taking advantage of the opponent's mistakes and playing very tight (in defense)."
Dunga dismisses any thoughts that Brazil has acquired an Italian style of play with so many Brazilians playing in Italian clubs.
"My team has a Brazilian characteristic," Dunga said. "But it plays competitive football. When we don't have the ball we defend, when we do have the ball we move forward to try to score."
After six years with AC Milan, Kaka said he is a better player thanks to his time in Italian football.
"I learned a lot in Italy, especially about tactics," Kaka said. "I learned how to move around the field, how to understand the match better from inside. I picked up the characteristics from (Italian) style, and I'm happy for that."
Julio Cesar also thanks Italian football for being considered one of the best goalkeepers in the world at the moment.
"After I arrived in Italy I matured a lot as a goalkeeper, and that's important in my position," Julio Cesar said. "The Italy school is very good."
Five-time world champion Brazil and four-time world champion Italy have faced each other 13 times, with Brazil winning six matches, losing five and drawing two. The Italians haven't beaten Brazil since the second round of the 1982 World Cup in Spain, and the last encounter was a 2-0 Brazil win in a friendly in London in February.
Sunday's match will take place on the same date as the 1970 World Cup final in which the Brazilians - led by Pele - won 4-1. "We hope we can beat Italy again on Sunday and dedicate the win to the players from the 1970 World Cup, they deserve it," Maicon said.
Hoilett ready to take Rovers chance
Blackburn youngster David Hoilett has rejected the chance to extend his loan with St. Pauli and wants to challenge for a place at Ewood Park.
The Canadian forward was loaned out to the Bundesliga 2 side last season and scored six goals in 26 appearances.
The 19-year-old had spent the previous campaign on loan at SC Paderborn in the same division after being signed by Blackburn in 2007.
He now believes he is ready to play at a higher level, either in Germany or back in England.
Hoilett would love to be given a chance at Ewood Park and dreams of taking the Premier League by storm.
Speaking about St. Pauli, Hoilett told Hamburger Abendblatt: "I am leaving the club.
"I have the desire to either play in the Premiership or in Bundesliga 1 next season.
"I am still contracted to Blackburn Rovers and, of course, I hope to get the chance to impress the staff in training and land myself a berth in their squad now.
"I feel I am finally ready for that."
The Canadian forward was loaned out to the Bundesliga 2 side last season and scored six goals in 26 appearances.
The 19-year-old had spent the previous campaign on loan at SC Paderborn in the same division after being signed by Blackburn in 2007.
He now believes he is ready to play at a higher level, either in Germany or back in England.
Hoilett would love to be given a chance at Ewood Park and dreams of taking the Premier League by storm.
Speaking about St. Pauli, Hoilett told Hamburger Abendblatt: "I am leaving the club.
"I have the desire to either play in the Premiership or in Bundesliga 1 next season.
"I am still contracted to Blackburn Rovers and, of course, I hope to get the chance to impress the staff in training and land myself a berth in their squad now.
"I feel I am finally ready for that."
Davis ready to accept new challenge
Sean Davis has revealed he is ready for a 'fresh challenge' as he prepares to leave Portsmouth upon the expiry of his contract this summer.
The midfielder has rejected Pompey's offer of a new deal and is free to find a new club from July 1, with Bolton likely to be his destination.
Davis claims he has not heard from the club since the end of the last campaign and has dismissed talk he had been offered improved terms.
The 29-year-old said: 'I have not spoken to anyone from Portsmouth since I was sick on the last day of the season.
"To be honest, I have given up worrying about what Portsmouth say or do.
"I enjoyed my time there but it is time for a fresh challenge."
When asked where he would be playing his football next season, Davis added: "I am still undecided.
"I am on holiday until the end of June and will make a decision after that."
The midfielder has rejected Pompey's offer of a new deal and is free to find a new club from July 1, with Bolton likely to be his destination.
Davis claims he has not heard from the club since the end of the last campaign and has dismissed talk he had been offered improved terms.
The 29-year-old said: 'I have not spoken to anyone from Portsmouth since I was sick on the last day of the season.
"To be honest, I have given up worrying about what Portsmouth say or do.
"I enjoyed my time there but it is time for a fresh challenge."
When asked where he would be playing his football next season, Davis added: "I am still undecided.
"I am on holiday until the end of June and will make a decision after that."
Sao Paulo fires coach Muricy Ramalho
SAO PAULO (AP) - Sao Paulo fired coach Muricy Ramalho after the club failed to reach the semifinals of the Copa Libertadores.
Ramalho led Sao Paulo to three straight Brazilian league titles between 2006-08, but was fired late Friday after his team lost 2-0 to Cruzeiro in the second leg of the Copa Libertadores quarterfinals.
"In a meeting between Sao Paulo president Juvenal Juvencio and Muricy Ramalho, it was decided that Muricy will no longer coach the team this season," the club said Saturday on its Web site.
Ramalho will be replaced by AS Monaco coach Ricardo Gomes, who signed a one-year contract, the club said.
It was the fourth year in a row that Sao Paulo lost to another Brazilian team in the Libertadores tournament. It won the title in 1992, '93 and 2005.
"The team had everything it needed to win the Libertadores title," Joao Paulo Jesus Lopes, one of the team's top directors, told reporters. "We hired excellent players but we were not obtaining the desired results. It was time to make a change to resume winning and Muricy's exit was the best possible solution."
At the Sao Paulo training center, where he said goodbye to players and coaching staff, Ramalho Saturday said he was going to rest and "prepare for my next battle."
Ramalho led Sao Paulo to three straight Brazilian league titles between 2006-08, but was fired late Friday after his team lost 2-0 to Cruzeiro in the second leg of the Copa Libertadores quarterfinals.
"In a meeting between Sao Paulo president Juvenal Juvencio and Muricy Ramalho, it was decided that Muricy will no longer coach the team this season," the club said Saturday on its Web site.
Ramalho will be replaced by AS Monaco coach Ricardo Gomes, who signed a one-year contract, the club said.
It was the fourth year in a row that Sao Paulo lost to another Brazilian team in the Libertadores tournament. It won the title in 1992, '93 and 2005.
"The team had everything it needed to win the Libertadores title," Joao Paulo Jesus Lopes, one of the team's top directors, told reporters. "We hired excellent players but we were not obtaining the desired results. It was time to make a change to resume winning and Muricy's exit was the best possible solution."
At the Sao Paulo training center, where he said goodbye to players and coaching staff, Ramalho Saturday said he was going to rest and "prepare for my next battle."
Lyon: Benzema could yet join United
Lyon could be tempted to sell Karim Benzema if Manchester United put in a big-money bid, according to director Bernard Lacombe.
Benzema is one of the world's hottest properties and speculation is rife that United are ready to use some of the money from the impending sale of Cristiano Ronaldo to Real Madrid to bring the young striker to Old Trafford.
Lacombe claimed recently Benzema would remain at the Stade Gerland, but has now revealed the 21-year-old could be sold if the price is right.
"He is with us, but no-one knows what will happen," Lacombe told regional daily Le Progres. "At the time we didn't think that Michael Essien would leave, but when Chelsea came with their cheque...
"If Manchester United, who we all know have come into a lot of money, present an offer for Benzema, what can you do?"
Ronaldo is set to become Madrid's second signing of the summer, following the purchase of Kaka from AC Milan.
The pair will cost the club around €160million in transfer fees and Lacombe has lashed out at the Spaniards for distorting the market.
He added: "The market is false because certain European clubs don't have official league bodies controlling how they are managed and can do what they want.
"I'm not bitter but how can Real Madrid, who are in debt, sign two players whose price is almost the same as Lyon's entire budget?
"It shocks we who are in the same environment, so I understand that people outside the football world are shocked.
"It's baffling, clumsy and disrespectful. Economically Spain is at a standstill. We can't support this."
United are likely to step up their interest in signing a new striker following Carlos Tevez's decision to leave today.
Benzema came through the ranks at 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.
This 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 the France forward nevertheless scored 23 goals in all competitions - an average of a goal every other game.
Benzema is one of the world's hottest properties and speculation is rife that United are ready to use some of the money from the impending sale of Cristiano Ronaldo to Real Madrid to bring the young striker to Old Trafford.
Lacombe claimed recently Benzema would remain at the Stade Gerland, but has now revealed the 21-year-old could be sold if the price is right.
"He is with us, but no-one knows what will happen," Lacombe told regional daily Le Progres. "At the time we didn't think that Michael Essien would leave, but when Chelsea came with their cheque...
"If Manchester United, who we all know have come into a lot of money, present an offer for Benzema, what can you do?"
Ronaldo is set to become Madrid's second signing of the summer, following the purchase of Kaka from AC Milan.
The pair will cost the club around €160million in transfer fees and Lacombe has lashed out at the Spaniards for distorting the market.
He added: "The market is false because certain European clubs don't have official league bodies controlling how they are managed and can do what they want.
"I'm not bitter but how can Real Madrid, who are in debt, sign two players whose price is almost the same as Lyon's entire budget?
"It shocks we who are in the same environment, so I understand that people outside the football world are shocked.
"It's baffling, clumsy and disrespectful. Economically Spain is at a standstill. We can't support this."
United are likely to step up their interest in signing a new striker following Carlos Tevez's decision to leave today.
Benzema came through the ranks at 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.
This 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 the France forward nevertheless scored 23 goals in all competitions - an average of a goal every other game.
