Valencia chief hints at Aimar sale

Valencia sports director Amedao Carboni has hinted they're ready to sell Pablo Aimar this summer.
He said yesterday: "Those who are unhappy, can leave. In the case of Aimar, it will depend on what the footballer wants to do.
"The ones that remain here, must do so with commitment and ambition, since this is an important club.
"We have no problems with Aimar and he played some of his best football for Valencia last season. But what does count is whether he still loves this club."

Agent: Chelsea's Drogba wants AC Milan move

The agent of Didier Drogba has urged Chelsea to accept a swap deal for AC Milan striker Andriy Shevchenko.
Reports today state Chelsea are paying £35 million cash for Shevchenko, who is due in London today for a medical at Stamford Bridge.
But Drogba's agent, Pierre Frelot, said: "Chelsea want Andriy and Milan want Didier. The exchange, as far as I'm concerned, can be made.
"It could be the best solution for everyone."

Man Utd boss Ferguson to make Riquelme check

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is ready to interrupt his summer holiday to check on Villarreal midfielder Juan Roman Riquelme.

The Mirror says Riquelme is on the Manchester United manager's wanted list and he will fly to Germany to make a final check on the Argentina play-maker. Fergie is set to leave his annual holiday retreat at Cap Ferrat in the south of France to watch Riquelme when Argentina play Holland on June 21 in Frankfurt.
Riquelme first came to Fergie's attention when United played Villarreal in the Champions League last season and he has become one of the most sought-after players in Europe.
Although Villarreal are understood to have a £15million price tag on Riquelme, United are confident they can land him for around £10m.

Real Madrid's Ronaldo welcomes £60M New York move

Real Madrid star Ronaldo has confirmed he recently received a stunning £60 million contract offer from Red Bull New York.
Ronaldo's agent, Fabiano Farah, revealed the ten-year offer over the weekend, which was rejected.
However, the Brazilian declared yesterday that Red Bull New York and MLS could be a future possibility after his time at Real comes to an end.
Ronaldo said: "I have contract with Real Madrid until 2008 and now only I think about the World Cup, but, without doubt, the North American market is one of my objectives for the future."

AC Milan, Inter in contact with Ibrahimovic over £30M deal

Both AC Milan and Inter are in contact with the agent of Juventus striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

The Swede is still to agree terms on a new contract at Juve and while the Calciopoli scandal hangs over the club his agent, Mino Raiola, has been sounding out interested rivals.
Both Milan and Inter have made their interest known to Raiola, who is demanding a five-year contract worth £6 million-a-season for Ibra to leave Juve.
Despite his struggles last season, the Swede is unlikely to leave Juve for less than £17 million and while Real Madrid and Chelsea have been linked, it's understood Ibra's priority is to remain in Italy.

Red Bull Salzburg chase Juventus star Nedved

Big-spending Austrians Red Bull Salzburg are chasing Juventus midfielder Pavel Nedved.
Red Bull Salzburg owner Dieter Mateschitz is bankrolling an ambitious bid to prise Nedved away from Juve for the start of next season.
They have recently appointed Giovanni Trapattoni as sports director and Lothar Matthaus as coach and Red Bull Salzburg chiefs are confident that Nedved will be persuaded to join the Austrian glamour club.

Vieira in Grimandi talks about shock Arsenal return

Juventus midfielder Patrick Vieira is weighing up a sensational return to Arsenal.

The People says when Vieira heard the news last week that fellow Frenchman and close friend Thierry Henry was staying at Arsenal, he began sounding out the possibility of rejoining the Gunners before they move into their new £350m, state-of-the-art stadium at Ashburton Grove.
The man at the centre of the deal is former Arsenal star Gilles Grimandi, who scouts for the Gunners in Europe and has remained in touch with Vieira.
It is believed Vieira blames vice-chairman David Dein for his Highbury exit rather than manager Arsene Wenger, which means he would be prepared to patch things up with his former boss.

Bordeaux send Cheyrou back to Liverpool

Bordeaux have presented Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez with a fresh headache.
The French club have decided against taking up the option of signing Bruno Cheyrou to a permanent deal and have sent the midfielder packing back to Anfield.
Benitez is anxious to get Cheyrou off his books and had been banking on the 28 year-old doing enough at Bordeaux to convince them to sign him outright.

Chinese giants table offers for Real Madrid star Zidane

Chinese giants Changchun Yatai and Beijing Guoan want to extend the playing career of Real Madrid ace Zinedine Zidane.

