Swansea boss Brendan Rodgers has reacted quickly to the shock departure of goalkeeper Dorus De Vries with a raid on his former club, Watford. Following the Dutchman's free transfer move to Wolves on Wednesday, Rodgers has immediately submitted a £1.7m bid for England U21 stopper Scott Loach.
Loach first broke into the Hornets' first XI under Rodgers and is thought to be keen on a move to South Wales to boost his international prospects. A pal of Loach told us: "Scotty has looked at the goalkeeping resources for England and they're thin on the ground to say the least. He reckons playing in the Premier League for a struggling side will do him wonders; look at Joe Hart, he went to Birmingham and now he's the number one."
Watford's new manager Sean Dyche is understandably keen to keep Loach but understands that financial issues at Vicarage Road may well force his hand; indeed, Dyche's acceptance of the situation was key to him being given the job ahead of the likes of Paul Ince, Andy Hessenthaler and Iain Dowie. Should Loach make the move to the Premier League new boys, Watford will immediately be in the market for a keeper themselves, and the merry-go-round could see them turn to Stephen Bywater, who is out of favour at Derby and is unlikely to make a return to Cardiff City, where he spent the latter part of last season on loan.
Wednesday 22 June 2011
Saturday 18 June 2011
I Wanna Get Hessed For Success
Following the departure of boss Malky Mackay to Cardiff City (as exclusively revealed by The Insider a fortnight ago), Watford have made an early start in appointing his successor by approaching Gillingham manager Andy Hessenthaler. Hessenthaler was a popular player at Vicarage Road in the early 1990s and has been sounded out by chairman Graham Taylor about a move back to the Hertfordshire club. The pint-sized manager has emotional ties to the Gills but would find it difficult to turn down a move to the second tier, with the new ambitious owners pledging in an injection of funds to bolster the young squad.
The move for Hessenthaler comes after Taylor's original target, Brian Horton, turned down the chance to join the club as he is thought to be close to gaining a coaching role at an as yet unnamed Premier League club in the Midlands. A source close to Taylor told us: "Graham thinks that Andy has what it takes to develop these youngsters and make a real play-off push this season. He's a born winner and that's important to us."
Hessenthaler could make a move for young Norwich forward Cody McDonald should he take up the reigns at the Hornets. McDonald played under him last season at Priestfield and is not thought to have a long term future at Carrow Road.
The move for Hessenthaler comes after Taylor's original target, Brian Horton, turned down the chance to join the club as he is thought to be close to gaining a coaching role at an as yet unnamed Premier League club in the Midlands. A source close to Taylor told us: "Graham thinks that Andy has what it takes to develop these youngsters and make a real play-off push this season. He's a born winner and that's important to us."
Hessenthaler could make a move for young Norwich forward Cody McDonald should he take up the reigns at the Hornets. McDonald played under him last season at Priestfield and is not thought to have a long term future at Carrow Road.
Tuesday 14 June 2011
Bennett Blow Bursts Boro's Bubble
A turbulent summer is set to hit the Riverside Stadium in the coming weeks as England U21 star Joe Bennett is in advanced talks with Newcastle United over a £3.5m transfer. Boro's increasing financial troubles have meant that the sale of star players is necessary while they remain committed to paying the likes of Kris Boyd, who has little prospect of moving anywhere, £30,000 a week. Bennett starred for the Teessiders last season and this move has added further fuel to the growing rumours of Tony Mowbray's imminent departure to Birmingham City.
Mowbray is dismayed that he is being asked to sell a player who he nurtured last season after being ignored by Gordon Strachan and feels that the fee vastly undervalues Bennett. However, cashflow difficulties mean that Newcastle's willingness to pay the full fee up front has won the day and it is now down to the player to agree personal terms. Magpies boss Alan Pardew has earmarked Bennett as a replacement for Jose Enrique, who is homing in on a £12m move to Liverpool.
There is however brighter news for the Boro faithful as a potential crowd-pleasing replacement has been identified by the scouting staff. Former Boro favourite Franck Queudrue is available on a free transfer following current club RC Lens' relegation from the French top flight and he has had initial discussions with chairman Steve Gibson about a return to his former stomping ground. Meanwhile, Mowbray is expected to hold a crisis meeting at the club on Friday to discuss his future.
Mowbray is dismayed that he is being asked to sell a player who he nurtured last season after being ignored by Gordon Strachan and feels that the fee vastly undervalues Bennett. However, cashflow difficulties mean that Newcastle's willingness to pay the full fee up front has won the day and it is now down to the player to agree personal terms. Magpies boss Alan Pardew has earmarked Bennett as a replacement for Jose Enrique, who is homing in on a £12m move to Liverpool.
There is however brighter news for the Boro faithful as a potential crowd-pleasing replacement has been identified by the scouting staff. Former Boro favourite Franck Queudrue is available on a free transfer following current club RC Lens' relegation from the French top flight and he has had initial discussions with chairman Steve Gibson about a return to his former stomping ground. Meanwhile, Mowbray is expected to hold a crisis meeting at the club on Friday to discuss his future.
Monday 13 June 2011
The Graham-Horton Show
With rumours escalating that Watford boss Malky Mackay is set to swap the delights of Hertfordshire for South Wales and Cardiff City, the Hornets have acted quickly to sound out potential replacements. Chairman Graham Taylor believes that a steady hand on the tiller is vital as the club looks to stabilise itself financially after a rocky few years and has therefore turned to experience in the form of ex-Manchester City manager Brian Horton.
Horton was a key part of Hull City's charge to the Premier League in 2008 and is highly regarded within the game, and his knowledge of running a club on a shoestring is thought to be key to Taylor's choice. A pal of the ex-England supremo told us: "Brian's not a fashionable appointment, but we've had our fill of young bucks coming here and using the club as a stepping stone. We want someone who's going to stick with us and become a real Watford hero. His connections in the game at this level are second to none."
The Vicarage Road club are still hopeful that Mackay will stay, but the Scot believes that he has taken them as far as he can go and sees Cardiff as a place where he can really impose his vision on a football club. The tipping point appears to have been when the ex-Norwich centre-half was told that he would have no access to the proceeds of star striker Danny Graham's sale, which was contrary to promises made just a few short weeks ago.
Cardiff have now pinpointed Mackay as their number one target having failed to tempt Sean O'Driscoll away from Doncaster Rovers, and hope to finalise the appointment by the end of the week.
Horton was a key part of Hull City's charge to the Premier League in 2008 and is highly regarded within the game, and his knowledge of running a club on a shoestring is thought to be key to Taylor's choice. A pal of the ex-England supremo told us: "Brian's not a fashionable appointment, but we've had our fill of young bucks coming here and using the club as a stepping stone. We want someone who's going to stick with us and become a real Watford hero. His connections in the game at this level are second to none."
The Vicarage Road club are still hopeful that Mackay will stay, but the Scot believes that he has taken them as far as he can go and sees Cardiff as a place where he can really impose his vision on a football club. The tipping point appears to have been when the ex-Norwich centre-half was told that he would have no access to the proceeds of star striker Danny Graham's sale, which was contrary to promises made just a few short weeks ago.
Cardiff have now pinpointed Mackay as their number one target having failed to tempt Sean O'Driscoll away from Doncaster Rovers, and hope to finalise the appointment by the end of the week.
Tony Singing The Blues?
Birmingham City have reacted to the sudden resignation of boss Alex McLeish by lining up their first target to replace the Scot - a man who has also experienced the hotbed of Old Firm football. Acting chairman Peter Pannu has today been speaking to his counterpart Steve Gibson at Middlesbrough in an attempt to prise manager Tony Mowbray away from the Riverside. Mowbray has previously enjoyed success in the Birmingham area with West Bromwich Albion, with whom he won the Championship in 2008.
Mowbray only joined Boro last season and has impressed with his values of integrity and humility, as well as his expansive vision of football, which dragged the Teesiders away from a relegation battle. He is a hero in the area having famously captained the team in the late 1980s and early 1990s and though it would be a wrench for him to leave his beloved club, the financial constraints imposed upon him due to the lack of parachute payments in the following season have made him consider a move south.
