VELEZ SARSFIELD CROWNED ARGENTINA SUPER CHAMPIONS

Velez Sarsfield were crowned Argentina’s Super champions on Saturday after a 1-0 victory over Newell’s Old Boys in Mendoza.

Lucas Pratto’s first-half strike proved enough to see Velez claim the first overall league championship play-off in Argentina since 1991 – when Marcelo Bielsa’s Newell’s defeated Boca Juniors on penalties - after Ignacio Scocco saw his penalty saved by Sebastian Sosa in the Velez goal shortly before half-time.

“We beat a good team,” said Velez coach Ricardo Gareca. “The heart of my team is incredible.

"We came through a very difficult match. This is for the fans because it was a very tough year.”

Pratto echoed his coach’s sentiments, adding that he felt his side had a point to prove after surrendering a 1-0 first-leg lead to Newell’s in the Copa Libertadores last month.

“We wanted to prove that we could beat them,” he said. “They’re a great team and very good on the ball.

“After Sosa saved the penalty [we believed].”

The result means Torneo Inical champions Velez qualify for the 2013 Copa Sudamericana and will also join Newell’s in the 2014 edition of the Copa Libertadores.

CAVANI ANGERED BY TRANSFER SAGA

Edinson Cavani says he is angered by persistent rumours surrounding his future as he looks to fire Uruguay to victory in their Confederations Cup third-place play-off against Italy on Sunday.

The Napoli striker has been linked with a whole host of clubs across Europe, with Real Madrid and Manchester City both reported to hold a strong interest in acquiring his services.

But the 26-year-old has grown tired of the persistent rumours and has refused to discuss his future anymore in a bid to focus on his next international test.

"Your talking at the beginning didn't disturb me but now I have to confess these rumours are bothering me," he told reporters.

"You're talking too much about things you shouldn't be talking about now. I'm still engaged in this competition and just thinking about the next game [versus Italy].

"I play in Italy, I know all of them. I was expecting them to play a great tournament, so I must congratulate them. But tomorrow, we want to win. I want to raise my country in the world standings as much as possible."

Oscar Tabarez echoed his striker's words: "We are facing a strong side but at this stage anything can happen. We want to try to the end and finish this competition in the best possible way."

Luis Suarez and Diego Godin then revealed they would be using the clash with the Azzurri as an opportunity to exorcise their demons from losing the World Cup 2010 third place play-off to Germany.

"Every time we pull on the Celeste shirt we want to win and claiming third place would really mean a lot to us," Suarez revealed to Fifa.com.

"What’s more, it still rankles that we didn’t finish on the podium at South Africa 2010, when we lost to Germany."

"It was really painful for us all, because we came so close to reaching the final," Godin reiterated. "All we’re thinking about now is beating Italy. Finishing fourth is not the same as finishing third."

ROBSON: ARSENAL NEED FELLAINI NOT ROONEY

Former Arsenal midfielder Stewart Robson feels the Gunners should buy Marouane Fellaini and not Wayne Rooney if they are to end their trophy drought this season.

 Rooney is determined to leave the Red Devils this summer, but Robson feels he is not quite the right fit for Arsenal.

“To take Wayne Rooney, who everybody says that the problem he had with Sir Alex Ferguson was concerned with his fitness levels and how he was looking after himself, now I’m not sure that Arsene Wenger is the sort of confrontational manager who is going to pull Wayne Rooney to one side and say, I’m not happy with this I’m going to leave you out of the side because of this," he told talkSPORT.

“So I think it might be be a problem and Wayne Rooney I think, is slightly on the wane, he’s lost a yard of pace. Would he be a good player for Arsenal? Would he take them to the next level? I think he would improve them, I’m just not sure he’s the player Arsenal need to go on to become champions of Europe or champions of the Premier League."

Arsenal have already made Fellaini a contract offer after activating his release clause and Robson feels he would be a great signing and would bring balance to the Gunners.

“Arsenal need a real strong backbone in that midfield. I would go and get Fellaini if he’s available," he added.

"I’ve seen him play many different roles for Everton. I’ve seen him come to the Emirates before and play a defensive role and he’s been the outstanding player on the field. I’ve seen him go and play as an attacking midfielder and go and show good strength and win balls in the air.

"He does things simply on the ball. He’s not going to be an expansive passer but Arsenal have got those expansive players, they need to now get a balance between the creative side and the more destructive side, the more dynamic side of the game, you can't have one without the other."

LUIZ: PAULINHO WILL BE A HIT IN ENGLAND

Chelsea defender David Luiz is keen to see fellow Brazil international Paulinho join him in England this summer, as the midfielder admitted Tottenham had contacted him.

The Corinthians star has lit up the Confederations Cup with his all-action displays, causing his stock to rise as links with the Premier League outfit intensify.

And Luiz is adamant the Selecao hero has what it takes to star at White Hart Lane, while hailing him as an asset to the Brazil squad.

"If he gets to play in England, he will definitely go far," the stopper noted to Fifa.com. "His game fits perfectly with the pace of English football.

"It’s incredibly valuable to have someone like that in your side. Especially when the team [Brazil] is getting along together as well as ours is."

Paulinho underlined the only contact he has received came from Spurs, and denied any attempts made by Real Madrid, though admitting he was aware of the rumours.

"Tottenham is the only club to have made an official offer. We'll wait for the Confederations Cup to finish and then we'll decide," he told Marca.

"I'm up to date with what has been written about Real Madrid, but the fact is that Madrid has not phoned me. There is no record of any offer."

The 24-year-old headed in Brazil's late winner during the 2-1 semi-final victory against Uruguay on Wednesday and also revealed what he believes to be the strongest parts of his game.

"It really is one of my qualities, moving into different areas of the field, picking up opponents as well as helping to attack," the midfielder resumed to Fifa.com.

"I try to help in every possible way and I’ll try to keep on doing that, both for my club and the national side, because that's how I've always had success."

Luiz Felipe Scolari's men now prepare to face Spain in the penultimate match on Sunday, after la Roja beat Italy 7-6 on penalties in their corresponding semi-final.

PRANDELLI: EL SHAARAWY NEEDS TO SHOW MORE CHARACTER

Italy coach Cesare Prandelli says Stephan El Shaarawy "needs to show more character" and may not start in the Confederations Cup third-place play-off against Uruguay.

The AC Milan forward has featured just once in the tournament - in the 4-2 defeat to Brazil - and watched on from the bench as the Azzurri were beaten 7-6 on penalties in the semi-final clash with Spain.

And Prandelli has voiced his concerns over the 20-year-old's mentality and cast doubt over his involvement on Sunday, despite Mario Balotelli's absence and concerns over Alberto Gilardino's fitness.