Both C-League clubs have made contact with the French legend about playing in China next season. Zidane is understood to be open to the proposal, but must convince his family to move to China.
Beijing Guoan already have a good relationship with Real Madrid and Zidane's presence in China is sure to benefit the Spanish giants.
Zidane announced last month that he intended to retire after the World Cup.

Sorin expects Real Madrid move for Arsenal's Cole

Villarreal star Juan Pablo Sorin expects to see Arsenal fullback Ashley Cole playing in Real Madrid colours next season.

Sorin, 30, said: "I rate Ashley Cole as one of the best left-backs in the world. He's very quick but also very intelligent tactically.

"Rumour has it that Cole will be coming to Spain next season. If he does he will be a difficult rival for any player in La Liga to come up against.

"But as good as Cole is, for me the best left-back in the world is still Roberto Carlos. He continues to be the greatest."

Villarreal's Senna keeps Arsenal waiting

Villarreal midfielder Marcos Senna doesn't want to make a decision over his future until after the World Cup.
Real Madrid and Arsenal are interested in Senna, who has a year left on his contract and is still to be offered new terms by Villarreal.
Real began serious negotiations with Senna three weeks ago, but talks have stalled due to their presidential election.
AS says two Premiership clubs have also been in contact, one of which being Arsenal.

Chelsea's Lampard: Barcelona move would be dream

Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard has declared an ambition to play for Barcelona.
The England ace is in talks with Chelsea over a new contract worth £130,000-a-week, with the Blues well aware of his ambition to play in Spain.
Lampard told Marca: "It would be a dream to come to Barça, but I am happy at Chelsea.
"They have offered me a new contract, which makes me proud."

Juventus coach Capello drops Real Madrid bombshell

Juventus coach Fabio Capello has dropped a bombshell, admitting talks with Real Madrid representatives over the weekend.

Predrag Mijatovic, representing Real presidential candidate Ramon Calderon, held talks with Capello in Sicily about a return to Madrid for next season.
Capello admitted today: "It's true. They came here representing the presidential candidate Calderon, but I have only listened, without agreeing anything.
"I know that Real Madrid is interested in me and also (ex-Roma chief) Franco Baldini and it isn't the first time they've tried for me.
"In February, I had contact with Florentino Perez, but I have always repeated to all that I am happy as trainer of Juventus. And this is what I have said also to other clubs, because Real Madrid is not the only one that has tried for me."

Barcelona's Eto'o tells AC Milan: Don't call me

Barcelona striker Samuel Eto'o has told AC Milan not to bother calling him this summer.
Asked for a reaction over Andriy Shevchenko's decision to leave the Italian giants, Cameroon ace Eto'o replied: "Shevchenko is leaving Milan? I would suggest to Berlusconi to buy Drogba.
"He's one of the best attackers in the world.
"If Milan calls me? I'd say don't waste your time because my answer would be 'no'."

AC Milan confirm interest for Man Utd's Van Nistelrooy

AC Milan have confirmed their interest in Manchester United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy.
Milan want Van Nistelrooy for a cut-price £8.4million to replace Chelsea-bound hitman Andriy Shevchenko.

The Serie A giants are believed to have been alerted to Van Nistelrooy's availability when Chelsea agreed not to chase the Old Trafford star after they pinched United target John Obi Mikel last week.
United boss Alex Ferguson is determined to sell his £19m signing abroad rather than to his biggest title rivals.
Milan will use some of the £35m for Shevchenko to ensure Van Nistelrooy is in place to lead their attack next season.
A club spokesman said: "Van Nistelrooy is the man we want. He is one of the few players in the world who could replace Sheva."

Eriksson expects Real Madrid move

England boss Sven Goran Eriksson has told his players he's set to sign for Real Madrid after the World Cup.

The Sun says the Swede, confident he will get the job next season, is already making plans.
And his close contact with England stars will raise fears he could try to convince several of them during the World Cup to follow him to Spain.
Any attempt by him to sound out players in the squad about possibly joining him at the Bernabeu will spark fury.
And he knows the leading candidate in Real's presidential elections, millionaire businessman Villa Mir, is targeting him and favourite to win control.
Mir has teamed up with ex-world rally champion Carlos Sainz, who would be vice-president.
Sainz said: "Eriksson is one of our options."

Maradona: England hopes hang on Rooney fitness

Argentine legend Diego Maradona says England's World Cup hopes hang on the fitness of Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney.