Pannu has promised "Mogga" a warchest of up to £15m to bolster the Blues squad as they seek to make an immediate return. They have already signed Chris Burke and Marlon King, and are on the verge of sealing the signature of targetman Danny Koevermans from PSV Eindhoven. There has also been an undertaking from the City board that the likes of Ben Foster, Scott Dann and Roger Johnson will only depart if an astronomical offer comes in - a bid of £6m for Johnson from local rivals Wolves has already been flatly rejected.
The sway of European football could also tempt Mowbray as he failed to make an impact in this regard during his ill-fated spell at Celtic. Understandably, negotiations are at an early stage but the willingness of Mowbray to listen to what Birmingham have to say could point to an unlikely move.
Mowbray only joined Boro last season and has impressed with his values of integrity and humility, as well as his expansive vision of football, which dragged the Teesiders away from a relegation battle. He is a hero in the area having famously captained the team in the late 1980s and early 1990s and though it would be a wrench for him to leave his beloved club, the financial constraints imposed upon him due to the lack of parachute payments in the following season have made him consider a move south.
Pannu has promised "Mogga" a warchest of up to £15m to bolster the Blues squad as they seek to make an immediate return. They have already signed Chris Burke and Marlon King, and are on the verge of sealing the signature of targetman Danny Koevermans from PSV Eindhoven. There has also been an undertaking from the City board that the likes of Ben Foster, Scott Dann and Roger Johnson will only depart if an astronomical offer comes in - a bid of £6m for Johnson from local rivals Wolves has already been flatly rejected.
The sway of European football could also tempt Mowbray as he failed to make an impact in this regard during his ill-fated spell at Celtic. Understandably, negotiations are at an early stage but the willingness of Mowbray to listen to what Birmingham have to say could point to an unlikely move.
Fantastic Beye
QPR are on the verge of making their first signing since winning the Championship title with a free transfer swoop for out-of-favour Aston Villa right back Habib Beye. The Senegal international has barely featured for Villa since signing there two years ago and the managerless Midlanders are prepared to release him from the final year of his contract.
Hoops boss Neil Warnock has pinpointed the right back area as a key area to strengthen for the upcoming campaign; Pascal Chimbonda's short-lived spell in West London was not a success and Warnock does not see Bradley Orr as a regular starter in the Premier League. The veteran manager has moved for Beye after an approach to take Tottenham's Kyle Naughton on a season-long loan was rebuffed.
Beye will sign an initial one-year deal at Loftus Road, with a clause inserted guaranteeing him a further year if he makes more than 25 appearances next season.
Hoops boss Neil Warnock has pinpointed the right back area as a key area to strengthen for the upcoming campaign; Pascal Chimbonda's short-lived spell in West London was not a success and Warnock does not see Bradley Orr as a regular starter in the Premier League. The veteran manager has moved for Beye after an approach to take Tottenham's Kyle Naughton on a season-long loan was rebuffed.
Beye will sign an initial one-year deal at Loftus Road, with a clause inserted guaranteeing him a further year if he makes more than 25 appearances next season.
Mills and Toon?
Alan Pardew is set to raid his former club Reading for their inspirational captain, Matt Mills. The commanding centre-half is known to be keen on a move to the Premier League following the Royals' playoff heartbreak and Pardew believes that he would be an ideal partner for the rapidly improving Fabricio Coloccini. Sol Campbell has left the Magpies following the expiry of his contract, leaving them short of options at the back.
Mills is thought to be available for around £3.5m and a Toon source told us: "We've got plenty of players here who've stepped up from the Football League to the top flight and there's no reason why Matt wouldn't do the same. With a European push on the agenda for next season, it's the club to join at the moment, no doubt".
Premier League rivals Wolves and Stoke have previously been linked with the player, but the former Manchester City trainee is not keen on a move to the Midlands and has already been eyeing up properties in the North East.
Mills is thought to be available for around £3.5m and a Toon source told us: "We've got plenty of players here who've stepped up from the Football League to the top flight and there's no reason why Matt wouldn't do the same. With a European push on the agenda for next season, it's the club to join at the moment, no doubt".
Premier League rivals Wolves and Stoke have previously been linked with the player, but the former Manchester City trainee is not keen on a move to the Midlands and has already been eyeing up properties in the North East.
Tuesday 7 June 2011
Alan's Elland Return?
Speculation is increasing that former Leeds United favourite Alan Smith is set for a shock return to the West Yorkshire club - seven years after being branded "Judas" by the Elland Road faithful. Smith pledged his future to the Whites when they were relegated from the Premier League in 2004, but proceeded to sign for bitter rivals Manchester United, provoking fury from Leeds' fans.
However, with Smith being told that he is free to leave his current club Newcastle, for whom he has failed to score a single league goal since joining in 2007, tentative moves have been made to return him to his spiritual home. A source close to Smith told us: "Alan thinks it's all water under the bridge now, we're going back years here. He's a Leeds man through and through and Simon Grayson is a man after the same heart. If he can sort one or two things out with Newcastle then it's on."
Smith would be expected to play in midfield as opposed to reprising his striking role from the halcyon days of the Champions League campaign of 2000-2001. He would bring key experience to a young team and replace Bradley Johnson, who is expected to sign for Premier League new boys Norwich City in the coming days.
However, with Smith being told that he is free to leave his current club Newcastle, for whom he has failed to score a single league goal since joining in 2007, tentative moves have been made to return him to his spiritual home. A source close to Smith told us: "Alan thinks it's all water under the bridge now, we're going back years here. He's a Leeds man through and through and Simon Grayson is a man after the same heart. If he can sort one or two things out with Newcastle then it's on."
Smith would be expected to play in midfield as opposed to reprising his striking role from the halcyon days of the Champions League campaign of 2000-2001. He would bring key experience to a young team and replace Bradley Johnson, who is expected to sign for Premier League new boys Norwich City in the coming days.
Monday 6 June 2011
Dale Is Paul's Jewell In The Crown
Ipswich manager Paul Jewell will kickstart his overhaul of his Ipswich Town squad with a £2m swoop for Tranmere starlet Dale Jennings. Jennings had a stunning debut season for Rovers and has attracted the attention of various Premier League clubs, but Jewell is willing to take a big money gamble on the winger, who he believes will add much-needed pace to the Tractor Boys' attack.
The Birkenhead club are understandably loath to lose the best winger they have had at Prenton Park since the halcyon days of Pat Nevin and Johnny Morrissey, but financial issues off the pitch and the continuing reluctance of owner Peter Johnson to invest in the team mean that a "sell before you can buy" policy has been imposed on physio-turned-manager Les Parry. Jennings is the sole sellable asset that the affable Scouser has on his books and hence his departure is inevitable.
Jennings' arrival could spell the end at Portman Road for former Manchester United trainee Lee Martin. Despite his high reputation and indeed price-tag, Martin has failed to convince and is thought to have been told by Jewell that he has no future at the club. Coventry are a club looking to add extra wide options to their squad and it could be that he will be left to resurrect his career at the Ricoh Arena on a season-long loan.
The Birkenhead club are understandably loath to lose the best winger they have had at Prenton Park since the halcyon days of Pat Nevin and Johnny Morrissey, but financial issues off the pitch and the continuing reluctance of owner Peter Johnson to invest in the team mean that a "sell before you can buy" policy has been imposed on physio-turned-manager Les Parry. Jennings is the sole sellable asset that the affable Scouser has on his books and hence his departure is inevitable.
Jennings' arrival could spell the end at Portman Road for former Manchester United trainee Lee Martin. Despite his high reputation and indeed price-tag, Martin has failed to convince and is thought to have been told by Jewell that he has no future at the club. Coventry are a club looking to add extra wide options to their squad and it could be that he will be left to resurrect his career at the Ricoh Arena on a season-long loan.
Danny's Taking The Michael
New Sheffield United boss Danny Wilson has made the first steps towards ingratiating himself towards the club's fans, hostile at the appointment of the ex-Sheffield Wednesday man - by making moves towards signing former Bramall Lane hero Michael Brown. Brown left Portsmouth at the end of the season following the expiry of his contract and has shown interest in returning to the place at which he spent his best years.
Although in strictly footballing terms, Brown would still be coveted by the majority of Championship clubs, he retains an affection for the South Yorkshire club and being a wealthy man following the signing of lucrative Premier League contracts for the last seven years, has no need to merely settle for the highest bidder. Wilson sees the need to get the fans "on board" and the return of a crowd idol such as the former Tottenham and Fulham midfielder would certainly galvanise support at a club that has seemed on the verge of implosion in recent times.
