Kaka Presentation

Real Madrid's new signing, Kaka, has conducted his first press conference since being unveiled as the new Bernabeu number 8.

"Milan opened the door to negotiations for the first time. It was a time of world crisis, this was back in January," he explained.

"After the season finished, they said again there were some offers and they had to begin the transfer negotiation procedure again. So then I said I would love to go to Real Madrid if at some point Milan decided to let me go.

"Today for me was incredible, unforgettable - not only in my life but the lives of many other people. It was historical for me.

The Perez Project"When Florentino contacted me, he didn't say specific names - he spoke about a big sporting project, and that is something that made a big impact on me.

"Everything he did during his previous era, he repeated some of those guidelines and they conviced me me. I said, "President, I see where you're coming from."

"He spoke to me about another very important player that would be joining the ranks of Real Madrid, namely Cristiano Ronaldo. I was very pleased, because he comes from a great team. We're all joining a great team.

More on that here

Benzema To Join Manchester United - Lyon Teammate Pjanic

Pjanic has told sportsport.ba

"Benzema is nearly gone to Old Trafford. The English club are willing to pay €45 million for him and it is just a question of the day when he will move to England," he said.

"He does not have anything against going to Manchester. Our side will be reinforced by Lisandro Lopez, the Argentine forward from Porto."

Finaly some good news from United camp, After completing Valencia's tranfer its a good sign that Benzema is ready to move on.....

Manchester United Sign Antonio Valencia, its official

Manchester United have today made their first major capture of this summer's transfer window, signing Ecuador international Antonio Valencia from Wigan Athletic.

United manager Sir Alex Ferguson was delighted to have secured the player's signature, telling the club's official website,

"Antonio is a player we have admired for some time now, having spent the last two years in the Premier League with Wigan.

"I am sure his pace and ability will make a significant contribution to the team."

Fernando Torres and Leo Messi are new PES 2010 stars !!!

The young forward who is a fundamental player for both Liverpool and the national team of Spain, declared that

“Everyone knows that when it comes to football simulation, Konami’s PES series is by far the most realistic title available. The new game looks absolutely stunning, and I look forward to seeing myself in action in PES 2010.”

Torres face graphics look amazing, and his cover partner Messi is not far behind either....



A detailed shot of Argie football wizard and Maradona heir Lionel Messi has surfaced to show off the game’s new level of detail. Just look at those pores.

Here is the trailer , Enjoy

International Football ( A few thoughts on the Confederations cup)

Confederations Cup has ended with all the drama and typical Brazilian magic along with the typical Spanish failure and some underdogs performing well in a big stage.

I am a bit disappointed to see the standard of the pitches and the stadiums in Africa and on top of that I could not stand the noise of those horns in the crowd and at this point I am not sure that the greatest competition in world football will be a great success in notorious Africa.

On a brighter side, some veterans like Henry, Ronaldo, Ruud Van Nistelrooy, Gatusso,Pirlo ,Terry,Puyol might outshine the new kids in the block specially the famous group of C.Ronaldo, Kaka and Messi and Torres.Or it might be the other way around.

The lack of involvment of people in the International competetition has proved that the club football is slowly but surely overtaking the magic and beauty of National game.I hope England with the hype of their stupid,aggsagerative and big mouthed media (who are actually talking about England winning the world cup after their unbeaten run in an easy qualifying group) can cope with the pressure of as stupid fan base.

I can't wait to see Dunga and Maradona being sacked after their terrible run in team management and I hope that those stupid horns and banned so we can hear the chants and cheers with the classic beat of drums in the crowd.


Post written by Hamayun Zafar

Emmanuel Adebayor link AC MILAN

Arsenal striker linked with AC Milan

Arsenal upfront man Emmanuel Adebayor has been linked with a move to the San Siro with AC Milan continuing their unsuccessful chase from last year. If AC don't secure the signing of Wolfburg's Edin Dzeko they will go in for Adebayor....

Video Highlights: USA 2-3 Brazil (Confederations Cup)

USA vs Brazil
Ellis Park, Johannesburg,
South Africa, 20:30 CET



Brazil won the 2009 edition of the Confederations Cup. USA seemed able to produce another huge upset after scoring twice in the first 27 minutes of the game. Luis Fabiano equalized for Brazil in the 2nd half, while Lucio scored the winning goal in the 84th minute.


More Confederations Cup Highlights
American fans should not be to disappointment about the final result as their national team played a very good tournament. This was in fact the first important final played by the national team of the United States. With the Confederations Cup completed, US fans can focus their attention towards Andy Roddick now.

United States 2 - 3 Brazil
10′ [1 - 0] C. Dempsey
27′ [2 - 0] L. Donovan
46′ [2 - 1] L. Fabiano
74′ [2 - 2] L. Fabiano
84′ [2 - 3] Lucio

Video Highlights: Spain vs South Africa (Confederations Cup)

Spain grabbed third place in the Confederations Cup with an extra-time victory over the hosts

More Confederations Cup Highlights


Just when you thought South Africa played a great game with brazil this one was a cracker! Spain clinched third place in the Confederations Cup after a five-goal thriller in Rustenburg, winning 3-2 after extra time.This game went back and fourth like a game of tennis and very entertaining.Africa almost won the game taking the lead in the 75th minute but in the last 5 minutes spain stormed back to make a fight off it.Two goals in 2 minutes from spainish forward Guiza almost won them the game and at that point you would think game over but oh no.In the last minute Mphela hit a great 20 yard freekick to bring the game into extra time and send the home fans wild on of the moments of the Confederations .Spain got the winner in the second half of extra time with another great free kick from liverpool playmaker alonso.South africa should be proud again for another great display coming off the back of the brazil result.


