LONDON (AP) - A fresh inquiry into the contentious contract that brought Carlos Tevez to England three years ago has cleared West Ham of further wrongdoing.
The latest investigation focused on changes made to the Argentina forward's contract that enabled him to play in the last three matches of the 2006-07 season. His goals helped West Ham stay in the top flight at the expense of Sheffield United.
West Ham has already been fined 5.5 million pounds (then $11 million) in April 2007 by a disciplinary commission for breaking rules on third-party ownership of players in the transfers of Tevez and Argentina midfielder Javier Mascherano.
Last September, an independent panel found that Tevez was not eligible to play in the matches, ruling that Sheffield United was entitled to compensation from West Ham because Tevez's goals condemned them to relegation. A figure between 10 million and 15 million pounds ($14 million and $21 million) was agreed by the clubs in March.
The latest inquiry, conducted by the Premier League and the Football Association, considered elements of that verdict by Hugh Griffiths, focusing on how Tevez's contract was revised in April 2007.
"The inquiry has concluded that, on the basis of the evidence available to them, there is no prima facie case that West Ham United and/or its officials did commit any further breaches of Premier League or FA rules immediately after the independent disciplinary commission's decision," the FA and Premier League said Friday in a statement.
Tevez - now with Manchester City - and Mascherano - now with Liverpool - moved to West Ham in August 2006 from Brazilian side Corinthians on free transfers.
When they joined, their contracts were owned by British-based company Media Sports Investment and another third party - a fact hidden by the Hammers from the league.
Tevez, who joined Manchester United in the offseason following West Ham's survival, moved to City on Tuesday after his two-year loan deal at Old Trafford expired.
That drew a line under the contract dispute that has lingered since Tevez moved to the Premier League in 2006.
Manchester City assumed complete registration rights to the player from the group that previously owned his economic rights.
7/17/2009
Blues seal deal for Gers battler Barry
Premier League new boys Birmingham City have completed the signing of Barry Ferguson from Rangers for an initial fee of £1.25million.
Ferguson has accepted a two-year contract with Blues, with the option of another 12 months, after passing a medical at St Andrews.
The 31-year-old midfielder had been widely expected to leave Ibrox over the summer after losing the Gers captaincy following the infamous alcohol-related incident on Scotland duty in the spring.
He has now taken on the challenge of a second stab at English football having previously spent a largely unsuccessful 18 months with Blackburn Rovers.
The midfielder also becomes the latest in a long line of new recruits for Birmingham following the club's promotion from the Championship.
Blues boss Alex McLeish has been strengthening all areas of his squad and had particularly been keen to bring in an experienced midfielder in the Ferguson mould.
Ferguson's former Gers team-mate Nacho Novo has paid tribute to the player, who made over 400 appearances during his two stints at the club.
Novo told the club's official website: "Well he's a legend, isn't he? He is one of the best players I have ever been lucky enough to play with.
"Barry is a big personality and he's a worker. He has always helped everybody here and he's a person I've always got on very well with.
"We will miss him here. I am sure that he will do well there."
Ferguson has accepted a two-year contract with Blues, with the option of another 12 months, after passing a medical at St Andrews.
The 31-year-old midfielder had been widely expected to leave Ibrox over the summer after losing the Gers captaincy following the infamous alcohol-related incident on Scotland duty in the spring.
He has now taken on the challenge of a second stab at English football having previously spent a largely unsuccessful 18 months with Blackburn Rovers.
The midfielder also becomes the latest in a long line of new recruits for Birmingham following the club's promotion from the Championship.
Blues boss Alex McLeish has been strengthening all areas of his squad and had particularly been keen to bring in an experienced midfielder in the Ferguson mould.
Ferguson's former Gers team-mate Nacho Novo has paid tribute to the player, who made over 400 appearances during his two stints at the club.
Novo told the club's official website: "Well he's a legend, isn't he? He is one of the best players I have ever been lucky enough to play with.
"Barry is a big personality and he's a worker. He has always helped everybody here and he's a person I've always got on very well with.
"We will miss him here. I am sure that he will do well there."
Del Piero to stay with Juventus until 2011
TURIN, Italy (AP) - Juventus captain Alessandro Del Piero has extended his contract with the Serie A club until 2011.
The striker's contract was due to run out in 2010, but a statement Friday on the club's Web site said that Del Piero had signed for an extra year.
"I am proud to have been with Juventus for all these years and I still want to write important pages of (its) history," Del Piero said.
The 34-year-old striker has been with Juventus since the 1993-94 season.
The striker's contract was due to run out in 2010, but a statement Friday on the club's Web site said that Del Piero had signed for an extra year.
"I am proud to have been with Juventus for all these years and I still want to write important pages of (its) history," Del Piero said.
The 34-year-old striker has been with Juventus since the 1993-94 season.
Rosicky named in Arsenal squad for friendly
LONDON (AP) - Arsenal midfielder Tomas Rosicky was named in the squad to face Barnet on Saturday in a preseason friendly.
The 28-year-old Czech international has not played since limping off with a hamstring tendon injury after nine minutes of an FA Cup match against Newcastle on Jan. 26, 2008. He also has been hampered by a knee injury.
The 28-year-old Czech international has not played since limping off with a hamstring tendon injury after nine minutes of an FA Cup match against Newcastle on Jan. 26, 2008. He also has been hampered by a knee injury.
Coach: Villa staying at Valencia
VALENCIA, Spain (AP) - David Villa will be staying at Valencia, coach Unai Emery said Friday.
The Spain striker had been a Real Madrid and Barcelona transfer target, but Valencia's high price tag - £50 million ($71 million) - saw the two Spanish powerhouses look elsewhere. Madrid signed Lyon forward Karim Benzema and Barcelona is on the verge of acquiring Inter Milan striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
"The reality is that Villa is staying," Emery said. "Valencia wanted to have David Villa in its team despite its known economic hardships. It's important that the club puts stock in the sporting side."
Villa, who scored three goals for Spain at the Confederations Cup despite constant reports over his future, turned down a move to Chelsea to stay in Spain.
Emery said it was normal for Villa to ponder a move, and that he was sure that the 27-year-old Spaniard would return to preseason training with the same motivation as always despite seeing potential moves fall through.
"Villa never said he wanted to leave," Emery said a day after reports emerged that the Spain striker was willing to take a salary cut to move to Barcelona.
Fellow Spain internationals David Silva and Juanma Mata have also been reported Madrid and Barcelona targets, but new president Manuel Llorente has preferred not to sell any of his stars despite the club being up to ?600 million ($845 million) in debt and with construction work on a new stadium having halted since the club cannot afford to pay the costs.
Valencia's players played without pay for a month early in the year before the club finally came through.
"I think they are players that have always been happy at Valencia and I hope, I'm convinced, that they will return to the group easily, and will do so with the complete professionalism they have always shown," Emery said.
The Spain striker had been a Real Madrid and Barcelona transfer target, but Valencia's high price tag - £50 million ($71 million) - saw the two Spanish powerhouses look elsewhere. Madrid signed Lyon forward Karim Benzema and Barcelona is on the verge of acquiring Inter Milan striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
"The reality is that Villa is staying," Emery said. "Valencia wanted to have David Villa in its team despite its known economic hardships. It's important that the club puts stock in the sporting side."
Villa, who scored three goals for Spain at the Confederations Cup despite constant reports over his future, turned down a move to Chelsea to stay in Spain.
Emery said it was normal for Villa to ponder a move, and that he was sure that the 27-year-old Spaniard would return to preseason training with the same motivation as always despite seeing potential moves fall through.
"Villa never said he wanted to leave," Emery said a day after reports emerged that the Spain striker was willing to take a salary cut to move to Barcelona.
Fellow Spain internationals David Silva and Juanma Mata have also been reported Madrid and Barcelona targets, but new president Manuel Llorente has preferred not to sell any of his stars despite the club being up to ?600 million ($845 million) in debt and with construction work on a new stadium having halted since the club cannot afford to pay the costs.
Valencia's players played without pay for a month early in the year before the club finally came through.
"I think they are players that have always been happy at Valencia and I hope, I'm convinced, that they will return to the group easily, and will do so with the complete professionalism they have always shown," Emery said.
Toffees reject City bid for Lescott
Everton have revealed they have formally rejected a bid from big-spending Manchester City for England defender Joleon Lescott.
The bid, believed to be around �15million, was made on Thursday to club owner Bill Kenwright.
Lescott has been linked with City for several weeks, but this is the first time that the Eastlands club have tested Everton manager David Moyes' claims that none of his squad will be sold this summer.
City, who have spent over �50million on Carlos Tevez, Roque Santa Cruz and Gareth Barry already this summer, want to pair Lescott with Chelsea and England skipper John Terry in their defence.