Brown's wage demands are not thought to be anywhere near the level that he was earning at Portsmouth, but he has insisted that he be made captain and a clause inserted in his contract that he plays every game if fit. Blades supremo Kevin McCabe is due to visit the club this week and at his meeting with Wilson, the signing will be discussed in further detail. However, should the move fall through, Bristol City and Nottingham Forest are waiting in the wings to sign the experienced schemer.
Although in strictly footballing terms, Brown would still be coveted by the majority of Championship clubs, he retains an affection for the South Yorkshire club and being a wealthy man following the signing of lucrative Premier League contracts for the last seven years, has no need to merely settle for the highest bidder. Wilson sees the need to get the fans "on board" and the return of a crowd idol such as the former Tottenham and Fulham midfielder would certainly galvanise support at a club that has seemed on the verge of implosion in recent times.
Brown's wage demands are not thought to be anywhere near the level that he was earning at Portsmouth, but he has insisted that he be made captain and a clause inserted in his contract that he plays every game if fit. Blades supremo Kevin McCabe is due to visit the club this week and at his meeting with Wilson, the signing will be discussed in further detail. However, should the move fall through, Bristol City and Nottingham Forest are waiting in the wings to sign the experienced schemer.
Friday 3 June 2011
Angel Rangel Wrangle
Out of contract Swansea full back Angel Rangel is attracting the attention of new West Ham boss Sam Allardyce. Rangel - recently linked with the Irons' fierce rivals Millwall - sees his future in the capital. A source told us "Angel has enjoyed his time in South Wales, but sees guaranteed first team football as a priority at this stage of his career."
Allardyce is keen to recruit players known for their attractive, passing style in order to dispel the 'long ball' myth to win over the Hammers fans, and Rangel certainly fits the bill.
Allardyce is keen to recruit players known for their attractive, passing style in order to dispel the 'long ball' myth to win over the Hammers fans, and Rangel certainly fits the bill.
Big Business At Old Trafford
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has wasted no time in reacting to the Champions' League Final defeat to Barcelona by informing his chief executive David Gill of his two primary transfer targets. Bayern München midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger is top of the list, as Ferguson looks to replace the retired Paul Scholes. The German schemer has spent his entire career in Bavaria but is known to be unhappy with the direction of the club following Louis Van Gaal's departure. Schweinsteiger, who turns 27 in August, only signed a new contract with "FC Hollywood" in December but is keen to make a move to England while still in the prime of his career. However, Bayern are unwilling to part with arguably their star asset and are thought to be demanding a fee in excess of £30m. Ferguson has told Gill that this level of investment is necessary if the club is ever to challenge the likes of Barcelona at the very highest level.
The other target is former United frontman Guiseppe Rossi. The Italian-American left the club in 2007 and has excelled in La Liga with Villarreal. Having developed as a player, Ferguson is now keen to bring the 24 year old back to Manchester to replace the outgoing Dimitar Berbatov, who could be set for a return to his own former club, Tottenham Hotspur. Villarreal qualified for the Champions League but remain relative minnows in the grand scheme of European football and will not stand in Rossi's way should United stump up the £12m fee demanded.
The other target is former United frontman Guiseppe Rossi. The Italian-American left the club in 2007 and has excelled in La Liga with Villarreal. Having developed as a player, Ferguson is now keen to bring the 24 year old back to Manchester to replace the outgoing Dimitar Berbatov, who could be set for a return to his own former club, Tottenham Hotspur. Villarreal qualified for the Champions League but remain relative minnows in the grand scheme of European football and will not stand in Rossi's way should United stump up the £12m fee demanded.
Thursday 2 June 2011
Kev To Re-Tread The Yellow Brick Road
Kevin Phillips is preparing for a return to where it all started for him as a professional footballer - by signing for his former club Watford on a free transfer. The former England frontman has left Birmingham City following the expiry of his contract and is willing to postpone his mooted move into the media side of football by a year to sign a contract with the Hertfordshire club.
Watford are preparing themselves for bids for star striker Danny Graham and have therefore lined up the veteran forward as a short-term replacement. A source close to boss Malky Mackay told us: "Kev might not have the pace that he had here in his first spell, but he hasn't forgotten how to score goals. He's always had a soft spot for Watford and sees this as an ideal place to finish his career".
Phillips had hoped to gain a further deal in the Premier League, but Birmingham's relegation put paid to that, and rumoured interest from Blackburn Rovers has been laughed off by manager Steve Kean as "balderdash".
Watford are preparing themselves for bids for star striker Danny Graham and have therefore lined up the veteran forward as a short-term replacement. A source close to boss Malky Mackay told us: "Kev might not have the pace that he had here in his first spell, but he hasn't forgotten how to score goals. He's always had a soft spot for Watford and sees this as an ideal place to finish his career".
Phillips had hoped to gain a further deal in the Premier League, but Birmingham's relegation put paid to that, and rumoured interest from Blackburn Rovers has been laughed off by manager Steve Kean as "balderdash".
Howard's Way Out Of City
Leicester stalwart Steve Howard is set to leave the club this summer after being told by manager Sven-Göran Eriksson that he has no place in his plans for the coming campaign. Howard joined the Foxes in 2008 and has weighed in with a healthy number of goals, but Eriksson wishes to base his attack around former England man Darius Vassell in 2011-12, as well as hoping to sign Everton striker Yakubu on a permanent basis after his loan spell last season.
Howard has already been linked to Burnley who are in the market for a replacement for the departed Steven Thompson, and Southampton, whose manager Nigel Adkins has expressed doubts about Rickie Lambert's suitability for Championship football. Leicester are likely to ask a fee of around £400k for the targetman, a figure well within the reach of both clubs.
Howard has already been linked to Burnley who are in the market for a replacement for the departed Steven Thompson, and Southampton, whose manager Nigel Adkins has expressed doubts about Rickie Lambert's suitability for Championship football. Leicester are likely to ask a fee of around £400k for the targetman, a figure well within the reach of both clubs.
Upson Down?
Former West Ham skipper Matt Upson has been dealt a shocking blow as his agent has informed him that there is currently no Premier League interest in him following his departure from the East London club. Just 12 months ago, Upson was playing in the World Cup for England, but his stock has dipped so dramatically that even low-ranking clubs such as Wigan and Blackburn have declined to make any approach for the 32 year-old.
Upson could now be forced to take a drastic cut in salary and join his former club Birmingham City, who are expecting to lose at least one of their coveted centre-half partnership of Roger Johnson and Scott Dann. Intriguingly, another former England free agent, Lee Bowyer, could be set to make the return journey for a third spell at Upton Park, as contract talks with another of his old clubs, Leeds United, have stalled.
Upson could now be forced to take a drastic cut in salary and join his former club Birmingham City, who are expecting to lose at least one of their coveted centre-half partnership of Roger Johnson and Scott Dann. Intriguingly, another former England free agent, Lee Bowyer, could be set to make the return journey for a third spell at Upton Park, as contract talks with another of his old clubs, Leeds United, have stalled.
Wednesday 1 June 2011
Micky On The Move Again?
Port Vale fans have reacted furiously to rumours that manager Micky Adams is set to walk out for the second time in six months, with increasing speculation that he is set to take the reins at Cardiff City.
Adams left Vale Park in December after being approached by his boyhood heroes, Sheffield United, but was unable to save them from relegation to the third tier and was subsequently sacked. Vale were more than happy to re-appoint him on a three-year deal, but the ambitious manager, who took Leicester to the top flight in 2003, is keen to have another crack at breaking into the Premier League.
A pal of Adams told us: "Micky believes that he was never fully backed in his time at Leicester and he sees Cardiff as the ideal place to re-establish his reputation. Things went badly at Bramall Lane but it wasn't his fault. No disrespect to Vale but what can he do there?"
Other names linked with the Cardiff job are Glenn Roeder and Alan Curbishley, though the latter is known to be unsure about moving to South Wales.
Adams left Vale Park in December after being approached by his boyhood heroes, Sheffield United, but was unable to save them from relegation to the third tier and was subsequently sacked. Vale were more than happy to re-appoint him on a three-year deal, but the ambitious manager, who took Leicester to the top flight in 2003, is keen to have another crack at breaking into the Premier League.