More Confederations Cup Highlights

Franck Ribery : Chelsea will bid 59 million Euros

According to a report in the Sunday Express, Bayern Munich will be offered 59 million Euros by Chelsea for their star winger Franck Ribery. Ribery has been linked with other big clubs including Manchester United.

Samuel Eto'o targeted by Manchester City

Barcelona forward Samuel Eto'o has been targeted by Mark Hughes and Manchester City with a bid that both selling club and player are looking to exploit because of Man City's wealth.

Eto'o reportedly will sign if he gets £200,000 a week after tax (!) with Manchester City looking at a level of £140k-£180k (apparently a similar package will be offered to Carlos Tevez this week).

In terms of the actual transfer level, Man City have reportedly offered £25m - Barcelona are demanding £40m....and who could blame them....they are in talks with trillionaires!

Good business for both teams? Barcelona definitely, and yes Samuel Eto'o would go some way to their campaign to push for European football next season. If you've got transfer funds you might as well spend it and Samuel Eto'o is quality.

Eto'o, Robinho and Tevez could be an awesome strike force for City.

Yaya Toure Renews Contracy Until 2012, Hurray!!!

There were some tricky contract negotiations to be done for Barca this summer. Luckily they have concluded the most important one of all. Yaya Toure has signed a new deal which will keep him at the club till 2012. This one deal extension wwas shrudded in mystery for sometime. Especially with reports emerging about Guardiola's new found likeness for Mascherano. He was linked with a move out of the club and I have earlier written against any such move by the club - Guardiola Prefers Mascherano to Toure.The details of the new deal is not clear but he is sure to get a much better pay scale with this deal. The buyout clause has been raised from 66 million Euros to 100 million Euros. It is a great relief to fans like myself to see Toure extending the deal. He has been the most consistent performer in the last two seasons apart from Iniesta and Xavi. He compliment Barca's atatcking talent too well, you just have to watch that wonder goal against Athletic Bilbao in the Copa Del Rey final for a testimony.

Meanwhile there is not much clarity about the big signings in the transfer market. But as I said in my last post, most probably Filippe will be our first official signing of this summer. Mean while there are reports that Valdes will be signing a new deal very soon.

Glen Johnson signs with Liverpool for £17.5m

England full back Glen Johnson has left financial strugglers Portsmouth to join Liverpool for £17.5m. This is Benitez's first signing of the summer and despite paying heavily this is a great signing for the long term as Glen Johnson is only 24 and has a great future ahead of him.

Johnson was well rated at Chelsea and has continued to impress within the Premier League for Pompey and in the World Cup qualifiying matches for his national team. This signing could help to get other transfer activity moving as Arbeloa has been linked with big spenders Real Madrid who are looking at buying the full back for £8m.

Ronaldo deal is done and dusted

Cristiano Ronaldo Signs Six-Year Deal At Real Madrid

A statement on los Blancos' official website reads:

"Real Madrid CF and Manchester United have confirmed a definitive agreement for the transfer of the player Cristiano Ronaldo, to take place on July 1.

"The player will be tied to Real Madrid for the next six seasons and will be presented on the 6th of July at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium."


$132,211,737 for the transfer!!! Can't wait to hear how much Real Madrid is going to pay him now and how far into debt they are willing to go with their Galactico II program. What's the unemployment rate in Spain right now?

Burnley cap wages, ask to be relegated

The Telegraph offers the logic and justification behind this decision:

"Turf Moor manager Owen Coyle threw his weight behind the club’s low-risk policy by revealing that ‘I took five pay cuts during my career to just to play football."

And if a guy who got a single international cap for Ireland was willing to do it, surely the pampered Premier League caliber stars would be willing to follow suit, right?

"Coyle also quite rightly pointed out that, although Burnley’s top wage next season will place the club rock-bottom of the Premier League’s pay league, the sums that they will pay are still huge in comparison to the wage packet of their average supporter."

Well by that rationale, let’s pay doctors less, too. I’m sure those greedy bastards make far more than their average patients. Or even school teachers! No way 10-year-olds can compete with their wages. They can barely even read! Haha this apples vs. oranges business is fun, isn’t it?

Ronaldo is too girly for Paris

“She likes her guys to be macho - and as far as she’s concerned Ronaldo turned out to be a real sissy.

“She likes her men rugged, it’s as simple as that. She thought her friends would laugh at her if she dated a guy who walks around with flowers in his hair.”

“He was just too uptight for her to find attractive. In the end, Paris realised their relationship simply wasn’t clicking. Paris got to know him and realised he’s not nearly hot enough.”

Harsh words. Harsh words, indeed. I mean, when you’re too ridiculous even for the most ridiculous person on the planet, then it might be time to reevaluate how you go about things. Or just be thankful that your effeminate style has saved you from prolonged exposure to Paris Hilton and continue dressing like the sixth Spice Girl.

