O'Shea own goal gifts Scots draw

John O'Shea's unfortunate own goal denied the Republic of Ireland revenge over Scotland as their hopes of Euro 2016 qualification suffered a fresh blow in Dublin.

The hosts dominated an occasionally tetchy game and took a deserved lead through Jon Walters on 38 minutes.
However, the Stoke star did appear to be in an offside position as he stabbed home from close-range, after David Marshall saved Daryl Murphy’s bullet header from a corner.
Scotland took little time to respond after the break, with Shaun Maloney seeing his curling shot, which was heading wide, going in off O’Shea’s shoulder just two minutes into the second half.

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Ireland had the chance to take back their lead minutes later, but glovesman Marshall produced another crucial save to keep out the impressive Murphy for a second time; the Ipswich forward played clean though but seeing his effort flicked wide by the goalkeeper’s legs.
Martin O'Neill side shrugged off the blow and roared back, with Robbie Keane - who was introduced off the bench late on at the end of a difficult week - going close with a cleverly crafted chance.
But the visitors held out, unconvincingly at times, for the point to go above Germany into second place in Group D.
The world champions, however, should restore their advantage later in the evening against Gibraltar, while leaders Poland showed again their qualifying credentials with a 4-0 win over Georgia.

Arsenal charged over defender's transfer

Arsenal have been charged with allegedly breaching football agents regulations over the transfer of Calum Chambers from Southampton.

The Gunners have until 26 June to respond to the Football Association after requesting more time but insist they "acted in good faith".
Agent Alan Middleton has also been charged and has until 17 June to respond to the FA.
Defender Chambers, 20, joined Arsenal for about £16m in July 2014.

An England international, he made 36 appearances for Arsenal last season as he helped them finish third in the Premier League.
Chambers is part of the England Under-21 squad for the European Championships in the Czech Republic, starting on Wednesday.

Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere dismisses Manchester City transfer speculation

Jack Wilshere says he will remain at Arsenal for as long as he is wanted, as the England midfielder quashed speculation linking him with a move to Manchester City.
Deposed Premier League champions City are looking to boost their homegrown quota and have been tipped to launch a big-money move for Wilshere this summer.
But the 23-year-old insists there is no desire on his part to make a deal happen.
"I definitely wouldn't go somewhere just because I'm a home-grown player. I'd want to be wanted by a club, I want to be wanted by Arsenal," he said.

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"I've grown up at Arsenal. As long as Arsenal want me, I'm happy."
As Wilshere sat down at the England team hotel this week ahead of Sunday's trip to Slovenia, he reflected on another rollercoaster year.
"It's been a frustrating season. There have probably been more lows than highs," he said.
Winning the FA Cup was a highlight, as was his form in the autumn, when he starred for Arsenal and England.
But once again injury has hindered the 23-year-old's season.
Just after he had starred in England's 3-1 win in Scotland last November, Manchester United's Paddy McNair slid in on Wilshere's standing foot and wiped the midfielder out.
Writhing in pain on the turf at the Emirates Stadium, Wilshere knew he was facing another long lay-off. It would be six months before he played again.
"I was just starting to play well, I was feeling good about myself," he said.
When asked if McNair had apologised for the challenge, the midfielder bluntly answered: "No."
Wilshere has been a regular in the treatment room at Arsenal's London Colney base ever since he made his debut seven years ago.
Controversy has also dogged him throughout his career.
"I'm not sure why it's always me," Wilshere said with a smile.
There have been many regrets. So many, in fact, that he had to pause for almost 40 seconds before deciding which one was his biggest.
"I'll answer it but, I need to think." he said, flicking through the index of errors in his mind.
"Being caught smoking," he continues after the pause.
"That's because - I've said it before and some people don't believe me - but I'm not a smoker."
The incident Wilshere was referring to is the time he was pictured holding a shisha pipe while on a night out in February.
It came a year after he was pictured smoking in a pool while on holiday in Las Vegas.
"It was a mistake I made. I definitely regret it," Wilshere said. "I made the same mistake twice. I have to be sensible this summer."