A pal of Adams told us: "Micky believes that he was never fully backed in his time at Leicester and he sees Cardiff as the ideal place to re-establish his reputation. Things went badly at Bramall Lane but it wasn't his fault. No disrespect to Vale but what can he do there?"
Other names linked with the Cardiff job are Glenn Roeder and Alan Curbishley, though the latter is known to be unsure about moving to South Wales.
Sent To Coventry
Irish midfield maestro Michael Doyle is set for an emotional return to the Ricoh Arena - a mere six months after leaving.
Following Sheffield United's relegation to League One, his £12,000 per week wages have proved to be too much for the Blades and they are willing to release him from his contract to re-unite with the Warwickshire men. New Coventry boss Andy Thorn is known to have been upset with former manager Aidy Boothroyd's decision to let Doyle go and is keen to have him back in the City engine room.
Doyle, who turns 30 in August, was a fans' favourite during his previous spell at Coventry, and his 265 appearances were characterised by his non-stop commitment and energy. Thorn is in need of bolstering his midfield with the likely departure of Icelandic star Aron Gunnarsson, who is attracting interest from Blackburn and Sunderland.
Following Sheffield United's relegation to League One, his £12,000 per week wages have proved to be too much for the Blades and they are willing to release him from his contract to re-unite with the Warwickshire men. New Coventry boss Andy Thorn is known to have been upset with former manager Aidy Boothroyd's decision to let Doyle go and is keen to have him back in the City engine room.
Doyle, who turns 30 in August, was a fans' favourite during his previous spell at Coventry, and his 265 appearances were characterised by his non-stop commitment and energy. Thorn is in need of bolstering his midfield with the likely departure of Icelandic star Aron Gunnarsson, who is attracting interest from Blackburn and Sunderland.
A Rush Of Blood To The Head
Norwich striker Chris Martin has reacted furiously to manager Paul Lambert's signing of James Vaughan and his pursuits of Millwall forward Steve Morison and Peterborough star Craig Mackail-Smith, by slapping in a transfer request.
A source close to Chris said: "He can't believe that after playing a huge part in two promotions that he's just being cast aside. He doesn't want to cause trouble, but he can see that he has no future here. His days of playing in yellow are clearly over."
Martin would be a coveted purchase for the majority of Championship clubs and new Barnsley boss Keith Hill is known to be an admirer. Should the Tykes' finances allow a fee of £750k, it could well be that the frontman is on the move to Oakwell.
A source close to Chris said: "He can't believe that after playing a huge part in two promotions that he's just being cast aside. He doesn't want to cause trouble, but he can see that he has no future here. His days of playing in yellow are clearly over."
Martin would be a coveted purchase for the majority of Championship clubs and new Barnsley boss Keith Hill is known to be an admirer. Should the Tykes' finances allow a fee of £750k, it could well be that the frontman is on the move to Oakwell.
McCarthy: "Jamie has Loftus in the lurch"
Wolves boss Mick McCarthy has been dealt a stunning blow as he looks to revamp his squad; Jamie O'Hara, previously understood to be on the verge of completing a permanent move to the West Midlands after a successful loan spell, is set to remain in London and join Premier League new boys QPR.
A fee of £5m had been agreed with Spurs and Wolves were happy to proceed with the deal, but an administrative error meant that the week-long deadline to complete the deal lapsed, and the Hoops have wasted no time in swooping for the midfielder. Flavio Briatore has told manager Neil Warnock that he sees the former Arsenal trainee as his marquee signing for the summer and has promised a weekly wage in excess of £50,000, which has proven too much for O'Hara to turn down, despite previous statements that he had no intention of returning to the south-east.
The disappointed McCarthy will now turn his attentions to free agent Nigel Reo-Coker, who has recently left Aston Villa following the expiry of his contract.
A fee of £5m had been agreed with Spurs and Wolves were happy to proceed with the deal, but an administrative error meant that the week-long deadline to complete the deal lapsed, and the Hoops have wasted no time in swooping for the midfielder. Flavio Briatore has told manager Neil Warnock that he sees the former Arsenal trainee as his marquee signing for the summer and has promised a weekly wage in excess of £50,000, which has proven too much for O'Hara to turn down, despite previous statements that he had no intention of returning to the south-east.
The disappointed McCarthy will now turn his attentions to free agent Nigel Reo-Coker, who has recently left Aston Villa following the expiry of his contract.
Gardner's Question Time
Lifelong Birmingham City fan Craig Gardner has been left with a dilemma - to stay with his boyhood heroes in the Championship or to sign for local rivals Wolverhampton Wanderers. Gardner plumped for the Blues back in January 2010 when leaving Aston Villa, but Mick McCarthy remains a keen admirer of the goalscoring midfielder and has wasted no time in submitting a £3.25m bid. Financial problems at St Andrews mean that the bid has been immediately accepted despite the wishes of Alex McLeish to keep his key players at the club, and the choice is now entirely down to the player.
Gardner's arrival at Molineux would see an exit for David Edwards, who has been at the club since 2008. A fee of £2m would be commanded for the Welsh international and there has already been interest from Premier League new boys Swansea City, who see him as the potential heartbeat of their new look midfield, as Darren Pratley seems set to clinch a Bosman move to Bolton in the coming days.
Gardner's arrival at Molineux would see an exit for David Edwards, who has been at the club since 2008. A fee of £2m would be commanded for the Welsh international and there has already been interest from Premier League new boys Swansea City, who see him as the potential heartbeat of their new look midfield, as Darren Pratley seems set to clinch a Bosman move to Bolton in the coming days.
Wednesday 11 May 2011
New Lee-der for Leeds
Simon Grayson is set to make his first capture of the summer, following their narrow failure to make this season's Championship play-offs. The former Leicester fullback is said to be concerned at the lack of experience and nous in his young team and has made an early move to snap up Coventry midfielder Lee Carsley, who will be installed as the new captain at Elland Road for next season.
Carsley is leaving the Ricoh Arena after his second spell at Coventry and Grayson feels that he can do a job in the mold of former Leeds favourite Shaun Derry, who has been instrumental in QPR's promotion campaign. Grayson did enquire about the availability of Derry but the player's representatives have indicated that he is keen to attempt to secure a spot in the Hoops' Premier League squad.
This news will stoke further speculation as to the future of Bradley Johnson, who has been watched with interest by Burnley, Millwall and Watford in recent weeks.
Carsley is leaving the Ricoh Arena after his second spell at Coventry and Grayson feels that he can do a job in the mold of former Leeds favourite Shaun Derry, who has been instrumental in QPR's promotion campaign. Grayson did enquire about the availability of Derry but the player's representatives have indicated that he is keen to attempt to secure a spot in the Hoops' Premier League squad.
This news will stoke further speculation as to the future of Bradley Johnson, who has been watched with interest by Burnley, Millwall and Watford in recent weeks.
Return of the Mac?
Former Hereford favourite Michael McIndoe is being linked with an emotional return to Edgar Street following his release by Coventry City. The Scottish winger was told by Coventry boss Andy Thorn this morning that his contract would not be renewed when it expires at the end of June and rookie Bulls boss Jamie Pitman has already expressed an interest in signing the left midfielder.
McIndoe has played at a number of top clubs such as Wolves, Bristol City and Coventry in recent years, so wages could be a stumbling block, but he is grateful for the club's efforts in past years in helping him overcome his alcohol and gambling addictions, and may therefore be receptive to a move, despite United's lowly finish in League Two this season.
Meanwhile, Coventry are looking to revamp their squad, with Thorn reportedly keen on out-of-favour QPR forward Leon Clarke and Sheffield United centre-half Neill Collins.
Murphy's Laws
Sheffield United have acted swiftly following the sacking of manager Micky Adams, by approaching former Burnley boss Brian Laws to take the reigns at Bramall Lane. Laws left Turf Moor earlier this year and is keen to make a swift return to football - the Blades are interested in the ex-Nottingham Forest man having already paid off several managers this year, and the lack of compensation to be paid, coupled with his lower league experience, is a big factor in the choice.
Laws has already looked to former club Scunthorpe for his first signing, said to be goalkeeper Joe Murphy. Murphy has performed strongly despite The Iron's relegation and although United will be playing at the same level as the Lincolnshire club next season, he understandably sees them as a bigger club at whom he can really push on with his career. As a result, Steve Simonsen's days in Sheffield are likely to be numbered, with a move to Brentford already being rumoured.