Roma denies deal has been reached over sale
ROME (AP) - AS Roma quashed media speculation Saturday that it had reached an agreement to sell a controlling stake to a Swiss-based group.
However, Rome said in a statement Saturday that contacts with the group, represented by Vinicio Fioranelli, were under way.
Gazzetta dello Sport and other reports said that a deal between Compagnia Italpetroli SpA - which controls the Serie A club - and the Fioranelli group was close to being finalized and could be announced as soon as Monday.
Roma said that "no kind of deal has been signed" but repeated its position that the Fioranelli group had expressed an interest in the team, and that checks by Italpetroli and its financial adviser Mediobanca were ongoing over the group's credentials.
Italpetroli holds a 67 percent stake in Roma.
Gazzetta said the deal would be worth about €300 million (about $418 million). The club is listed on the Italian stock market.
Franco Sensi took over the club in 1993 through the Italpetroli company. He died last year and his daughter, Rosella Sensi, is club chairwoman.
Roma last won the league title in the 2000-01 season.
However, Rome said in a statement Saturday that contacts with the group, represented by Vinicio Fioranelli, were under way.
Gazzetta dello Sport and other reports said that a deal between Compagnia Italpetroli SpA - which controls the Serie A club - and the Fioranelli group was close to being finalized and could be announced as soon as Monday.
Roma said that "no kind of deal has been signed" but repeated its position that the Fioranelli group had expressed an interest in the team, and that checks by Italpetroli and its financial adviser Mediobanca were ongoing over the group's credentials.
Italpetroli holds a 67 percent stake in Roma.
Gazzetta said the deal would be worth about €300 million (about $418 million). The club is listed on the Italian stock market.
Franco Sensi took over the club in 1993 through the Italpetroli company. He died last year and his daughter, Rosella Sensi, is club chairwoman.
Roma last won the league title in the 2000-01 season.
Potters keen to keep Diao around
Stoke boss Tony Pulis remains uncertain about the future of midfielder Salif Diao, whose contract at the Britannia Stadium expires this summer.
The former Senegal international is still in dialogue with the Potters board about a possible new one-year contract but having seen precious little playing time in the Potters' first season in the Premier League, Diao is thought to be considering his other options.
Pulis admitted: "I would still like to have him around.
"He's a great role model for any footballer, particularly our African lads, because he has so much stature as a player and a person."
The former Senegal international is still in dialogue with the Potters board about a possible new one-year contract but having seen precious little playing time in the Potters' first season in the Premier League, Diao is thought to be considering his other options.
Pulis admitted: "I would still like to have him around.
"He's a great role model for any footballer, particularly our African lads, because he has so much stature as a player and a person."
Martinez keen to keep shopping
Wigan's new manager Roberto Martinez is keen to bolster his squad even further on the back of the capture of Jordi Gomez.
The Latics boss raided Espanyol on Friday to land Gomez, who he managed last season with Swansea, for a reported £1.7million on a three-year deal.
Despite the acquisition of the playmaker Martinez is unhappy with the numbers he has at his disposal and is keen to add more faces to his squad.
The Spanish tactician believes competition for places is crucial within a squad as it ensures everyone is fighting for their spot and adopting the right attitude.
"We are a little light in numbers and I want to press ahead and bring in some more real quality into the squad," stated Martinez.
"You need to have healthy competition for places and we must make sure that the players coming in are of the correct standard and mental attitude for us. Watch this space."
The Latics boss raided Espanyol on Friday to land Gomez, who he managed last season with Swansea, for a reported £1.7million on a three-year deal.
Despite the acquisition of the playmaker Martinez is unhappy with the numbers he has at his disposal and is keen to add more faces to his squad.
The Spanish tactician believes competition for places is crucial within a squad as it ensures everyone is fighting for their spot and adopting the right attitude.
"We are a little light in numbers and I want to press ahead and bring in some more real quality into the squad," stated Martinez.
"You need to have healthy competition for places and we must make sure that the players coming in are of the correct standard and mental attitude for us. Watch this space."
Hammers midfielder intends to stay on
West Ham United midfielder Luis Boa Morte has revealed his intention to remain at Upton Park and push for a starting berth.
The Portugal international endured a difficult 2008/09 campaign with the Hammers as he struggled for consistency.
Certain sections of the Upton Park support publicly lambasted his below-par performances and he was tipped to move on this summer.
However, with one year still remaining on his current contract at West Ham, Boa Morte is determined to silence his critics and prove his worth.
"I thought I should stay and fight for my place," he told Desporto.
"I still intend to play three more years abroad.
"I have one more year at West Ham and then two more after that. Where I play those two years, assuming all goes well, we will see."
While keen to remain on foreign soil for the foreseeable future, Boa Morte has admitted than he would welcome the opportunity to end his career in his homeland.
"I intend to finish in Portugal," he added.
"I would love to play at least one year at Belenenses. I also like Setubal and Guimaraes."
The Portugal international endured a difficult 2008/09 campaign with the Hammers as he struggled for consistency.
Certain sections of the Upton Park support publicly lambasted his below-par performances and he was tipped to move on this summer.
However, with one year still remaining on his current contract at West Ham, Boa Morte is determined to silence his critics and prove his worth.
"I thought I should stay and fight for my place," he told Desporto.
"I still intend to play three more years abroad.
"I have one more year at West Ham and then two more after that. Where I play those two years, assuming all goes well, we will see."
While keen to remain on foreign soil for the foreseeable future, Boa Morte has admitted than he would welcome the opportunity to end his career in his homeland.
"I intend to finish in Portugal," he added.
"I would love to play at least one year at Belenenses. I also like Setubal and Guimaraes."
Valbuena makes Marseille U-turn
Mathieu Valbuena has performed a U-turn on his Marseille future and now claims he wants to stay at the Ligue 1 club and fight for his place.
The 24-year-old had previously stated he was looking to leave l'OM this summer after falling out of favour under Didier Deschamps.
Deschamps angered the midfielder after stating he did not believe he fitted well into his tactical system.
However, despite being linked with a move to Juventus and Fulham, Valbuena wants to stay at Stade Velodrome and try to win Deschamps over.
"Despite what Deschamps has said, I'm going to fight to win him over," explained Valbuena.
"Deschamps was a hard working player so he prefers players who work hard like him."
The 24-year-old had previously stated he was looking to leave l'OM this summer after falling out of favour under Didier Deschamps.
Deschamps angered the midfielder after stating he did not believe he fitted well into his tactical system.
However, despite being linked with a move to Juventus and Fulham, Valbuena wants to stay at Stade Velodrome and try to win Deschamps over.
"Despite what Deschamps has said, I'm going to fight to win him over," explained Valbuena.
"Deschamps was a hard working player so he prefers players who work hard like him."
Drogba reiterates Blues commitment
Chelsea striker Didier Drogba has admitted nothing is certain in football but he still plans to stay at Stamford Bridge next season.
The 31-year-old striker has always maintained that he will remain with the club at least until his contract expires in the summer of 2010
"I have one year remaining on my contract with Chelsea," Drogba told L'Equipe.
"Last September when my book was published, I stated I will stay until the end of my contract.
"However a lot of things can happen that won't depend on me. When I was at Marseille I really thought I could stay a long time, and a few days later I was asked to leave, so..."
Drogba has regularly been linked with a move to Inter Milan, where he would be reunited with former Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho.
The frontman understands that it is Mourinho's desire to one day possess a strike partnership of himself and Samuel Eto'o of Barcelona.
Drogba is not sure such a scenario could ever become a reality, although he would love to see Eto'o join Chelsea.
He explained: "Could I play one day with Eto'o? Yes, it was even almost done at one moment when I was at Chelsea.
"Does Mourinho want it? Yes, it is his dream. So they just both have to come to Chelsea!
"Seriously, if he signs at Chelsea, Samuel will have a great experience with a great coach."
The 31-year-old striker has always maintained that he will remain with the club at least until his contract expires in the summer of 2010
"I have one year remaining on my contract with Chelsea," Drogba told L'Equipe.
"Last September when my book was published, I stated I will stay until the end of my contract.
"However a lot of things can happen that won't depend on me. When I was at Marseille I really thought I could stay a long time, and a few days later I was asked to leave, so..."
Drogba has regularly been linked with a move to Inter Milan, where he would be reunited with former Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho.
The frontman understands that it is Mourinho's desire to one day possess a strike partnership of himself and Samuel Eto'o of Barcelona.
Drogba is not sure such a scenario could ever become a reality, although he would love to see Eto'o join Chelsea.
He explained: "Could I play one day with Eto'o? Yes, it was even almost done at one moment when I was at Chelsea.
"Does Mourinho want it? Yes, it is his dream. So they just both have to come to Chelsea!
"Seriously, if he signs at Chelsea, Samuel will have a great experience with a great coach."
City and Chelsea queue up for Tevez
Manchester City and Chelsea are leading the race for Carlos Tevez after he opted against signing a lucrative new deal at Manchester United.
Tevez opted against signing a lucrative new deal at Old Trafford because he "wasn't the most wanted person" at the club, according to his advisor Kia Joorabchian.
United chief executive David Gill had been in discussions with Joorabchian, with the aim of keeping the popular Argentina forward.
But, despite the offer of a five-year contract that would have made Tevez one of the highest paid players at the club, the 25-year-old has decided to leave.