But with the Terry deal looking increasingly unlikely, Everton have now made it clear that they do not want to sell the former Wolves defender.
Toffees chief executive Robert Elstone said: "As a Club, we have publicly stated - as recently as Wednesday night - that we do not intend selling any players.
"David Moyes' primary focus is on building a squad so that we can continue to compete effectively in what is the most competitive League in world football."
The bid, believed to be around �15million, was made on Thursday to club owner Bill Kenwright.
Lescott has been linked with City for several weeks, but this is the first time that the Eastlands club have tested Everton manager David Moyes' claims that none of his squad will be sold this summer.
City, who have spent over �50million on Carlos Tevez, Roque Santa Cruz and Gareth Barry already this summer, want to pair Lescott with Chelsea and England skipper John Terry in their defence.
But with the Terry deal looking increasingly unlikely, Everton have now made it clear that they do not want to sell the former Wolves defender.
Toffees chief executive Robert Elstone said: "As a Club, we have publicly stated - as recently as Wednesday night - that we do not intend selling any players.
"David Moyes' primary focus is on building a squad so that we can continue to compete effectively in what is the most competitive League in world football."
Revolution's Reis says Beckham drama distracting
LOWELL, Mass. (AP) - New England Revolution goalkeeper Matt Reis says David Beckham's return to the Los Angeles Galaxy and his inevitable return to AC Milan are distracting from other interesting stories in Major League Soccer.
Reis attended an event Thursday for an immigrant soccer tournament in Lowell and said that Beckham may sell plenty of celebrity magazines, but that all MLS teams have players from around the world who have compelling personal stories.
Beckham returned Thursday in the Galaxy's 3-1 win over the New York Red Bulls. He has publicly feuded with Galaxy teammate Landon Donovan and drawn fire from U.S. soccer fans for not taking the MLS seriously.
Reis attended an event Thursday for an immigrant soccer tournament in Lowell and said that Beckham may sell plenty of celebrity magazines, but that all MLS teams have players from around the world who have compelling personal stories.
Beckham returned Thursday in the Galaxy's 3-1 win over the New York Red Bulls. He has publicly feuded with Galaxy teammate Landon Donovan and drawn fire from U.S. soccer fans for not taking the MLS seriously.
Valladolid signs Manucho from Man United
VALLADOLID, Spain (AP) - Valladolid signed striker Manucho from Manchester United on Friday.
Manucho agreed to a five-year contract with the club, which finished 16th in the 20-team Spanish league last season.
Valladolid did not disclose the cost of the transfer.
The 26-year-old Angola forward joined the Premier League champions during the 2007-08 season and subsequently played on-loan at Greek side Panathinaikos and then English club Hull City last season, where he scored two goals in 13 games.
Manucho made three appearances for Manchester United.
Manucho agreed to a five-year contract with the club, which finished 16th in the 20-team Spanish league last season.
Valladolid did not disclose the cost of the transfer.
The 26-year-old Angola forward joined the Premier League champions during the 2007-08 season and subsequently played on-loan at Greek side Panathinaikos and then English club Hull City last season, where he scored two goals in 13 games.
Manucho made three appearances for Manchester United.
Everton rejects Man City's bid for Lescott
LIVERPOOL, England (AP) - Everton has rejected a bid from Manchester City for England defender Joleon Lescott.
Everton manager David Moyes says none of his squad will be sold this offseason, despite City offering about 15 million pounds ($24.4 million) for Lescott.
City wants to pair Lescott with Chelsea captain John Terry in defense.
City's wealthy owner has already spent more than 50 million pounds on Carlos Tevez, Roque Santa Cruz and Gareth Barry.
Everton manager David Moyes says none of his squad will be sold this offseason, despite City offering about 15 million pounds ($24.4 million) for Lescott.
City wants to pair Lescott with Chelsea captain John Terry in defense.
City's wealthy owner has already spent more than 50 million pounds on Carlos Tevez, Roque Santa Cruz and Gareth Barry.
Vieri set for Rovers chance
Blackburn hope to have veteran striker Christian Vieri on show when they play in a three-team tournament in Croatia on Saturday.
The 36-year-old, released by Atalanta at the end of last season, has spent a week on trial with Sam Allardyce's squad at their training camp in northern Italy.
But Vieri was not involved in Rovers' 2-2 draw in a friendly against Roma in Bolzano on Thursday, despite being expected to play.
Blackburn have now moved on to Split in Croatia for the second leg of their summer tour.
They will play in a tournament involving Hajduk Split and CD National from Portugal, and Vieri is expected to get a run-out then.
Having sold Roque Santa Cruz to Manchester City, Allardyce is desperate to sign a new striker, and he has been impressed enough with Vieri to offer him the chance to prove he can still perform at the top level.
Allardyce has also been alerted to the possibility of Sunderland's Kenwyne Jones being available if the Black Cats sign Peter Crouch from Portsmouth.
Rovers hit back from being 2-0 down against Roma, with goals from Paul Gallagher and Aaron Done clinching a draw, although Blackburn then lost a bizarre penalty shoot-out at the end of the friendly.
The 36-year-old, released by Atalanta at the end of last season, has spent a week on trial with Sam Allardyce's squad at their training camp in northern Italy.
But Vieri was not involved in Rovers' 2-2 draw in a friendly against Roma in Bolzano on Thursday, despite being expected to play.
Blackburn have now moved on to Split in Croatia for the second leg of their summer tour.
They will play in a tournament involving Hajduk Split and CD National from Portugal, and Vieri is expected to get a run-out then.
Having sold Roque Santa Cruz to Manchester City, Allardyce is desperate to sign a new striker, and he has been impressed enough with Vieri to offer him the chance to prove he can still perform at the top level.
Allardyce has also been alerted to the possibility of Sunderland's Kenwyne Jones being available if the Black Cats sign Peter Crouch from Portsmouth.
Rovers hit back from being 2-0 down against Roma, with goals from Paul Gallagher and Aaron Done clinching a draw, although Blackburn then lost a bizarre penalty shoot-out at the end of the friendly.
Hart key to Mokoena's Pompey move
Aaron Mokoena has revealed that Paul Hart played an integral role in his decision to join Portsmouth.
The South African skipper has penned a three-year contract with Pompey after leaving Blackburn as a free agent at the end of last season.
The 28-year-old midfielder is set to join up with his new team-mates this weekend, having been granted extra time off following his Confederations Cup exploits this summer.
His agent, Ivan Modia, claims Mokoena is looking forward to beginning a new chapter in his career and remains hopeful that Hart, who led Pompey on an interim basis during the second half of last season, will be offered the Fratton Park post on a full-time basis.
Modia told The News: "Aaron is flying in this weekend and is very excited about playing for Portsmouth.
"There was interest from Wolves, they were keen to sign him to be an experienced member of the squad that will be in the Premier League this season.
"But he decided to go to Portsmouth because it is a better challenge than Wolves. They have been in the Premier League for a number of years and the confidence Paul Hart has shown in him in their conversations was also key.
"In fact, Mr Hart is the main reason why he is here. The manager is very straight and close to the players. He is smart and thoughtful, communicates well with the players and comes across as though he is also going to listen.
"Aaron spoke to a few players about the manager before he made his decision and they said only good things about him.
"Mr Hart is a good manager and did well keeping the club up last season. Face-to-face he's also a very-down-to-earth guy who is going to tell you the reality of the expectations.
"Mr Hart and Peter Storrie have told Aaron they want to move the club forward and he also wants to do the business.
"He's looking forward to the challenge and has already found a place to live in Portsmouth. He wants to be settled in as soon as possible and start showing what he can do."
Modia has also moved to assure Pompey fans that Mokoena's work permit application is expected to go through without a hitch.
"The work permit is going to be fine. That's in Portsmouth's hands and they have to sign a couple of things," he added.
"Aaron fulfils all the requirements, there is nothing to worry about there."
The South African skipper has penned a three-year contract with Pompey after leaving Blackburn as a free agent at the end of last season.
The 28-year-old midfielder is set to join up with his new team-mates this weekend, having been granted extra time off following his Confederations Cup exploits this summer.
His agent, Ivan Modia, claims Mokoena is looking forward to beginning a new chapter in his career and remains hopeful that Hart, who led Pompey on an interim basis during the second half of last season, will be offered the Fratton Park post on a full-time basis.
Modia told The News: "Aaron is flying in this weekend and is very excited about playing for Portsmouth.
"There was interest from Wolves, they were keen to sign him to be an experienced member of the squad that will be in the Premier League this season.
"But he decided to go to Portsmouth because it is a better challenge than Wolves. They have been in the Premier League for a number of years and the confidence Paul Hart has shown in him in their conversations was also key.