Filipe Luis Could be Barca's First Buy this Summer!!!

If all negotiations goes fine, Filipe Luis, the Brazilian left back who is currently with Deportivo could become Barca's first official signing this summer. Luis Filippe has been one of the major players in a good season for Deportivo in which they finished seventh. Sport.es has reported that the negotiations are still in advance stage. Deportivo is asking for 10 million for the left-back, who can also play in midfield. FC Barcelona currently is trying to lower the price by two million. With the departure of Sylvinho, Barca definitely needs more cover in the left-back position. The player has publicly stated his dream of playing in the Barcelona stripes, and the club also stated the same. So if everyting goes according to plan we should be able to sign him within the coming two weeks. But the biggest story right now circulating in transfer market is that - Barca has offered David Villa a four year contract. FC Barcelona also seems ti have made an offer of around 45 million for the Spanish Striker.

That big amount definitely means that Eto will be moving out to raise the money and it looks like Manchester City is well placed to grab the Cameroonian striker. Meanwhile Manchester United has also is reported to have tabled an offer of 47 million for David Villa, but the player for now has ruled out a move to England. Meanwhile with the days passing it looks like Ribery is interested more in a move to Real Madrid than Madrid. That makes it important for us to sign a guy who is good on the left side. we also would love to have an attacking midfielder as a cover to Iniesta and Xavi.

New Fifa World Rankings.......

New Fifa World Rankings.......

A little different than the FIFA world rankings, a couple teams swapped spots.

Tut, tut, tut. Internet football hooligans. Once decent win and they go around wrecking the joint! USA fans wasted no time in adjusting the Wikipedia page for the FIFA World Rankings to reflect their 2-0 Confederations Cup semi-final victory over Spain.

The US have miraculously jumped from 14th place to the top spot, while Spain - now playing under that well-known regional governing body FAIL - dropped down to fill the USA’s vacated place. Amusingly, this seems to have sparked Wiki discussions about whether someone believed they had been awarded three points for the win or whether someone had confused this with the article on the women’s rankings!

Pele is always wrong in predicting.........

Pele's prediction that Italy would beat Brazil on Sunday night went spectacularly wrong as the Selecao won 3-0. Every Tuesday, Goal.com publishes a new Top 10 - this week it is the Top 10 Wrong Pele Predictions

The Brazilian is infamous for his numerous wrong predictions over the years. Romario once declared that "Pele is a poet when he keeps his mouth shut",


while coach Luiz Felipe Scolari delivered the legendary line, "I believe Pele knows nothing about football. His analysis always turns out to be wrong. If you want to win a title, you have to listen to Pele and then do the opposite."



Here are some of his FAMOUS WRONG PREDICTIONS


1) Brazil & World Cup 2002

Pele Prediction: Brazil won’t even get past the group stages.

Outcome: Brazil win the World Cup.


2) Africa Will Rule

Pele Prediction: An African nation will win the World Cup before the year 2000.

Outcome: It is now 2009, and an African country has still yet to get past the quarter-final.



3) Nicky Barmby - Up There With Zidane, Maldini & Ronaldo

Pele Prediction: Nicky Barmby will become a world class star.

Outcome: Nicky Barmby becomes nothing more than an average player, winning 23 England caps, and never even appearing in a World Cup.
5) Ronaldo Is Finished

Pele Prediction: Ronaldo will never play football again, and his career is over, following a serious injury for Milan in February 2008.

Outcome: Ronaldo returns in March 2009 for Corinthians, scoring 10 goals in his first 14 games to win the Campeonato Paulista. Rumoured to be on the verge of a national team recall.


6) Colombia To Live American Dream

Pele Prediction: Colombia will win the 1994 World Cup in the USA.

Outcome: Colombia exit the competition in the first round, finishing bottom of their group. Their defender Andres Escobar is also tragically shot dead by an angry fan after Colombia return home.

7) Argentina, France & World Cup 2002

Pele Prediction: Argentina & France will both reach the final.

Outcome: Both countries eliminated in the first round, France without even scoring a goal.

8) Escape To Victory

Pele Prediction: During the famous film starring Sylvester Stallone and Michael Caine, Allies star Pele is brutally fouled in the first half by the Nazi opponents. The injured Brazilian claims there is no way he can continue and is carried off. The Allies are 4-0 down, and a recovery is deemed impossible.

Outcome: Pele returns in the second half and inspires his team to an improbable comeback, even scoring a stunning bicycle kick. Even in fiction, Pele's predictions go wrong.

9) China 2002

Pele Prediction: China will qualify for the next round from their 2002 World Cup group.

Outcome: China finish bottom of Group C with no wins, no draws, no points, no goals, as well as -9 in their goal-difference column.

10) Spain 1998

Pele Prediction: Spain are favourites for the 1998 World Cup in France.

Outcome: Spain humiliatingly dumped out in the first round after losing to Nigeria, and drawing with Paraguay.

Video Highlights: Brazil 1-0 South Africa (Confederations Cup)

FIFA Confederations Cup 2009
25 Jun 2009 20:30 CET
Coca-Cola Park, Johannesburg
Referee: Massimo Busacca (SWI)

Dani Alvez Won the game for Brazil with a superb free-kick......