Tevez, according to Joorabchian, ruled out the prospect of moving to Liverpool as a mark of respect to United fans, but appears interested in the possibility of joining City or Chelsea.
Joorabchian told TalkSport: "We ruled Liverpool out because of the competitive nature of Manchester United and Liverpool.
"He has a lot of respect and a lot of love for the fans of Man United and I think he would rule Liverpool out as being the biggest competitor.
"City and Chelsea probably would be the two clubs that are on the table.
"City have obviously been in contact with us. I've spoken to (City executive chairman) Garry (Cook) and to (manager) Mark (Hughes) on several occasions.
"We haven't talked to them about a contract, we haven't talked to Chelsea either about that because we've respected the fact that Carlos is a Manchester United player.
"Without getting into the point of whether he's going to City or Chelsea or wherever, the issue is that I think Carlos wants to go to a club which has real ambition, a club which is showing intent, a club which he can help achieve great things.
"City have shown a lot of ambition with the players they've brought in in the last year or so, and Chelsea are also showing a lot of ambition - they want to win the Champions League. Both have that ambition.
"What is important is Carlos is very happy in England. He's extremely settled down, his family is in very good shape here, they love the country. He wants to stay here.
"He's basically given away with the two European clubs that have come to him. He hasn't totally disregarded the option but he's put it down his pecking order and I think he'd want to stay in the Premier League."
Joorabchian insisted the decision to reject a five-year deal at Old Trafford was not down to money so much as the fact United left it so late to put an offer on the table.
He said: "I don't think it's correct to say 'his face doesn't fit'. He was very much a part of the Manchester United team the last two years but clearly the last one year he's been very disappointed.
"I think he's been even more disappointed that it has to come to the fact that the loan deal finishes.
"If it was, let's say, Wayne Rooney's contract finishing six months before, or Cristiano Ronaldo's contract finishing six months before, would they have offered a better deal to them at that time or would they have tried to secure their services a bit sooner?
"He has that little bit of a feeling that maybe he wasn't the most wanted person at United. Rightly or wrongly, that's how he feels.
"I personally think United made a fantastic contribution to try to secure him with a last-ditch offer but I think it was a little bit too late and there wasn't enough time for Carlos to think about it."
Joorabchian admitted his client would be leaving Old Trafford with a heavy heart.
"I think Carlos is not happy, he's a little bit sad," he said.
"He's had two years at club and enjoyed two great years. They've won two Premier League titles, one Champions League title, one Carling Cup in his time and he's quite sad.
"They didn't really give him any offers for two years. Over the duration of two years there was a lot of talk about signing him but we never actually got to the point of actually receiving any offers for him.
"The offer of Manchester United was a very good offer. It came about 10 days ago. It was the loan price of �9million plus the final option price of �25.5million. They made him a good contract but Carlos needed time.
"I want to make it very, very clear: we never ever at any time asked them for more money, or any kind of money - never at any point during the last two years.
"Even after they made their offer we never asked for more money. We never spoke about that. I think Carlos just felt over the last two years they hadn't made the effort to sign him and he needed a little bit of time.
"I think they were under a time restraint with all the situation that was going on and we couldn't get there in time."
Tevez will now take some time to consider his options, with Joorabchian expecting a decision to be known by the first week in July.
And there will be no future issues with who owns the player's rights, with the next deal set to be a permanent one.
Joorabchian added: "The Premier League have changed their rules now when you do make a transfer it has to be a permanent transfer. All his rights will be sold, all his economical rights will be sold and he will belong to the club that he will play for.
"Pre-season will start somewhere between 9 and 12 July. He will have to start wherever he starts by 11, 12 July.
"So, by the first week of July, there will be a decision made, a contract signed and a club announced."
Tevez opted against signing a lucrative new deal at Old Trafford because he "wasn't the most wanted person" at the club, according to his advisor Kia Joorabchian.
United chief executive David Gill had been in discussions with Joorabchian, with the aim of keeping the popular Argentina forward.
But, despite the offer of a five-year contract that would have made Tevez one of the highest paid players at the club, the 25-year-old has decided to leave.
Tevez, according to Joorabchian, ruled out the prospect of moving to Liverpool as a mark of respect to United fans, but appears interested in the possibility of joining City or Chelsea.
Joorabchian told TalkSport: "We ruled Liverpool out because of the competitive nature of Manchester United and Liverpool.
"He has a lot of respect and a lot of love for the fans of Man United and I think he would rule Liverpool out as being the biggest competitor.
"City and Chelsea probably would be the two clubs that are on the table.
"City have obviously been in contact with us. I've spoken to (City executive chairman) Garry (Cook) and to (manager) Mark (Hughes) on several occasions.
"We haven't talked to them about a contract, we haven't talked to Chelsea either about that because we've respected the fact that Carlos is a Manchester United player.
"Without getting into the point of whether he's going to City or Chelsea or wherever, the issue is that I think Carlos wants to go to a club which has real ambition, a club which is showing intent, a club which he can help achieve great things.
"City have shown a lot of ambition with the players they've brought in in the last year or so, and Chelsea are also showing a lot of ambition - they want to win the Champions League. Both have that ambition.
"What is important is Carlos is very happy in England. He's extremely settled down, his family is in very good shape here, they love the country. He wants to stay here.
"He's basically given away with the two European clubs that have come to him. He hasn't totally disregarded the option but he's put it down his pecking order and I think he'd want to stay in the Premier League."
Joorabchian insisted the decision to reject a five-year deal at Old Trafford was not down to money so much as the fact United left it so late to put an offer on the table.
He said: "I don't think it's correct to say 'his face doesn't fit'. He was very much a part of the Manchester United team the last two years but clearly the last one year he's been very disappointed.
"I think he's been even more disappointed that it has to come to the fact that the loan deal finishes.
"If it was, let's say, Wayne Rooney's contract finishing six months before, or Cristiano Ronaldo's contract finishing six months before, would they have offered a better deal to them at that time or would they have tried to secure their services a bit sooner?
"He has that little bit of a feeling that maybe he wasn't the most wanted person at United. Rightly or wrongly, that's how he feels.
"I personally think United made a fantastic contribution to try to secure him with a last-ditch offer but I think it was a little bit too late and there wasn't enough time for Carlos to think about it."
Joorabchian admitted his client would be leaving Old Trafford with a heavy heart.
"I think Carlos is not happy, he's a little bit sad," he said.
"He's had two years at club and enjoyed two great years. They've won two Premier League titles, one Champions League title, one Carling Cup in his time and he's quite sad.
"They didn't really give him any offers for two years. Over the duration of two years there was a lot of talk about signing him but we never actually got to the point of actually receiving any offers for him.
"The offer of Manchester United was a very good offer. It came about 10 days ago. It was the loan price of �9million plus the final option price of �25.5million. They made him a good contract but Carlos needed time.
"I want to make it very, very clear: we never ever at any time asked them for more money, or any kind of money - never at any point during the last two years.
"Even after they made their offer we never asked for more money. We never spoke about that. I think Carlos just felt over the last two years they hadn't made the effort to sign him and he needed a little bit of time.
"I think they were under a time restraint with all the situation that was going on and we couldn't get there in time."
Tevez will now take some time to consider his options, with Joorabchian expecting a decision to be known by the first week in July.
And there will be no future issues with who owns the player's rights, with the next deal set to be a permanent one.
Joorabchian added: "The Premier League have changed their rules now when you do make a transfer it has to be a permanent transfer. All his rights will be sold, all his economical rights will be sold and he will belong to the club that he will play for.
"Pre-season will start somewhere between 9 and 12 July. He will have to start wherever he starts by 11, 12 July.
"So, by the first week of July, there will be a decision made, a contract signed and a club announced."
Reports: AS Roma sale close
ROME (AP) - A Swiss-based group is close to buying a controlling stake in AS Roma, Italian media reported Saturday, with an announcement expected early next week.
Roma has only said that the group represented by Vinicio Fioranelli had expressed an interest in the team, and that checks by Compagnia Italpetroli SpA, the company that controls the club, were under way.
Italpetroli holds a 67-percent stake in Roma.
Gazzetta dello Sport said Saturday that financial adviser Mediobanca finished its audit of the Fioranelli group's proposal and gave a positive assessment. Gazzetta and other reports said the deal might be finalized and announced on Monday.
Gazzetta said the deal would be worth about €300 million (about $418 million). The club is listed on the Italian stock market.
Franco Sensi, an oil man, took over the club in 1993 through the Italpetroli company. He died last year and his daughter, Rosella Sensi, is club chairwoman.
Roma won the league title in the 2000-2001 season.
Roma has only said that the group represented by Vinicio Fioranelli had expressed an interest in the team, and that checks by Compagnia Italpetroli SpA, the company that controls the club, were under way.
Italpetroli holds a 67-percent stake in Roma.
Gazzetta dello Sport said Saturday that financial adviser Mediobanca finished its audit of the Fioranelli group's proposal and gave a positive assessment. Gazzetta and other reports said the deal might be finalized and announced on Monday.
Gazzetta said the deal would be worth about €300 million (about $418 million). The club is listed on the Italian stock market.
Franco Sensi, an oil man, took over the club in 1993 through the Italpetroli company. He died last year and his daughter, Rosella Sensi, is club chairwoman.
Roma won the league title in the 2000-2001 season.