Manchester City make €80m bid for Juventus' Paul Pogba

Manchester City have bid €80m [£57m] for Juventus' Paul Pogba, according to reports.
The Blues are desperate to land the France midfielder this summer, after impressive performances for the Italian side saw them to the Serie A title and Coppa Italia, along with the final of the Champions League.
Juventus are understood to be considering the offer, but want nearer €100m for the former Manchester United star.
Italian newspaper Gazzetta Dello Sport report City are ready to double Pogba's wages and will offer the youngster £6.5m-a-year, which works out at around £125,000-a-week.

Thibaut Courtois would 'understand' if Petr Cech decided to leave Chelsea

Chelsea goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois admits he would understand if team-mate Petr Cech left Stamford Bridge this summer.
Cech found first-team opportunities limited last season and made only six Barclays Premier League starts as Courtois became the regular number one following his return from a three-year loan spell at Atletico Madrid.
The 33-year-old Cech has been linked with a summer transfer with both Arsenal and Manchester United reported to be interested, but Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho wants the Czech Republic goalkeeper to stay.
"Petr is a fantastic guy and I worked really well with him," Courtois said in Cardiff where he is on international duty with Belgium.
"When you look at Petr's quality there is no doubt that he is one of the best in the world and I think we pushed each other to a higher level.
"I think we have seen in the games for Chelsea that if I was not playing he was playing and he saved the team as well. So I think it was a very good year for Chelsea.
"If he stays I am happy. If he leaves I understand as well."

Liverpool REJECT £30m bid from Manchester City for Raheem Sterling

Liverpool have reportedly turned down a £25m bid from Manchester City for Raheem Sterling.
It is understood the Premier League runners-up offered £25m, plus the possibility of £5m in add-ons, but the bid was immediately rejected by Anfield chiefs, who value the England international at over £50m.
The 20-year-old has publicly revealed his desire to leave the Reds after a disappointing season on Merseyside, and turned down a new £100,000-a-week deal earlier in the campaign.

Manchester United 'agree fee' for Brazilian star Roberto Firmino

Manchester United have agreed a fee with Bundesliga side Hoffenheim for Brazilian attacking midfielder Roberto Firmino, according to reports.
The 23-year-old, who is currently on international duty with the 2014 World Cup hosts ahead of the Copa America, will allegedly cost the Red Devils £13.1m.
Firmino played and scored the only goal of the game during Brazil's 1-0 friendly victory over Honduras on Wednesday, and has impressed in his short international career so far.
"Firmino has been consistently loyal to Hoffenheim, and he surprised a few people by agreeing a new deal last March. He feels the club has helped him develop as a player, but after Hoffenheim failed to qualify for Europe, it seems like the right time to move on," said talkSPORT's Bundesliga expert Kevin Hatchard.

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"He's been on United's radar for a long time, and they'll have been impressed by his ability to have a positive impact on games week-in week-out.
"If United get him for the figures being quoted, they'll have pulled off a big coup."
Firmino can play in a variety of midfield roles, contributing 12 goals and 10 assists as Hoffenheim narrowly missed out on Europa League qualification.
It is reported that United, as they did with the £25m capture of Memphis Depay last month, have pipped arch rivals Liverpool to the Brazilian's signature.
Firmino is widely regarded as one of the flag bearers of a new Brazilian generation, with the national side still recovering from last summer's humbling to Germany in the World Cup semi-finals.
And he has made a promising start for his country, too, netting three goals from his six appearances, including an impressive strike against Chile at the Emirates Stadium in March.

Ten reasons to watch Copa America

Copa America 2015
Venues: Eight cities across Chile Dates: 11 June to 4 July

Big names, big games, forgotten faces and tomorrow's heroes await as the Copa America kicks off in Chile on Thursday.

Until 4 July the 10 South American nations, plus guests Mexico and Jamaica, will be contesting the 44th edition of the continent's championship.

This is where the stars come out to play

Lionel Messi and Sergio Aguero are just two of the international stars on show at the Copa America

Luis Suarez, still serving his suspension, will not be seen at the Copa. But his partners in the Barcelona forward line certainly will.
Neymar will captain Brazil, and Lionel Messi will lead Argentina alongside Manchester City's Sergio Aguero and company.
Real Madrid's James Rodriguez will be there for Colombia and Paris St-Germain's Edinson Cavani for Uruguay. The cast list is dazzling.
Recently the idea of a European breakaway World Cup was floated. Can you imagine how much it would miss all of these names?