South Africa battled for a lion's share of the game, but came unstuck from a dead-ball situation, executed by substitute Daniel Alves.

Here are the Highlights.....

Setanta Sports goes pop

There are a few ways to view the Setant developments. After listening to a few radio phone ins, I got a little irritated with the view that Setenta Sports was an evil phenomenon that exploited the armchair football fan in a new way. Sky TV have been charing us for 17 years for 'sports packages' and Setanta had more depth than just the Monday nighters. US PGA Golf. IPL 20-20 cricket, SPL and boxing will all be missed.

So as suspected in my article in January about ESPN bidding for Premier League football rights, this huge Aerican media giant will now have a go to succeed where Setanta failed.

Yes I agree that raising season tickets and TV subscriptions is an ugly side of football for many football fans who just simply don't want to miss any action. However, such is the pull of the Barclays Premier League for players all over the world that we pay a premium for the best league in the world and I for one am happy to do that.

VIDEO: Robinho's got ball skills

This guy's great. Great for the game.

VIDEO: Slappy halftime talk

Don't think this is how halftime talks in Turkey locker rooms go, but I can't be 100% sure.

99.9% maybe... but not 100...

VIDEO: Summer of soccer?

Looking farward to another great footy season.......

Joe Cole's wed and jose divorces

1. Chelsea star Joe Cole weds

2. Ex-Blues coach Jose Mourinho divorces

VIDEO: A good-looking soccer movie

Looks way better than Goal 3.

Definitely one to keep an eye on.

Video Highlights: USA 2-0 Spain (Confederations Cup)

0-1 Jozy Altidore 27


0-2 Clint Dempsey 74

Manchester United's new home kit revealed.....just a Teaser

Here is your chance to catch a glimpse of the new Manchester United home kit over a WEEK before it goes on sale.

The PR company have provided some information, which reads: "The new Manchester United home kit has been designed by Nike to recognise the club's glorious history at Old Trafford in the ground's centenary year and features several design cues that pay homage to the side that first played at the Theatre of Dreams. The kit will be revealed in its full glory on July 1st."

Video Highlights: Egypt 0 - 3 United States (Confederations Cup)

0-1 Davies


0-2 Bradley


0-3 Dempsey



The United States managed a great performance last night. The 3-0 win over Egypt as well as Italy’s 0-3 defeat over Brazil allowed the North Americans to reach the semi-finals of the Confederations Cup 2009. Watch the highlights now!

Egypt 0 - 3 United States
21′ [0 - 1] C. Davies
63′ [0 - 2] M. Bradley
71′ [0 - 3] C. Dempsey

Video Highlights: Brazil 3-0 Italy (Confederations Cup)

Brazil outclassed italy tonight as they won in the Confederations Cup in the first half brazil hit 3 goals with in a space of just 8 minutes. Luis Fabiano picked up Maicon’s wayward shot in the box and fired a low drive into Buffon’s far post to open the scoring. Three minutes later the Luis Fabiano applied the finishing touch to double Brazil’s lead from a cheeky dummy from robinho.Italy’s defence were fully exposed when Andrea Dossena scored a own goal trying to clear a crosspass.

With Italy needing to get back into the game they started the second half brightly. The lively Giuseppe Rossi soon forced fine saves from Cesar as italy only needed one goal to advance with usa beating egypt as this point.Lippi’s side finished third in the end off Group B, level on points with the US and Egypt, but with an inferior number of goals scored to the US, meaning Italy return home

Wenger signs Thomas Vermaelen

Wenger has made his first transfer swoop of the pre-season, signing cente-half Thomas Vermaelen for a reported £10m transfer fee from Dutch club Ajax.

After a season where Arsenal were clearly weak defensively, this is a wise signing. Thomas Vermaelen is a big strong left footed centre back with Champions League and international experience playing for Belgium.

Thomas is primarily a left-footed centre-back, but he is multi-functional and can also play at left-back.

"He is strong technically with a positive winner's attitude and I have no doubt his arrival will strengthen our team.

"Thomas Vermaelen will be a huge asset to Arsenal."

Video Highlights: Spain 2-0 South Africa (Confederations Cup)

Spain won Group A yesterday after yet another success. This time they scored twice against South Africa to complete their Group A appearances. Spain won the group with 9 points and confirmed yet again that they are the best national team in the world.

Carlos Tevez turns down Manchester United

Carlos Tevez has turned down a 5 year contract offer from Man Utd chief exec David Gill and will leave the Barclays Premier League champions going into the new football season.

It will be a fascinating start to the new season if the Argentinian pulls on a Manchester City jersey. He could potentially be the catalyst for the new era at Eastlands, Tevez would make Mark Hughes' job easier through his admirable work rate.

City are currently closing in on Rovers striker Roque Santa Cruz, reportedly Hughes will sign the forward for £16.5m on Monday morning.

VIDEO: David "Wolfman" Villa

I knew it was him all along...

Figo ''Seal'' Links

Nothing like the retired life, eh Luis?