The man who wrecked England's 1986 World Cup with his Hand of God goal said: "Rooney is the same as me - both as a player and as a person.
"He comes from a rough area but I like that. It can only help because he's seen how tough life can be.
"His temperament is a bonus - it will make him conquer adversity."
Rooney faces another scan on his broken foot on June 14 and Maradona insists the outcome could make or break England's campaign.
He said: "Without him England will suffer. If he makes it he could inspire them to victory."
Maradona, 45, believes Brazil will retain their trophy.
He added: "They have strength in depth and the right blend of youth and experience."

Cisse slams Liverpool boss Benitez

Djibril Cisse has slammed his Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez.

Cisse, training with the France World Cup squad at Clairefontaine, said: "Mr. Houllier signed me for Liverpool but I never had the chance to work with him.
"Now I have a coach who doesn't want me. Benitez doesn't use me, so I've taken a step back.
"I don't have the confidence of the coach; he doesn't like me."
Houllier helped bring Cisse to Liverpool from Auxerre but left the club shortly before the 24-year-old signed in July 2004.
And Cisse said he was even willing to take a pay cut to join Houllier at Lyon - either on loan or in a permanent move.
"Financially, you have to make some sacrifices and I'm ready to make them," he said.
"My heart leans to Marseille, but Lyon play in the Champions League and is a more stable club."

Palace's Johnson: It's Everton for me

Crystal Palace striker Andy Johnson has revealed he's chosen to join Everton.
Everton, Bolton and Wigan Athletic had all had their £8.5 million bids accepted by Palace last week.

"After several days of careful consideration, I have decided that my footballing future lies at Goodison Park with Everton," Johnson told Everton's official website.
"I find the prospect of playing for one of the biggest names in British football impossible to resist and I am now just hopeful that I can swiftly complete my medical so that I can sign on the dotted line and commit myself to the club.
"Whilst I do believe that Everton will afford me the best opportunity to fulfil my twin ambitions of winning major honours and again representing England at senior level, the last few days have been both hectic and demanding.
"I would like to thank both Wigan Athletic and Bolton Wanderers, firstly for having sufficient faith in my abilities to lodge a bid and secondly for being so courteous and professional during the course of our negotiations. I was very flattered by the interest of both clubs.
"I would also like to thank everyone at Crystal Palace - especially Iain Dowie and the fans - for their support and dedication during my time at Selhurst Park. In many ways I am sorry to be leaving but I wish them well for the future."

Yorke backs Man Utd's Ferguson in Ruud row

Former Manchester United striker Dwight Yorke has supported Sir Alex Ferguson in his row with Ruud van Nistelrooy.

"Sir Alex only sees what is right for Manchester United," Yorke told BBC Radio Five. "If he sees Ruud as an asset to the club, he will stay.
"I don't see Ruud leaving, but if Alex thinks otherwise, that's how it is."
Yorke left United after being frozen out by Ferguson, who has reportedly fallen out with Van Nistelrooy.
"The manager is a winner, I respect him greatly. He sees things about people," added Yorke.
"It was no different for me, or Ruud and Jaap Stam. When he sees your time is up he only thinks about Manchester United and his players.
"If he sees what you can do and can't do. And if he feels that you are not doing the job he wants you to do then he will change it, it is as simple as that."

New Real Madrid talks for Capello

Fresh talk has emerged of Fabio Capello returning to Real Madrid for next season.

The Juventus coach is understood to have met with Pedja Mijatovic in recent days about joining Juan Miguel Villar Mir's presidential ticket.
Mijatovic flew from Madrid to Sicily, where Capello is enjoying his summer break, and offered him terms and discussed player signings.
Corriere dello Sport says Capello has asked for more time to consider the proposal. Although nothing has to be made public until after the July 2 elections.

AC Milan ready to move for Man Utd's Van Nistelrooy

AC Milan are ready to move for Manchester United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy.
The Italian giants are lining up the unhappy Dutchman as a replacement for Chelsea-bound striker Andriy Shevchenko.

A Milan source told the News of the World: "Van Nistelrooy is the man we want. He is one of the few players in the world who could replace Sheva."
Van Nistelrooy looks certain to leave Old Trafford in a cut-price £8.4million move after a bitter bust-up with boss Sir Alex Ferguson.
The former PSV striker has been touted across Europe.
And AC Milan's city rivals Inter have already been offered the chance to sign the player.
But it is understood Van Nistelrooy would jump at the chance to join Milan five years after moving to United for £19m.