"I'm convinced this experience has been a good one for him," Prandelli said to reporters. "He needs more character. I talked to him in Coverciano and he was mentally exhausted.

"We will evaluate him tomorrow and decide whether he can start at the final moment."

Uruguay were beaten 2-1 by Brazil in their last four tie, but the 53-year-old coach retains the utmost respect for his side's next opponents and highlighted their attacking talents as their greatest strength.

He added: "Uruguay have great quality and an extraordinary attack. We hope to add consistency to our game plan by gaining experience against a team that is second to none tempermentally.

"We respect and admire their spirit."

The Azzurri's semi-final defeat to Spain came at a high cost, with Andrea Pirlo and Claudio Marchisio joining Andrea Barzagli and Balotelli on the sidelines, leading Prandelli to note the need for his side to improve physically ahead of World Cup 2014.

He said: "This Confederations Cup has taught us we need to be on top of our game physically for next year's World Cup."

"We are struggling with recovering players from injury. It would help to gather them once or twice in a season and work with them. People have been running near the brink all year.

"It's good that if we are physically fit for the World Cup, that we can put pressure on any opponent if we use the right tactics. We must bring home the knowledge that it all depends on us and our approach.

XAVI DENIES UNDERMINING DEL BOSQUE

Xavi has dismissed claims he has undermined coach Vicente del Bosque and ordered him to name certain players in Spain's starting XI.

The 62-year-old has rotated his pack during the Confederations Cup, with Xavi criticised after reports he voiced his displeasure at the line-ups and undermined his trainer's authority.

But after Del Bosque and assistant Jose Grande insisted their playmaker had always been mindful of his place, the Barcelona star himself underlined that he has never once attempted to question decisions regarding personnel.

"I wouldn't dream of telling the manager who I have to play with," Xavi emphasised to Spanish television channel Cuatro.

"I've never done it, and never will as long as I live. Everyone has a voice here, and no one is above anyone else.

"We always speak with the gaffer about what's best for the team, but not about who should play. Never about that."

La Roja are currently preparing to face Brazil in the Confederations Cup final at the Maracana on Sunday.

Del Bosque's men go into the game after beating Italy 7-6 on penalties, while the tournament hosts dispatched neighbours Uruguay 2-1.

DE GEA TO SIGN NEW MAN UTD CONTRACT

Manchester United are preparing to offer David De Gea a pay rise and contract extension to ward off interest from Barcelona.

The 22-year-old was in fine form as the Red Devils stormed to their 20th league title last season, and the club are keen to tie him down for the long term.

De Gea currently earns €64,000 per week on a contract that expires in 2016, but United want to extend that for a further two years and bump his pay to €88,000 per week.

United will sit down with the Spaniard's representatives when he returns to pre-season training with the first team on Wednesday.

Following Victor Valdes' announcement that he will leave Camp Nou at the end of his contract in 2014, rumours surfaced in Spain that the Blaugrana would turn their attentions to the United shot-stopper.

Edurne Garcia, De Gea's girlfriend, stated in January that it is a "dream" for the goalkeeper to play for Barcelona, and United are concerned that they could lose their star goalkeeper.

The former Atletico Madrid man won the European Under-21 Championship with Spain this summer, and has been undertaking a personal training regime to stay in shape.

ENGLAND OUT OF UNDER 20 WORLD CUP

Uruguay defeated Uzbekistan 4-0 to secure a place in the Under-20 World Cup knockout stage on Saturday.
Gino Acevedo scored with a low 25-meter shot in the 38th minute, and Nicolas Lopez, Giorgian de Arrascaeta and Ruben Bentancourt added in the second half.
Uruguay finished Group F second to Croatia, and will take on Nigeria in the playoffs. Uzbekistan also advanced as one of the best third-placed teams and will meet Greece.

Croatia, already qualified, beat New Zealand 2-1 with goals from Stipe Perica and Ante Rebic. Louis Fenton scored New Zealand's only goal in the tournament from the penalty spot in the 84th.
Iraq beat Chile 2-1 to win Group E. Both teams were already through to the last 16. Iraq will face Paraguay, while Chile is up against Croatia.
Egypt beat England 2-0 and finished third but came up one goal short of advancing. Instead, Ghana went through to the first knockout round as the 16th and last team because of a better goal difference and will play Portugal.
England hasn't won a match in the competition since 1997, and stretched its winless streak to 17 games.
England dominated the match but was thwarted by poor finishing and strong saves from Egypt goalkeeper Awad Mossad.
Trezeget gave Egypt the lead in the 79th, and Ahmed Hassan doubled the score in injury time.
The U20 World Cup continues on Tuesday with the first four matches of the knockout stage, including tournament favorite Spain against Mexico.

BAYERN WIN ON GUARDIOLA DEBUT

Bayern Munich earned a comprehensive 15-1 victory in a friendly match against a team of local fans on Saturday, during what was Pep Guardiola's first game in the dugout.

The Bavarian's hosted their Wildenau-based supporters and were already 3-0 up in the first period, thanks to goals from Thomas Muller as well as youth prospects Oliver Markoutz and Vladimir Rankovic.

Die Roten opened the floodgates in the second-half as Patrick Weihrauch, Julian Green, Franck Ribery, Mitchell Weiser and Toni Kroos struck.

Germany Under-19 international Weihrauch will have done his first-team prospects no harm after his four-goal haul, while fellow starlet Green, who was born in Florida, impressed with his display and subsequent hat-trick.

Guardiola will also be pleased to welcome back Kroos, after the playmaker missed the tail-end of last season through injury.

The 23-year-old turned out beside Ribery and Jerome Boateng in the second-half.

PRANDELLI: 3RD PLACE GAMES HAVE NO VALUE

Struggling to find players fit enough after a draining loss to Spain, Italy coach Cesare Prandelli has suggested that FIFA review the worth of third-place games at the Confederations Cup.
Italy face Uruguay on Sunday at the Arena Fonte Nova but less than 24 hours before kickoff Prandelli was still trying to determine which players would be fit enough to play.
''In a tournament with eight squads maybe the third-place match should be put under review,'' Prandelli said Saturday. ''That said, we will honor the match.''

With Mario Balotelli and Ignazio Abate already having been sent home injured before the semifinal, key playmaker Andrea Pirlo, center back Andrea Barzagli and midfielder Claudio Marchisio have now been ruled out with muscle problems.
Also, Daniele De Rossi, Giorgio Chiellini and Alberto Gilardino have not recovered from Thursday's game vs. Spain, which Italy lost 7-6 in the penalty shootout after extra time ended 0-0.
The Spain match was played in searing heat and humidity and the third-place match could be a sweaty affair, too.
With a 1 p.m, it's the only game of the tournament that will start in the middle of the day.
''I've got three players out and three others who haven't recuperated yet,'' Prandelli said. ''Right now it's difficult to say who will play.''