Anyway, here are some Links

• Unmatched players and their WAGs. [Pies]
• Real Madrid to drop Robben? [Guardian]
• Iraq's goalie is a cheater. [101GG]
• Deportivo after young Jose Torres? [TelevisaDeportes]
• Maradona/River feud continues again. [SI]
• FIFA removes TVs from Confed. Cup sidelines. [Yahoo!]
• Sir Bobby calls Ronaldo transfer 'vulgar.' [BBC]
• Posted by The Beautiful Game at 2:57 PM
  

Video : Finaly Ribery got an Ad

I guess he's pretty fast and dribbling through cones...

Write A Guest Post

Lets-Kickoff.blogspot.com is now open to guest writers so that soccer news can be updated more frequently.

Reasons For Writing A Guest Post on My Blog

1. To share your opinions about soccer news and add value with your insight.

2. Have fun and be a part of this community.

3. To get exposure and traffic with your personal link that can be placed at the end of the article.

Guidelines

I don’t want to sound mean but these guidelines are necessary to avoid turning off my existing readers. So please do me a favor and write quality content, else I have to reject your posts.

1. Editing. Grammatical errors, inflammatory remarks and other minor things may be edited before posting.

2. Length. 1200 words or more. This may be lengthy for some writers but I prefer an in-depth coverage of the chosen topic and this is just to continue the tradition on All About The Beautiful Game.

3. Individuality. Please ensure the individuality of this post. It must be unique and not posted on your own blog or anywhere else. This is to prevent search engines from penalizing both sites.

5. Writing Style. No restrictions, conforming to my writing style is nice but your natural expression is preferred. Some controversy may even add refreshing variety on this blog.


Lastly, please send your submissions to sameer_arshad@live.com. I will try to post your guest blogs as soon as possible. I may also intersperse my own posts in between to show that I have not forsaken All About the Beautiful Game

Bear Fan Links

Today's featured links:

• Bayern might not sell Ribery. [ESPN]
• Barca is playing Chivas in San Fran. [SI]
• Maradona's got a feud with River Plate. [Futbolita]
• People hate those Confed. Cup trumpets. [Goal.com]
• Colorado after Fernando Morientes? [TribalFootball]
• MLS newcomer rankings. [Center Holds It]
• David Villa's selective autographing. [Dirty Tackle]
• Info of that NYC showdown. [Unprofessional Foul]
• EPL schedule released. [BBC]
• Iran soccer team playing politics. [The Original Winger]
• Balboa's hair is gone, with proof. [The Offside Rules]
• Fun with headlines. [Off the Post]
• Quotes o' the week. [Sanford's Soccer Net]
• Drogba ban from UCL craziness. [Daily Mail]
  

Video Highlights: Brazil 3-0 USA (Confederations Cup)

The Samba Kings continued their dominance over Group B when they emphatically trounced USA in their second game of the 2009 Confederations Cup tournament. This is also USA’s second consecutive loss which means they are as good as out of the competition.

The scorers on the day for Brazil were Robihno and Maicon

Video Highlights: Egypt 1-0 Italy (Confederations Cup)

Egypt got a shock win in the Confederations Cup beating the world champions 1-0 tonight.Egypt took the lead over Italy five minutes before the break with a fine leap and header from Mohamed Homos.Egypt played with passion and at times out played the world champions.Great second half saves from goalkeeper Essam Al Hadari kept the Italians at bay while Vincenzo Iaquinta hit the bar with just minutes remaining as Egypt weathered a late storm.This will go down as one of the greatest wins ever for Egypt and now the group is wide open....

video Highlights: South Africa 2-0 New Zeland (Confederations Cup)

South Africa outplayed New Zealand and on Wednesday evening in their second Confederations Cup match at the Royal Bafokeng Sports Palace. Bernard Parker was the star with the two goals as he grabbed yet another brace for Bafana while scoring South Africa’s first ever goal in the history of the Confederations Cup.

Premier League fixture list

Premier League opening day - 15th August

Aston Villa v Wigan

Blackburn v Man City

Bolton v Sunderland

Chelsea v Hull City

Everton v Arsenal

Man Utd v Birmingham

Portsmouth v Fulham

Stoke v Burnley

Tottenham v Liverpool

Wolverhampton v West Ham

Champions Manchester United begin their defence of the Premier League title at home to newly-promoted Birmingham on 15th August.

Liverpool start and end their season with away fixtures, at Tottenham on 15th August and Hull City on 9th May.

video Highlights: Spain 1-0 Iraq (Confederations Cup)

Tactically, very good execution by Iraq… Frustrating for Spain, but did a great job by continuing to play and move through multiple attacking players.

Fittingly Villa Scored the only goal of the game.

Football Transfer rumours June 2009

Transfer gossip June 2009

Ruud Van Nistelrooy (or Van Gol as his colleagues nicknamed him at Old Trafford) has been linked to a move to Harry Redknapp's Tottenham Hotspur.

Everton manager David Moyes is keen to move in on Spurs midfielder Jermaine Jenas. The special one Joes Mourinho had been linked with Jena in the last transfer window and Inter are keen to sign him still, along with Aston Villa showing some interest.

Tottenham midfielder David Bentley is rumoured to be eyeing up a move to Villa Park for a reported £7m. The ex Blackburn Rovers man said "I’m in talks with Villa at the moment.I really don’t want to say much more. But we’ll see what happens. I’m hopeful of sorting it out as soon as possible."