Man Utd table £18M bid for Lyon's Diarra

Manchester United have tabled a bid for Olympique Lyon midfielder Mahamadou Diarra.
United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has settled on Diarra as being the man to succeed former captain Roy Keane in the heart of United's midfield.
The Sunday Times says United have made a formal offer of £18 million for Diarra, who is thought to be available for around £25 million.

Six Juventus stars on Real Madrid shopping list

No less than SIX Juventus stars are being linked with Real Madrid after it emerged yesterday that coach Fabio Capello had been in talks about a return to Spain.

During his talks with Capello, Pedja Mijatovic also discussed the prospect of raiding Juve for some of their best players. Mijatovic is working on Juan Miguel Villar Mir's presidential ticket.

Emerson, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Gianluca Zambrotta, Patrick Vieira, David Trezeguet and Fabio Cannavaro were all mentioned as possible signings for Real should Capello agree to return to Madrid this summer.

Man Utd maintain interest for Villarreal ace Riquelme

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson remains interested in Villarreal playmaker Juan Roman Riquelme.

The Argentina international has been followed by Ferguson since his days at Barcelona and intermediaries are maintaining contact with the player and Villarreal about his availability.
Riquelme won't consider any offer until after the World Cup, but knows that Ferguson will be following him in preparation games leading into the Germany tournament.
Indeed, Ferguson is expected to make a personal check on Argentina before the World Cup kickoff to run his eye over Riquelme, Esteban Cambiasso of Inter Milan and his United defender Gaby Heinze.

Veron reignites feud with Inter Milan pal Adriano

Juan Veron has lambasted Inter Milan teammate Adriano.
The pair clashed during and after Inter's Champions League elimination at Villarreal last season and the Argentine reignited the feud yesterday.

"If he played the way he talks, then Inter would already have won the Scudetto," blasted Veron.
"Adriano feels himself on a pedestal that does not belong to him, seeing as he's neither Ronaldo nor Ronaldinho. I really hope he gets to play against Argentina in the World Cup."
Veron also admitted: "Inter are asking me to stay, but I really think I'll stay in Argentina, as my wife and children want to come home and are putting pressure on me to do it as soon as possible. I'll start discussing options next week. River Plate are special to me, but I haven't received any signals from them."

Newcastle to bid for Juventus star Vieira

Newcastle United are being linked with a shock move for Juventus midfielder Patrick Vieira.
The French ace could become available at Juve should the club be demoted to Serie B over Italy's match-fixing scandal.
The Daily Express says Newcastle are ready to offer £6 million to bring Vieira back to the Premiership.

Chelsea in talks with Feyenoord's Kalou

Chelsea are in talks with Feyenoord striker Salomon Kalou.

Kalou, 20, is the younger brother of Ivory Coast captain Bonaventure Kalou, who plays for Paris St Germain.
"We have given Salomon an authorisation to talk with Chelsea," said Feyenoord marketing director Chris Woerts.
"We've been in talks with this club for some time over Kalou. It's going in the right direction but he hasn't reached an agreement yet," added Woerts.

Chelsea want to pay £35M cash for Shevchenko

Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho wants a straight cash deal for £35 million-rated AC Milan striker Andriy Shevchenko.

Shevchenko confirmed yesterday that he was leaving Milan for England after months of speculation about his future.
And Mourinho wants a straight cash deal.
But Milan are determined to land defender William Gallas as part of the transfer after having a £4m bid rejected by Chelsea two weeks ago.
The Frenchman, 28, has just one year of his Blues contract to run and is refusing to sign a new deal.
Shevchenko's imminent arrival comes just weeks after the signing of Bayern Munich superstar Michael Ballack on a £130,000-a-week deal.

Wigan to pay £8.5M NOW to land Palace ace AJ

Wigan Athletic are willing to hand Crystal Palace their entire £8.5 million bid UP FRONT to clinch the signing of Andy Johnson ahead of Bolton and Everton.

Latics whisked Palace striker Johnson north from the England World Cup camp in chairman Dave Whelan's helicopter.
Canny Whelan then reacted to Bolton's offer, and a late move by Everton, by telling Palace chairman Simon Jordan that he can have ALL of the transfer fee.
Jordan may now stop Bolton from speaking to Johnson and block Everton's efforts, says the Mirror.
Johnson, impressed with the way he was wooed, spoke to Jewell about Wigan's plans for next season and learned of a bumper £30,000-a-week contract.