Tevez wanted time to consider offer
Kia Joorabchian has revealed Carlos Tevez had to leave Manchester United because he was not given enough time to consider their offer.
United announced on Saturday morning that Tevez would be leaving Old Trafford following a two-year loan spell with the club.
The Red Devils had agreed to pay the £25.5million fee required to secure Tevez's services permanently and offered the striker a lucrative five-year contract.
However, he rejected the proposal and is now expected to join either Manchester City or Chelsea.
Joorabchian has now clarified the situation by insisting that money was not a factor in the Argentine's decision.
The 25-year-old's advisor has also stressed that Tevez was left with no choice but to turn United down as he was not given enough time to make his mind up.
"When Man United made their offer about 10 days ago, for the first time in two years, we never went back to them to ask about money," Joorabchian told Sky Sports News.
"We just asked for some time to think about it. Obviously they have had two years to think about it and Carlos had to make a decision based on his family.
"Just to make it clear, this has been Carlos' decision. Nobody else would make this decision for him."
Joorabchian added: "We didn't actually reject the offer. Manchester United have ruled themselves out of the running.
"We actually asked for more time and if they could not give that we would have to walk away.
"He wants time to digest it and to know which club would suit him because now he is committing the next five years of his future."
United announced on Saturday morning that Tevez would be leaving Old Trafford following a two-year loan spell with the club.
The Red Devils had agreed to pay the £25.5million fee required to secure Tevez's services permanently and offered the striker a lucrative five-year contract.
However, he rejected the proposal and is now expected to join either Manchester City or Chelsea.
Joorabchian has now clarified the situation by insisting that money was not a factor in the Argentine's decision.
The 25-year-old's advisor has also stressed that Tevez was left with no choice but to turn United down as he was not given enough time to make his mind up.
"When Man United made their offer about 10 days ago, for the first time in two years, we never went back to them to ask about money," Joorabchian told Sky Sports News.
"We just asked for some time to think about it. Obviously they have had two years to think about it and Carlos had to make a decision based on his family.
"Just to make it clear, this has been Carlos' decision. Nobody else would make this decision for him."
Joorabchian added: "We didn't actually reject the offer. Manchester United have ruled themselves out of the running.
"We actually asked for more time and if they could not give that we would have to walk away.
"He wants time to digest it and to know which club would suit him because now he is committing the next five years of his future."
New deal for Wolves star Sylvan
Wolves striker Sylvan Ebanks-Blake has agreed a new four-year deal at Molineux, the Premier League club have confirmed.
The 23-year-old fired in 25 goals last season as Wolves won the Championship, finishing as the division's top goalscorer for the second season running.
And the club were delighted to offer the former Manchester United reserve a new contract which ties him to the club until 2013.
"This is a reward to Sylvan for his outstanding goalscoring for the last two years," chief executive Jez Moxey told the club's website.
"To win the Golden Boot two years running is a superb achievement and we want him to feel absolutely magnificent going into the Premier League, where hopefully he can do exceptionally well.
"We realise it's a big step-up but he's really happy about being here and he sees his long-term future here too and we feel we have to act accordingly."
Wolves bought Ebanks-Blake for £1.5 million in January 2008 and the forward immediately repaid their faith in him, scoring seven goals in his first eight games.
He has notched 37 goals for Wolves and Moxey hopes his scoring streak continues in the Barclays Premier League.
"He has been magnificent for us and he epitomises the determination and focus of the players here," added Moxey. "He has also given great value for money and he's been literally magnificent in every aspect.
"As soon as we said we were interested in him, he wanted to come and he loves it here - he loves the fans, he loves scoring goals, he loves playing at Molineux and his team-mates and the manager think he's fantastic."
The 23-year-old fired in 25 goals last season as Wolves won the Championship, finishing as the division's top goalscorer for the second season running.
And the club were delighted to offer the former Manchester United reserve a new contract which ties him to the club until 2013.
"This is a reward to Sylvan for his outstanding goalscoring for the last two years," chief executive Jez Moxey told the club's website.
"To win the Golden Boot two years running is a superb achievement and we want him to feel absolutely magnificent going into the Premier League, where hopefully he can do exceptionally well.
"We realise it's a big step-up but he's really happy about being here and he sees his long-term future here too and we feel we have to act accordingly."
Wolves bought Ebanks-Blake for £1.5 million in January 2008 and the forward immediately repaid their faith in him, scoring seven goals in his first eight games.
He has notched 37 goals for Wolves and Moxey hopes his scoring streak continues in the Barclays Premier League.
"He has been magnificent for us and he epitomises the determination and focus of the players here," added Moxey. "He has also given great value for money and he's been literally magnificent in every aspect.
"As soon as we said we were interested in him, he wanted to come and he loves it here - he loves the fans, he loves scoring goals, he loves playing at Molineux and his team-mates and the manager think he's fantastic."
Birmingham boss focused on youth
Birmingham City boss Alex McLeish has revealed he sees hungry and youthful players as the future of the Midlands club
McLeish is keen to lay down the foundations for years to come as Blues aim to establish themselves in the Premier League.
Christian Benitez, 23, and Scott Dann, 22, have already been added to the side this summer and the boss is hoping to add more youth to his squad ahead of the August kick-off.
"As a club, I think we can improve in a lot of things," McLeish told the Birmingham Mail. "We are, for example, making changes to the training ground so the environment and facilities are better. And of course we are addressing what we need for the team.
"I think in terms of over the last 18 months it has all been a little bit ad-libbed if you like.
"I would like to manage the club for a long period of time having a structure where we are geared up for the next five or six years.
"The way I have worked over the last 18 months didn't really allow for that.
"In order for it to happen we need to bring in four or five younger players. But four or five younger players we feel we can really progress with. It was quite an old team that won promotion, and I'm aware that to go forward we need young, enthusiastic and hungry legs.
"You could argue that two years ago when the team came up there were younger ones, but there was a big lack of experience.
"So it's stepping stones. If we keep bringing the older ones in just to see us through six months or a year - and that's got to be down to my choice as well of course, along with the board - it's hard to get real stability.
"Nothing would give me more satisfaction than Birmingham to have stability in the Premier League."
McLeish is keen to lay down the foundations for years to come as Blues aim to establish themselves in the Premier League.
Christian Benitez, 23, and Scott Dann, 22, have already been added to the side this summer and the boss is hoping to add more youth to his squad ahead of the August kick-off.
"As a club, I think we can improve in a lot of things," McLeish told the Birmingham Mail. "We are, for example, making changes to the training ground so the environment and facilities are better. And of course we are addressing what we need for the team.
"I think in terms of over the last 18 months it has all been a little bit ad-libbed if you like.
"I would like to manage the club for a long period of time having a structure where we are geared up for the next five or six years.
"The way I have worked over the last 18 months didn't really allow for that.
"In order for it to happen we need to bring in four or five younger players. But four or five younger players we feel we can really progress with. It was quite an old team that won promotion, and I'm aware that to go forward we need young, enthusiastic and hungry legs.
"You could argue that two years ago when the team came up there were younger ones, but there was a big lack of experience.
"So it's stepping stones. If we keep bringing the older ones in just to see us through six months or a year - and that's got to be down to my choice as well of course, along with the board - it's hard to get real stability.
"Nothing would give me more satisfaction than Birmingham to have stability in the Premier League."
Jagielka eyeing solid start
Everton defender Phil Jagielka is confident his side can avoid a repeat of last season's slow start to the Premier League campaign.
The Toffees failed to win at home until their seventh outing at Goodison Park - a last-ditch 1-0 victory over Fulham.
David Moyes' men rallied to ensure a second successive fifth-place finish but Jagielka is expecting the club to gain some early momentum this time around.
"You look at the newly-promoted teams and we're playing Burnley and Wolves quite early on," he told evertonTV.
"The fixtures have been quite kind again this time but there are no easy games in the Premier League."
The Toffees failed to win at home until their seventh outing at Goodison Park - a last-ditch 1-0 victory over Fulham.
David Moyes' men rallied to ensure a second successive fifth-place finish but Jagielka is expecting the club to gain some early momentum this time around.
"You look at the newly-promoted teams and we're playing Burnley and Wolves quite early on," he told evertonTV.
"The fixtures have been quite kind again this time but there are no easy games in the Premier League."
Klinsmann: signings show it wasn't all my fault
BERLIN (AP) - Former Bayern Munich coach Juergen Klinsmann feels vindicated by the team's new signings.
Bayern fired Klinsmann in April after only 10 months in charge following a string of disappointing Bundesliga results and a Champions League quarterfinal exit to Barcelona.
Klinsmann had argued when he was in charge that the club should sign top players to make the team more competitive in Europe.
Incoming coach Louis van Gaal will have several new signings next season, notably Germany striker Mario Gomez and Croatia forward Ivica Olic.
In an interview with the Bild daily published Saturday, Klinsmann said he had been proven right.
"Seven, perhaps eight or nine new players - that is almost a complete team and shows that, with hindsight, they followed my analysis," Klinsmann was quoted as saying. "And it shows very clearly that the coach obviously was not solely to blame for last season's defeats - as it was so often presented."
Klinsmann, who made his coaching reputation by taking Germany's national team to a third-place finish at the 2006 World Cup, said he did not plan to take over a new team next season.
"When things didn't go ideally, one can learn a lot from them in professional as well as human terms," said Klinsmann, adding that he would "take a time out and educate myself further."