Prandelli will likely resort to forwards like Stephan El Shaarawy, Alessandro Diamanti and Alessio Cerci, who have seen little action thus far. Defender Davide Astori, the only outfield player who has not seen action yet, could also be an option, and Salvatore Sirigu or Federico Marchetti will likely replace captain Gianluigi Buffon in goal.
''It's an opportunity to gain some experience,'' Prandelli said. ''Because we're facing a squad that has a lot of character.''
Entering the tournament, the 20-year-old El Shaarawy was expected to pair with Balotelli in attack like at AC Milan but his only action thus far were the final 18 minutes in the final group game vs. Brazil.
El Shaarawy led Italy's Serie A with 14 goals in the first half of the recently concluded Serie A season but managed only two after Balotelli transferred to Milan in January.
''He had a long season and when as a young kid you reach certain objectives it's difficult to bounce back and do it again,'' Prandelli said. ''If he plays tomorrow he needs to be ready. We'll see.''
South American champion Uruguay features three experienced and talented forwards in Diego Forlan, Edinson Cavani and Luis Suarez.
Playing for Napoli, Cavani led Serie A this past season with 29 goals.

''It's a squad we respect a lot, a squad that has shown it is able to adapt to any opponent,'' Prandelli said. ''Tactically, this is the toughest match to prepare.''
The Spain match was also a challenge, one that Italy won tactically by many standards, but Prandelli feels this game is tougher because of the physical state of his squad.
''Right now I'm having trouble putting players in place,'' the coach said. ''These are two completely different matches.''
Uruguay lost its semifinal 2-1 to Brazil on Wednesday, a day earlier than the Spain-Italy match.
''It would be ideal if you could organize a tournament where everyone has the same chance,'' Prandelli said. ''If one squad has fewer transfers and more days to recuperate that's an advantage.'

DRAXLER TURNS DOWN MOVE ABROAD

Julian Draxler has turned down a lucrative move away from Schalke, according to Germany's Bild newspaper.

The 19-year-old put pen to paper on a new five-year contract only a month ago, but the deal is reported to include a release clause of 45.5million euros.

According to Bild, several top European clubs were willing to pay that sum to secure his services and pay him more than he is earning in Gelsenkirchen, but the Germany international has turned down the move.
"This is going to be the shortest season of my career, so far which is why I don't want to move elsewhere and have to settle in to new surroundings," he said.
"I'd rather play for Schalke in the Champions League and then fly out to Brazil for the World Cup with the national team."
Only Friday, Schalke president Clemens Tonnies admitted Draxler could leave his club in spite of his long-term contract.
"Of course we want to keep hold of him, Julian is an important figure in Schalke," he told the Express newspaper.
"But if we want to be fair with him, then maybe we have got to consider letting him move abroad sooner or later."

TORRES: SPAIN LUCKY TO HAVE CASILLAS

Fernando Torres has expressed his relief that Spain have goalkeeper Iker Casillas following his impressive performance versus Italy in their Confederations Cup semi-final.

The Real Madrid skipper pulled off a number of stops to keep la Roja in the game against the Azzurri, despite being sidelined on the Santiago Bernabeu bench in recent months.

Torres is delighted for the veteran Spaniard and looked ahead to the final against hosts Brazil, against whom he believes the world and European champions will need to perform with trademark confidence.

"He put in one of those performances which just make you think that we’re so lucky to have a keeper like him. He was decisive for us and saved us when Italy were making us suffer. He brought us luck and I am thrilled for him," the Chelsea striker told AS.
"It’s our dream [to win] and the reason why we have come to Brazil. It’s the only trophy which we have never won and this generation badly wants to win it.

"Everyone is talking about what an amazing final is in store between Brazil and Spain. It’s going to be a match to enjoy. We know all about what qualities they have, what a great team they are and both of us are the only teams who are unbeaten in the tournament.

"They will have their fans egging them on but we will go out there to show our style - with the same confidence which has brought us success in recent years."

Torres has scored five times in the tournament - four goals of which came in Spain's 10-0 victory over Tahiti - and is the favourite to grab the golden boot ahead of Sunday's final, with kick-off at 23:00BST.

US INTERNATIONAL WANTS PREMIER LEAGUE MOVE

Former Hull City forward Jozy Altidore, who is now on the books of AZ Alkmaar, claims he would consider a return to the Premier League.

The USA international spent a season on loan at the KC Stadium in 2009/10, but struggled to produce his best as the Tigers were relegated from the Premier League.
He has, however, recaptured top form in Holland - netting 31 times in all competitions for AZ last season.

Altidore is now reported to be attracting interest from afar, with Sunderland among those said to be weighing up an approach.
Still only 23 years of age, a man who has also spent time in Spain and Turkey admits he would be willing to listen to offers.
"It is a fantastic league, anyone will tell you that," Altidore told NASN.
"If you look at everything, the Premier League is probably the biggest league in the world. Everybody knows that and it would be a pleasure to play in a league like that again."
On his time at Hull, which brought just one goal, he added: "I think I was 19 or just turned 20 and I had not played in Europe before that. It is a totally different style from the MLS.
"I have come a long way since then. I am almost a different player and I have learned a lot. So I don't think there is any resemblance to that time if I went back to the league any time soon.
"I have played 100-plus games (since leaving Hull). Playing there at that age and playing in the best league in the world, you can't expect to hit the ground running.
"Some of my performances at Hull were not as bad as people think, some of them were actually pretty good.
"I don't look back at it as a sad experience. It was a great experience because I got to see what the highest level was like."

WEST BROM EYE EX CHELSEA PLAYER

 Benayoun's agent spoke about his client;

West Brom have registered their interest (in Yossi Benayoun) and now we are just waiting to see what other options are available.
We have been negotiating with another club in the Premier League and clubs in Germany and Spain, so Yossi will have to make a decision very soon.
He has been playing in England for a long time now so it has become like a second home to him.

– Yossi Benayoun's agent Ronen Katzev

ALMERIA APOINT NEW BOSS

Newly-promoted Primera Division side Almeria have named Francisco Rodriguez as their new head coach.

The 34-year-old, who has been in charge of Almeria's reserve side for the last two seasons in Segunda Division B, replaces Javi Gracia who it was announced on Friday would be leaving the club after failing to reach an agreement on a new contract.

GALLIANI: BALOTELLI'S ABSENCE COST ITALY

AC Milan CEO Adriano Galliani believes that Italy would be facing Brazil in the Confederations Cup final instead of Spain had Mario Balotelli been fit to play.

The striker was ruled out of the tournament with a thigh injury at the end of the group stage having helped the Azzurri reach the last four with two goals in three games.