Laws has already looked to former club Scunthorpe for his first signing, said to be goalkeeper Joe Murphy. Murphy has performed strongly despite The Iron's relegation and although United will be playing at the same level as the Lincolnshire club next season, he understandably sees them as a bigger club at whom he can really push on with his career. As a result, Steve Simonsen's days in Sheffield are likely to be numbered, with a move to Brentford already being rumoured.
Tuesday 10 May 2011
Over the Hill
Veteran defender Clint Hill is set to be the first victim of Neil Warnock's clear out at QPR, following the West Londoners' promotion to the Premier League. Hill has performed admirably in the last two seasons and has worked with Warnock extensively through his career, but has been told that he is surplus to requirements and can leave on a free transfer. A close pal of Hill told us: "Clint is devastated. He knows he's approaching the end of his career but to be told days after winning the title that he can go, well, it's like a bullet to the head".
Former club Crystal Palace, Barnsley and Watford are all already showing a keen interest in signing the Scouser - though the player himself has not ruled out an intriguing emotional return to his first club, Tranmere Rovers, in a player/coach role. Meanwhile QPR are targeting a number of left-backs to replace him, including Wolves' Stephen Ward (as revealed to you by The Insider last week), Paul Konchesky of Liverpool, and David Murphy of Birmingham.
Former club Crystal Palace, Barnsley and Watford are all already showing a keen interest in signing the Scouser - though the player himself has not ruled out an intriguing emotional return to his first club, Tranmere Rovers, in a player/coach role. Meanwhile QPR are targeting a number of left-backs to replace him, including Wolves' Stephen Ward (as revealed to you by The Insider last week), Paul Konchesky of Liverpool, and David Murphy of Birmingham.
Friday 6 May 2011
Commons' People Help The Aged
Birmingham City are set to make a move for Celtic star Kris Commons, just months after he joined the Glasgow giants from Derby County.
Boss Alex McLeish has been alerted that the winger has failed to settle in Scotland and feels that his brand of mercurial play can help bring some life to what has been a tepid, and indeed aging squad this season for the Midlanders. Chilean winger Jean Beausejour has failed to convince since his move to England and Spurs loanee David Bentley will be sent back to his parent club after a disastrous spell, so Blues are desperate to secure some extra width in anticipation of the current campaign.
Celtic are understandably disappointed that the player wishes to leave so soon after joining, but having seen the difficulties that Shaun Maloney had when moving to Aston Villa, they appreciate that life in the West Midlands is very different to that in the west of Scotland and will allow Commons to leave for a fee of around £1.5m.
Boss Alex McLeish has been alerted that the winger has failed to settle in Scotland and feels that his brand of mercurial play can help bring some life to what has been a tepid, and indeed aging squad this season for the Midlanders. Chilean winger Jean Beausejour has failed to convince since his move to England and Spurs loanee David Bentley will be sent back to his parent club after a disastrous spell, so Blues are desperate to secure some extra width in anticipation of the current campaign.
Celtic are understandably disappointed that the player wishes to leave so soon after joining, but having seen the difficulties that Shaun Maloney had when moving to Aston Villa, they appreciate that life in the West Midlands is very different to that in the west of Scotland and will allow Commons to leave for a fee of around £1.5m.
Bow Selector
With speculation continuing to rage over the future of former England midfielder Lee Bowyer, it is clear that he has four distinct choices; to stay at his current club Birmingham City, or to join Leeds United, Nottingham Forest or Derby County.
Blues have responded to the growing interest in the veteran by belatedly offering him a deal to stay at the club for another year, but it is thought that Bowyer is unhappy that he was snubbed for so long in this regard and is looking for a lucrative free transfer move, likely to be the last of his career, even if it means dropping down a division. A pal of the Londoner told us: "Lee feels let down by Birmingham. He's given his all for them and is a real fans' favourite, but they couldn't be bothered offering him a new contract until they heard others were interested. He feels used, to be honest."
Leeds remain the front-runners for the ex-Newcastle man's signature but East Midlands compatriots Forest and Derby will not give in easily in a chase for a player both regard as vital in their pursuit of success next season.
Blues have responded to the growing interest in the veteran by belatedly offering him a deal to stay at the club for another year, but it is thought that Bowyer is unhappy that he was snubbed for so long in this regard and is looking for a lucrative free transfer move, likely to be the last of his career, even if it means dropping down a division. A pal of the Londoner told us: "Lee feels let down by Birmingham. He's given his all for them and is a real fans' favourite, but they couldn't be bothered offering him a new contract until they heard others were interested. He feels used, to be honest."
Leeds remain the front-runners for the ex-Newcastle man's signature but East Midlands compatriots Forest and Derby will not give in easily in a chase for a player both regard as vital in their pursuit of success next season.
Emergency Ward?
Although the decision whether or not to dock QPR points at the upcoming FA hearing into the transfer of Alejandro Faurlin has yet to be made, Hoops boss Neil Warnock has already drawn up a shortlist of players who he believes will prepare the R's for Premier League survival, in their first top flight campaign since 1995/6.
Top of the list is Wolves utility man Stephen Ward. The Irishman was signed from Bohemians in January 2007 for a mere €150,000 and has shown his versatility with displays as a striker, on the left of midfield and latterly as a left-back. However, he has a love-hate relationship with the Molineux faithful and is thought to be keen on a fresh start elsewhere. A close pal of Ward told us: "Stephen has really enjoyed his time at Wolves but feels that it's time to move on now before it starts getting really nasty. He has a chance of breaking into the Ireland team but that isn't going to happen while his own fans are booing him."
Wanderers supremo Mick McCarthy is a huge fan of the player and would be unlikely to be willing to part with him cheaply. However, a transfer request from the Dubliner may sway his mind and a bid in the region of £2m may well persuade Mick that a parting of the ways is best for all concerned. Warnock has earmarked Ward to be his first choice left back next season, to replace veteran Clint Hill.
Top of the list is Wolves utility man Stephen Ward. The Irishman was signed from Bohemians in January 2007 for a mere €150,000 and has shown his versatility with displays as a striker, on the left of midfield and latterly as a left-back. However, he has a love-hate relationship with the Molineux faithful and is thought to be keen on a fresh start elsewhere. A close pal of Ward told us: "Stephen has really enjoyed his time at Wolves but feels that it's time to move on now before it starts getting really nasty. He has a chance of breaking into the Ireland team but that isn't going to happen while his own fans are booing him."
Wanderers supremo Mick McCarthy is a huge fan of the player and would be unlikely to be willing to part with him cheaply. However, a transfer request from the Dubliner may sway his mind and a bid in the region of £2m may well persuade Mick that a parting of the ways is best for all concerned. Warnock has earmarked Ward to be his first choice left back next season, to replace veteran Clint Hill.
A Rosa-ier Future For Denes
The final day of Walsall's season on Saturday will determine two things; their League One survival or otherwise, and the success or failure of their ambitious scoop to sign Hungarian star Denes Rosa.
Rosa, who had a frustrating spell in the West Midlands at nearby Wolves, is currently playing for Ferencvaros in his homeland but his high wages are a drain on the club's finances and he has been advised to seek a move back to England, where he undoubtedly has a point to prove. Saddlers boss Dean Smith has watched DVDs of his recent performances and been impressed, but has also been advised by the player's representatives that he is unwilling to play in the bottom tier of the Football League. Clearly, should the club wish to relive the glory days in the Championship under Ray Graydon and Colin Lee, they will need players of the class of Rosa to allow them to challenge for a playoff spot next term.
Rosa would be available on a free transfer and has maintained a home in the West Midlands since his departure from Molineux in 2008.
Rosa, who had a frustrating spell in the West Midlands at nearby Wolves, is currently playing for Ferencvaros in his homeland but his high wages are a drain on the club's finances and he has been advised to seek a move back to England, where he undoubtedly has a point to prove. Saddlers boss Dean Smith has watched DVDs of his recent performances and been impressed, but has also been advised by the player's representatives that he is unwilling to play in the bottom tier of the Football League. Clearly, should the club wish to relive the glory days in the Championship under Ray Graydon and Colin Lee, they will need players of the class of Rosa to allow them to challenge for a playoff spot next term.