"In fact, Mr Hart is the main reason why he is here. The manager is very straight and close to the players. He is smart and thoughtful, communicates well with the players and comes across as though he is also going to listen.
"Aaron spoke to a few players about the manager before he made his decision and they said only good things about him.
"Mr Hart is a good manager and did well keeping the club up last season. Face-to-face he's also a very-down-to-earth guy who is going to tell you the reality of the expectations.
"Mr Hart and Peter Storrie have told Aaron they want to move the club forward and he also wants to do the business.
"He's looking forward to the challenge and has already found a place to live in Portsmouth. He wants to be settled in as soon as possible and start showing what he can do."
Modia has also moved to assure Pompey fans that Mokoena's work permit application is expected to go through without a hitch.
"The work permit is going to be fine. That's in Portsmouth's hands and they have to sign a couple of things," he added.
"Aaron fulfils all the requirements, there is nothing to worry about there."
Gerrard eyes glory, Xabi eyes exit
Steven Gerrard has underlined his commitment to Liverpool as his midfield colleague Xabi Alonso moves closer to a transfer away from Anfield.
As Gerrard prepares to lead Liverpool in their second pre-season friendly on Sunday against Rapid Vienna in the Austrian capital, the chances of the Reds skipper and Alonso both being on the plane later that night heading for the club's Far East tour are increasingly remote.
Real Madrid officials are working to avoid Alonso having to travel with Liverpool for games in Thailand and Singapore next week, and it is believed negotiations are continuing over a likely £30million transfer.
But for Gerrard, the desire for glory with Liverpool and England burns as brightly as ever.
Gerrard has made it clear that he wants the Premier League title, another Champions League success and a World Cup victory with England before he considers coaching and management at the end of his career.
"I still have many more dreams, and that means winning the Premier League because that is the only medal that is missing from my own personal collection," he told UEFA's official website.
"And it would be really nice to go to a tournament with England and to be successful, so that means the World Cup next summer for me.
"I want to go one better than a quarter-final, which is the farthest so far that I have gone in a tournament.
"It's the last four and the final that I now am aiming for. And I want another success in the Champions League too.
"People could see my reaction when I lifted that trophy in 2005, how much it means to me, my team-mates and the supporters. That was the best night of my career and I want to match it and experience that success again."
Once his playing career ends - and he has intimated that his current contract taking him to 33 will be his last - Gerrard already has plans to remain occupied.
He said: "Now I am thinking about what I will do at the end of my career, I'm not getting any younger.
"It would be nice to stay involved in the game. I'm not sure at what level as either a manager or a coach or even going into the media. I want to stay involved because football is so important to me."
Gerrard's partnership with Alonso at the heart of Liverpool's side, however, looks to be over.
With Alonso having made it clear to manager Rafael Benitez that he wants to leave the club, the Spanish manager has been determined to get the very best price for the 30-year-old.
The end of the agreement this weekend with Alonso's former club Real Sociedad that would have seen 20% of any sell-on fee going to the Basque club gives Liverpool and Madrid some negotiating room.
Holland midfielder Wesley Sneijder is now being linked in a player-plus-cash compromise. Benitez could also use the Alonso fee to buy Valencia's attacking midfielder David Silva.
Benitez has other targets, and has again been linked with Roma midfielder Alberto Aquilani, despite the player's agent ruling out a move earlier in the week.
Roma coach Luciano Spalletti said: "We need to be open and listen to any type of offers that are proposed to us."
Roma director Bruno Conti added: "The situation as it is right now is that Aquilani will remain until there is a club that makes an offer."
Javier Mascherano, a target for Barcelona, rejoined the Liverpool squad on Thursday night and will be involved against Vienna. He has held talks with Benitez and been told he will not be sold.
As Gerrard prepares to lead Liverpool in their second pre-season friendly on Sunday against Rapid Vienna in the Austrian capital, the chances of the Reds skipper and Alonso both being on the plane later that night heading for the club's Far East tour are increasingly remote.
Real Madrid officials are working to avoid Alonso having to travel with Liverpool for games in Thailand and Singapore next week, and it is believed negotiations are continuing over a likely £30million transfer.
But for Gerrard, the desire for glory with Liverpool and England burns as brightly as ever.
Gerrard has made it clear that he wants the Premier League title, another Champions League success and a World Cup victory with England before he considers coaching and management at the end of his career.
"I still have many more dreams, and that means winning the Premier League because that is the only medal that is missing from my own personal collection," he told UEFA's official website.
"And it would be really nice to go to a tournament with England and to be successful, so that means the World Cup next summer for me.
"I want to go one better than a quarter-final, which is the farthest so far that I have gone in a tournament.
"It's the last four and the final that I now am aiming for. And I want another success in the Champions League too.
"People could see my reaction when I lifted that trophy in 2005, how much it means to me, my team-mates and the supporters. That was the best night of my career and I want to match it and experience that success again."
Once his playing career ends - and he has intimated that his current contract taking him to 33 will be his last - Gerrard already has plans to remain occupied.
He said: "Now I am thinking about what I will do at the end of my career, I'm not getting any younger.
"It would be nice to stay involved in the game. I'm not sure at what level as either a manager or a coach or even going into the media. I want to stay involved because football is so important to me."
Gerrard's partnership with Alonso at the heart of Liverpool's side, however, looks to be over.
With Alonso having made it clear to manager Rafael Benitez that he wants to leave the club, the Spanish manager has been determined to get the very best price for the 30-year-old.
The end of the agreement this weekend with Alonso's former club Real Sociedad that would have seen 20% of any sell-on fee going to the Basque club gives Liverpool and Madrid some negotiating room.
Holland midfielder Wesley Sneijder is now being linked in a player-plus-cash compromise. Benitez could also use the Alonso fee to buy Valencia's attacking midfielder David Silva.
Benitez has other targets, and has again been linked with Roma midfielder Alberto Aquilani, despite the player's agent ruling out a move earlier in the week.
Roma coach Luciano Spalletti said: "We need to be open and listen to any type of offers that are proposed to us."
Roma director Bruno Conti added: "The situation as it is right now is that Aquilani will remain until there is a club that makes an offer."
Javier Mascherano, a target for Barcelona, rejoined the Liverpool squad on Thursday night and will be involved against Vienna. He has held talks with Benitez and been told he will not be sold.
Tutu: 2010 World Cup chance for unity
BERLIN (AP) - Archbishop Desmond Tutu believes the 2010 World Cup is a good chance to demonstrate the gains South Africa has made since the end of apartheid.
Tutu has long championed increased rights for minorities and the importance of friendship across ethnic boundaries.
"This thing is as important as Obama getting into the White House," he told reporters Friday at the South African Embassy in the German capital. "For people of color everywhere, it would lift them."
The anti-apartheid stalwart was a thorn in the side of the white government, helping to bring about the end of apartheid in 1994 when Nelson Mandela became the country's first black president.
The 77-year-old Tutu coined the phrase "rainbow nation" to describe South Africa's mix of races, cultures and languages.
Tutu said the World Cup - like the just-completed Confederations Cup - will give South Africans the opportunity to take pride in the steps their country has taken in terms of social progress.
"That would be the greatest thing - helping our people come together, seeing all of our people with a new pride," he said.
The 1984 Nobel Peace Prize laureate recalled the excitement that enveloped the country in 1995 when it hosted the Rugby World Cup, ultimately winning the tournament with a 15-12 upset of New Zealand.
"It did more for our country's reconciliation than all my sermons for a year," he said, adding that sports go a long way in promoting both racial and cultural unity.
"If human beings of all these different colors can come together ... then there is hope for the world," he said.
As to fears South Africa has fallen behind in building the infrastructure for the World Cup, Tutu said skepticism about its ability would be proven wrong.
"You know what? We've been free for only 15 years!" he said. "Give us a chance!"
Tutu has long championed increased rights for minorities and the importance of friendship across ethnic boundaries.
"This thing is as important as Obama getting into the White House," he told reporters Friday at the South African Embassy in the German capital. "For people of color everywhere, it would lift them."
The anti-apartheid stalwart was a thorn in the side of the white government, helping to bring about the end of apartheid in 1994 when Nelson Mandela became the country's first black president.
The 77-year-old Tutu coined the phrase "rainbow nation" to describe South Africa's mix of races, cultures and languages.
Tutu said the World Cup - like the just-completed Confederations Cup - will give South Africans the opportunity to take pride in the steps their country has taken in terms of social progress.
"That would be the greatest thing - helping our people come together, seeing all of our people with a new pride," he said.
The 1984 Nobel Peace Prize laureate recalled the excitement that enveloped the country in 1995 when it hosted the Rugby World Cup, ultimately winning the tournament with a 15-12 upset of New Zealand.