Cesare Prandelli's men subsequently drew 0-0 with the world and European champions before going out on penalties and Galliani believes Balotelli's ability at spot kicks could have seen the side into the final.

He told Sky Sport on Saturday: "With Mario we certainly would’ve scored one more penalty in the shoot-out, so at this stage we could’ve been in the final.

"I spoke to Mario and he is feeling better after treatment, as confirmed by the medical staff. In a few more days he can go on vacation."

Balotelli's Rossoneri and Azzurri attacking team-mate Stephan El Shaarawy has been linked with Fiorentina as part of a swap deal for Adem Ljajic or Stevan Jovetic following a second half to the season which was far less impressive than the former.

Regarding the rumours, Galliani added: "I will see El Shaarawy on Tuesday."

Italy face Uruguay on Sunday in the Confederations Cup third-place play-off.

ROMA ICON, PERROTTA SET TO RETIRE

Roma icon Simone Perrotta has announced his imminent retirement from professional football.

The midfielder was part of the Italy squad that triumphed in the 2006 World Cup and has been runner-up in four Scudetti during his Giallorossi career.

However, the 35-year-old has decided that it is time to hang up his boots and insisted that he would rather end his career at the capital club than spend the twilight of his playing days at a lesser team.

"I definitely won’t stay on at Roma as a player," he told Teleradiostereo. "I don’t think I’ll continue playing at all, in fact, as I’d prefer to end my career as an ex-Roma player rather than at another club.

"I wanted to finish my playing days with this jersey and I feel it’s the right thing to do."

The Italian hinted at a potential coaching role at the Stadio Olimpico and believes that fans have a lot to look forward to in the 2013-14 campaign under new coach Rudi Garcia.

"It is possible my story with Roma could continue in a different way," Perrotta added. "It is only right that their project continues moving forward with the players they consider to be valid.

"The club has plans and will spend money to reinforce the squad, while the coach seems a good person who won in France and can have success here."
Although he enjoyed a fruitful career, the midfielder revealed his gutting disappointment that his final game for Roma was a derby defeat in the Coppa Italia to Lazio.
He said: "The real regret is my last game, which shouldn’t have ended that way and it’s a painful disappointment I will probably never get over. That’s not how it was supposed to end."

MC DERMOTT: I UNDERSTAND FANS FUSTRATION

Leeds boss Brian McDermott has admitted he can understand the frustration of supporters over the club's lack of transfer activity so far this summer.

The former Reading boss, who was only appointed in April following the departure of Neil Warnock, admitted this week that any further new signings may have to be funded by player sales.
And with the Elland Road faithful hoping for an influx of talent to drive them back towards the Premier League for the first time in 10 years, expectations have had to be tempered.

McDermott told the Yorkshire Evening Post: "That's a frustration that we have all got. I can empathise with that frustration (from the fans); I have had that myself.
"But there's no point being frustrated, that doesn't help. In my situation, I have to keep my head down and keep working as hard as I possibly can and stay positive.
"That's what we have got to do as the alternative to positive is negative."
McDermott insists he is not allowing himself to become downhearted by the obstacles which have emerged in his path and is focused on returning the West Yorkshire club to a place among England's elite.

Lack of funds frustrates McDermott

He added: "It's the absolute opposite. I like the challenge and the people around here. I have got no problem 'digging in'.
"I have just a real commitment to this place and area now. The people have been really welcoming and I will do whatever I have to; I guarantee that.
"I haven't been here very long, but I have a real sense from the people here that they want this club to grow, get better and be better.
"We have the potential to be a really, really good club and need to respect and cherish that. There's a lot of goodwill towards me and I really appreciate that. I go to functions with the fans and everything and see that.
"I cannot talk about the past - just about what is happening now. We really need to be as positive as we possibly can be and go forward together."

DOMINGUEZ: MY EXPERIENCE WILL HELP IN BEATING BAYERN

Alvaro Dominguez has suggested that his experiences playing in Spain mean that he can help Borussia Monchengladbach beat Pep Guardiola's Bayern Munich.

The Spanish defender, 24, triumphed over the new Roten coach's Barcelona side while playing for Atletico Madrid and he believes that he can repeat the feat in the Bundesliga this coming season.

"Yes, I know how to beat Pep. I beat Barcelona with Atletico when Guardiola was coach in 2011, two goals to one," Dominguez told Bild.

"I hope that I'll be able to do the same with Gladbach. We have the chance to win there."

However, the Spaniard recognised that there is a big difference between optimism and reality and that triumphing over Bayern would be a difficult task given their treble-winning achievements last season and the Catalan trainer in charge.

"Guardiola is simply a super coach. He has precise ideas about football," he added. "He will change little things such as the nature of their defence pressing off the ball. This will make a Bayern a little stronger."

Bayern will open the season against Dominguez and his Gladbach team-mates on August 9 at the Allianz Arena.

FOREST AGREE FEE FOR WALSALL PLAYER

Nottingham Forest have agreed a fee for Walsall's Jamie Paterson and will now talk terms.

The Reds have been working hard to identifying targets they feel will aid their quest to push for promotion to the Premier League in 2013/14.

A lack of creativity in wide areas has been an issue at the City Ground for some time, and that is an area Billy Davies intends to address.
Paterson is considered to tick all of the boxes Forest are after.
He is only 21 years of age, so still has plenty more to offer, but proved in 2012/13 that he is capable of terrorising Football League defences.
He plundered 13 goals in all competitions last season and was an ever-present for Walsall as they narrowly missed out on a play-off spot in League One.
Forest are hoping they can be the ones to benefit from Paterson's undoubted potential and will now open discussions regarding personal terms with the highly-rated winger.

NEW SWANSEA DEFENDER PROUD OF SWITCH

New Swansea defender had this to say;

I am very happy to join Swansea. One of my dreams has been to play in the Premier League, and I can do that here with Swansea.
I am very grateful to the chairman and Michael Laudrup for giving me this opportunity and showing a lot of faith in me.
I watched Swansea last season – what the club achieved was incredible. To finish in the top half of the Premier League and win a trophy too is a massive achievement.
In Spain, Swansea are very famous now. They talk a lot about the club and how they have become a successful team in the Premier League with an attractive style of play.

– Swansea defender Jordi Amat speaking to the club's official website

LAVEZZI: I'M NOT MARADONA

Paris Saint-Germain star Ezequiel Lavezzi has stressed that he is not on the same level as fellow Argentine Diego Maradona, but is proud to have followed in the footsteps of his legendary compatriot at Napoli.

The 28-year-old was a key player at the San Paolo during his time at the club, earning comparisons to the Partenopei icon, but he has insisted that he never felt that he could emulate the 1986 World Cup winner.