Rosa would be available on a free transfer and has maintained a home in the West Midlands since his departure from Molineux in 2008.
Evans doing the Samba
One-time wonderkid and latter-day journeyman Cherno Samba is tipped for a return to England as newly-promoted Crawley's spending continues unabated. Currently midway through a two-year deal at Panetolikos, the Gambian forward has expressed a desire to return to his roots and prove his worth to English fans who only remember him as a fantasy football player.
Samba, who burst onto the scene as a schoolboy at Millwall, attracted serious interest from heavyweights such as Liverpool and Manchester United with the former going as far as to offer £2 million for his services. This offer was ultimately spurned and from then on Samba's slide to modern day obscurity, eschewed only by misty-eyed flashbacks to a time when he stood in the pantheon of Championship Manager legends, began. A move to Spain in an attempt to resurrect his career and tap into his potential came about when Cadiz came calling for his services. Sadly, this move failed to reignite the player who was arguably already on the wane and he spent the full 2005-2006 season on loan at Malaga B.
A move back to the UK came about when he was snapped up on a free transfer by Ian Holloway, the man with the Midas touch who has discovered the likes of Charlie Adam and Matt Phillips, to supplement his Plymouth Argyle squad in August 2006. A goal just eight minutes into his debut offered the tantalising hope that in fact Samba was a late bloomer and the uneventful years that had passed in between his rise to prominence and his move to Devon were an anomaly. Sadly this was not to be and his time in the south-west passed without event or further goals and led the forward to pastures new, this time to FC Haka in Finland where he signed an 18-month deal in August 2008; 2009 brought trials at Norwich and Portsmouth without concrete interest and eventually led to Samba moving to his most recent employers, Greek club Panetolikos.
It is thought that Samba would welcome a move back to England and the bearpit of League Two action because he feels that he has unfinished business to resolve. A source close to the player said "although it's fair to say that Cherno maybe hasn't fulfilled the potential that brought sustained interest from some of the biggest clubs in the land, he does believe that he still has the abilities and talent to play as high up as the Championship. Crawley are clearly a club going places and it would seem that they are a perfect fit - a hungry young man with a point to prove and a club that has its sights on upward mobility."
Samba, who burst onto the scene as a schoolboy at Millwall, attracted serious interest from heavyweights such as Liverpool and Manchester United with the former going as far as to offer £2 million for his services. This offer was ultimately spurned and from then on Samba's slide to modern day obscurity, eschewed only by misty-eyed flashbacks to a time when he stood in the pantheon of Championship Manager legends, began. A move to Spain in an attempt to resurrect his career and tap into his potential came about when Cadiz came calling for his services. Sadly, this move failed to reignite the player who was arguably already on the wane and he spent the full 2005-2006 season on loan at Malaga B.
A move back to the UK came about when he was snapped up on a free transfer by Ian Holloway, the man with the Midas touch who has discovered the likes of Charlie Adam and Matt Phillips, to supplement his Plymouth Argyle squad in August 2006. A goal just eight minutes into his debut offered the tantalising hope that in fact Samba was a late bloomer and the uneventful years that had passed in between his rise to prominence and his move to Devon were an anomaly. Sadly this was not to be and his time in the south-west passed without event or further goals and led the forward to pastures new, this time to FC Haka in Finland where he signed an 18-month deal in August 2008; 2009 brought trials at Norwich and Portsmouth without concrete interest and eventually led to Samba moving to his most recent employers, Greek club Panetolikos.
It is thought that Samba would welcome a move back to England and the bearpit of League Two action because he feels that he has unfinished business to resolve. A source close to the player said "although it's fair to say that Cherno maybe hasn't fulfilled the potential that brought sustained interest from some of the biggest clubs in the land, he does believe that he still has the abilities and talent to play as high up as the Championship. Crawley are clearly a club going places and it would seem that they are a perfect fit - a hungry young man with a point to prove and a club that has its sights on upward mobility."
Golden Graham?
Speculation is intensifying that Wolves boss Mick McCarthy is targeting Watford star Danny Graham as a potential replacement for Kevin Doyle, should the Irishman leave Molineux in the summer. Graham, 21, has bagged in excess of 20 goals for the Hornets this season, and his hard-working style is thought to be pleasing to the eye of the former Republic of Ireland manager. Our source at Vicarage Road told us: "Danny is happy at the club, but with the financial situation still not being good, we'd find it hard to turn down a really big offer".
Doyle is attracting the interest of Newcastle, QPR and Aston Villa as the vultures begin to circle Molineux with relegation a real possibility. Doyle has loyalty to his current manager but is not willing to take a drop into the Championship as he did with former club Reading in 2008.
Doyle is attracting the interest of Newcastle, QPR and Aston Villa as the vultures begin to circle Molineux with relegation a real possibility. Doyle has loyalty to his current manager but is not willing to take a drop into the Championship as he did with former club Reading in 2008.
Shaun Of The Red
Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish is expected to meet with the club's owners this week and outline his transfer targets, the signing of whom are crucial to the decision of the Scottish great as to whether to sign a new deal or not. Top of the wishlist is Manchester City and England winger Shaun Wright-Phillips. The stepson of Ian Wright has become increasingly isolated from first-team duty at Eastlands in recent months and with further big money signings on the horizon for the Manchester club, his long-term prospects there look gloomy.
A source close to the player told us: "Shaun is desperate to secure his place in the England squad for Euro 2012 as he's never played at an international tournament, and this is probably his last chance. He isn't going to get there by playing for City's reserves, innit blud."
City re-signed Wright-Phillips from Chelsea in 2008 but he has failed to rekindle the form he showed when first breaking into the team almost a decade ago. A fee of £5m is likely to be demanded by City and Dalglish will make him a key member of his new look Liverpool team in 2011/12.
A source close to the player told us: "Shaun is desperate to secure his place in the England squad for Euro 2012 as he's never played at an international tournament, and this is probably his last chance. He isn't going to get there by playing for City's reserves, innit blud."
City re-signed Wright-Phillips from Chelsea in 2008 but he has failed to rekindle the form he showed when first breaking into the team almost a decade ago. A fee of £5m is likely to be demanded by City and Dalglish will make him a key member of his new look Liverpool team in 2011/12.
Gib Us A Chance, Fergie!
Darron Gibson has revealed that he may have to leave Old Trafford should he wish to achieve his aim of a regular first team place at a top club - and following the Irishman's star turn in this week's Champions League encounter against Schalke, there are no shortage of suitors.
Gibson is keen to remain at United and is known to be highly rated by boss Sir Alex Ferguson, despite the misgivings of large sections of the club's support, but he recognises that at 23, he is at an age where he needs to be playing more regularly than as at present in order to push his career on. Aston Villa, Blackburn, Fulham and intriguingly West Brom are monitoring the situation, with much hinging on the decision of Paul Scholes as to whether to remain with the Red Devils for a final year. Should Ferguson reluctantly accept any transfer request from the man from Derry, it is likely that a fee of £6m would be demanded.
Gibson is keen to remain at United and is known to be highly rated by boss Sir Alex Ferguson, despite the misgivings of large sections of the club's support, but he recognises that at 23, he is at an age where he needs to be playing more regularly than as at present in order to push his career on. Aston Villa, Blackburn, Fulham and intriguingly West Brom are monitoring the situation, with much hinging on the decision of Paul Scholes as to whether to remain with the Red Devils for a final year. Should Ferguson reluctantly accept any transfer request from the man from Derry, it is likely that a fee of £6m would be demanded.
Bye-bye Bebe, bye-bye
Portuguese mega-flop Bebe's days at Old Trafford look to be numbered, according to whispers emanating from inside the club. Signed for an astonishing £7.4 million last summer without playing so much as a game for former club Vitoria do Guimaraes, the attacker has failed to show any of the potential that persuaded Sir Alex Ferguson to open the chequebook on the recommendation of Carlos Queiroz.
Offers from other English clubs will be few and far between based on his uninspiring performances to date, with a move to the continent far more likely. Interestingly, PSV - who the player was apparently offered to on a free transfer a mere twelve months ago - may well be interested if the deal is in their favour with a loan move to the Eredivisie a viable option with which to rehabilitate the Cape Verde-born striker should Ferguson retain the belief that there is the possibility of the player developing to a level where the investment might be repaid.