Dowie agrees 3-year Charlton deal

Iain Dowie has agreed a three-year contract with Charlton Athletic.

The Mirror says Dowie has signed a three-year deal to take over at The Valley and will be unveiled at a press conference on Tuesday.

The move is certain to infuriate Simon Jordan, chairman of Dowie's former club Crystal Palace. At the time Jordan maintained he would "not be very happy" if Dowie went three miles up the road to Charlton because he had said he wanted to move north with his family.

Charlton have called a media conference for Tuesday to announce their new manager and two assistants.

Adriano spotted with AC Milan chief Leonardo

Inter Milan striker Adriano was spotted in talks with Leonardo this week in Switzerland.
While in Switzerland with Brazil's World Cup squad, it's emerged that Adriano and his agent, Gilmar Veloz, were spotted in an informal meeting with Leonardo, who acts as AC Milan's South American ambassador.
The meeting occurred only hours after Adriano again questioned his future at Inter and his relationship with coach Roberto Mancini.

Man Utd boss Ferguson: Rooney still injured

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has confirmed that Wayne Rooney's fractured metatarsal has not completely healed.
A scan on the England star's injured foot revealed it is still damaged so a second examination on June 14 will determine whether he can compete in the World Cup finals.
"Obviously we're making progress but the fracture is not completely healed," he relayed to MUTV. "It goes exactly to the timetable we decided at the beginning. We said this is going to take six weeks and that is exactly where we are at this very moment in time.
"We've been right all along.

"We say this because there's been so much wild assertions and exaggerations in the newspapers that we've kept an even keel because there is that inclination to be too optimistic but we are making progress.
"The next stage is to have a scan on June 14 in Manchester, hopefully the fracture is completely healed by that time.
"We will continue his development in terms of the training part next week. Hopefully, he'll do some light jogging and we'll monitor it as we go along.
"Because he's young, he doesn't feel any pain and this is a dangerous area but the scan quite clearly shows the fracture is not healed.
"We're praying and hoping. I've said all along we'd get him there somehow, we'll do our very best and that's what we're doing.
"We are doing our very best. Obviously, there has to be an improvement and a complete recovery because it's not an easy injury as anyone who has had it knows.
"We have to tread carefully. Hopefully, we'll get there. The next one [scan] is the key one, of course. Wayne has to take care of himself also, it's not just what we can do from a medical point of view. He's got to work hard to make sure he's having a proper rest and wearing his orthopaedic boot at the right time, particularly in training.
"Hopefully, the fracture will heal by June 14 and be completely healed; if not, then it's impossible."

Chelsea move in as Shevchenko admits he's leaving

Chelsea are ready to open talks with AC Milan after Andriy Shevchenko confirmed he's leaving the Italian giants.
Shevchenko, 29, met with Milan vice president Adriano Galliani on Friday to discuss his future, and afterwards said: "I'm leaving for family reasons.
"It wasn't a problem of relations and there is no economic problem."
Galliani said: "This is certainly the most painful divorce since I have been at Milan. We will begin negotiations with Chelsea and it will not be easy."

Shevchenko has an American wife and it is understood that they want their son Jordan to learn English.
Galliani, who is in charge of the day-to-day operations at Milan, added: "It's a victory of the English language over the Italian language.
"I've tried to convince him to stay - even one minute prior to the press conference."
Milan offered Shevchenko a contract extension until 2011.
"My wish is that the club can evaluate my transfer," added the Ukraine international.
"Of course I am saddened because I have seen the looks on the faces of the fans and because of the many messages I have received."
Shevchenko's wife, Kristen Pazak, is understood to be friends with the partner of Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich.
"My wife has nothing to do with this," said the striker. "We decided together for the best interests of our family.
"I don't speak English, my wife does not speak Ukrainian - the only language we have in common at the moment is Italian.
"The only way to be able to teach our children our love that we have for them is the English language."

Woodgate: I want to repay Real Madrid support

Jonathan Woodgate insists he wants to stay at Real Madrid.

Reacting to reports that he had asked for a move back to the Premiership, Woody told AS: "Real Madrid has shown great faith in me and I want to repay all that confidence by winning the title next year.
"I continue having in my mind the idea of succeeding at Real Madrid and I am going to work hard so that this happens.
"It will be a very hard summer for me, but it will be worth the trouble."