"The Maradona comparisons are things for the journalists and for the fans. I am well aware and realistic, and the truth is that I am nothing like the player that Maradona was," Lavezzi told The Green Soccer Journal.

"I am a simple football player, some may like me and others not, but Maradona represents part of the history of football, so I could never compare myself with him or try and occupy his place. I simply tried to do what I do best, which is to play football.

"Following Maradona did not signify a burden; I never thought about it that way. I decided to go there because I liked the idea of playing where so many Argentines had gone before and because the football there is lived in a similar way to how it is experienced in Argentina.

"I chose Napoli because they are a team that, given the history of the club, for us as Argentines, the fact that Maradona had played there, were something special." 

The attacker then went on to discuss Argentina's chances at the 2014 World Cup and stressed that they will do their utmost to give their fans reason to celebrate again.

"The feeling, the responsibility we have is large, but that shouldn't work against us. We are aware that we have a great sentiment, but we are also aware that Argentina, for some time, have not won anything, and that the people want that – and the Argentine people are waiting.

"So we go out and play, with the mentality to approach it in the best way and give that joy to the people     that have been waiting for that for some time now.

"Us Argentines have a weakness for the national team. And the chance to represent our country is a reason for pride and an opportunity that very few have. Every one of us knows the importance it has."

Argentina last won the World Cup in 1986 when they beat West Germany 3-2 in the final.

CARRICK: WE NEED A GOOD PRE-SEASON

Manchester United midfielder Michael Carrick is eyeing a productive pre-season ahead of the Red Devils' 2013-14 title defence.

The 31-year-old believes building up fitness and staying injury free is “vital” to ensuring the squad hit the ground running in August.


“A good pre-season gives you that base you need to keep going throughout the season,” Carrick told the club's official website.

“If you miss pre-season, you have to play catch-up. Every player is different - some can come back [from the summer break] and get straight back into it but others take a bit more time.

“I think it’s a vital part of the year – it’s important to get through pre-season and steer clear of injuries and be ready for the games at the start of the campaign.”

The Old Trafford outfit travel to Asia as part of their preparations, and Carrick is blown away by the support for United in the region.

“It’s crazy. One of the reasons I enjoy going there is just to see the reaction of the fans,” Carrick continued.

“It can take you back a little bit sometimes – even though they live a long way from Manchester the reaction the people give us is amazing.”

WOLVES WINGER SET FOR FRANCE RETURN

Wolves winger Bakary Sako is attracting interest from France, as Marseille, Lille and Lyon all consider making a £4million bid for the ex-Saint Etienne man, according to Express & Star.

DE GUZMAN RETURNS TO SWANSEA

Jonathan de Guzman will remain at Swansea next season.

The Villarreal midfielder has agreed a further year's loan after helping City to a top-10 Premier League finish and Capital One Cup success last term.

De Guzman scored twice in that Wembley win over Bradford, and his performances last season earned him a first international cap for Holland.
Swansea manager Michael Laudrup questioned the club's lack of business earlier in the summer, but news of a deal follows the permanent signings of Jordi Amat and Jose Canas.
Chairman Huw Jenkins said: "Everyone is happy the loan is continuing. Then Jonathan will review his long-term future next summer."
De Guzman spoke warmly of his first year in south Wales in a recent interview.
He said: "We played well in a lot of games. We played good football and it's refreshing playing in a team that has a good football mind.
"I'm very satisfied with what happened. We did very well - we were very creative. We really put Swansea on the map."

MAGGIO: I CAN CONVINCE CAVANI TO STAY

Christian Maggio is hopeful of convincing team-mate Edinson Cavani to stay at Napoli for another season amid strong interest from Chelsea, Manchester City and Real Madrid.

The Uruguay international recently voiced his frustration with Napoli's €63 million asking price following Aurelio De Laurentiis' comments that interested clubs will have to meet his buy-out clause and demanded face-to-face talks with the club president once he returns from his holiday after the Confederations Cup.

Nevertheless, Maggio is refusing to give up on the prolific attacker and wants Cavani to stay put.

"We have not spoken to each other recently. There has simply not been any time. But we will have a calm and relaxed talk about his situation," Maggio told La Gazzetta dello Sport.

"I don't know yet when we will meet, but we have always had a good relationship. I will try to convince him to stay put. It's then up to him to make a decision, but I obviously want him to stay at Napoli."

The 26-year-old Cavani's current Napoli deal is due to expire in the summer of 2017.

STOKE CITY SIGN PSV DEFENDER

Stoke have signed PSV Eindhoven left-back Erik Pieters on a four-year deal.

The Holland international had been linked to the club in January before an injury dealt a blow to the proposed move.
But Mark Hughes has now completed his first signing as new boss by capturing the 24-year-old for a fee of £3m.

Pieters told the club's official website: "I've always wanted to play in the Premier League.
"It's one of the hardest competitions to play in with some great players and teams and I'm really excited about it.
"I'm really looking forward to playing for this club. It's important for me that the first impression is good and I've got a great feeling about Stoke City.
"My first job is to defend but I always want to attack and contribute as much as I can for the team. I've played a couple of times in the centre of defence as well but left back is my position.
"I've had a few injuries but that's all in the past now; I feel really good and can't wait for my time as a Stoke City player to start."
PSV paid 2.5m euros for Pieters in 2008 and he has gone on to make 17 appearances for the national side.

ALEXIS SANCHEZ: NEYMAR IS A RIVAL

Alexis Sanchez has insisted that he does not fear the competition for places at Barcelona following the arrival of Neymar from Santos this summer.

The former Udinese attacker has been struggling to live up to expectations at Camp Nou after joining the club in 2011, but says he is looking forward to the challenge of competing with the Brazilian.

"I like the competition for places. I have the quality to play alongside Neymar and [Lionel] Messi," the Chile international told reporters.

"It will be great to play together with Neymar and Messi. It's not that I'm dreaming of playing alongside them, though. I'm a Barcelona player myself and I'm here because of my quality.

"The competition for places only makes me stronger. Neymar is a rival in some ways, but I will do my utmost to help the team. I have the desire to do well."

The 24-year-old scored eight goals in 29 La Liga appearances last season.

NEYMAR: I'LL BE HONOURED TO SCORE CASILLAS

Neymar has voiced his admiration for Iker Casillas and is desperate to guide Brazil to victory in Sunday's Confederations Cup final against Spain.

The Selecao beat Uruguay 2-1 in the semi-finals to book their ticket for this weekend's showpiece, while the reigning world champions proved to be too strong for Italy after penalties.

"I have always had great admiration for many players. Casillas is one of the greatest keepers in the world – now and always," the 21-year-old told AS.