"It did more for our country's reconciliation than all my sermons for a year," he said, adding that sports go a long way in promoting both racial and cultural unity.
"If human beings of all these different colors can come together ... then there is hope for the world," he said.
As to fears South Africa has fallen behind in building the infrastructure for the World Cup, Tutu said skepticism about its ability would be proven wrong.
"You know what? We've been free for only 15 years!" he said. "Give us a chance!"
Martinez happy with Wigan work-out
Wigan manager Roberto Martinez looked to the positives after seeing his side go down 1-0 to Crewe in a pre-season friendly at Gresty Road.
Joel Grant's 34th-minute goal was enough for the League Two side, slotting the ball home at the second attempt after goalkeeper Chris Kirkland had saved his initial shot.
But Martinez told the club's official website: "It was good to get them into a game situation and have them play 45 minutes each which gives us and them the ideal platform to build on.
"I was happy to see all 22 players have some kind of role to play in the game and the fact we've come away without any injuries is pleasing and lets us know that everything has been going to plan so far.
"The work-rate everyone put in was excellent and the young players who came showed they're not scared to get involved with the senior players they've been looking up to."
Joel Grant's 34th-minute goal was enough for the League Two side, slotting the ball home at the second attempt after goalkeeper Chris Kirkland had saved his initial shot.
But Martinez told the club's official website: "It was good to get them into a game situation and have them play 45 minutes each which gives us and them the ideal platform to build on.
"I was happy to see all 22 players have some kind of role to play in the game and the fact we've come away without any injuries is pleasing and lets us know that everything has been going to plan so far.
"The work-rate everyone put in was excellent and the young players who came showed they're not scared to get involved with the senior players they've been looking up to."
Bayern warns Madrid of FIFA complaint over Ribery
MADRID (AP) - Bayern Munich will report Real Madrid to FIFA if the Spanish team continues to pursue of Franck Ribery, the Bundesliga club said Friday.
Madrid and Barcelona have been in pursuit of the France winger, but persistent comments by Zinedine Zidane - who is working as a special adviser to Madrid president Florentino Perez - seemed to irk the Germans.
"Everybody is speaking about Ribery's transfer. Above all, Zidane says 'blah, blah, blah ...' It seems a lack of respect to us," Bayern manager Uli Hoeness told sports daily AS on Friday. "I want to be clear. We will report them to FIFA if things continue this way. This is not the way to do things."
Hoeness said that Bayern hadn't taken the case to FIFA because of good relations with Perez and director general Jorge Valdano. Ribery has so far refused to speak on the matter.
"We never wanted to listen to Madrid because, to us, Ribery has never been for sale," Hoeness said. "I've never been worried. Not me, not anyone else. Since the start there's never been a Ribery theme."
Hoeness said the situation would not lead Bayern to re-negotiate Ribery's contract, which is due to expire in 2011.
"Madrid's way of acting is incredible," Bayern coach Louis van Gaal said. "But everyone remembers how the last presidency of Florentino Perez ended."
Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson previously complained - unsuccessfully - to FIFA over Madrid's pursuit of Cristiano Ronaldo, who was eventually signed by Perez as part of the Spanish powerhouse's €214 million ($302 million) spending spree this offseason.
Madrid and Barcelona have been in pursuit of the France winger, but persistent comments by Zinedine Zidane - who is working as a special adviser to Madrid president Florentino Perez - seemed to irk the Germans.
"Everybody is speaking about Ribery's transfer. Above all, Zidane says 'blah, blah, blah ...' It seems a lack of respect to us," Bayern manager Uli Hoeness told sports daily AS on Friday. "I want to be clear. We will report them to FIFA if things continue this way. This is not the way to do things."
Hoeness said that Bayern hadn't taken the case to FIFA because of good relations with Perez and director general Jorge Valdano. Ribery has so far refused to speak on the matter.
"We never wanted to listen to Madrid because, to us, Ribery has never been for sale," Hoeness said. "I've never been worried. Not me, not anyone else. Since the start there's never been a Ribery theme."
Hoeness said the situation would not lead Bayern to re-negotiate Ribery's contract, which is due to expire in 2011.
"Madrid's way of acting is incredible," Bayern coach Louis van Gaal said. "But everyone remembers how the last presidency of Florentino Perez ended."
Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson previously complained - unsuccessfully - to FIFA over Madrid's pursuit of Cristiano Ronaldo, who was eventually signed by Perez as part of the Spanish powerhouse's €214 million ($302 million) spending spree this offseason.
Collins demands top-half finish
Sunderland defender Danny Collins will settle for nothing less than a top-10 finish as he prepares for the new Premier League campaign.
The 28-year-old Welshman led the Black Cats in their opening pre-season friendly at Darlington on Thursday night with skipper Dean Whitehead close to sealing a move to Stoke.
Steve Bruce's men completed a comfortable 4-0 win over the League Two outfit before heading off to Portugal and then, next weekend, the prestigious Amsterdam Tournament.
However, all that is merely the prelude to the opening game of the new league season at Bolton on August 15, and Collins is hoping for a big improvement on their scrap for top-flight survival last time around.
Asked what the aim should be for the new campaign, he said: "Top half - I don't see anything below top half as good enough.
"Looking at Fulham last season, they finished seventh and I didn't really feel they, when we played them over the two games, were any better than us.
"But they perhaps worked together better as a team, and that is the sort of benchmark we have got to be looking at for next season."
Collins' comments will strike a chord with both owner Ellis Short and chairman Niall Quinn, who are determined to end the club's yo-yo existence and avoid another fight against relegation.
To that end, they, along with manager Bruce, are currently trying to strengthen the squad with the kind of player they have not been able to target before.
That was illustrated by Portsmouth striker Peter Crouch's visit to Wearside on Thursday to discuss a possible £12million move to the Stadium of Light.
The 28-year-old is understood to be holding similar talks with Fulham on Friday, while former club Tottenham are also waiting in the wings with Bruce hoping for a decision over the weekend.
But whatever happens on that front, Collins believes the pursuit of players such as Crouch and Manchester City defender Richard Dunne is proof of the club's ambition.
He said: "We have got a great chairman and they are putting the money in, the other top man in charge as well. They are really having a go.
"The players we are trying to get in are only going to strengthen us.
"It's no good every season sticking with the same lads, you need to freshen it up.
"After where we finished last year, lads have moved on and naturally we are going to bring new players in.
"Looking at the players we are after, it is only going to strengthen us for next season."
Former boss Roy Keane invested heavily in the playing squad after dragging the Black Cats back into the Premier League at the end of the 2006/07 season, spending a total of almost �80million on new signings.
However, Collins is a survivor of the Mick McCarthy era and has made the �140,000 the club paid to take him to the Stadium of Light from Chester in October 2004 look a genuine bargain.
Having seen both players and managers come and go during the intervening years, he has no qualms about having to fight for his place and is looking forward to a new challenge.
Collins said: "It's my sixth season here now and I have certainly had to work hard.
"I am not saying none of the other boys have, but I have had to fight off challenges from other lads and really prove myself here.
"But I have enjoyed it, especially the last couple of seasons in the Premier League. I feel I have pushed myself and done quite well.
"But a new manager has come in now and I have got to start again and impress him and hopefully get my shirt for the start of the season."
The 28-year-old Welshman led the Black Cats in their opening pre-season friendly at Darlington on Thursday night with skipper Dean Whitehead close to sealing a move to Stoke.
Steve Bruce's men completed a comfortable 4-0 win over the League Two outfit before heading off to Portugal and then, next weekend, the prestigious Amsterdam Tournament.
However, all that is merely the prelude to the opening game of the new league season at Bolton on August 15, and Collins is hoping for a big improvement on their scrap for top-flight survival last time around.
Asked what the aim should be for the new campaign, he said: "Top half - I don't see anything below top half as good enough.
"Looking at Fulham last season, they finished seventh and I didn't really feel they, when we played them over the two games, were any better than us.
"But they perhaps worked together better as a team, and that is the sort of benchmark we have got to be looking at for next season."
Collins' comments will strike a chord with both owner Ellis Short and chairman Niall Quinn, who are determined to end the club's yo-yo existence and avoid another fight against relegation.
To that end, they, along with manager Bruce, are currently trying to strengthen the squad with the kind of player they have not been able to target before.
That was illustrated by Portsmouth striker Peter Crouch's visit to Wearside on Thursday to discuss a possible £12million move to the Stadium of Light.
The 28-year-old is understood to be holding similar talks with Fulham on Friday, while former club Tottenham are also waiting in the wings with Bruce hoping for a decision over the weekend.
But whatever happens on that front, Collins believes the pursuit of players such as Crouch and Manchester City defender Richard Dunne is proof of the club's ambition.