History

The Copa is the world's oldest continental competition. It began in 1916, and was often held annually in the early years.
It promoted a rapid rise in playing standards, and can clearly be seen as a key event in the build-up to the first World Cup in 1930. The tournament, then, is a huge part of football's heritage.

Strength in depth

In the Copa's 99-year history, this could well be the tournament with the strongest field. In contrast to the club game, national team football in South America is living a healthy moment.
Colombia have just enjoyed their best World Cup, as Paraguay did in 2010 and Ecuador in 2006 - and Chile have just had their best two bar 1962, when they were the hosts.
There are few minnows about. Indeed, in the last two World Cups only one South American side (Ecuador last year, and by a narrow margin) have failed to make it out of their group.

Unpredictability

Copa America 2015
Group A	Group B	Group C
Chile	Argentina	Brazil
Mexico	Uruguay	Colombia
Ecuador	Paraguay	Peru
Bolivia	Jamaica	Venezuela

There are two explanations for the fact the Copa can be difficult to forecast. One is the format of the competition; eight of the 12 teams qualify for the knockout phase, where, this year, extra time will not be played in the quarter or semi-finals.
There is room, then, for what Paraguay did in the last Copa four years ago, when they reached the final without winning a single game.
The other factor is the place of the tournament in the calendar. After a year of friendlies, the Copa kicks off a new cycle of competitive games. Most sides are mainly concerned with whipping a team into shape for the next set of World Cup qualifiers, due to start in October.
There are plenty of new coaches, who so far have had very little time with their players. This is not like the World Cup or the Euros, where teams have qualified and built towards the tournament. In contrast, the Copa has plenty of half-cooked sides, going into the competition with little preparation behind them.

Manageable size

The World Cup has 32 teams. The Euros keep growing.
There is something to be said for the shorter, smaller tournament. With 12 teams and lasting just over three weeks, the Copa can be followed without it taking over your entire life.

Pressure on the big three

Teams in the Copa are divided into three groups, and there is an obvious hierarchy of favourites - Argentina and Brazil plus the home side. In this case there is special pressure on all three.
It falls on Chile because they have never won the trophy - unlike Bolivia, Colombia, Peru and Paraguay. This is seen as the best team in Chile's history and, unlike most, they have specifically prepared for the Copa. How will they cope with the burden of expectation?

Brazil will want to make amends for their 7-1 defeat by Germany at last year's World Cup

Coach Jorge Sampaoli saw at first hand the damage home 'advantage' did to Brazil last year as they were thrashed 7-1 by eventual winners Germany in the semi-final, and ever since he has been thinking of ways to avoid the pitfalls the 2014 World Cup hosts fell in.
It falls on Argentina because they are having to endure a wait of their own for a senior title. The last one was the Copa of 1993. There is not a lot of experimentation in coach Gerardo Martino's squad - 14 went to the World Cup, and another two were in the 2010 party. This generation are running out of chances to lift some silverware.
And it falls on Brazil because the World Cup left a huge stain on their carpet. Nothing that happens in Chile will wash the stain out. Under Dunga they have won their first eight friendly matches - but all that will be forgotten if they have a poor Copa. A good performance would be the first step towards regaining some of their prestige.

Attacking balance

Tournaments often find a tone, which can have a tendency to hang over all the matches. In the last Copa, played in Argentina four years ago, defences came out on top. This Copa has the potential to produce something much less attritional.
In 2011 Argentina had yet to find a way to harness the talents of Lionel Messi. Neymar was a callow youth, still in the early stages of development.
James Rodriguez was with Colombia's Under-20 side - and as soon as he was promoted the senior side started to get full value for their generation of strikers. Ecuador were a mis-selected mess in 2011. All these teams would clearly seem to have more attacking firepower to offer this time round.

Atmosphere

Uruguay are the current champions and are also the most successful team in the tournament's history, having won it 15 times

Only a few years ago there were Copa America games where there were more police than spectators in the stadium. Matches involving the hosts would sell out. Others attracted very little interest.
That has changed. The continent has become richer. More people can travel. Last year's World Cup was a South American party. The Colombians travelled in huge numbers while Argentines and Chileans took advantage of the proximity to drive over the border.
The Copa does not have the same pulling power. But it can still move people. The 2011 Copa gave the first signs of what was to happen in the World Cup.
There were travelling fans in Argentina and there will be travelling fans in Chile. Almost all the matches are sold out, and so the atmosphere in the stadiums should be something to relish.