"I have huge respect and admiration for him. Everyone would love to have him in their side, but on Sunday I hope to have the honour of scoring against him.

"It’s going to be a great game. Everyone is really looking forward to it. It’s a clash between two historic national sides, two teams with a lot of tradition.

"Spain with their star players and Brazil, with their stars. I hope that it’s a match which everyone enjoys and that Brazil end as the winners."

Sunday's encounter is scheduled to kick off at midnight CET.

SUAREZ: ITALY ARE A THREAT WITHOUT BALOTELLI

Luis Suarez says Italy can "hurt" Uruguay in Sunday's Confederations Cup third-place decider without star striker Mario Balotelli.

The AC Milan attacker is back at home, having been ruled out of the tournament with an injury sustained in the group stage defeat by hosts Brazil.

The Azzurri missed 'Super Mario' in their semi-final shoot-out defeat by Spain on Thursday, but Suarez still says Cesare Prandelli's men have more than enough firepower in reserve.

"Even if they do not have Balotelli, there are a lot of players of the same quality, like [Sebastian] Giovinco," the Liverpool hitman told Globoesporte.

"Besides, Italy are always the same. They love to exploit the space left by opponents. If we do not play a great game, they can hurt us."

Suarez strengthened his argument by citing the way in which Italy came from behind to beat Japan 4-3 in an epic encounter in the group stages.

"We should not be surprised that they did that," he said. "Italy are a team that you have to put away when you have the chance; otherwise they will always find a way to come back."

Suarez admitted Uruguay's primary concern is making sure they are back in Brazil next summer for the World Cup, but insisted that they intend on finishing their Confederations Cup campaign on a high.

"Getting third would be very important for us , even if we are also already thinking of the qualifiers," the 26-year-old added.

Uruguay sit fifth in the Conmebol qualification standings.

SLUTSKY: WE ARE UNSURE OF HONDA'S FUTURE

CSKA Moscow coach Leonid Slutsky has admitted he is unsure of Keisuke Honda's future at the club.

The Japan international is out of contract at the end of the year and has been heavily linked with a move away from the Russian capital, with AC Milan said to be leading the chase for the playmaker's signature.

However, Slutsky insists he is unaware of any concrete interest in Honda and hopes to keep hold of one of his team's star performers.

"What I can say is that Honda is still our player today," the CSKA boss told Tuttomercatoweb.com. "But his future doesn't depend on me, and I cannot say if he will stay or not. That is something for the club to deal with.

"I can only say that Honda is a fantastic footballer, but I don't really know who is following him.

"Can I see him doing well in Italy? I could see him doing better in the Champions League, in a CSKA jersey!"

The 27-year-old Honda, who caught the eye during his country's brief Confederations Cup campaign, joined CSKA from Dutch outfit VVV-Venlo in 2010.

NORWICH AGREE DEAL TO SIGN PSV FORWARD

Norwich City have agreed a deal to sign Ola Toivonen from PSV Eindhoven, according to the Dutch club.

The 26-year-old had one year left on his PSV contract, but had previously stated their asking price of £4million was too high.
However, PSV director Marcel Brands claims that with the two clubs having agreed a deal, matters are now in the Swedish player's hands.
"We never comment on any sums, but we have reached an agreement with Norwich for Ola," Brands told Swedish newspaper SportBladet.
"Now it's entirely up to him to decide whether he wants to move.
"We start training on Monday, if there is no deal with Norwich then I expect to him to be here."

RIBERY SIGNS NEW BAYERN DEAL

Bayern Munich winger Franck Ribery has delivered on his promise by putting pen to paper on a new four-year contract.

I'm really pleased. I always said how great it feels to be at FC Bayern.
I have a good feeling for me and my family and I hope things will carry on the way they were in the past year.

– Bayern Munich winger Franck Ribery speaking to the club's official website

INIESTA RESCUES ALBACETE

Andres Iniesta has rescued Albacete from relegation by stumping up €240,000 owed to the club's players.

The cash-strapped Segunda Division B outfit would have been demoted to the fourth tier of Spanish football on administrative grounds had they not settled the debt by noon on Friday.

However, Iniesta, the largest shareholder in the club at which he began his career, came to their aid, paying the outstanding wage bill out of his own pocket.

It is not the first time the 29-year-old has come to the rescue of Albacete as he injected €420,000 into the club in 2011.

Iniesta, who lined up for Spain in Thursday night's Confederations Cup semi-final clash with Italy, spent two years at Albacete before joining Barcelona's youth academy as a 12-year-old in 1996.

POCHETTINO: I'M EXPECTING BIG THINGS FROM RAMIREZ

Mauricio Pochettino does not expect record signing Gaston Ramirez to leave Southampton this summer and has denied making a bid for Roma's Pablo Osvaldo.
The Saints have spent big since returning to the Barclays Premier League and last year smashed their transfer record to recruit Ramirez from Bologna for upwards of £12million.
However, the Uruguay international struggled to fulfil expectations in his debut season and has been linked with a move away from St Mary's.

Borussia Dortmund and Atletico Madrid have been mentioned as potential destinations, but manager Pochettino has no intention to sell him.
"He's happy with us and we are counting on him for next season," he told tuttomercatoweb.com.
"It's normal that a lot of clubs are interested in his quality, but we don't listen to transfer rumours. We are planning for next season with him on board."
Pochettino has so far made just one summer signing, brining in Lyon centre-back Dejan Lovren for £8.5million - a move which ended interest in Cagliari centre-back Davide Astori.
"Lots of names have been linked with Southampton, perhaps too many," he added. "Some of them have been invented, others not.
"We were after Astori, for example, but in the end we went for Lovren instead. He's a great player."
Pochettino also played down talk linking Saints with a move for Astori's Cagliari team-mate Radja Nainggolan, while he also dismissed speculation surrounding a move for Osvaldo.
The Roma striker played under the Argentinian at Espanyol and reports today suggested he rejected a £17million move to the south coast.
"Osvaldo is a great player," Pochettino said. "I worked with him at Espanyol so I know what he can do.
"We are aware of his situation at Roma, but we haven't made an offer.
"We have a clear idea of what our targets should be but the market is moving very slowly at the moment. We are working prudently to reinforce the squad."

DEL PIERO REJECTS AJJACIO OFFER

Italian star Alessandro Del Piero has decided against a move to Corsican side Ajaccio for family reasons.
The 38-year-old held discussions with Ajaccio - now managed by his former Juventus team-mate Fabrizio Ravanelli - concerning a move but will instead remain with Sydney FC.

For several weeks the club have been in discussions with the celebrated Italian forward Alessandro Del Piero.
Aged 38 and currently a player with Sydney FC, he will not ultimately come to Ajaccio. After reaching an agreement in principle, family reasons persuaded him to stay in Australia.