He said: "We have got a great chairman and they are putting the money in, the other top man in charge as well. They are really having a go.
"The players we are trying to get in are only going to strengthen us.
"It's no good every season sticking with the same lads, you need to freshen it up.
"After where we finished last year, lads have moved on and naturally we are going to bring new players in.
"Looking at the players we are after, it is only going to strengthen us for next season."
Former boss Roy Keane invested heavily in the playing squad after dragging the Black Cats back into the Premier League at the end of the 2006/07 season, spending a total of almost �80million on new signings.
However, Collins is a survivor of the Mick McCarthy era and has made the �140,000 the club paid to take him to the Stadium of Light from Chester in October 2004 look a genuine bargain.
Having seen both players and managers come and go during the intervening years, he has no qualms about having to fight for his place and is looking forward to a new challenge.
Collins said: "It's my sixth season here now and I have certainly had to work hard.
"I am not saying none of the other boys have, but I have had to fight off challenges from other lads and really prove myself here.
"But I have enjoyed it, especially the last couple of seasons in the Premier League. I feel I have pushed myself and done quite well.
"But a new manager has come in now and I have got to start again and impress him and hopefully get my shirt for the start of the season."
Theo urges Gunners to win ugly
Theo Walcott believes Arsenal must learn to win ugly if they are to challenge for the Premier League title.
The Gunners have amassed four successive seasons without silverware, reaching the semi-finals of the Champions League and FA Cup last term.
Walcott believes they should emulate champions Manchester United and Chelsea by sometimes forsaking dazzling football in favour of rolling up their sleeves.
"I think we need to do the dirty things right," he told the club's official website.
"Sometimes it's not just about pretty football, we need to grind out the results sometimes and get the win, get the three points.
"In cup competitions no one remembers the game, as long as the result is right. We need to take that into our game.
"Manchester United and Chelsea do the dirty work and they take their chances as well, that's another thing we need to learn and improve on.
"We had a great experience of getting to semi-finals last season but not quite getting to finals. Hopefully we can put that right."
Walcott is primarily used as a winger by Arsenal, who play Barnet in a pre-season friendly tomorrow, but Arsene Wenger is ready to start deploying him up front.
And the 20-year-old England star hopes to respond by hitting the target.
"The boss said hopefully he will start to put me up front now and then," he said.
"That's my natural position but I'd play anywhere for this team.
"I want to improve my final ball and score more goals. You get judged on goals so I want to score 15-plus this season.
"I love making runs in behind, I love scoring goals and making goals. That's what I'll be judged on and I'm looking forward to that."
Arsenal have been lifted by the return of Tomas Rosicky to training after the Czech midfielder overcame the hamstring and knee injuries that have troubled him since January 2008.
The 28-year-old has made just 61 appearances in three years and club captain Cesc Fabregas is eager to see the proven matchwinner back in action.
"Tomas is unbelievable and when we see that he will be back next season, he will be strong and hopefully he can help us improve a lot," he said.
"He's a guy with a lot of experience, he has won things, he knows how to compete, he's very humble and he works for the team.
"Technically he is one of the best in the world and physically I am sure he will be really strong because he's been working really hard.
"I'm happy because soon he is going to be back and I can't wait to see him playing again."
The Gunners have amassed four successive seasons without silverware, reaching the semi-finals of the Champions League and FA Cup last term.
Walcott believes they should emulate champions Manchester United and Chelsea by sometimes forsaking dazzling football in favour of rolling up their sleeves.
"I think we need to do the dirty things right," he told the club's official website.
"Sometimes it's not just about pretty football, we need to grind out the results sometimes and get the win, get the three points.
"In cup competitions no one remembers the game, as long as the result is right. We need to take that into our game.
"Manchester United and Chelsea do the dirty work and they take their chances as well, that's another thing we need to learn and improve on.
"We had a great experience of getting to semi-finals last season but not quite getting to finals. Hopefully we can put that right."
Walcott is primarily used as a winger by Arsenal, who play Barnet in a pre-season friendly tomorrow, but Arsene Wenger is ready to start deploying him up front.
And the 20-year-old England star hopes to respond by hitting the target.
"The boss said hopefully he will start to put me up front now and then," he said.
"That's my natural position but I'd play anywhere for this team.
"I want to improve my final ball and score more goals. You get judged on goals so I want to score 15-plus this season.
"I love making runs in behind, I love scoring goals and making goals. That's what I'll be judged on and I'm looking forward to that."
Arsenal have been lifted by the return of Tomas Rosicky to training after the Czech midfielder overcame the hamstring and knee injuries that have troubled him since January 2008.
The 28-year-old has made just 61 appearances in three years and club captain Cesc Fabregas is eager to see the proven matchwinner back in action.
"Tomas is unbelievable and when we see that he will be back next season, he will be strong and hopefully he can help us improve a lot," he said.
"He's a guy with a lot of experience, he has won things, he knows how to compete, he's very humble and he works for the team.
"Technically he is one of the best in the world and physically I am sure he will be really strong because he's been working really hard.
"I'm happy because soon he is going to be back and I can't wait to see him playing again."
Quashie thought about quitting
West Ham midfielder Nigel Quashie has admitted he considered hanging up his boots during his injury nightmare.
The 30-year-old former Scotland international was sidelined for 18 months after breaking his foot in a challenge with Tottenham full-back Pascal Chimbonda.
He made his comeback last season during loan spells at promoted Championship duo Birmingham and Wolves and is now back at Upton Park ahead of the new Premier League season.
Quashie knows he will find it tough to force his way into Gianfranco Zola's plans, but is just happy to be able to be involved with the Hammers.
He told skysports.com: "A lot of players have been brought in to the club since I picked up my injury and it's always going to be more difficult for me to get back into contention for a first-team place because I have been out for so long.
"I understand the position that I am in, but I'm not worried about that because it's a relief for me just to be fit again and able to go out and play football.
"At one stage I seriously considered packing it in because I didn't think I would be able to get back to the same level that I was at."
And Quashie does not fear his injury woes returning after suffering no setbacks during his stints with Blues and Wolves.
He added: "I've got no concerns about it now because I've come through the games at Birmingham and Wolves and it has stood up to the tests that have been thrown at it during both the games and everyday training exercises.
"I've got an opportunity to go on and play for another couple of years and I intend to enjoy playing football for as long as I can.
"My spell at Birmingham was brilliant for me and Alex McCleish was first class in helping me to regain my fitness and get some games under my belt.
"Wolves was a little different because they were flying and I knew that I was brought in to help the younger lads get over the finish line, but it still helped me because I was training with the lads there every day."
The 30-year-old former Scotland international was sidelined for 18 months after breaking his foot in a challenge with Tottenham full-back Pascal Chimbonda.
He made his comeback last season during loan spells at promoted Championship duo Birmingham and Wolves and is now back at Upton Park ahead of the new Premier League season.
Quashie knows he will find it tough to force his way into Gianfranco Zola's plans, but is just happy to be able to be involved with the Hammers.
He told skysports.com: "A lot of players have been brought in to the club since I picked up my injury and it's always going to be more difficult for me to get back into contention for a first-team place because I have been out for so long.
"I understand the position that I am in, but I'm not worried about that because it's a relief for me just to be fit again and able to go out and play football.
"At one stage I seriously considered packing it in because I didn't think I would be able to get back to the same level that I was at."
And Quashie does not fear his injury woes returning after suffering no setbacks during his stints with Blues and Wolves.
He added: "I've got no concerns about it now because I've come through the games at Birmingham and Wolves and it has stood up to the tests that have been thrown at it during both the games and everyday training exercises.
"I've got an opportunity to go on and play for another couple of years and I intend to enjoy playing football for as long as I can.
"My spell at Birmingham was brilliant for me and Alex McCleish was first class in helping me to regain my fitness and get some games under my belt.
"Wolves was a little different because they were flying and I knew that I was brought in to help the younger lads get over the finish line, but it still helped me because I was training with the lads there every day."
Brazilian left back Maxwell arrives at Barcelona
BARCELONA, Spain (AP) - Maxwell arrived at Barcelona on Friday to undergo a medical examination before completing his €4.5 million ($6.4 million) transfer from Inter Milan.
The 27-year-old Brazilian left back arrived directly from Inter Milan's preseason tour of the United States and will be presented at Barcelona's Miniestadi - a smaller stadium located next to the Camp Nou - after signing his contract, which is reportedly a five-year deal.
Maxwell is likely to be the first of two Inter players to join Barcelona this week. Local media is reporting that the Spanish champions have agreed to a €40 million ($56 million) deal to sign striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic from the Serie A champions.
Maxwell, who began his career at Cruzeiro before joining Ajax in 2001, scored one goal in 33 appearances for Inter last season, his third at the Italian club.