English-based players

The inclusion of Jamaica helps, but does not entirely explain why this Copa has the biggest English-based contingent in history.
Amongst those who played in England last year are six of the Argentina squad, four Brazilians and Colombians, three each from Chile and Ecuador, two from Uruguay and one from Venezuela.

Does the name Mathias Vuoso ring a bell? The Mexico striker was on the books of Manchester City between 2002 and 2003

There are also plenty of names (five alone in the Chile squad) of players who have left the Premier League.
The Copa, then, is a chance for English fans to follow their heroes - and perhaps reacquaint themselves with long-forgotten faces.
Burnley fans can catch up on their one time goalkeeper Diego Penny of Peru, while Manchester City supporters need ask no more what became of Argentine-born striker Mathias Vuoso - he is representing Mexico.

A cracking opening game

Usually the Copa kicks off with a match between the hosts and Bolivia - picked to get the home side off to a winning start. Often the Bolivians fail to read the script, and hang on for a dogged draw.
This time, though, Chile have to wait until the third game to have a go at Bolivia. First up on Thursday are Ecuador, opponents who carry a much bigger threat.
Chile coach Sampaoli is worried by the pace of the Ecuadorians on the counter-attack - a point well made on Saturday when, with Swansea's Jefferson Montero on fire, Ecuador saw off a decent Panama side by a 4-0 margin.
Chile, true to their style, will look to carry the game to opponents who can break at great speed. It is a classic clash of styles, and promises to get the 2015 Copa off to an enthralling start.

Radamel Falcao: Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho keen to 'help'

Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho would like to help Radamel Falcao revive his career and says he is "hurt" by criticism of the Colombia striker.

Falcao, 29, has returned to Monaco after scoring four goals in 29 games while on loan at Manchester United.
Chelsea are understood to be in talks over a move,  but it is reported they would want a reduction in his £265,000-a-week wages.
"If I can help Falcao reach his level again, I will do it," said Mourinho
Speaking to DirecTV Sports, he added: "It hurts me that people in England think that the real Falcao is the one we saw at Manchester United."
Veteran striker Didier Drogba left Chelsea on a free transfer at the end of the season after helping them win the Premier League.

Swansea move "wasn't a difficult decision," reveals new signing Andre Ayew

New Swansea City signing Andre Ayew has revealed Swans boss Garry Monk proved a defining factor in what ultimately “wasn’t a difficult decision” to join the Premier League club.
The Ghanaian forward, who was released by Marseille at the end of the season, agreed a four-year deal with the Welsh side on Wednesday, subject to international clearance.
The 25-year-old, who struck twice for his nation at the 2014 World Cup, believes Monk’s understanding of his playing style proved crucial in a move materialising.
“It wasn’t a difficult decision, especially when I spoke to the coach Garry Monk and the chairman. I really felt like the club wanted me there,” Ayew told Drivetime.
“He [Monk] was calm and honest. He told me what he was wanting of me and what he was looking for me to do. I had the feeling that he really knew me and knew my style of play.
“My dream was to go to the Premier League and I now have the opportunity to do this, so I want to thank all the Swansea staff who have got me there.”
Ayew is a versatile forward who can play anywhere across the attacking line, and the Ghanaian is particularly looking forward to striking up an understanding with Bafetimbi Gomis.
Ayew added: “The main person to target and to put the balls in for is Bafa Gomis.
“My job of coming to Swansea is to try and bring my skills and assists. But I will try and bring in some goals too.”

Fifa crisis: Brazil legend Zico wants Fifa presidency

Brazil legend Zico intends to stand for the presidency of Fifa after admitting the corruption crisis in the sport's governing body has saddened him.

The 52-year-old, whose full name is Arthur Antunes Coimbra, said it was his "duty" to stand.
Current president Sepp Blatter announced he would stand down just four days after being re-elected last month.
It came after twin corruption probes into Fifa were launched by United States and Swiss authorities.
Speaking at a crowded press conference at a football skills centre he runs in Rio de Janerio, Zico said: "It's sad for our sport to see what is happening in football today - the corruption... and the hard work of many other good people wasted - and I see it as my duty to use my experience and knowledge to try and stand for the presidency."
Although he has played and managed in countries around the world, Zico has little experience in football administration at any senior level.