Both Liverpool and Spurs are following Stewart Downing's movements, with a fee rumoured to up to £12m....sounds like a lot of money for a player in a relegated Prem team?

Villa Set On Barca Radar

I couldn't update regularly in last couple of days. But it looks like there was not much of development about Barca in Transfer Market. But the biggest news in Transfer Market as today is a reported 50 million bid for Valencia striker Villa. Valencia is reported to be asking for more but there is a high chance of Barca beating Real madrid to his signature. If that happens we will see Eto moving to Manchester City, most probably. But there were reports from England suggesting that Ferguson might be interested in the Cameroonian striker. But I doubt the credibility of that news and expects Manchester City to sign him as they will be the only one willing to pay his demanded salary. Meanwhile Villa and Barca has kept silence on all these rumours. Villa will be the perfect person to replace Eto as he can easily fit into Barca's style of play. Meanwhile the negotiations between Valdes and FC Barcelona has broken down for the n-th time. Valdes is looking for an improved contract which will put him on par with other stars in the team. Mean while Barca is reported to be keeping their plan B open, if Valdes leaves. Pepe Reina, Asenjo all are reported to be in Barca's radar.

Meanwhile it is expected that Barca will finally present Yaya Toure with a improved contract. After being told by Benitez that Mascherano is not up for sale, Barca looks like have decided to extend the contract of the best defensive midfielder in the world. Meanwhile Barca looks like to be in prime position to land Deprtivo La Coruna's Luis Fillipe. Juventus and Atletico Madrid are also in the race but Barca definitely has the advantage.

Video Highlights: Italy 3-1 USA (Confederations Cup)

The world champions Italy came from a goal down to make it 3 - 1 in the second half with Giuseppe Rossi and De Rossi sharing the goals for Italy.

The Model Messi

Lionel Messi is used to wearing footwear adorned with three stripes on the pitch, but the Barcelona superstar likes to sport a casual two-stripe look in his free time.

Click here for more

Video Highlights: Brazil 4-3 Egypt (Confederations Cup

What a game this was! Brazil stormed to a 3-1 lead but then Egypt stormed back to make it 3-3 but as always brazil who had the last say to make it 4-3 on the night.kaka the new madrid star hit the first then zidan hit a quick reply. Luis Fabianso then scored a sweet flick header and juan made it 3-1 looked like game over but not yet.Egypt stormed back with 2 goals in 2 minutes! Mohamed Shawky then zidan again looks a good player to this guy made it 3-3.With all to play for and egypt playing very well looking more to get the winner you never know what would happen next !Until brazil hit them on the break Al Mohamady was give a red card for blocking a effort from Lucio, so it was fitting for kaka to hit a very late winner from the spot what a game!

Video Highlights: South Africa 0-0 Iraq (Confederations Cup)

Video Highlights: Spain 5-0 New Zealand (Confederations Cup)

Torres scored a hatrick in first 20 minutes, Villa and Febregas also got on the score sheet......Too easy for Spain !!!!

Another night at the hotel Hilton? Ronaldo 'visits' Paris at her Beverly Hills home

Paris Hilton must have made a good impression when she met Cristiano Ronaldo on Wednesday night, after the footballer spent a second night with the hotel heiress

Why so shy? Ronaldo ducks as he enters Nicky Hilton's West Hollwood home

Several celebrity websites in America claim the pair were intimately kissing.

One witness wrote: '[She was] hot and heavy, making out with Cristiano at his table.'

Another reported: 'They were talking to one another and seemed extremely friendly.'

Paris is said to have first made a play for the star this time last year at Hollywood club Villa, but he rejected her advances.

'She was determined to get her man this time. And what Paris wants, Paris gets,' a friend told The Sun. 'She has been telling anyone who will listen that Ronaldo is the hottest thing she has ever seen.'

Paris Hilton Hooks Up With Ronaldo

Paris Hilton hooked up with Greaseano after he spent 20 thousand bucks on champagne at club MyHouse in Hollywood. And that’s an achievement for Paris because she actually went up to him at a club last July but spectacularly failed.

''Greaseano'' is in the USA for a holiday and quite possibly, to get another one of those fake tans to show off in tight John Galliano shorts. Ok ok, we’ll stop.. he’s effectively a Real Madrid player now.

The Daily Doze

Bojan's name looks even better at night

Todays daily doze:

• Ronaldo transfer messes up the EPL table. A lot. [UF]
• CR7's new, ummmm, contract? [The Spoiler]
• Top 6 Setanta moments. [Pies]
• UW grad Brandon Prideuax is calling it quits after this season. [SI]
• Some college coach was very inappropriate. [Yahoo!]
• Deco wants out of Chelsea. [BBC]
• Manchester City is after Roque Santa Cruz. [Daily Mail]
• Some Serie B playoff saw one team with 7 men at the end. [The Offside]
• Ricardo Carvalho is hoping for any bid from anyone. [Goal.com]

Ronaldo's new ''Real'' number

The Spanish lessons and CR9 trademark should come in useful very soon then.

VIDEO: Classic schoolboy prank from Gunners

Keane was asked to sign a couple of autographs and duly obliged, only for it to emerge that he had just signed a photo of him missing a penalty during Spurs’ defeat to Arsenal in December 2007.