Bayern fired Klinsmann in April after only 10 months in charge following a string of disappointing Bundesliga results and a Champions League quarterfinal exit to Barcelona.
Klinsmann had argued when he was in charge that the club should sign top players to make the team more competitive in Europe.
Incoming coach Louis van Gaal will have several new signings next season, notably Germany striker Mario Gomez and Croatia forward Ivica Olic.
In an interview with the Bild daily published Saturday, Klinsmann said he had been proven right.
"Seven, perhaps eight or nine new players - that is almost a complete team and shows that, with hindsight, they followed my analysis," Klinsmann was quoted as saying. "And it shows very clearly that the coach obviously was not solely to blame for last season's defeats - as it was so often presented."
Klinsmann, who made his coaching reputation by taking Germany's national team to a third-place finish at the 2006 World Cup, said he did not plan to take over a new team next season.
"When things didn't go ideally, one can learn a lot from them in professional as well as human terms," said Klinsmann, adding that he would "take a time out and educate myself further."
Pavlyuchenko searching for greener pastures
Roman Pavlyuchenko's agent has declared that he is looking for a new club for the Tottenham striker ahead of next season.
The Russia international moved to White Hart Lane last summer but only showed glimpses of his best form and struggled to stay in the side under Harry Redknapp.
With Jermain Defoe and Robbie Keane returning to Spurs and more new arrivals expected during the summer, Pavlyuchenko has been tipped to leave the club.
And his representative Oleg Artemov has now announced that he is looking at other options.
"I am busy with the search for a new club for Roman," Artemov said in the Daily Mirror.
Pavlyuchenko made a big-money switch from Spartak Moscow 12 months ago and Artemov accepts that it will take a considerable offer for Tottenham to part with the 27-year-old.
Stuttgart are considering a swoop for Pavlyuchenko but Artemov concedes there have been no formal discussions as yet.
He explained: "Earlier this week I received a phone call from the Stuttgart manager who officially confirmed their interest in Pavlyuchenko.
"But it is still too early to begin intensive negotiations. A lot is going to depend on the player's opinion and that of Tottenham.
"What I know for sure is that Tottenham are going to lose money and sell Pavlyuchenko just anywhere for any money.
"I talked to (Spurs chairman) Daniel Levy. He told me that he doesn't think Roman has become cheaper now.
"Forwards are always in short supply in football and their value shouldn't drop even in the credit crunch times."
The Russia international moved to White Hart Lane last summer but only showed glimpses of his best form and struggled to stay in the side under Harry Redknapp.
With Jermain Defoe and Robbie Keane returning to Spurs and more new arrivals expected during the summer, Pavlyuchenko has been tipped to leave the club.
And his representative Oleg Artemov has now announced that he is looking at other options.
"I am busy with the search for a new club for Roman," Artemov said in the Daily Mirror.
Pavlyuchenko made a big-money switch from Spartak Moscow 12 months ago and Artemov accepts that it will take a considerable offer for Tottenham to part with the 27-year-old.
Stuttgart are considering a swoop for Pavlyuchenko but Artemov concedes there have been no formal discussions as yet.
He explained: "Earlier this week I received a phone call from the Stuttgart manager who officially confirmed their interest in Pavlyuchenko.
"But it is still too early to begin intensive negotiations. A lot is going to depend on the player's opinion and that of Tottenham.
"What I know for sure is that Tottenham are going to lose money and sell Pavlyuchenko just anywhere for any money.
"I talked to (Spurs chairman) Daniel Levy. He told me that he doesn't think Roman has become cheaper now.
"Forwards are always in short supply in football and their value shouldn't drop even in the credit crunch times."
Clarets chief hails Coyle ability
Burnley chairman Barry Kilby believes Owen Coyle is a master of the art of finding and developing good players even when money is tight.
The club is preparing for life in the Premier League for the first time after securing promotion through the play-offs.
Coyle, who has been rewarded with a two-year extension to his contract, is now in the process of trying to strengthen his squad for the forthcoming campaign.
Kilby trusts the judgement of the Glasgow-born boss, who moved to Turf Moor from St Johnstone in 2007.
He said: "Owen was used to working with a limited budget and had operated in the lower divisions in Scotland.
"So he knew what he was coming to at Burnley and that was a big factor when we appointed him the first place.
"Owen came in from left field when he joined the club but he has proved his worth. I am delighted we have a man of his potential.
"He is a brilliant character, his optimism, the way he has picked us up, is what we wanted. He was not the favourite to get the job but he impressed us and taken us forward."
Operational director Brendan Flood says players are queuing up to join the smallest town in the Premier League.
"The number of people knocking on our door is a very long list and I do not think you have pay silly money to get good players, " he said.
"There are a lot of players who want the chance to play in the Premier League and are probably twice as hungry as some on generous contracts.
"They have got to be the right people, talented but hard working. We now have more appeal to players, it is becoming interesting for them to come to us.
"The fans have great expectations and there is a huge tradition at the club. Now it is all about making new traditions."
The club is preparing for life in the Premier League for the first time after securing promotion through the play-offs.
Coyle, who has been rewarded with a two-year extension to his contract, is now in the process of trying to strengthen his squad for the forthcoming campaign.
Kilby trusts the judgement of the Glasgow-born boss, who moved to Turf Moor from St Johnstone in 2007.
He said: "Owen was used to working with a limited budget and had operated in the lower divisions in Scotland.
"So he knew what he was coming to at Burnley and that was a big factor when we appointed him the first place.
"Owen came in from left field when he joined the club but he has proved his worth. I am delighted we have a man of his potential.
"He is a brilliant character, his optimism, the way he has picked us up, is what we wanted. He was not the favourite to get the job but he impressed us and taken us forward."
Operational director Brendan Flood says players are queuing up to join the smallest town in the Premier League.
"The number of people knocking on our door is a very long list and I do not think you have pay silly money to get good players, " he said.
"There are a lot of players who want the chance to play in the Premier League and are probably twice as hungry as some on generous contracts.
"They have got to be the right people, talented but hard working. We now have more appeal to players, it is becoming interesting for them to come to us.
"The fans have great expectations and there is a huge tradition at the club. Now it is all about making new traditions."
Despite recent crime, FIFA trusts local security
JOHANNESBURG (AP) - After a pair of security issues in South Africa over the past few days, FIFA said Saturday that it trusts local authorities to keep fans safe at both the Confederations Cup and at next year's World Cup.
The hotel rooms of five Egyptian players were robbed while the team was playing Italy on Thursday at Ellis Park in Johannesburg, and four visiting rugby fans were mugged shortly after their arrival in the country's financial capital from England.
"Security is an absolute key issue and, as you know, we trust the South African authorities to secure both the Confederations Cup and the World Cup," FIFA spokesman Nicolas Maingot said.
Security, along with transportation, is one of the biggest issues facing South Africa as it prepares to host next year's World Cup, when an estimated 450,000 fans will visit the country for the monthlong football tournament.
"Security is a massively important issue for us, we've always stressed as much, and that continues to be the focus," said Jermaine Craig, a spokesman for the World Cup organizing committee. "For us, it's very important the event is safe and secure, and by and large it has been."
Neither Maingot nor Craig would comment on the Egyptian hotel break-in.
South Africa, which has one of the worst murder rates in the world with at least 50 people being killed a day, plans to beef up police numbers and training for the World Cup by investing in high-tech equipment and crime-busting surveillance to combat crime as well as any threats from hooligans and terrorists.
Danny Jordaan, the head of the local organizing committee, has previously said that $138 million has been committed to increase the police force in South Africa for the World Cup.
FIFA also pushed its anti-racism campaign, and South African Minister for Human Settlement Tokyo Sexwale recalled his days as a prisoner on Robben Island and the role of football during that time.
"The best memories of Robben Island are really about football," said Sexwale, who served 18 years in prison alongside Nelson Mandela said. "We were denied all sorts of things on Robben Island, but the last thing they could ever deny us was football.
"You pick up a piece of cloth, a cloth that you're supposed to be cleaning with, and make it into a round ball. That's how they couldn't suppress football."
Sexwale said he always believed in change, and that the world would stand with those fighting for freedom. But he added that FIFA discriminated against Africa by keeping the World Cup from the continent for so long.
"Until Africa experienced the World Cup, FIFA was itself, in a way, inadvertently practicing a form of racism," Sexwale said. "We had to break the back of that cycle. Now that it is broken, the World Cup is here."
The hotel rooms of five Egyptian players were robbed while the team was playing Italy on Thursday at Ellis Park in Johannesburg, and four visiting rugby fans were mugged shortly after their arrival in the country's financial capital from England.
"Security is an absolute key issue and, as you know, we trust the South African authorities to secure both the Confederations Cup and the World Cup," FIFA spokesman Nicolas Maingot said.
Security, along with transportation, is one of the biggest issues facing South Africa as it prepares to host next year's World Cup, when an estimated 450,000 fans will visit the country for the monthlong football tournament.
"Security is a massively important issue for us, we've always stressed as much, and that continues to be the focus," said Jermaine Craig, a spokesman for the World Cup organizing committee. "For us, it's very important the event is safe and secure, and by and large it has been."
Neither Maingot nor Craig would comment on the Egyptian hotel break-in.
South Africa, which has one of the worst murder rates in the world with at least 50 people being killed a day, plans to beef up police numbers and training for the World Cup by investing in high-tech equipment and crime-busting surveillance to combat crime as well as any threats from hooligans and terrorists.