Real Madrid candidates approach Juventus pair Zambrotta, Ibrahimovic

Juventus pair Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Gianluca Zambrotta are in talks with Real Madrid.
Sources close to Real's presidential candidates have told Marca that representatives of both players have been sounded out about joining their tickets for the July elections.
Ibrahimovic has already indicated he'll leave Juve should they be demoted to Serie B over Italy's match-fixing scandal. Zambrotta is good friends with Spanish coach Jose Antonio Camacho, who is working with Real candidate Juan Palacios.

Chelsea confident Shevchenko wants London move

Chelsea are convinced AC Milan striker Andriy Shevchenko will make public his decision to move to Stamford Bridge - possibly as early as today.

The Times says although Milan are desperately trying to change Shevchenko's decision, his mind is virtually made up, with only the nature of his exit strategy to be determined. The 29-year-old is desperate to leave on good terms after seven successful years at the San Siro but, by offering him a two-year contract extension, Milan have deliberately sought to make his departure as difficult as possible, placing the onus on him to seek a transfer.
Blues owner Roman Abramovich is not getting carried away just yet, but remains confident of finally landing his man. However, Milan will prove difficult negotiating partners and a deal is unlikely before the World Cup.

Man Utd agree Obi sale to avoid Chelsea bid for Van Nistelrooy

Manchester United have agreed to sell John Obi Mikel to Chelsea so to avoid the Blues bidding for Ruud van Nistelrooy.

The Sun says United hope they now have a gentleman's agreement with the champions not to sign the Dutch ace.
Chief executive Peter Kenyon has had preliminary talks with Van Nistelrooy's agent over a switch from Old Trafford to Stamford Bridge.
But Alex Ferguson is determined to sell the striker abroad rather than to his biggest title rivals.
Mikel initially signed for United but then claimed he was forced into doing it and really wanted to go to Chelsea. United refused to budge even appealing to FIFA and UEFA over the situation.
Now they have come to an agreement where Chelsea will pay United £10million and his Norwegian club Lyn Oslo £2m.

Villarreal signing Pires has dig at Arsenal's Wenger

New Villarreal signing Robert Pires took a parting shot at Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger yesterday.
Pires, 33, turned his back on Arsenal after refusing to fall into line with Wenger's policy of offering players over 30 only one-year deals.

But Villarreal boss Manuel Pellegrini did not hesitate in snapping up Pires on a two-year contract worth £50,000 a week.
The French midfielder, who must still pass a medical, said: "After six wonderful years at Arsenal, I have decided to accept a new challenge at Villarreal for the next two years of my career.
"I am delighted to agree this deal and hope I will be able to help them build on their impressive achievements of the last two years.
"The most important thing for me is to play regular football because that's what makes me happy. With Villarreal, I will be able to do that."
Pires, who joined Arsenal for £6million from Marseille in 2000, added: "Villarreal have some great players like Riquelme, who is one of the best in the world.
"I saw what a great atmosphere the stadium has when we beat them in the Champions League semi-final this season.
"I have always liked Spanish football and I want to experience La Liga. I already speak Spanish so it will be comfortable for me to adapt."

Morientes joins Valencia

Liverpool have cut their losses on Fernando Morientes and sold the striker to Valencia.
Morientes' Anfield future has been the subject of intense scrutiny in recent weeks following a lacklustre time with The Reds.
His agent appeared to intimate earlier this week that the 30-year-old would see out the remaining two years on his contract with the Premiership club.
But Liverpool have now agreed to sell Morientes to Valencia for an undisclosed fee, after the forward was also linked with Real Betis and Espanyol.
Reds boss Rafa Benitez splashed out £6.3 million to bring Morientes to Merseyside from Real Madrid in January 2005.
Morientes, though, failed to provide a significant return on the investment as he mustered just 12 goals in 61 appearances.
He struggled to adjust to the demands of Premiership football and has now returned to La Liga, where he forged a reputation as one of the most consistent goalscorers in the European game.
The length of Morientes' contract has yet to be revealed and the move will be a boost to the player, who missed out on Spain's World Cup squad.
His last appearance for Liverpool was in the FA Cup final when he came on as a substitute in the penalty shoot-out success over West Ham United.

Man Utd following Inter Milan's Cambiasso

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is following Inter Milan midfielder Esteban Cambiasso.