VIDEO: Barca's 09 talent

It's Barcelona's world. What a great collection of talent and highlights.

Ronaldo - £80m - who's got the best deal?

Ronaldo was the world football of the year, and has been instrumental in generating silverware for the Red Devils. This was perhaps the most predictable signing of the summer (other than Tevez going to Man City)

However £80m is a massive sum of cash...who has got the best of this one?

Ibra To Barca, Eto to Inter; Deal Almost Done?

If reports by El Mundo Deportivo is to be believed then the deal to swap FC Barcdelona striker with Eto with Inter striker Ibrahmovic is all done. The daily reports that Barca will offer an additional 10 million plus the service of their star centre forward for the service of the swede. Guardiola rates Ibrahmovic high and believes that he is more suited to his plans than Eto. But Ibrahmovic always was considered a big match flop, his performance with Sweden in major competition does make that belief firm. Whatever, there is no doubt about the fact that he is more talented than Samuel Eto. But is he the kind of striker who we need upfront? I am not sure, someone like Villa would have been perfect. But then Madrid is reported to have almost got hold of his signature. Zlatan Ibrahimović along with Kaka is the highest paid footballer in Europe and that could be another problem for Barca. FC Barcelona could easily match his salary but then have to raise the salaries of Messi, Xavi and Iniesta to match Ibra's. At 27 he has some playing time left and that could be good for Barca. Meanwhile El Mundo Deportivo reports that Ibra is desperate for a switch as he believes he can win the Champions League with FC Barcelona.

The early negotiation with Inter were reported to have broken down as the Inter president was first demanding the service of Eto plus 40 million. Then there were reports that he was looking for a swap between Iniesta and Ibra, but Laporta would be killed if that happens. Meanwhile Sport.es looks like have picked the star they want in Barca this season - David Silva. They have run a story describing that how he loves Barca style and the club. There is no doubt that he is the perfect signing for Barca but we have to fight heavily with Madrid for his service. Laporta in the mean time looked to have taken a dig at the high price transfer of Kaka to Madrid, he is probably right in pointing out. But I am tempted to ask this - Where is Platini? He made so much noise when Manchester City almost signed Kaka, why is he silent now?

Guardiola Prefers Mascherano to Toure

It was never a secret that Guardiola preferred Busquets and Keita to Toure when he started his reign at Barca. He entered into compromise with Eto early on the season but convincingly overlooked Toure many times during the start of season. But there are some talents you can't keep on bench, and Toure proved to be one of them. He made the likes of Keita and Busquets looked amateur in the defensive midfielder role. There was a contract negotiation to happen in the end of season and every Barca fan expected to finish off woth relative ease. But now it looks like Guardiola is holding to his belief that Toure is not suitable for his team. Laporta recently hailed Valdes (a player who is already doing his contract negotiations) a great Goal Keeper and hoped that Barca can retain the service of Eto. But he very casually forgot to mention anything about the big Ivory Coast player. Guardiola is rumoured to have contacted Argentinian captain Mascherano and sees him as the ideal choice for our midfield. It doesn't come as any surprise as Guardiola always goes ahead with his stupid thinkings.

Toure has been one of the major stars of Barca's treble winning season but is one of the least paid stars. In normal circumstances Barca management would have increased his pay scale as he along with Iniesta were our two consistent players for last two season. But they are hesitating to do so this time and there could be only one reason to it - Guardiola does not see in his future plans. Mascherano on the other hand has been excellent this season. But everyone forgets the fact that he plays in a midfield with Gerrad and Alonso along with him. How he will fare in a three men attacking midfield is yet to be seen, ofcourse if he makes the switch. When Machesrano's name started getting linked with Barca, I thought Guardiola wanted him as a back up to Toure as Toure and Keita would be away for some time due to African Nations cup. But the idea of him replacing Toure baffles me. But anyway Toure has enough interest with the likes of Arsenal, Manchester City and Italian giants in his hunt. But agains Toure's stupid decision to sign a low salary pay with a 90 million buy-out clause could do more harm to Toure than the Club.

Meanwhile Sport.es reported that Ribery is more close to signing for Barca at this moment. Sport also reports that Barca is close to finalising a deal with Luis Fillipe. Meanwhile the Galactico ero has restarted at Real Madrid with record signing of Kaka today. Next could be Ronaldo and Ribery in their sights.

Season over !!!

I might not be posting in coming weeks, but i promise blog will be back bigger and better.....Need to learn some stuff, u know !!!!

Anyway,

have a fun Summer,
Sameer

Ronaldo's price: 75 million pounds

I hear that's the number.

But aren't we expecting Kaka to be unveiled there soon, in like a 60+ million pound move?

Could they really afford both?

Could the team support both?

Video: Rooney's spider kick

VIDEO: Ewww, puke on the pitch

This is gross.

Video: Ronaldo at his best.....nah the real Ronaldo !

This highlight is as good as it gets. Deserving of those end-of-the-year reels of nothing but the best.

Shearer Weighs Up Options But Ashley Wants Out

Shearer Weighs Up Options But Ashley Wants Out

By Josh Allen - a big thanks to Josh!

Newcastle legend Alan Shearer has confirmed his future could be resolved by the end of the week, amid claims that he is pricing himself out of a full-time deal.