Offers from other English clubs will be few and far between based on his uninspiring performances to date, with a move to the continent far more likely. Interestingly, PSV - who the player was apparently offered to on a free transfer a mere twelve months ago - may well be interested if the deal is in their favour with a loan move to the Eredivisie a viable option with which to rehabilitate the Cape Verde-born striker should Ferguson retain the belief that there is the possibility of the player developing to a level where the investment might be repaid.
Money For Nothing
Cash-strapped Barnet are set to appoint former Walsall boss Richard Money as their new manager - whether or not caretaker rookie Giuliano Grazioli keeps them in League Two against all odds on Saturday. Money, who will be appointed on an expenses only basis initially, is keen to return to football following his acrimonious departure from the Banks's Stadium and has a proven record at lower league level.
Grazioli, who was installed following the sudden departure of Martin Allen, mere weeks after his own appointment, is known to be upset at the developments, but unsurprised. A close pal of the ex-Stevenage frontman told us: "Giuliano knows these things happen in football, but he's given Barnet some of his best years and he thinks he deserved more of a chance. Results have been good and this would have been a great first job for him. But life goes on."
Barnet require a win on the final day at home to Port Vale to have a chance of staying in the Football League, and also need Aldershot to at least draw at rivals Lincoln City.
Grazioli, who was installed following the sudden departure of Martin Allen, mere weeks after his own appointment, is known to be upset at the developments, but unsurprised. A close pal of the ex-Stevenage frontman told us: "Giuliano knows these things happen in football, but he's given Barnet some of his best years and he thinks he deserved more of a chance. Results have been good and this would have been a great first job for him. But life goes on."
Barnet require a win on the final day at home to Port Vale to have a chance of staying in the Football League, and also need Aldershot to at least draw at rivals Lincoln City.
Steel City Rivals chase Parkin ticket
Jon Parkin is the subject of a tug-of-war battle between Sheffield rivals United and Wednesday, who will be facing each other in the 3rd tier of English football for the first time since 1980 next season.
Both Owls boss Gary Megson and Blades supremo Micky Adams are admirers of Parkin's 'never-say-die' attitude, whilst Parkin - who was born in South Yorkshire - is desperate for a move away from Cardiff where he has only played a handful of games, and could be tempted by regular football in League 1.
Both Owls boss Gary Megson and Blades supremo Micky Adams are admirers of Parkin's 'never-say-die' attitude, whilst Parkin - who was born in South Yorkshire - is desperate for a move away from Cardiff where he has only played a handful of games, and could be tempted by regular football in League 1.
We Built This City On Rock and Cole
Leicester supremo Sven-Göran Eriksson has reaffirmed his commitment to the East Midlands club for next season, despite the failure to reach this season's playoffs, and has made Bristol City midfielder Cole Skuse his first transfer target. Skuse is a one-club man and has been at Ashton Gate since his days as an apprentice, but feels underappreciated by the Robins' faithful and is thought to be keen on a move away. Leicester know that the aging legs of Matt Oakley are unlikely to last another full season of the rigours of Championship football and see Skuse as a like-for-like replacement.
A host of players are set to play their final game at the Walkers Stadium this weekend; loanees Yakubu and Kyle Naughton will be returning to their parent clubs, while Steve Howard, Darius Vassell, Chris Weale and Paul Gallagher will all be made available for transfer once the curtain comes down on what has been a disappointing season for the Foxes.
A host of players are set to play their final game at the Walkers Stadium this weekend; loanees Yakubu and Kyle Naughton will be returning to their parent clubs, while Steve Howard, Darius Vassell, Chris Weale and Paul Gallagher will all be made available for transfer once the curtain comes down on what has been a disappointing season for the Foxes.
Elmander in shock Old Trafford move
The Insider can exclusively reveal that Sir Alex Ferguson is lining up a move for out-of-contract Bolton star Johan Elmander. While the Swede's record in England is patchy at best, Ferguson feels that signing a player of such undoubted, if inconsistent talent on a free transfer would be an excellent coup. Ferguson often splashes the cash on big headline signings, but the bargain basement captures of Javier Hernandez, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, Ronny Johnsen and Peter Schmeichel, as well as aging stars such as Michael Owen and Laurent Blanc on free transfers, show that he also has an eye for a bargain. Ironically it is Owen who Elmander would be likely to replace in United's squad as he too is out of contract in the summer and unlikely to be offered the opportunity to extend his Old Trafford career.
Bolton are resigned to losing the forward and have targeted West Brom's Peter Odemwingie. The Nigerian international has been a major hit at The Hawthorns in his debut Premier League season and is seen by manager Owen Coyle as an ideal foil to veteran target man and club captain Kevin Davies. Odemwingie will not come cheap however and it's likely that Albion would demand a fee in excess of £7m for their talisman.
Bolton are resigned to losing the forward and have targeted West Brom's Peter Odemwingie. The Nigerian international has been a major hit at The Hawthorns in his debut Premier League season and is seen by manager Owen Coyle as an ideal foil to veteran target man and club captain Kevin Davies. Odemwingie will not come cheap however and it's likely that Albion would demand a fee in excess of £7m for their talisman.
Danger, Danger - High Volz-age!
Former Fulham ace Moritz Volz is set for a return to the Premier League after a spell in his native Germany. The right back is currently at Bundesliga club St Pauli, but with relegation from the top flight looking likely for the Reeperbahn club, the ex-Arsenal trainee is set to thank the strugglers for re-launching his career at Millerntor, but move on when his contract expires this summer.
Early interest has been reported from West Brom, whose manager Roy Hodgson worked with Volz at Fulham. In addition, Hodgson is known to want to strengthen the right back area of his team as he is unhappy with the erratic form and poor discipline of robust Chilean stopper Gonzala Jara. Newcastle are also monitoring the situation though Fulham boss Mark Hughes has distanced himself from any speculation of the former German U21 international making an emotional return to Craven Cottage.
St Pauli current sit bottom of the Bundesliga and depending on results elsewhere, could be relegated this weekend should they lose at home to Champions League chasing giants Bayern München.
Thursday 5 May 2011
Another String To The Bow
Leeds' attempted move for Birmingham schemer Lee Bowyer - as revealed to you by The Insider earlier this week - has been sensationally hijacked by Nottingham Forest.
It was though that an emotional return to Elland Road for the 34 year old was all but assured, but Billy Davies, mindful of the likely departure of Guy Moussi this summer, is keen to bolster his engine room with some vital experience and has pledged to pay "whatever it takes" to bring the former Charlton and Newcastle man to the City Ground.
Clearly remaining at Birmingham would be an ideal way for Bowyer to wind down his career, as Europa League football beckons, but the club have yet to offer him a new deal and the ongoing rumblings surrounding the finances of owner Carson Yeung may mean that Forest, financed by the wealthy Nigel Doughty, could sway the midfielder's mind.
Forest are also thought to be interested in out-of-favour Wolves forward Andy Keogh, with Joe Garner, David McGoldrick and Dele Adebola likely to leave the club this summer, and Rob Earnshaw is yet to agree terms on a new deal.
It was though that an emotional return to Elland Road for the 34 year old was all but assured, but Billy Davies, mindful of the likely departure of Guy Moussi this summer, is keen to bolster his engine room with some vital experience and has pledged to pay "whatever it takes" to bring the former Charlton and Newcastle man to the City Ground.
Clearly remaining at Birmingham would be an ideal way for Bowyer to wind down his career, as Europa League football beckons, but the club have yet to offer him a new deal and the ongoing rumblings surrounding the finances of owner Carson Yeung may mean that Forest, financed by the wealthy Nigel Doughty, could sway the midfielder's mind.
Forest are also thought to be interested in out-of-favour Wolves forward Andy Keogh, with Joe Garner, David McGoldrick and Dele Adebola likely to leave the club this summer, and Rob Earnshaw is yet to agree terms on a new deal.
A Midfield Dilemma for Jewell
Ipswich manager Paul Jewell is being faced with a midfield dilemma as he decides who to sign.
After the club allowed Roy Keane a free reign with his spending the board are keen to pull the strings a little this summer and Jewell has been told to cut some of his targets off his list.
Heading that list is Jimmy Bullard and Seyi Olofinjana. Bullard has completed a successful stint at Ipswich and even won Player of the Season but his wages are known to higher than the National Debt. Jewell was hopeful of keeping Bullard and linking him up with the Nigerian powerhouse, Seyi Olofinjana. However this has been dealt a crushing blow and now he has to decide between the two.