Maxwell helped Ajax to two league titles in four full seasons - with another lost to injury - and was named best player in the Dutch league in 2004.
The 27-year-old Brazilian left back arrived directly from Inter Milan's preseason tour of the United States and will be presented at Barcelona's Miniestadi - a smaller stadium located next to the Camp Nou - after signing his contract, which is reportedly a five-year deal.
Maxwell is likely to be the first of two Inter players to join Barcelona this week. Local media is reporting that the Spanish champions have agreed to a €40 million ($56 million) deal to sign striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic from the Serie A champions.
Maxwell, who began his career at Cruzeiro before joining Ajax in 2001, scored one goal in 33 appearances for Inter last season, his third at the Italian club.
Maxwell helped Ajax to two league titles in four full seasons - with another lost to injury - and was named best player in the Dutch league in 2004.
Milan: Pirlo going nowhere
AC Milan insist Andrea Pirlo will remain at the San Siro, despite ongoing speculation linking the Italy international with a move to Chelsea.
Reports in England claim the World-Cup winning playmaker is a target for the Blues' former Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti.
"Pirlo is destined to remain here," said vice executive president Adriano Galliani. "We never entered into negotiations with Chelsea for Pirlo, there has never been an offer on the table and there are no problems.
"Will he (Pirlo) remain at Milan? I really believe so."
The 30-year-old is under contract with AC Milan until June 2012. He made 26 league appearances as the Rossoneri finished third in Serie A last season.
Reports in England claim the World-Cup winning playmaker is a target for the Blues' former Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti.
"Pirlo is destined to remain here," said vice executive president Adriano Galliani. "We never entered into negotiations with Chelsea for Pirlo, there has never been an offer on the table and there are no problems.
"Will he (Pirlo) remain at Milan? I really believe so."
The 30-year-old is under contract with AC Milan until June 2012. He made 26 league appearances as the Rossoneri finished third in Serie A last season.
Latics match Wolves' McCarthy bid
James McCarthy's agent Willie McKay has confirmed the Premier League rivals Wigan and Wolves are battling it out for the Hamilton starlet.
Wolves were the first club to have a bid in the region of £2million accepted by Hamilton and now Wigan have matched their offer.
Celtic, Burnley and Portsmouth are thought to be monitoring the situation and could make new moves for the 18-year-old after having bids turned down for the midfielder earlier this summer.
A couple of top-eight Premier League clubs are also thought to be weighing up offers for the Republic of Ireland international.
McKay confirmed the player is to hold talks with Wolves and Wigan and that other clubs are keeping tabs on his situation.
"James is currently undergoing a medical at Wolves and he has been very impressed by what Wolves have to offer," McKay told skysports.com.
"Wigan have also had a bid accepted by Hamilton and we are due to hold talks with them at some point.
"I know there are other clubs chasing James and we will wait and see if they make offers acceptable to Hamilton."
Wolves were the first club to have a bid in the region of £2million accepted by Hamilton and now Wigan have matched their offer.
Celtic, Burnley and Portsmouth are thought to be monitoring the situation and could make new moves for the 18-year-old after having bids turned down for the midfielder earlier this summer.
A couple of top-eight Premier League clubs are also thought to be weighing up offers for the Republic of Ireland international.
McKay confirmed the player is to hold talks with Wolves and Wigan and that other clubs are keeping tabs on his situation.
"James is currently undergoing a medical at Wolves and he has been very impressed by what Wolves have to offer," McKay told skysports.com.
"Wigan have also had a bid accepted by Hamilton and we are due to hold talks with them at some point.
"I know there are other clubs chasing James and we will wait and see if they make offers acceptable to Hamilton."
Report: Barcelona signs Ibrahimovic in Eto'o swap
BARCELONA, Spain (AP) - Barcelona has reportedly agreed to pay Inter Milan €40 million ($56 million) for striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic in a deal that will also send striker Samuel Eto'o and midfielder Aleksandr Hleb to the Serie A club.
According to reports in the Spanish media on Friday the deal was agreed during a dinner meeting between Barcelona president Joan Laporta and Inter president Massimo Moratti in Milan on Thursday night.
Sweden striker Ibrahimovic is Barcelona's first marquee signing since Barcelona became the first Spanish club to win the treble last season.
Belarus midfielder Hleb will head to the San Siro on loan for the upcoming campaign.
Moratti said that the impromptu meeting with Laporta - and Barcelona sporting director Txiki Beguiristain - was originally intended to tie up left back Maxwell's ?4.5 million ($6.4 million) transfer to Barcelona and complete Hleb's move.
"We obviously talked about other things because for them it was interesting to know something about Ibrahimovic," Moratti said. "We also spoke about Eto'o to understand if it's possible to do a deal with these two players. If an operation of this kind was carried out, it would regard both players."
Eto'o had already rejected a lucrative offer from Manchester City this summer. The Cameroon striker instead opted to stay and let his contract run out so he could leave the Camp Nou without a transfer fee at the end of next season despite Barcelona offering a two-year extension to his current deal.
Barcelona agreed to extend the 28-year-old Eto'o's vacation time as it sought a replacement. Valencia's David Villa was linked with a potential move but Barcelona was unwilling to meet Valencia's €50 million ($71 million) asking price for the Spain striker.
Atletico Madrid's Diego Forlan was also thought to be a target.
Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola originally wanted to sell the volatile Eto'o last summer after saying the three-time Africa footballer of the year would not factor into the club's plans.
But Eto'o - who won three league championships, two European Cups and one Copa del Rey title in five seasons at the Catalan club - won Guardiola over with 34 goals in 50 appearances last season, including the winner in the Champions League final victory over Manchester United. That victory allowed Barcelona to become only the fifth European team to win the treble.
The 27-year-old Ibrahimovic, who led Serie A with 25 goals last season, guided Inter to three straight Serie A league titles since a €12 million ($17 million) move from Juventus in 2006. The former Ajax player has scored 21 goals in 58 appearances for Sweden.
Hleb played a minor role in Barcelona's success last season, often coming on as a substitute to make 34 appearances in his first season after a transfer from Arsenal.
According to reports in the Spanish media on Friday the deal was agreed during a dinner meeting between Barcelona president Joan Laporta and Inter president Massimo Moratti in Milan on Thursday night.
Sweden striker Ibrahimovic is Barcelona's first marquee signing since Barcelona became the first Spanish club to win the treble last season.
Belarus midfielder Hleb will head to the San Siro on loan for the upcoming campaign.
Moratti said that the impromptu meeting with Laporta - and Barcelona sporting director Txiki Beguiristain - was originally intended to tie up left back Maxwell's ?4.5 million ($6.4 million) transfer to Barcelona and complete Hleb's move.
"We obviously talked about other things because for them it was interesting to know something about Ibrahimovic," Moratti said. "We also spoke about Eto'o to understand if it's possible to do a deal with these two players. If an operation of this kind was carried out, it would regard both players."
Eto'o had already rejected a lucrative offer from Manchester City this summer. The Cameroon striker instead opted to stay and let his contract run out so he could leave the Camp Nou without a transfer fee at the end of next season despite Barcelona offering a two-year extension to his current deal.
Barcelona agreed to extend the 28-year-old Eto'o's vacation time as it sought a replacement. Valencia's David Villa was linked with a potential move but Barcelona was unwilling to meet Valencia's €50 million ($71 million) asking price for the Spain striker.
Atletico Madrid's Diego Forlan was also thought to be a target.
Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola originally wanted to sell the volatile Eto'o last summer after saying the three-time Africa footballer of the year would not factor into the club's plans.
But Eto'o - who won three league championships, two European Cups and one Copa del Rey title in five seasons at the Catalan club - won Guardiola over with 34 goals in 50 appearances last season, including the winner in the Champions League final victory over Manchester United. That victory allowed Barcelona to become only the fifth European team to win the treble.
The 27-year-old Ibrahimovic, who led Serie A with 25 goals last season, guided Inter to three straight Serie A league titles since a €12 million ($17 million) move from Juventus in 2006. The former Ajax player has scored 21 goals in 58 appearances for Sweden.
Hleb played a minor role in Barcelona's success last season, often coming on as a substitute to make 34 appearances in his first season after a transfer from Arsenal.
Young Dane set for Anfield move
Liverpool are on the verge of signing Danish starlet Nikolaj Kohlert from SuperLiga club Esbjerg, according to the player's agent.
Kohlert enjoyed a trial at Liverpool earlier this year and the Reds have moved quickly to line up a deal for the midfielder.
The 16-year-old is yet to make his debut for Esbjerg and should he sign for Liverpool, he will continue his footballing education with the club's academy.