The Argentina international has emerged as part of a potential swap plus cash that would send Ruud van Nistelrooy to the San Siro.
Inter owner Massimo Moratti is reluctant to let Cambiasso go and was initially believed to have rejected the idea but if United insist that it is the only way a deal could be brokered then the Italians may well relent, says the Manchester Evening News.
Lyon's Mahamadou Diarra is still believed to be top of Fergie's wish-list but former Real Madrid protege Cambiasso is also a tireless and disciplined midfielder.
Sir Alex will be able to check out Cambiasso when the Argentinians face Holland, Ivory Coast and Serbia in Group C.
Ferguson could also contact Gabriel Heinze for a reference as he, too, will be on duty with Jose Pekerman's side in Germany.

Rijkaard expects Barcelona's Messi to be dragged into Real Madrid election

Barcelona coach Frank Rijkaard admits he expects Lionel Messi to be used as a pawn in this summer's Real Madrid presidential race.

The Dutchman expects one of the candidates to claim they can bring Messi to Madrid, but insists: "It is a thing that does not surprise me, because they are the strategies of these people.
"But Leo is very happy with this squad and he has one thing on his mind, to play for Barça."
Rijkaard also dismissed reports that defender Rafael Marquez may quit Barca over a contract dispute.
"I do not see a danger in his continuity."

AC Milan's Gattuso defends Juventus players

AC Milan midfielder Rino Gattuso has jumped to the defence of Juventus' players over Italy's match-fixing scandal.

"I do not want the Bianconeri's Scudettos," said Gattuso. "The players were not involved, those titles are theirs.
"At this moment, the figure that is looking best out of all this is the Italian footballer.
"Sure, there is bitterness and anxiety. It does not appeal to me that in my world there are those who work in this way.
"Moggi, before all this, was regarded as the best transfer expert in the world - I hope that the authorities can straighten the game out again."

Recoba: I'm staying at Inter Milan

Alvaro Recoba has revealed he's agreed terms on a new contract at Inter Milan.
"I'm staying with Inter," said the Uruguayan. "Now I can go on holiday calm and happy."
The inside-forward continued: "In these last weeks I have not ever asked my agent about alternatives. I wanted to meet patron Massimo Moratti because my desire has always been to close my career with the Nerazzurro.
"And now, at this minute, it looks like it will happen."

Pires rejects late Arsenal offer for Villarreal deal

Arsenal midfielder Robert Pires will complete his move to Villarreal today.
Pires, 32, has agreed a two-year £5million deal to join the Spanish La Liga outfit on July 1.
Gunners made a last-ditch bid to keep the France ace.
But they would not increase their offer of a one-year extension, except to say they would look again at the situation next summer.

Chelsea to pay Man Utd £10M for Obi Mikel

Chelsea are set to clinch the signing of John Obi Mikel in a £12 million deal.
The Sun says £10m of the Mikel fee will be handed over to rivals Manchester United, who thought they had landed his signature.
Nigerian teen whizz Mikel is set to sign a three-year deal at Stamford Bridge this week.
The 18-year-old has been at the centre of a protracted tug-of-war between United and the Premiership champions over his signature from Norwegian club Lyn Oslo, who will also get £2m from Chelsea.

Man Utd's Rooney upset over doc sack

Wayne Rooney can't believe the decision by Manchester United to sack their doctor Mike Stone.

England's wonder-kid is privately angry Manchester United's axed medic Mike Stone will not oversee the crucial scan today which could decide his World Cup future.
Rooney, 20, credited Dr Stone with the amazing recovery he has made from his metatarsal injury.
A source close to the star told The Sun: "Wayne was impressed with Mike's work on his foot and liked him. This has come as a big shock."
Stone had become a trusted friend as well as the doc who has nursed him back to fitness since his foot injury at Chelsea on April 29.
One United insider said: "Everyone loved the bloke and cannot understand why this has happened."

FIFA hand England Rooney deadline

England's team doctors will have to inform FIFA by May 30 if they expect Wayne Rooney to recover in time to take part in the World Cup.

Rooney is having an MRI scan on Thursday to determine the progress of his recovery from his metatarsal injury.
England team doctor Leif Sward will then have to inform FIFA by Tuesday that he expects all the players in the squad will be mentally and physically fit to play in the finals.
FIFA's chief medical officer Dr Jiri Dvorak said: "Each team physician have to confirm by May 30 that their players are physically and mentally fit to participate in the World Cup.
"If Wayne Rooney is on the list then that is in principle confirmation that it is anticipated he will have recovered in time to participate in the tournament."