Danny Jordaan, the head of the local organizing committee, has previously said that $138 million has been committed to increase the police force in South Africa for the World Cup.
FIFA also pushed its anti-racism campaign, and South African Minister for Human Settlement Tokyo Sexwale recalled his days as a prisoner on Robben Island and the role of football during that time.
"The best memories of Robben Island are really about football," said Sexwale, who served 18 years in prison alongside Nelson Mandela said. "We were denied all sorts of things on Robben Island, but the last thing they could ever deny us was football.
"You pick up a piece of cloth, a cloth that you're supposed to be cleaning with, and make it into a round ball. That's how they couldn't suppress football."
Sexwale said he always believed in change, and that the world would stand with those fighting for freedom. But he added that FIFA discriminated against Africa by keeping the World Cup from the continent for so long.
"Until Africa experienced the World Cup, FIFA was itself, in a way, inadvertently practicing a form of racism," Sexwale said. "We had to break the back of that cycle. Now that it is broken, the World Cup is here."
Carra hopes there's no Reds exodus
Liverpool central defender Jamie Carragher is hoping the Reds' financial troubles will not see a summer exodus at Anfield.
Recent reports of monetary problems at the Merseyside club have fuelled speculation that a number of top stars could be sold over the coming weeks.
The Reds have been quick to ease supporter angst by insisting that will not be case, promising that new arrivals remain the priority - not sales.
Carragher admits it is vitally important that stance is backed up, with Liverpool keen to build on last season's second place finish in the Premier League.
"I'm like any fan, I get excited about who we might bring in. The players are exactly the same as the man on the street, you pick up the paper hoping you are going to see you've signed someone," he told Sky Sports News.
"But this summer there has been a bit of speculation about players moving on, so at the moment I'm hoping that doesn't happen rather than people come in. We have got a great side at the moment, and I'm sure the manager will make a couple of additions, but we don't want to lose anyone."
One of those linked with a summer exit is Spanish schemer Xabi Alonso, but Carragher hopes those reports prove wide of the mark.
"He and Stevie Gerrard were probably our best two players last season. I think Stevie won Footballer of the Year, but if you asked the fans I think they would maybe say that Alonso was our best player last season so he is certainly someone we don't want to lose," he said.
Carragher also believes that Cristiano Ronaldo's record-breaking move to Real Madrid will help the chasing pack to close on champions Manchester United next term, but admits the Red Devils will still be a force to be reckoned with in 2009/10.
He added: "He's a great player and I think he will be a big miss for the Premiership. He makes a big difference to Manchester United, even though they have a lot of other great players, and I think he was the one for them.
"But I'm sure Sir Alex Ferguson knows what he is doing and to have �80million to go and spend, that's a lot of money. It will be difficult to replace Cristiano Ronaldo, but maybe they will do it a different way and get two or three players.
"It's difficult to replace that, but I'm sure they will sort it out. Hopefully they won't bring in someone as good as Ronaldo!"
Recent reports of monetary problems at the Merseyside club have fuelled speculation that a number of top stars could be sold over the coming weeks.
The Reds have been quick to ease supporter angst by insisting that will not be case, promising that new arrivals remain the priority - not sales.
Carragher admits it is vitally important that stance is backed up, with Liverpool keen to build on last season's second place finish in the Premier League.
"I'm like any fan, I get excited about who we might bring in. The players are exactly the same as the man on the street, you pick up the paper hoping you are going to see you've signed someone," he told Sky Sports News.
"But this summer there has been a bit of speculation about players moving on, so at the moment I'm hoping that doesn't happen rather than people come in. We have got a great side at the moment, and I'm sure the manager will make a couple of additions, but we don't want to lose anyone."
One of those linked with a summer exit is Spanish schemer Xabi Alonso, but Carragher hopes those reports prove wide of the mark.
"He and Stevie Gerrard were probably our best two players last season. I think Stevie won Footballer of the Year, but if you asked the fans I think they would maybe say that Alonso was our best player last season so he is certainly someone we don't want to lose," he said.
Carragher also believes that Cristiano Ronaldo's record-breaking move to Real Madrid will help the chasing pack to close on champions Manchester United next term, but admits the Red Devils will still be a force to be reckoned with in 2009/10.
He added: "He's a great player and I think he will be a big miss for the Premiership. He makes a big difference to Manchester United, even though they have a lot of other great players, and I think he was the one for them.
"But I'm sure Sir Alex Ferguson knows what he is doing and to have �80million to go and spend, that's a lot of money. It will be difficult to replace Cristiano Ronaldo, but maybe they will do it a different way and get two or three players.
"It's difficult to replace that, but I'm sure they will sort it out. Hopefully they won't bring in someone as good as Ronaldo!"
United says Tevez is leaving the club
MANCHESTER, England (AP) - Carlos Tevez will leave Manchester United after the club said Saturday he rejected a five-year contract that would have made him one of the highest paid players at the Premier League champions.
The Argentina striker's exit will leave manager Alex Ferguson searching for another attacking player to complement Wayne Rooney and Dimitar Berbatov while still chasing a replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo, who is set to complete a move to Real Madrid.
Teenagers Federico Macheda and Danny Welbeck made impressive contributions last season, but lack the experience Man United requires as it seeks to rebound following its Champions League final defeat to Barcelona.
The Red Devils said they had wanted to keep Tevez and were willing to pay 25.5 million pounds ($41 million) to turn his two-year loan deal into a permanent contract.
But Tevez has decided to leave Old Trafford, having previously said that United disrespected him by not explaining why he was dropped so often from the team.
Tevez wants to continue playing in the Premier League and has been linked with United's crosstown rival, Manchester City, which has the financial resources to sign him.
"The club agreed to pay the option price of 25.5 million pounds and offered Carlos a five-year contract, which would have made him one of its highest paid players," United said. "Disappointingly, however, his advisers informed the club that, despite the success he has enjoyed during one of the club's most successful periods, he does not wish to continue playing for Manchester United."
Tevez was brought to England in 2006 through a contentious loan move to West Ham by the investment company that still owns his rights. He joined United before the 2007-08 season and quickly become a fan favorite. After the final home match of the season in May, more than a thousand supporters converged on the directors' exit and players' tunnel chanting: "Fergie, sign him up."
The Argentina striker's exit will leave manager Alex Ferguson searching for another attacking player to complement Wayne Rooney and Dimitar Berbatov while still chasing a replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo, who is set to complete a move to Real Madrid.
Teenagers Federico Macheda and Danny Welbeck made impressive contributions last season, but lack the experience Man United requires as it seeks to rebound following its Champions League final defeat to Barcelona.
The Red Devils said they had wanted to keep Tevez and were willing to pay 25.5 million pounds ($41 million) to turn his two-year loan deal into a permanent contract.
But Tevez has decided to leave Old Trafford, having previously said that United disrespected him by not explaining why he was dropped so often from the team.
Tevez wants to continue playing in the Premier League and has been linked with United's crosstown rival, Manchester City, which has the financial resources to sign him.
"The club agreed to pay the option price of 25.5 million pounds and offered Carlos a five-year contract, which would have made him one of its highest paid players," United said. "Disappointingly, however, his advisers informed the club that, despite the success he has enjoyed during one of the club's most successful periods, he does not wish to continue playing for Manchester United."
Tevez was brought to England in 2006 through a contentious loan move to West Ham by the investment company that still owns his rights. He joined United before the 2007-08 season and quickly become a fan favorite. After the final home match of the season in May, more than a thousand supporters converged on the directors' exit and players' tunnel chanting: "Fergie, sign him up."
North Korean footballers get rapturous welcome
PYONGYANG, North Korea (AP) - North Korea's football team returned home to a rapturous official welcome Saturday, having clinched World Cup qualification for the first time since its memorable 1966 campaign.
Players and coaches were greeted at Pyongyang's airport with a brass band, handed flowers by the waiting crowd, and received congratulations from officials of the isolated communist regime.
After posing for photos, coach Kim Jong Hun lauded his players.
"Our footballers played very well, they had the strong mental power and the devotion of spirit necessary, finally, to get through and qualify for the 2010 World Cup," Kim said on SNTV.
North Korea secured direct passage to South Africa 2010 by drawing away at Saudi Arabia in the final group game of their Asian qualifying group last Wednesday.
It is the first time the country had made it since they stunned the football world by reaching the 1966 quarterfinals. On that occasion they beat Italy and led Portugal 3-0 in their quarterfinal before succumbing to the Eusebio-led side 5-3.
In the 2010 campaign, the team's success was built on impressive defensive cohesion, backed by goalkeeper Ri Myong Guk, who described his role in characteristic North Korean fashion.
"When I was keeping goal, I felt like I was defending the gateway to my motherland," Ri said Saturday.
Among the officials greeting the team at the airport were Yang Hyong Sop, the vice-president of the Presidium of the Supreme People's Assembly and Kim Jung Rin, secretary of the Central Committee of the Workers' Party of Korea.
However it was not only dignitaries who basked in the team's achievement, but ordinary citizens too.
"The news that our football players qualified this time for the 2010 World Cup is making the whole country full of joy now," said Kim Song Hun.
Players and coaches were greeted at Pyongyang's airport with a brass band, handed flowers by the waiting crowd, and received congratulations from officials of the isolated communist regime.
After posing for photos, coach Kim Jong Hun lauded his players.