Kohlert's agent, Allan Nielsen, says only personal terms need to be agreed for the deal to be finalised with Rafa Benitez's men.
"I can say as much as there will be a meeting in Liverpool today. The only thing remaining is the personal contract," said Nielsen.
"I see no immediate problems in the clubs agreeing. There should be no problems at all but last but not least, it will be up to Esbjerg. But I am sure this will be no problem.
"This is a fantastic opportunity for a 16-year-old. He is ready both as a person and as a footballer. He will probably start in the academy on a scholarship before he turns 17.
"After that it will be the reserve team and then he will get a professional contract for three years with an additional option for Liverpool.
"It is a really really good contract. All that's remaining now is to get the details in place today."
Kohlert enjoyed a trial at Liverpool earlier this year and the Reds have moved quickly to line up a deal for the midfielder.
The 16-year-old is yet to make his debut for Esbjerg and should he sign for Liverpool, he will continue his footballing education with the club's academy.
Kohlert's agent, Allan Nielsen, says only personal terms need to be agreed for the deal to be finalised with Rafa Benitez's men.
"I can say as much as there will be a meeting in Liverpool today. The only thing remaining is the personal contract," said Nielsen.
"I see no immediate problems in the clubs agreeing. There should be no problems at all but last but not least, it will be up to Esbjerg. But I am sure this will be no problem.
"This is a fantastic opportunity for a 16-year-old. He is ready both as a person and as a footballer. He will probably start in the academy on a scholarship before he turns 17.
"After that it will be the reserve team and then he will get a professional contract for three years with an additional option for Liverpool.
"It is a really really good contract. All that's remaining now is to get the details in place today."
Hofs signs two-year Vitesse deal
Midfielder Nicky Hofs has signed a two-year deal with Vitesse Arnhem after joining from Eredivise rivals Feyenoord for an undisclosed fee.
The 26-year-old spent last season on loan at the Arnhem club, for whom he also played for three seasons from 2001 to 2004.
Hofs had been hoping to move abroad but the offers did not come and he has now decided to commit to Vitesse.
He told AD Sportwereld: "I have always said that I would love to go back to Vitesse. We only had a financial disagreement, but that is solved now."
Vitesse had already agreed an undisclosed fee with Feyenoord for Hofs.
The 26-year-old spent last season on loan at the Arnhem club, for whom he also played for three seasons from 2001 to 2004.
Hofs had been hoping to move abroad but the offers did not come and he has now decided to commit to Vitesse.
He told AD Sportwereld: "I have always said that I would love to go back to Vitesse. We only had a financial disagreement, but that is solved now."
Vitesse had already agreed an undisclosed fee with Feyenoord for Hofs.
Manchester United confirms Diouf deal
Manchester United have confirmed that they have completed the signing of striker Mame Biram Diouf from Norwegian club Molde FK.
The 21-year-old has been immediately loaned back to Molde where he will remain until January.
The transfer may surprise some after manager Sir Alex Ferguson stressed, just last week that he would not be making any more signings this summer following the arrivals of Michael Owen, Antonio Valencia and Gabriel Obertan.
However the Red Devils boss admitted that after other clubs lodged bids for the Senegalese youngster the Premier League champions had to act fast.
"We signed a young player yesterday from Norway who we've been looking at for two years," he told the club's official website.
"We weren't intending on signing anyone else after last week - we feel we have a full squad - but the situation accelerated to a point where other clubs started to make bids.
"So we had to decide whether we acted or didn't. We decided to act and he'll be last person we sign."
Diouf has reportedly interested the likes of Arsenal, Ajax and PSV in the past while Tottenham are thought to be one of the clubs who tabled a bid for the frontman.
Attention in the youngster developed last weekend when Diouf netted a hat-trick in the first nine minutes of a Norwegian league clash against Brann before he added another in a 5-2 win.
The new United arrival has scored 30 league goals from 62 games since signing for Molde, the same club United signed Ole Gunnar Solskjaer from, in 2007.
Molde manager Kjell Jonevret is confident Diouf has the potential to succeed at the Theatre of Dreams and was delighted that the player would remain for the remainder of the Norwegian season.
"This is fun for all of us in Molde, fun for Mame and not least for his family in Senegal," he told NG Nett.
"That he will stay with us for the rest of the season is really important to us.
"Mame is an interesting player that I have worked with for two years. I don't know what plans United have for him, but he has a great potential.
"Mame is good now, but he can be even better."
Meanwhile, United have reportedly ended talks with Brazilian club Gremio to sign 18-year-old forward Douglas Costa.
Due to what The Times says 'is frustration at the exorbitant demands of Grêmio', who value the teenager at �18million, United are reported to have walked away from negotiations. According to the newspaper, 'The number of agents involved in the proposed transfer is another factor' in United's refusal to continue talks.
The 21-year-old has been immediately loaned back to Molde where he will remain until January.
The transfer may surprise some after manager Sir Alex Ferguson stressed, just last week that he would not be making any more signings this summer following the arrivals of Michael Owen, Antonio Valencia and Gabriel Obertan.
However the Red Devils boss admitted that after other clubs lodged bids for the Senegalese youngster the Premier League champions had to act fast.
"We signed a young player yesterday from Norway who we've been looking at for two years," he told the club's official website.
"We weren't intending on signing anyone else after last week - we feel we have a full squad - but the situation accelerated to a point where other clubs started to make bids.
"So we had to decide whether we acted or didn't. We decided to act and he'll be last person we sign."
Diouf has reportedly interested the likes of Arsenal, Ajax and PSV in the past while Tottenham are thought to be one of the clubs who tabled a bid for the frontman.
Attention in the youngster developed last weekend when Diouf netted a hat-trick in the first nine minutes of a Norwegian league clash against Brann before he added another in a 5-2 win.
The new United arrival has scored 30 league goals from 62 games since signing for Molde, the same club United signed Ole Gunnar Solskjaer from, in 2007.
Molde manager Kjell Jonevret is confident Diouf has the potential to succeed at the Theatre of Dreams and was delighted that the player would remain for the remainder of the Norwegian season.
"This is fun for all of us in Molde, fun for Mame and not least for his family in Senegal," he told NG Nett.
"That he will stay with us for the rest of the season is really important to us.
"Mame is an interesting player that I have worked with for two years. I don't know what plans United have for him, but he has a great potential.
"Mame is good now, but he can be even better."
Meanwhile, United have reportedly ended talks with Brazilian club Gremio to sign 18-year-old forward Douglas Costa.
Due to what The Times says 'is frustration at the exorbitant demands of Grêmio', who value the teenager at �18million, United are reported to have walked away from negotiations. According to the newspaper, 'The number of agents involved in the proposed transfer is another factor' in United's refusal to continue talks.
Ajax fans handed banning orders
Two Dutch football fans have been handed banning orders for their part in violent incidents before and after Bristol City's friendly with Ajax.
In all 10 people were arrested by the police for a series of violent flare-ups on Wednesday night at Ashton Gate, nine Dutch fans and one local man.
The two men appeared before Bristol magistrates on Thursday and were both given bans from attending football matches in England and Wales for three years. They were also conditional discharges for assaulting police officers.
Police spokesman Simon Whitby said: "All the arrests on the night were outside the ground or in the city centre, before and after the game. There were no arrests within the ground itself."
In all 10 people were arrested by the police for a series of violent flare-ups on Wednesday night at Ashton Gate, nine Dutch fans and one local man.
The two men appeared before Bristol magistrates on Thursday and were both given bans from attending football matches in England and Wales for three years. They were also conditional discharges for assaulting police officers.
Police spokesman Simon Whitby said: "All the arrests on the night were outside the ground or in the city centre, before and after the game. There were no arrests within the ground itself."
Mulder adds to Feyenoord woes
Feyenoord face a goalkeeper crisis before the new season after Erwin Mulder suffered a thigh injury during their pre-season trip to Portugal.
Already without first-choice stopper Rob van Dijk, who did not join his team-mates on the Iberian peninsula because of an Achilles injury, Feyenoord could also be without Mulder for their season opener against NEC Nijmegen on August 2.
Mulder will now fly back to Rotterdam for further tests to discover the extent of the injury, which comes as an untimely blow for the 20-year-old, who was looking to establish his place.
He was only recalled from a loan at Excelsior last week following Van Dijk's injury, but his hopes of impressing before the new season have now suffered a setback.
"An injury was the last thing I could use at this moment," Mulder told the club's official website.
"This week I wanted to prove myself and show what I can do, but after just a few days my role is already over.
"I had hoped that I could get some playing time on Saturday for the first time this pre-season in the match against Sporting Portugal, but that is out of the question."
With Brazilian Darley the only fit goalkeeper in Feyenoord's squad in Portugal, the club will fly out fourth-choice Kostas Lamprou as cover.