– A statement on the clubs official website

AGENT: PREMIER LEAGUE SIDES ARE INTERESTED IN CARDOZO

There is "real interest" from the Premier League in Benfica striker Oscar Cardozo, according to the player's agent.

The Paraguay international has often been linked with a move to England in the past but Pedro Aldave claims that the forward's unnamed suitors are more closely following him than before.

"Benfica knows the situation and now the subject is in their hands," the agent told Sky Sports.

"There has always been interest from Premier League but now this is real interest."

Cardozo has scored 161 goals in 260 games for the Portuguese Liga outfit since joining from Newell's Old Boys in 2007.

SUNDERLAND CLOSE IN ON ARSENAL KEEPER

Sunderland are closing in on the signing of Arsenal goalkeeper Vito Mannone.

Black Cats boss Paolo Di Canio has lined up a move for his fellow Italian as he looks for a replacement for Simon Mignolet following his departure to Liverpool.

Mannone is well down the pecking order at Arsenal and since arriving from Atalanta in 2005 he has made just 15 appearances at the club.
The 25-year-old has has spells out on loan at Barnsley and Hull City twice during his time with the Gunners and he impressed during his time at the KC Stadium.
Sunderland are now ready to offer Mannone a permanent move away from Arsenal with talks at an advanced stage between both Premier League clubs.
Mannone is expected to hold talks with the Wearside club next week as Di Canio looks to lure him to the Stadium of Light.

GIACCHERINI: I WAS SUPPOSED TO TAKE MISSED PENALTY

Emanuele Giaccherini has revealed he was supposed to take the penalty that Leonardo Bonucci missed in Italy's Confederations Cup semi-final shoot-out failure against Spain.

The versatile Bianconeri winger was meant to accept the responsibility of converting the Azzurri's seventh spot kick in Fortaleza but he passed the buck to Bonucci, who blazed high over the bar, allowing Jesus Navas to decide the game - which had finished 0-0 after 120 minutes - in la Roja's favour.

"I didn't go to take a penalty because, being honest, I didn't feel it," Giaccherini is quoted as saying by Gazzetta.it.

"I spoke with Bonucci. I said, 'Leonardo, you go', because I was convinced he would have scored. It's a shame. Unfortunately, it's always a lottery.

"But it was a great performance by Italy. We played a great game. This time, we were unlucky, but we put Spain in difficulty by imposing our game on them."

Giaccherini, though, is hoping his impressive performances in the Confederations Cup will see him return to Brazil next year for the World Cup.

"It would be a life's dream," he continued. "I have done so much to get into the national team. Therefore, I will strive to hold onto this place tightly."

Giaccherini, who netted in Italy's 4-2 defeat by Brazil in the group stages, has been capped 13 times by his country.

MONACO SIGN ISIMAT-MIRIN

Monaco have further strengthened their squad with the acquisition of defender Nicolas Isimat-Mirin from Valenciennes for an undisclosed fee.

The France Under-21 international has signed a four-year contract with les Rouges et Blanc and cannot wait to start pre-season training his new club's star-studded squad.

"This is really a big thrill for me to get involved with Monaco," Isimat-Mirin told the club's official website.

"I feel a lot of joy, but also great anticipation. I'm looking forward to Monday for the resumption of training.

"This team's project is fantastic and I will give everything to prove that I deserve to be part of it."

Monaco have been very busy in the transfer window already, having already made a number of notable signings, including that of Radamel Falcao from Atletico Madrid.

DI CANIO: WE NEED A WINNING MENTALITY

Sunderland Boss, Di Canio speaking today;

I want to win every game. Even when we have a friendly game, I have a winning mentality.
Even when I play cards with my daughter, I want to win every time. I want to upset her because I want to win. My mentality is to win every game.
There are obvious priorities: the Premier League is more important than friendly games, but only if we deliver this mentality can we take every competition seriously.
So the Barclays Asia tournament is very important because we are going to face the top sides and it's the dream of every player - this is the mission: to play every game against a top side.

– Sunderland manager Paolo Di Canio

HODDLE: BALE SHOULD REMAIN AT TOTTENHAM

Tottenham legend Glenn Hoddle has advised Gareth Bale to remain at White Hart Lane and resist the temptation to join Real Madrid this summer.

Bale’s scintillating performances for club and country last term have seen him become one of the Spanish side’s top targets, with president Florentino Perez insisting that ‘great players pay for themselves’ when a £85m bid was mooted. Nonetheless, the former Spurs midfielder feels he should stay in N17.

“I would like him to stay as a Spurs fan, but I think football wise, for him, it would be the right decision,” Hoddle told Goal.  “Not financially [for him], not for Tottenham’s finances either if they get a massive bid.”

Bale, who scored 30 times in 58 appearances for club and country last season, became only the third player in history to receive both the PFA’s Player of the Year and Young Player of the Year accolades in the same season.

But Hoddle, who himself left Spurs for foreign soil when he joined AS Monaco in 1987, feels the Welshman would struggle to carry that form and level of consistency to La Liga.

“If he was to go abroad, I think he’d struggle at the moment to settle off the pitch,” he added. “I’ve done it myself, I’ve experienced it so I can talk from experience, you have to be content off the pitch to play well, and I’m not sure that would happen at this moment in time.

“If he moved within England he’d obviously settle a lot quicker.”

Bale was the driving force for a Tottenham side which, despite collecting 72 points – a Premier League record for the club – failed to qualify for the Champions League, a competition they have not returned to since their inaugural campaign back in the 2010-11 season.

This, according to Hoddle, is why Tottenham must show their ambition, and convince Bale to stay at the club for at least another season by showing intent in the summer transfer window.

“The first thing I would be saying is ‘what intent have Tottenham got?’ Are they going to add two, three, four really good players to the squad, to get into the Champions League and challenge for that next year?

“They’re going to need a bigger squad to deal with the Europa League onslaught as well.

DIEGO: THE BUNDESLIGA IS BECOMING THE BEST IN THE WORLD

Wolfsburg midfielder Diego believes the Bundesliga is on its way to becoming the best league in the world.

Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund both reached the Champions League final this season to make it an all-German affair and Diego feels German clubs will only become stronger in the years to come.

"It's a privilege to be at a Bundesliga club because, the way things are going, the German league is on its way to becoming the best footballing stage in the world," the Brazilian told Wolfsburger Allgemeine Zeitung.

The attacking midfielder then went on to discuss his future and stressed that he remains keen to make the move to Atletico Madrid, although he admitted that a transfer is by no means a certainty.

"It's true that I still want to return to Atletico. I spent a memorable year there and even won a trophy. But it's also true that I haven't signed anything with Atletico, or any other team," he added.