"Our footballers played very well, they had the strong mental power and the devotion of spirit necessary, finally, to get through and qualify for the 2010 World Cup," Kim said on SNTV.
North Korea secured direct passage to South Africa 2010 by drawing away at Saudi Arabia in the final group game of their Asian qualifying group last Wednesday.
It is the first time the country had made it since they stunned the football world by reaching the 1966 quarterfinals. On that occasion they beat Italy and led Portugal 3-0 in their quarterfinal before succumbing to the Eusebio-led side 5-3.
In the 2010 campaign, the team's success was built on impressive defensive cohesion, backed by goalkeeper Ri Myong Guk, who described his role in characteristic North Korean fashion.
"When I was keeping goal, I felt like I was defending the gateway to my motherland," Ri said Saturday.
Among the officials greeting the team at the airport were Yang Hyong Sop, the vice-president of the Presidium of the Supreme People's Assembly and Kim Jung Rin, secretary of the Central Committee of the Workers' Party of Korea.
However it was not only dignitaries who basked in the team's achievement, but ordinary citizens too.
"The news that our football players qualified this time for the 2010 World Cup is making the whole country full of joy now," said Kim Song Hun.
Black Cats boss faces Dunne wait
Sunderland boss Steve Bruce faces an anxious wait to see if the Black Cats can prise defender Richard Dunne away from Manchester City.
Bruce has been heavily linked with a £5million move for the 29-year-old Republic of Ireland international since his unveiling as Ricky Sbragia's replacement, despite heading straight off to resume his interrupted holiday.
Dunne has emerged as a target amid speculation big-spending City are eyeing Everton's Joleon Lescott and Arsenal's Kolo Toure this summer.
However, the Black Cats still do not know whether City manager Mark Hughes will be prepared to let the Dubliner leave Eastlands even if he does land his defensive targets.
And even if he is allowed to go, Sunderland are certain to face competition for a player who starred in his country's 1-1 draw in Bulgaria at the start of this month as they edged closer to next summer's World Cup finals.
In the circumstances, they are adopting a measured approach to their summer recruitment programme, which has already seen them touted as potential purchasers for a series of players in a variety of positions.
The acquisition of an experienced central defender to partner £8million signing Anton Ferdinand is a priority, with the former West Ham man having been made to pay for a series of lapses in concentration during his first season on Wearside.
Danny Collins did himself no harm once again last season whether asked to play in the middle or at left-back, although Bruce inherited a squad with little cover, with Nyron Nosworthy having missed the end of the campaign through injury and Paul McShane struggling to re-establish himself after returning from a loan spell at Hull.
Bruce has already been tipped to make a swift return to former club Wigan in an attempt to land Titus Bramble, a man who was pilloried during his time with arch-rivals Newcastle, while another Magpies old boy, Sylvain Distin, has also been mentioned in dispatches.
In addition, Frenchman Sebastien Bassong, who for the moment at least remains on the books at St James' Park, has indicated his representatives are in talks with two English clubs over a possible move, although both Arsenal and Tottenham have also been credited with having an interest in him.
He is one of the men prospective Newcastle boss Alan Shearer had hoped to keep, although the ongoing uncertainty over both his future and the club's ownership are not helping.
Wigan midfielder Lee Cattermole has put talk over his future on hold until after the European Under-21 Championships, in which he helped England to reach the semi-finals with a 2-0 win over Spain on Thursday night.
The Wearsiders could also rekindle their interest in Tottenham striker Darren Bent, who rejected their overtures 12 months ago.
It is understood the 25-year-old, a £16.5million signing from Charlton two summers ago, will be available but not until manager Harry Redknapp has found a replacement.
Bruce has been heavily linked with a £5million move for the 29-year-old Republic of Ireland international since his unveiling as Ricky Sbragia's replacement, despite heading straight off to resume his interrupted holiday.
Dunne has emerged as a target amid speculation big-spending City are eyeing Everton's Joleon Lescott and Arsenal's Kolo Toure this summer.
However, the Black Cats still do not know whether City manager Mark Hughes will be prepared to let the Dubliner leave Eastlands even if he does land his defensive targets.
And even if he is allowed to go, Sunderland are certain to face competition for a player who starred in his country's 1-1 draw in Bulgaria at the start of this month as they edged closer to next summer's World Cup finals.
In the circumstances, they are adopting a measured approach to their summer recruitment programme, which has already seen them touted as potential purchasers for a series of players in a variety of positions.
The acquisition of an experienced central defender to partner £8million signing Anton Ferdinand is a priority, with the former West Ham man having been made to pay for a series of lapses in concentration during his first season on Wearside.
Danny Collins did himself no harm once again last season whether asked to play in the middle or at left-back, although Bruce inherited a squad with little cover, with Nyron Nosworthy having missed the end of the campaign through injury and Paul McShane struggling to re-establish himself after returning from a loan spell at Hull.
Bruce has already been tipped to make a swift return to former club Wigan in an attempt to land Titus Bramble, a man who was pilloried during his time with arch-rivals Newcastle, while another Magpies old boy, Sylvain Distin, has also been mentioned in dispatches.
In addition, Frenchman Sebastien Bassong, who for the moment at least remains on the books at St James' Park, has indicated his representatives are in talks with two English clubs over a possible move, although both Arsenal and Tottenham have also been credited with having an interest in him.
He is one of the men prospective Newcastle boss Alan Shearer had hoped to keep, although the ongoing uncertainty over both his future and the club's ownership are not helping.
Wigan midfielder Lee Cattermole has put talk over his future on hold until after the European Under-21 Championships, in which he helped England to reach the semi-finals with a 2-0 win over Spain on Thursday night.
The Wearsiders could also rekindle their interest in Tottenham striker Darren Bent, who rejected their overtures 12 months ago.
It is understood the 25-year-old, a £16.5million signing from Charlton two summers ago, will be available but not until manager Harry Redknapp has found a replacement.
Egypt and U.S. both gunning for semifinal berth
RUSTENBURG, South Africa (AP) - Egypt and the United States go head-to-head in their final Confederations Cup group match on Sunday in a game that could have a semifinal spot riding on it.
But while victory is a must for the Americans, a draw would be enough to put Egypt through to the semifinals if Brazil beats Italy in the other group game.
The Pharoahs' success may be a surprise to those who predicted Brazil and Italy would coast through to the next round, but the players have always been confident after winning the last two editions of the African Cup of Nations.
"This is like what we did together at the Nations Cup the last two times in Egypt and in Ghana, and now we're seeing the same thing in South Africa here," Egypt forward Mohamed Zidan said. "We are having enough time to prepare well for the games and the coaching staff are also having time to prepare the players."
For Egypt and the United States, the tournament has been a tale of how teams react to opening setbacks.
While Egypt seemed to draw inspiration from its narrow 4-3 loss to Brazil in order to shock Italy 1-0, the United States played well in a 10-man loss to Italy but then buckled against Brazil.
"In these kind of events, it's no different to the World Cup," United States coach Bob Bradley said. "Many of the players have just finished their own seasons and they can be in all different frames of mind. You come together and something can happen in that first game or two and rally everybody and push the team on and be the spark.
"Or it can easily be: now it doesn't go right, there's a little extra pressure, guys start to get nervous."
The United States needs victory and goal difference to swing its way by a barely conceivable amount if it is to edge its way into the next round. But that doesn't mean Bradley is about to employ a gung-ho attack to secure those goals.
"It's not always that you can count up the numbers and put the guys up who have scored the most goals on the field together," Bradley said. "It's got to still be a collective way to collect chances, to be dangerous."
What the United States needs to do is score an early goal, not concede one as it did in its 3-0 loss to Brazil on Thursday.
"The key in any of these situations is getting a goal at the right time, feeling like there's a little momentum," Bradley said. "Maybe the other team is forced to open up and from there maybe you can take advantage."
Bradley said he had yet to decide how many changes to make to the team that lost to Brazil, although the suspension of midfielder Sacha Kljestan for his second-half red card means there will be at least one - and probably more.
The Egyptians' success has been built upon the sort of hard running and stamina often associated with teams in England's Premier League, with a defense backed up by the standout goalkeeping of Essam El Hadary.
Zidan and Mohamed Aboutrika have switched position to constantly occupy both Brazil and Italy, with Zidan particularly prominent in scoring twice against Brazil.
"It's the pure commitment, the running they're doing for each other, just the physical effort that they're putting into every game," Bradley said. "Physically, they're a talented team. They're athletic. They work very hard and there's no tactical magic to make up for that."
But while victory is a must for the Americans, a draw would be enough to put Egypt through to the semifinals if Brazil beats Italy in the other group game.
The Pharoahs' success may be a surprise to those who predicted Brazil and Italy would coast through to the next round, but the players have always been confident after winning the last two editions of the African Cup of Nations.
"This is like what we did together at the Nations Cup the last two times in Egypt and in Ghana, and now we're seeing the same thing in South Africa here," Egypt forward Mohamed Zidan said. "We are having enough time to prepare well for the games and the coaching staff are also having time to prepare the players."
For Egypt and the United States, the tournament has been a tale of how teams react to opening setbacks.
While Egypt seemed to draw inspiration from its narrow 4-3 loss to Brazil in order to shock Italy 1-0, the United States played well in a 10-man loss to Italy but then buckled against Brazil.