Those two could now be vying for a first-team place after Mulder admitted he was unsure of the extent of his injury.
"Only when we return to Rotterdam next week I will hear what the injury exactly is," he added.
"I don't know what to expect at the moment. I hope of course that it's not too bad.
"But it's a very disappointing situation because I won't get that many chances to play myself into the picture before the season starts."
Already without first-choice stopper Rob van Dijk, who did not join his team-mates on the Iberian peninsula because of an Achilles injury, Feyenoord could also be without Mulder for their season opener against NEC Nijmegen on August 2.
Mulder will now fly back to Rotterdam for further tests to discover the extent of the injury, which comes as an untimely blow for the 20-year-old, who was looking to establish his place.
He was only recalled from a loan at Excelsior last week following Van Dijk's injury, but his hopes of impressing before the new season have now suffered a setback.
"An injury was the last thing I could use at this moment," Mulder told the club's official website.
"This week I wanted to prove myself and show what I can do, but after just a few days my role is already over.
"I had hoped that I could get some playing time on Saturday for the first time this pre-season in the match against Sporting Portugal, but that is out of the question."
With Brazilian Darley the only fit goalkeeper in Feyenoord's squad in Portugal, the club will fly out fourth-choice Kostas Lamprou as cover.
Those two could now be vying for a first-team place after Mulder admitted he was unsure of the extent of his injury.
"Only when we return to Rotterdam next week I will hear what the injury exactly is," he added.
"I don't know what to expect at the moment. I hope of course that it's not too bad.
"But it's a very disappointing situation because I won't get that many chances to play myself into the picture before the season starts."
City slap in Lescott bid - Report
Manchester City are reported to have made a £15million offer for Everton's England centre-back Joleon Lescott on Thursday.
In an apparent response to the diminishing possibility of taking John Terry from Chelsea, City are understood to have formally bid for Lescott.
Toffees boss David Moyes reiterated at a meeting of the club's shareholders this week that the defender was not for sale, but that has not deterred City.
The Guardian reports that Everton are expected to reject the bid in the knowledge that moneybags City will probably come back in with an improved offer.
Meanwhile, the Independent claim that the 26-year-old will be interested in a move to Eastlands and that he is higher on Hughes' shortlist of targets than Arsenal's Kolo Toure.
Whether or not the bid for Lescott signals the end of City's pursuit of Terry is unclear. One reading of the situation is that in bidding 'only' £15million for Lescott, City have indicated they consider him to be a back-up or partner for Terry rather than a direct alternative.
In an apparent response to the diminishing possibility of taking John Terry from Chelsea, City are understood to have formally bid for Lescott.
Toffees boss David Moyes reiterated at a meeting of the club's shareholders this week that the defender was not for sale, but that has not deterred City.
The Guardian reports that Everton are expected to reject the bid in the knowledge that moneybags City will probably come back in with an improved offer.
Meanwhile, the Independent claim that the 26-year-old will be interested in a move to Eastlands and that he is higher on Hughes' shortlist of targets than Arsenal's Kolo Toure.
Whether or not the bid for Lescott signals the end of City's pursuit of Terry is unclear. One reading of the situation is that in bidding 'only' £15million for Lescott, City have indicated they consider him to be a back-up or partner for Terry rather than a direct alternative.
NEC complete Fejzullahu swoop
Eredivisie side NEC Nijmegen have signed striker Erton Fejzullahu on a four-year deal from Swedish outfit Mjallby.
NEC's technical director, Carlos Aalbers, told the club's official website: "Erton is a multi-functional player who can play in more than one position in attack or in midfield.
"Besides that he is fast and he can score goals."
Fejzullahu, 21, added: "Despite the interest in me from Sweden, Denmark and many other Dutch clubs, NEC felt good from the start and I hope to have very good times here.
"In Holland all clubs are attack-minded. For young strikers that's the ideal school to develop yourself as a player and make yourself better."
Fejzullahu will increase the competition for a starting berth in NEC's attack, something that is welcomed by fellow frontman Jhon van Beukering.
"I will compete with them all for the striker's position and then the best one will play," he told Omroep Gelderland.
However, Van Beukering accepts he may not be around at NEC next season to do battle up front, with VVV-Venlo and ADO Den Haag both interested in the 25-year-old.
"I know something about that, but it's not concrete," he added.
"As long as I play here, I will do my utmost for NEC."
NEC's technical director, Carlos Aalbers, told the club's official website: "Erton is a multi-functional player who can play in more than one position in attack or in midfield.
"Besides that he is fast and he can score goals."
Fejzullahu, 21, added: "Despite the interest in me from Sweden, Denmark and many other Dutch clubs, NEC felt good from the start and I hope to have very good times here.
"In Holland all clubs are attack-minded. For young strikers that's the ideal school to develop yourself as a player and make yourself better."
Fejzullahu will increase the competition for a starting berth in NEC's attack, something that is welcomed by fellow frontman Jhon van Beukering.
"I will compete with them all for the striker's position and then the best one will play," he told Omroep Gelderland.
However, Van Beukering accepts he may not be around at NEC next season to do battle up front, with VVV-Venlo and ADO Den Haag both interested in the 25-year-old.
"I know something about that, but it's not concrete," he added.
"As long as I play here, I will do my utmost for NEC."
Hargreaves may return in September
Sir Alex Ferguson has revealed he expects Manchester United midfielder Owen Hargreaves to return from double knee surgery in September.
The England star has not featured since the start of last season following two operations to cure a tendinitis problem that has plagued him since before his move from Bayern Munich two years ago.
He was was ruled out of the current Far East tour as he continues his rehabilitation, although it seems Hargreaves will join up with his team-mates when they head to Munich for the Audi Cup at the end of the month.
"I think we are looking at the end of September depending on how he reacts," said Ferguson.
"We are happy with his rehabilitation so far and while he won't be ready to play in Munich, he will be able to train."
Hargreaves will be joined in Germany by Nemanja Vidic and Antonio Valencia, who have also missed the trip to Malaysia, South Korea and China.
Vidic has not fully recovered from an ankle injury he picked up on international duty with Serbia last month, while Valencia has been unable to play enough part in United's early training sessions because he needed to go back to Ecuador to gain a UK visa.
"It gets frustrating but that is the system and you have to accept it," said Ferguson.
"His fitness levels weren't high enough for him to be considered for the tour."
Ferguson also confirmed another new-boy, Gabriel Oberton, will miss the first three months of the season with an injury which was already known about when he signed from Bordeaux.
The England star has not featured since the start of last season following two operations to cure a tendinitis problem that has plagued him since before his move from Bayern Munich two years ago.
He was was ruled out of the current Far East tour as he continues his rehabilitation, although it seems Hargreaves will join up with his team-mates when they head to Munich for the Audi Cup at the end of the month.
"I think we are looking at the end of September depending on how he reacts," said Ferguson.
"We are happy with his rehabilitation so far and while he won't be ready to play in Munich, he will be able to train."
Hargreaves will be joined in Germany by Nemanja Vidic and Antonio Valencia, who have also missed the trip to Malaysia, South Korea and China.
Vidic has not fully recovered from an ankle injury he picked up on international duty with Serbia last month, while Valencia has been unable to play enough part in United's early training sessions because he needed to go back to Ecuador to gain a UK visa.
"It gets frustrating but that is the system and you have to accept it," said Ferguson.
"His fitness levels weren't high enough for him to be considered for the tour."
Ferguson also confirmed another new-boy, Gabriel Oberton, will miss the first three months of the season with an injury which was already known about when he signed from Bordeaux.
Didulica pleads for AZ release
Goalkeeper Joey Didulica has called on AZ Alkmaar to honour their promise and let him leave the Eredivisie champions this summer.
The Australian stopper is hoping to secure a move to Feyenoord, although the Rotterdam club are currently struggling to come up with the necessary funds.
Didulica told De Telegraaf: "Mister (Dirk) Scheringa has made me a promise, AZ would co-operate this summer in a transfer.
"I know that Feyenoord wants to get me and I want to join them very much. The deal with AZ is not on paper, it's a gentlemen's agreement.
"In the past winter there were possibilities for me, but then the club didn't want to let me go. I had understanding for that. Now they need to have understanding for me."
The Australian stopper is hoping to secure a move to Feyenoord, although the Rotterdam club are currently struggling to come up with the necessary funds.
Didulica told De Telegraaf: "Mister (Dirk) Scheringa has made me a promise, AZ would co-operate this summer in a transfer.
"I know that Feyenoord wants to get me and I want to join them very much. The deal with AZ is not on paper, it's a gentlemen's agreement.
"In the past winter there were possibilities for me, but then the club didn't want to let me go. I had understanding for that. Now they need to have understanding for me."
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)