Another week, another rumor linking Cristiano Ronaldo to Real Madrid. Will it ever end? Not until he actually moves to Madrid, which can’t happen soon enough for some. But, until he moves, he’ll still be popping up in our transfer news and rumors column, along with several other tidbits from around England and Europe.
Spain
Ronaldo or Ribery for Real?
It appears that Real Madrid are going to go all out to sign a world-class winger in the summer, but which one will it be? According to the Daily Mirror, Real are set to offer Cristiano Ronaldo 200k a week to move to Madrid. However, the Daily Mail says that Real’s efforts are focused on Bayern Munich star Franck Ribery.
Analysis: It doesn’t seem too likely that Ronaldo’s leaving Manchester just yet, but fortunately, Ribery certainly seems to be doing his best to get his move to Madrid.
Real Bid for Wigan Winger Valencia
If Real can’t land Ronaldo or Ribery, who will they turn to? The agent of Wigan winger Antonio Valencia has confirmed that Real Madrid have made a bid for the Ecuadorian star. (Sky Sports)
Analysis: Wigan weren’t ready to part with him when Real went after him in January, but Steve Bruce knows that it’s only a matter of time before he leaves. The preferred destination could be Manchester United, but if United aren’t in need of a new winger this summer, then Real will be free to have him.
Barcelona to Rekindle Interest in Bayern’s Lahm?
Barcelona could follow suit with their archrivals by making a move for a Bayern Munich star, as Bayern left back Philipp Lahm could be in their sights again after a failed move in January. (Tribal Football)
Analysis: So, is this is a nice way of saying that they don’t want Eric Abidal anymore?
England
Manchester City to Move for Forlan
Could Diego Forlan be on his way back to Manchester? The former Manchester United man could be, as Manchester City are set to make a move for the Atletico Madrid striker, who’s also been recently linked with Liverpool. (Daily Mail)
Analysis: If Liverpool can afford him, I’d favor them for his signature because they offer a chance to win the Premier League and Champions League, but that all depends on how much Rafa has at his disposal, and if Atletico are going to stand firm by their asking price.
Tottenham Lead Race for Wolfsburg Star Dzeko
Wolfsburg striker Edin Dzeko has been lighting it up in the Bundesliga this season, and he could soon be doing the same in the Premier League. A number of English sides are being linked with the Bosnian star, with Tottenham reportedly leading the way for the 12m man. (Daily Mail)
Analysis: It could be hard to turn down the likes of Manchester United and Arsenal, unless one of them offered him regular first-team football, but his height, not to mention his prolific scoring ability, would be a welcome addition to Tottenham’s front line.
Tottenham and Chelsea Battle for Lazio’s Pandev
Tottenham could look to make a 15m move for Lazio striker Goran Pandev, though they could be set to face competition from Chelsea for the Macedonian star. (Daily Mail)
em>Analysis: Pandev’s been a pretty solid scorer in Serie A over the last few seasons, but if their options came down to Pandev or Dzeko, I’d take Dzeko.
Italy
Inter Set to Snap Up Duo
Inter Milan are set to complete a double deal with Genoa for striker Diego Milito and midfielder Thiago Motta. Milito and Motta will move to the San Siro in exchange for 16m and young striker Robert Acquafresca. (Goal.com)
Analysis: Tough blow for Genoa to lose a couple of key pieces to their run to a European place, but the deal works out well for them. Not only do they get some cash to strengthen their squad, but the 21-year-old Acquafresca is one of the top young prospects in Italy, and he’s already proven himself as a regular scorer in Serie A, with back-to-back double-digit goal hauls with Cagliari.
Scotland
Celtic In Hunt for Barcelona’s Krkic?
The chances are high that Barcelona striker Bojan Krkic will go out on loan next season, and the latest club to show their interest in the youngster is Celtic. (Goal.com)
Analysis: Celtic already have a relationship with Barcelona thanks to their move for Marc Crosas last summer, so the seeds are there, but my guess is that he’ll stay in Spain.
Daily Links
Cohen Apologizes for Hillsborough Comments
World Soccer Daily host Steven Cohen has finally apologized for his controversial comments about the Hillsborough disaster.
The Best and Worst Englishmen to Play in Italy
Stephen Darwin takes a look at some of the most and least successful Englishmen to ply their trade on Italian soil.
More Great Quotes from Andrei Arshavin
Andrei Arshavin has been a great addition to the Premier League not only because of his skills on the pitch, but also because of his blunt honesty.
Add Sportslens to your Google News Feed!