"In these kind of events, it's no different to the World Cup," United States coach Bob Bradley said. "Many of the players have just finished their own seasons and they can be in all different frames of mind. You come together and something can happen in that first game or two and rally everybody and push the team on and be the spark.
"Or it can easily be: now it doesn't go right, there's a little extra pressure, guys start to get nervous."
The United States needs victory and goal difference to swing its way by a barely conceivable amount if it is to edge its way into the next round. But that doesn't mean Bradley is about to employ a gung-ho attack to secure those goals.
"It's not always that you can count up the numbers and put the guys up who have scored the most goals on the field together," Bradley said. "It's got to still be a collective way to collect chances, to be dangerous."
What the United States needs to do is score an early goal, not concede one as it did in its 3-0 loss to Brazil on Thursday.
"The key in any of these situations is getting a goal at the right time, feeling like there's a little momentum," Bradley said. "Maybe the other team is forced to open up and from there maybe you can take advantage."
Bradley said he had yet to decide how many changes to make to the team that lost to Brazil, although the suspension of midfielder Sacha Kljestan for his second-half red card means there will be at least one - and probably more.
The Egyptians' success has been built upon the sort of hard running and stamina often associated with teams in England's Premier League, with a defense backed up by the standout goalkeeping of Essam El Hadary.
Zidan and Mohamed Aboutrika have switched position to constantly occupy both Brazil and Italy, with Zidan particularly prominent in scoring twice against Brazil.
"It's the pure commitment, the running they're doing for each other, just the physical effort that they're putting into every game," Bradley said. "Physically, they're a talented team. They're athletic. They work very hard and there's no tactical magic to make up for that."
Tosic: We knew Ronaldo was going
Manchester United midfielder Zoran Tosic has revealed the players knew Cristiano Ronaldo was going to leave the club this summer.
United have accepted an £80million offer from Real Madrid for the Portugal star, who has been the club's leading scorer for the past two seasons.
Ronaldo's desire to one day play for Madrid was no secret but it was the need for a new challenge that was behind the move, according to Tosic.
"He told us he had won all the awards and he wanted to try something else," the winger said. "I don't know if he had already signed for Real Madrid.
"He is going to again be the best player in the world. Last season he scored 42 goals, this time 27. And they all said it's his worst season because it was not enough. In Madrid he will be the best again."
Tosic, 22, joined United from Partizan Belgrade in January but has so far made only three first-term appearances.
Currently with Serbia Under-21s at the European Championships in Sweden, he is hoping he can help fill the void left by Ronaldo's impending departure.
"Cristiano was the best player in the team and so someone will come in to take his place. I hope I will get the chance," he added.
United have accepted an £80million offer from Real Madrid for the Portugal star, who has been the club's leading scorer for the past two seasons.
Ronaldo's desire to one day play for Madrid was no secret but it was the need for a new challenge that was behind the move, according to Tosic.
"He told us he had won all the awards and he wanted to try something else," the winger said. "I don't know if he had already signed for Real Madrid.
"He is going to again be the best player in the world. Last season he scored 42 goals, this time 27. And they all said it's his worst season because it was not enough. In Madrid he will be the best again."
Tosic, 22, joined United from Partizan Belgrade in January but has so far made only three first-term appearances.
Currently with Serbia Under-21s at the European Championships in Sweden, he is hoping he can help fill the void left by Ronaldo's impending departure.
"Cristiano was the best player in the team and so someone will come in to take his place. I hope I will get the chance," he added.
Italy needs victory against Brazil in Confed Cup
CENTURION, South Africa (AP) - Struggling Italy meets an upbeat Brazilian team Sunday in a decisive Group B match that could send the loser home from the Confederations Cup.
Italy needs a victory by two goals to secure a spot in the semifinals without depending on the match between the United States and Egypt, while a draw will be enough for the Brazilians.
Italy is coming off a disappointing 1-0 loss to Egypt. Brazil appears to be hitting its stride after a dominating 3-0 win over the United States.
The match at Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria is one of the most anticipated in the eight-team competition in South Africa, pitting two title favorites against each other. European champion Spain is the other top contender in the tournament, which is being used as a World Cup warmup.
"It's a world classic," Brazil midfielder Gilberto Silva said. "Regardless of the teams' situation, it's going to be a very heated match."
Brazil has six points, three more than world champion Italy and Egypt. The United States has yet to earn a point and is virtually eliminated. Italy can advance with a draw if Egypt fails to beat the Americans in Rustenburg, but the Italians are confident they can overcome the Brazilians.
"Brazil is certainly in better form in terms of skill and ball control, but I think we're in better form physically right now, and when two teams like that meet I always pick the one in better physical form," Italy goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon said.
The Italians have been downplaying the importance of the Confederations Cup and blaming injuries for the team's disappointing performances, and the match against Brazil is seen as another test ahead of next year's World Cup.
"The most important thing to me is that we at least show we're capable of playing with these big teams," Buffon said. "Whether we win, draw or lose, or advance or not, is less important. Now if we lose by a large margin, that would mean we're very far behind schedule, but I don't think that will happen."
The Group B winner will likely avoid a semifinal encounter with Spain, but Buffon said that's not a concern for Italy either.
"Italy is capable of beating Brazil, Spain and Brazil again," Buffon said. "Yes, not just once, but twice."
Before losing to Egypt, Italy had to erase a 1-0 deficit in a 3-1 win against a 10-man U.S. team in its opener.
Brazil enters the match boosted by a solid performance against the United States, when it improved defensively and offensively from the sloppy 4-3 opening victory over Egypt.
"It's natural that we are getting better game after game," Kaka said. "And as the games are becoming more important, we will be playing better."
Defending champion Brazil will be eliminated only if its loses to Italy by two goals and Egypt beats the United States by at least three goals.
Brazil coach Dunga made four changes for the match against the United States to rest the regular starers and give opportunities to some of the reserves, and said he is likely to make more substitutions against Italy.
Italy coach Marcello Lippi also is likely to alter his lineup, mostly on defense and at midfield. Captain Fabio Cannavaro, who decided to stay in South Africa despite the death of his grandfather, could match Paolo Maldini's record of 126 national team appearances.
It will be the first match between the rivals since a 2-0 win for Brazil in a friendly in London in February. The team's have never faced each other in the Confederations Cup.
Sunday's match will take place on the same date as the 1970 World Cup final in which the Brazilians - led by Pele - came out victorious 4-1. Brazil also defeated Italy in a penalty shootout in the 1994 World Cup final.
"It's a match between two great teams and you never know what's going to happen," Dunga said.
Italy needs a victory by two goals to secure a spot in the semifinals without depending on the match between the United States and Egypt, while a draw will be enough for the Brazilians.
Italy is coming off a disappointing 1-0 loss to Egypt. Brazil appears to be hitting its stride after a dominating 3-0 win over the United States.
The match at Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria is one of the most anticipated in the eight-team competition in South Africa, pitting two title favorites against each other. European champion Spain is the other top contender in the tournament, which is being used as a World Cup warmup.
"It's a world classic," Brazil midfielder Gilberto Silva said. "Regardless of the teams' situation, it's going to be a very heated match."
Brazil has six points, three more than world champion Italy and Egypt. The United States has yet to earn a point and is virtually eliminated. Italy can advance with a draw if Egypt fails to beat the Americans in Rustenburg, but the Italians are confident they can overcome the Brazilians.
"Brazil is certainly in better form in terms of skill and ball control, but I think we're in better form physically right now, and when two teams like that meet I always pick the one in better physical form," Italy goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon said.
The Italians have been downplaying the importance of the Confederations Cup and blaming injuries for the team's disappointing performances, and the match against Brazil is seen as another test ahead of next year's World Cup.
"The most important thing to me is that we at least show we're capable of playing with these big teams," Buffon said. "Whether we win, draw or lose, or advance or not, is less important. Now if we lose by a large margin, that would mean we're very far behind schedule, but I don't think that will happen."
The Group B winner will likely avoid a semifinal encounter with Spain, but Buffon said that's not a concern for Italy either.
"Italy is capable of beating Brazil, Spain and Brazil again," Buffon said. "Yes, not just once, but twice."
Before losing to Egypt, Italy had to erase a 1-0 deficit in a 3-1 win against a 10-man U.S. team in its opener.
Brazil enters the match boosted by a solid performance against the United States, when it improved defensively and offensively from the sloppy 4-3 opening victory over Egypt.
"It's natural that we are getting better game after game," Kaka said. "And as the games are becoming more important, we will be playing better."
Defending champion Brazil will be eliminated only if its loses to Italy by two goals and Egypt beats the United States by at least three goals.
Brazil coach Dunga made four changes for the match against the United States to rest the regular starers and give opportunities to some of the reserves, and said he is likely to make more substitutions against Italy.
Italy coach Marcello Lippi also is likely to alter his lineup, mostly on defense and at midfield. Captain Fabio Cannavaro, who decided to stay in South Africa despite the death of his grandfather, could match Paolo Maldini's record of 126 national team appearances.
It will be the first match between the rivals since a 2-0 win for Brazil in a friendly in London in February. The team's have never faced each other in the Confederations Cup.
Sunday's match will take place on the same date as the 1970 World Cup final in which the Brazilians - led by Pele - came out victorious 4-1. Brazil also defeated Italy in a penalty shootout in the 1994 World Cup final.
"It's a match between two great teams and you never know what's going to happen," Dunga said.
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