Shearer has been in discussions with wantaway owner Mike Ashley since the end of the season but with Newcastle facing the prospect of Championship football, any financial demands may have to be re-evaluated.

Shearer is said to want a £3million annual salary and a transfer budget as high as £20million – figures that are perhaps unrealistic given the high price of relegation. Shearer has denied making any demands but in a statement released on Monday did say that there were: “obvious conditions”.

While money is undoubtedly important, job security could prove to be a more significant factor. With Mike Ashley set to leave as soon as he finds a buyer, Shearer could find his position under threat even before the season gets underway. His record of one win in eight games hardly makes for impressive reading and so if a new owner was to bring his own man in, Shearer could find himself on the managerial scrapheap at the tender age of 39.

Regardless of the Shearer deal, Ashley's time at Newcastle looks to be up. His reign has been catastrophic, even by his own account and not just on the pitch. Ashley bought the club in 2007 for £134.4million and has since invested another £200million. Despite putting the club up for sale during the season at £400million he received no concrete interest and is now set to accept bids as low as £80million – a huge loss by anyone's standards.

So for Ashley the game is up, his dream has become a nightmare in two short years. For the fans there remains some hope, hope that Shearer can drag the club back from the abyss. Whether he shares their belief will soon become apparent.

Barca Threading a Dangerous Line

The initial impression from the transfer market gives us an impression fo a lack of direction from FC Barcelona mangement. Eto looks like is out of Guardiola's plans and now there is rumours that Yaya Toure has rejected a improved deal. Yaya Toure has been one of our best players from the last two season, but he still earns much less than his team mates. Guardiola in the begining of season was not much fond of this great Ivorian - Is It Good-Bye Yaya, but he simply proved Guardiola wrong by being a colossal in that attacking midfielder. Guardiola constantly preferred Busquests and Keita in the defensive midfielder role in the begining but later he gave an impression of admitting the fact that Toure Yaya was leaps and bounds above the two in that position. But when you analyse this new problem with the deal and the constant linking of Mascherano to Barca, you have to admit whetehr Guardiola runs the team with some preconceived notion. Couple this with the rumours of Eto moving out of the team this season, you seriously doubt Guardiola. Guardiola seems to prefer Ibrahmovic to Eto and in most probability we will see him leave this season. I am not a big fan of Eto's behaviour but I believe he is the best center-forward which complements Barca's style of play. And unsettle him without clear back-up plans is suicidal.

Barca's initial attempt to lure Ibrahmovic looks to have back-fired. There is no clarity about Benzema. Again there is no proof that both will do well at Barca. Ibrahmovic plays in a team whose playing style is completely different from what Barca follows. In that sense Benzema could be a better choice. Same issue is there with Mascherano; I seriously don't think he can play the way Toure plays for Barca. If we are going to have both of them it could be good. But leaving Toure out for Mascherano could backfire spectacularly. Barca is still in hunt for the left-back position but again there is no clarity of whom we are targetting. Eevryone wants Lahm to be there but till now in this transfer window, we haven't hear Barca making any approach for him. Ashley Cole and Riise both have been linked, but will be very difficult to sign. Diego Forlan's signing also could be tough as Real Madrid with all their riches is supposed to be behind him. The biggest trouble could be in midfield - Silva is negotiating with Madrid and Fabregas is in everybodies radar. There is a high chance that Barca management will unsettle the likes of Eto and Toure; and maybe in the end has to still retain their service. That could potentially seed troubles in the dressing room. Guardiola's preconceptiona and Iron-hand approach are not making life easy either.

Transfer Season Opens In Style

Another season got over and the transfer window has been thrown open. This is the time when half-truths and total lies rule the world of football. I will try to brief all the latest transfer rumours about Barca here. But I can't guarantee anyone about the amount in truth in these rumours. If it was all true, there would have been no fun in it. The first news which has caught my attention is that Barca is keen on extending Valdes' service till 2014. Now that does not surprise anyone, does it? He had a great series of showing and was expecte dto be rewarded for that. Meanwhile sylvinho has been released by the club. He has not yet found a club to get in, but it is more or less clear that Barca is not keen on extending his contract. Today Sport.es has reported that the club has decided against loaning out Bojan next season. There were earlier reports of Bojan being loaned out for a year, so that he can get more playing time. But it seems Barca will be able to give him decent amount of playing time next season.

Samuel Eto has been linked left, right and centre with a host of clubs. Eto has re-iterated his intentions to remain in Barca. But the club looks like have decided to cash on him, if they can find a replacement. Manchester City is supposed to be ready to splash cash get him, there was another rumour suggesting a possible exchange between Ibrahmovic and Eto. Let's wait and watch what comes out of this saga. Meanwhile Real Madrid transfer saga is going in full flow. It looks like they have almost grabbed Kaka and is looking to sign Ronaldo, Ribery, Silva and Villa. Silva and Ribery has been our target and the interest shown by a host of clubs will inflate their respective prices. Another strange rumour is the possibility of John Arne Riise joining Barca. Fc Barcelona has been looking someone to strengthen the left back side. Riise's name has suddenly got into the scheme of things.

New PES 2010 Trailer

from on Vimeo.

Even though its just a movie trailer, but enough for the excitment of some Soccer Fanatics......

BTW this years E3 has been a crap