"It's difficult to evaluate because it's all in their hands. Atletico have to decide what they want to do, how much they want to pay, and then see if they can strike a deal. It's up to them."

Diego has a contract with Wolfsburg until June 2014.

SWANSEA: LAUDRUP'S FUTURE NOT IN DOUBT

Swansea chairman Huw Jenkins insists his relationship with Michael Laudrup has not been adversely affected by a summer disagreement over transfer policy, but he has made it clear he will not alter his prudent financial approach.
Rather than being able to focus on strengthening their squad ahead of a season which will include the club's first foray into the Europa League, the Liberty Stadium outfit have had to cope with a falling out between Jenkins and Laudrup's long-time representative Bayram Tutumlu.
The disagreement concerned proposed transfer targets and the amount of money Swansea were prepared to spend in acquiring them.

The row put 49-year-old Laudrup's future at the club in doubt, particularly when Swansea decided to stop dealing with Tutumlu, after he attempted to broker a deal to sell defender Ashley Williams against the club's wishes.
But there has been more positive news to report in recent days with the club having tabled a number of bids for players targeted by their Danish boss.
Midfielder Jose Canas and defender Jordi Amat have arrived from Real Betis and Espanyol respectively, while Press Association Sport understands a club record £10.2million deal for Vitesse Arnhem striker Wilfried Bony is moving ever nearer.
And Jenkins is adamant he always believed Laudrup would remain in charge.
"Michael Laudrup has made his feelings known that he wanted to stay here and we have been looking to bring in five or six players," Jenkins said.
"We've worked hard during the last month or two with a lot of offers in for a lot of players, we are hoping to bring in one or two of those main targets, which have been publicised quite a bit but we will hopefully land them.
"My relationship with Michael Laudrup has always been very good, that has never been in doubt.
"There has been a lot of speculation this summer, a lot of it when Michael was on holiday, lots of it was blown out of proportion.
"There's always speculation when a club like us has been successful, whether it be players or managers, someone can come along to try and poach them, it's the type of club we are and we have to accept it.
"You can lose a manager or player in the transfer window any day.
"We're always prepared here if things change for whatever reason out of our control, we have to deal with it.
"But we weren't close to losing him (Laudrup) as far as I was concerned."
But Jenkins did voice his disappointment at Tutumlu's actions, and made it clear he would not change the club's financial ethos.
When asked about his relationship with Tutumlu, he said: "I am not friends with any agent as such, but they are part of football and we do our best to deal with them in the right way. A lot of that (the row with Tutumlu) was blown out of proportion.
"We run our football club in a certain way and whether it is Michael Laudrup and his agent or anyone other manager and his agent, we will continue to run the club as we see fit, that is what we have done for the last 10 years.
"You'll have to ask the agent what his reasons were, but things are settled down looking forward to the new season.
"It sells papers, he was contacting the press, I was away and it didn't affect what we were doing, this is how pre-season is. We have to put up with it.
"Two players are in - Canas and Amat - and I would expect five to be in by the start of season. Those timescales haven't changed."

CREWE ACCEPT BID FOR HIGHLY RATED MIDFIELDER

Blackburn have had bid accepted by Crewe for highly-rated midfielder Luke Murphy.

Wolves had a bid accepted for Murphy earlier this week and now Blackburn have also agreed a fee with Crewe for the 23-year-old.

Crewe are resigned to losing academy product Murphy, with the classy playmaker thought to be keen to test himself at a higher level.
A number of clubs have been tracking Murphy, with Wolves and Blackburn the first to have offers accepted for the player.
Blackburn are now expected to hold talks with Murphy as they look to lure the player to Ewood Park.
Murphy, who was named Crewe's Player of the Season last term, has made a total of 186 appearances for the Alex, scoring 25 goals.
Rovers boss Gary Bowyer has already made four new signings this summer and he will hope to make Murphy number five.

SCHALKE: DRAXLER CAN LEAVE

Schalke president Clemens Tonnies says he would not stand in the way of Julian Draxler were a big club to come in with an acceptable bid for him.
The 19-year-old Germany midfielder recently penned a new five-year contract with his home-town club, yet that has not brought an end to speculation about his future.

Chelsea are among the clubs linked with a move for the youngest ever player to make 100 appearances for Schalke.
And Tonnies admits even his club's biggest asset has a price.
"Of course we want to keep hold of him, Julian is an important figure in Schalke," he told the Express newspaper.
"But if we want to be fair with him, then maybe we have got to consider letting him move abroad sooner or later.
"If somebody like Real Madrid were to enquire about him, what should I say? Don't talk to them? Get serious."

BOURNEMOUTH SIGN IAN HARTE

Championship new boys Bournemouth have signed former Reading left-back Ian Harte on a one-year
deal, following his release from the Madejski Stadium.

EX BLACKPOOL MIDFIELDER SIGNS FOR TURKISH CLUB

Former Blackpool midfielder Ludovic Sylvestre has joined Turkish club Caykur Rizespor on a free transfer.

Sylvestre turned down a new deal at Blackpool this summer after seeing his contract expire at the end of last season.
A number of English clubs are thought to have expressed an interest in signing Sylvestre, but the 29-year-old has opted to move to Turkey.
Sylvestre has signed a three-year deal at Rizespor after passing a medical and agreeing personal terms.
News of Sylvestre's departure is a blow for Blackpool boss Paul Ince as the former Barcelona man had established himself as a key player in his side.

HULL CITY SIGN ELMOHAMADY FROM SUNDERLAND

Premier League new boys Hull City have
completed the signing of former loanee Ahmed Elmohamady from Sunderland for an undisclosed fee.

LAHM: WE NEED TIME TO ADJUST TO PEP GUARDIOLA

Philipp Lahm has admitted that Bayern Munich will need time to get used to Pep Guardiola ahead of the new Bundesliga season.

The 42-year-old signed a three-year deal with the Bavarians back in January and replaces Jupp Heynckes - who lifted the treble with the club last term.

Guardiola has now started work this week as Bayern prepare for the 2013-14 campaign and Lahm believes a period of adaptation is to be expected.

"We need time to get used to Guardiola, but that won't take long. We are all paying close attention to what's happening. Pre-season is long enough to get used to each other. I am not worried about that," Lahm told Bild.

"He is communicating all the time and does a lot of talking. He wants us to understand him as soon as possible. Plenty of things will change.

"I have already experienced a lot of coach swaps, though, so this is nothing extraordinary for me. It's all part of the job.

"It's just like when someone gets another boss in any other company. Different things all of a sudden become more important. It's too soon to draw any conclusions, though."

Guardiola's first official game in charge of Bayern will be the German supercup clash against Borussia Dortmund on July 27.