No doubt this story will have Ipswich fans around the world and on internet forums asking the question - "Olofinjana or Bullard.....who would you rather have in the team?"
After the club allowed Roy Keane a free reign with his spending the board are keen to pull the strings a little this summer and Jewell has been told to cut some of his targets off his list.
Heading that list is Jimmy Bullard and Seyi Olofinjana. Bullard has completed a successful stint at Ipswich and even won Player of the Season but his wages are known to higher than the National Debt. Jewell was hopeful of keeping Bullard and linking him up with the Nigerian powerhouse, Seyi Olofinjana. However this has been dealt a crushing blow and now he has to decide between the two.
No doubt this story will have Ipswich fans around the world and on internet forums asking the question - "Olofinjana or Bullard.....who would you rather have in the team?"
Wednesday 4 May 2011
Marvellous Marvin to Molineux?
Two years ago the Insider brought you news of Mick McCarthy's attempted move for Bristol City midfield powerhouse Marvin Elliott. On that occasion, the £2.5m deal was rejected by the Robins, but with McCarthy's recent appearance at the Derby vs Bristol City fixture, speculation has increased that he has renewed his interest in the Londoner.
While Premier League survival remains in the balance for Wolves, McCarthy believes that Elliott is ideal for the club as a long-term replacement for club captain, Karl Henry, the victim of criticism from media and fans alike this season. Elliott has failed to build on his undoubted promise from his Millwall days, where he became the youngest player to ever appear in an FA Cup final, and is likely to be available for around £1.5m as City have seen their proposed stadium plans collapse in the wake of England's failed 2018 World Cup bid, and chairman Steve Lansdown anxious to make the club operate on its own merits. Striker Andy Keogh, who had a brief loan spell at Ashton Gate, may be offered as a makeweight in any proposed deal.
While Premier League survival remains in the balance for Wolves, McCarthy believes that Elliott is ideal for the club as a long-term replacement for club captain, Karl Henry, the victim of criticism from media and fans alike this season. Elliott has failed to build on his undoubted promise from his Millwall days, where he became the youngest player to ever appear in an FA Cup final, and is likely to be available for around £1.5m as City have seen their proposed stadium plans collapse in the wake of England's failed 2018 World Cup bid, and chairman Steve Lansdown anxious to make the club operate on its own merits. Striker Andy Keogh, who had a brief loan spell at Ashton Gate, may be offered as a makeweight in any proposed deal.
Neuer on trial at Old Trafford
Ordinarily, a Champions League semi-final at Old Trafford would not need any added significance. But tonight, with Man Utd 2-0 up from the away leg against an inconsistent and essentially inferior Schalke team, the focus will be on the away team's goalkeeper, Manuel Neuer. With the impending retirement of Edwin Van Der Sar, United are known to be looking for a top class replacement and Neuer, 25, fits the bill, being of the right age, Germany's established number one, and has already confirmed he will be departing the Veltins Arena this summer.
The sole hurdle remains the interest of Bayern München, also looking for a keeper after the hitherto considered promising Michael Rensing failed to live up to expectations and has been surpassed since by a succession of short-term replacements. The Bavarians' challenge will be compromised should they fail to reach the Champions League; they currently sit 3rd in the Bundesliga but are in a ding-dong battle with Hannover 96 to seal the final spot. In addition, Jupp Heynckes is thought to favour a Dutch goalkeeper in line with his attempts to bring in more of his countrymen, in order to satisfy the unsettled Arjen Robben. Maarten Stekelenburg of Ajax is the number one target for the incoming manager.
Should Herr Neuer manage to repeat his stellar performance of last week, do not be surprised to see him repeat those antics in front of the Stretford End in August.
The sole hurdle remains the interest of Bayern München, also looking for a keeper after the hitherto considered promising Michael Rensing failed to live up to expectations and has been surpassed since by a succession of short-term replacements. The Bavarians' challenge will be compromised should they fail to reach the Champions League; they currently sit 3rd in the Bundesliga but are in a ding-dong battle with Hannover 96 to seal the final spot. In addition, Jupp Heynckes is thought to favour a Dutch goalkeeper in line with his attempts to bring in more of his countrymen, in order to satisfy the unsettled Arjen Robben. Maarten Stekelenburg of Ajax is the number one target for the incoming manager.
Should Herr Neuer manage to repeat his stellar performance of last week, do not be surprised to see him repeat those antics in front of the Stretford End in August.
Blackpool in the hunt for top CEO
Amazing story coming out of Blackpool this morning that is not about a player transfer but for a CEO.
The highly rated and admired CEO at Wolverhampton Wanderers, Jez Moxey, is the number 1 target for Blackpool this summer. Even if Blackpool fail to hold on to their Premier League status they will do everything to get their man.
Sources close to the Blackpool board have confirmed that Mr Moxey is their man and the club see him as the perfect person to help fully transform the club on and off the pitch. During his successful spell at the Midlands club, Moxey has earned himself a reputation within the game and his success at the club has left others applauding his work.
No word from the Moxey camp as of yet but he could well be swayed by a new challenge after a long spell at Molineux. Wolves have so far refused to comment on the story.
We hope to be able to bring you more on this very soon.
The highly rated and admired CEO at Wolverhampton Wanderers, Jez Moxey, is the number 1 target for Blackpool this summer. Even if Blackpool fail to hold on to their Premier League status they will do everything to get their man.
Sources close to the Blackpool board have confirmed that Mr Moxey is their man and the club see him as the perfect person to help fully transform the club on and off the pitch. During his successful spell at the Midlands club, Moxey has earned himself a reputation within the game and his success at the club has left others applauding his work.
No word from the Moxey camp as of yet but he could well be swayed by a new challenge after a long spell at Molineux. Wolves have so far refused to comment on the story.
We hope to be able to bring you more on this very soon.
Lee Bowyer "Bouncing Back"?
Lee Bowyer is set to make a shock return to former club Leeds United - and pocket £1m just for committing his pen to paper.
The Birmingham midfielder has shone in the Premier League and revived his career, but is known to favour a return to Yorkshire and with the uncertain financial future surrounding the men from St Andrews, up and coming boss Simon Grayson has made an initial approach to Bowyer's representatives and received a favourable outcome. A source close to the player told us: "Lee felt that he was the heartbeat of Leeds during their run to the Champions League semi-finals and he wants to return them to their past glories".
The Birmingham midfielder has shone in the Premier League and revived his career, but is known to favour a return to Yorkshire and with the uncertain financial future surrounding the men from St Andrews, up and coming boss Simon Grayson has made an initial approach to Bowyer's representatives and received a favourable outcome. A source close to the player told us: "Lee felt that he was the heartbeat of Leeds during their run to the Champions League semi-finals and he wants to return them to their past glories".
Albion want Ferdinand
A transfer rumour up North this morning has West Bromwich Albion looking at a possible move for injury prone defender Anton Ferdinand.
Anton, who lives in the shadow of his twittering brother Rio, has struggled at Sunderland and has had a run of bad luck with injuries. Roy Hodgson has earmarked Anton as a key target as he tries to make Albion a force in the Premier League and replicate the success he had at Fulham.
Sunderland could be tempted to sell after a nightmare season and they will be looking to rebuild and push on for the 2011/2012 season.
The insider rates this story and a quick telephone call confirm that Anton would be interested. Its going to be a busy summer of dealings and I will be there for them all.
Lambert to get Ricketts?
The Sun today published this story
NORWICH boss Paul Lambert is ready to make former Spurs and Arsenal midfielder Rohan Ricketts his first Premier League signing.The insider read this first thing this morning and has just stopped laughing. How can sites like this try and be taken seriously when jokers at the Nationals come up with stories like that.
Ricketts, 28, has been invited for a trial after the Canaries secured a return to the big-time on Monday.
The ex-England Under-21 star, who has been playing for German side SV Wilhelmshaven, said: "I want to return to England."
Server Crash
Sorry to all our followers, but a server crash has destroyed our original site and bang goes all our stories.
We are currently working on a brief summary of our success stories to show we are the worlds number 1 when it comes to confirming or dismissing transfer news
We are currently working on a brief summary of our success stories to show we are the worlds number 1 when it comes to confirming or dismissing transfer news
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