Liverpool want Valencia's Di Vaio in Morientes deal

Valencia coach Quique Flores wants to bring Liverpool striker Fernando Morientes back to Spain.

Flores has agreed with new Valencia sports chief Amedao Carboni that Morientes' signing must be a summer market priority.
Carboni has been locked in talks with Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez for a week attempting to thrash out terms for the former European Football of the Year.
Benitez is demanding a straight cash deal of £3.5 million for Morientes, while Carboni has attempted to convince the Spaniard to accept a cash-plus-player swap.
Benitez's latest proposal is for £2.5 million plus Marco Di Vaio in exchange for the Liverpool forward.

Real Madrid get serious with tubby Cassano

Real Madrid have ordered Antonio Cassano follow a strict diet over the summer.

Real directors are dismayed over the Italian's weight problems since his arrival in January from AS Roma.
Cassano has been told not to touch any soft drinks, beer and sweets ("which he loves a lot," admitted a Real source).
An unnamed Real director said: "Cassano has one of the highest body fat percentages at the club and has done little to try to get it down in the last months."
Cassano's strict diet regime will begin on July 7. He will be fined for every gram he is recorded as being overweight.

Palladino desperate to kickoff Juventus career

Italy U21 striker Raffaele Palladino hopes to play for Juventus next season.
Palladino spent last term on-loan at Livorno and said: "I hope to return to Juve. For me, it would be a dream. They've been my team since I was small."
On Juve's wiretap scandal, the youngster added: "What is happening has upset me, I would have never thought that a person like Moggi could end up in a situation like this."

Rosicky: Arsenal are best club in Europe

Tomas Rosicky is convinced he's joined the best club in Europe in Arsenal.
The Gunners fought off Atletico Madrid to snap up the midfield ace on a long-term deal from Borussia Dortmund yesterday.

Rosicky, 25, said: "I'm really happy to be at Arsenal, it's great for me.
"The team showed its strength in the Champions League and has big potential with a lot of young players.
"We can be even better next season. This is the best club in Europe and I will give everything for Arsenal."
Rosicky will join up with his new team-mates after next month's World Cup.
He is relishing the prospect of playing alongside Thierry Henry. He said: "He is the best striker in the world.
"When I was 20, I played at Highbury for Sparta Prague and scored. There was a great atmosphere.
"I have been waiting for this move and am very happy to be here."
Arsene Wenger sees him as the perfect replacement for Robert Pires, who looks certain to leave the club. The Gunners boss said: "Tomas has great technique, skill on the ball and sharp passing.
"He has good experience at all levels for club and country.
"We look forward to welcoming him to Arsenal after what will hopefully be a very successful summer for him at the World Cup."

Feyenoord's Kuyt reveals new Liverpool offer

Feyenoord captain Dirk Kuyt has revealed a fresh approach from Liverpool.

The Feyenoord striker was a target for Rafa Benitez last summer and the Kop chief had a £10million bid knocked back.
But, last night, Kuyt, 25, took time out from Holland's World Cup preparations to admit: "It is now down to Feyenoord. They have informed me of a new approach from last year's European champions but it is out of my hands.
"I am happy at Feyenoord but I would like to play in the Premier League. Last year it was close to happening, so for now I prefer to concentrate only on the World Cup."

Man Utd sack top doc as Rooney controversy rumbles on

Manchester United have sacked club doctor Mike Stone.
The Sun says Stone has embarrassed United boss Sir Alex Ferguson over Wayne Rooney's rapid recovery from his fractured metatarsal injury.

Ferguson has been publicly claiming that Rooney, 20, had little or no chance of playing in the World Cup finals.
The fiery Scot was also adamant that HE would decide if Rooney was going to Germany and NOT Three Lions chief Sven Goran Eriksson.
However, at the same time, Stone was briefing England doctor Leif Sward that Rooney's recovery from his metatarsal injury was going well.
Only a fortnight after Rooney's injury, Sward was full of praise for Stone.
Sward said: "I just talked to the doctors in Manchester and the report they gave me was very, very positive.
"We have decided Manchester United's medical team, with Mike Stone in charge, will work with Rooney's recovery. I can say they have done a tremendous job with Wayne."
Since then Sward was also briefed by Stone that Rooney was making the 'perfect recovery'.
This will have been embarrassing for Ferguson - who had originally poured scorn on the idea of Rooney playing in the finals.
Stone is also known to have regularly been at odds with United assistant-manager Carlos Queiroz.