Aston Villa to offer new contract to Christian Benteke as Liverpool lurk

Christian Benteke will be offered a new contract by Aston Villa this summer, the club’s chief executive Tom Fox has confirmed.
The Belgian striker has two years left to run on his current deal and is attracting much interest from rival clubs after enjoying an impressive end to last season.
Liverpool are being tipped to launch a move for the 24-year-old, who has a £32.5million buyout clause in his contract, but the Midlands club will do all they can to keep the powerful hitman.
"There has been a lot of speculation and I'm not going to contribute to it or play any of our transfer strategy out in the press," said Fox, speaking at the Sport Industry Breakfast Club.

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"But we will offer Christian Benteke a new deal this summer, of course we will."
Benteke has yet to confirm his intentions publicly, and Fox is hopeful he will follow the lead of Fabian Delph.
The Villa captain was expected to leave on a free transfer this summer before unexpectedly penning a new long-term contract in January.
"If Christian wanted to leave, would we stand in his way? I think to make a blanket statement about a player wanting to leave is very difficult," Fox said.
"Every player has individual aspirations and the relationship they have with the club is different.
"Look at what happened with the re-signing of Fabian Delph, no-one would have thought that was possible or even something he should have done and yet he did it.
"So there isn't a rule that would apply to that. It's about the individual and the relationship he has with the club."

Confirmed! Steve McClaren appointed Newcastle head coach

Steve McClaren has been appointed head coach at Newcastle.
The former England manager, who was first offered the job six months ago after Alan Pardew's contract was relinquished, has agreed a three-year deal at St James' Park, which could extend to eight.
The 54-year-old was sacked by Championship side Derby County at the end of the season after failing to lead the Rams to the play-offs, and was clearly delighted to finally conclude a deal with the Magpies.
McClaren said: "I am privileged to be appointed head coach of Newcastle United FC. This is a big club with a wonderful heritage.

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"St. James' Park is like a cathedral on a Saturday afternoon, a symbol for the city, and I am excited to be given this opportunity. I know how important Newcastle United is to the city and the region.
"The supporters are some of the most loyal, passionate and devoted in the world. Despite everything, they maintain their faith. We owe it to them to do everything we can to reward them with success."
The ex-Middlesbrough boss will look to establish some stability on Tyneside after a tumultuous second half to the Premier League season, encapsulated by the torrid reign of interim manager John Carver.
Carver, who along with fellow coach Steve Stone left the Magpies on Tuesday, mustered just three wins from his 20 matches at the helm, and oversaw a run of eight consecutive defeats which culminated in a narrow escape from relegation.
McClaren has been handed the challenge of securing a top-eight finish in the Barclays Premier League and to aim for a first trophy for the club since 1969, and he is candidly aware of the challenge that lies ahead.
"There's a lot of work to do but the club has made it clear about wanting success, and I would not have come here if I didn't believe they were serious. This club has waited far too long to win a trophy. That's one of my primary objectives here," McClaren added.
"I've already won trophies as a manager and a club the size of Newcastle United should be winning cups and finishing in the top eight in the Premier League.
"I'm determined to give the supporters of Newcastle United a team they can be proud of. The hard work starts now."

West Ham complete deal for Sampdoria midfielder Pedro Obiang

West Ham United have completed the signing of midfielder Pedro Obiang from Sampdoria for an undisclosed fee.
The 23-year-old Spaniard, capped at Under-21 level, has penned a four-year deal to become Slaven Bilic's first signing at Upton Park.
“I’m very happy to have signed," he said. "We have been talking about this for a long time and now I’ve finally got the chance to come here.
“I went on holiday after the season had finished and I was looking forward to receiving that call to tell me where and when to sign for this club!

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“I’m very excited to play in the Premier League. It’s a style of football that will help me to progress as a player and as a person, so it will be very good."
Obiang made his competitive debut for Sampdoria aged 18 in 2010 after leaving Atletico Madrid's academy to make the move to Italy.
He went on to become a key player for the Serie A club and made 34 league appearances last season, helping them securing a Europa League spot.

Carlos Tevez linked with £15m Liverpool switch after telling Juventus he wants to leave this summer

Carlos Tevez could return to the Premier League after informing Juventus he intends to leave the club this summer, according to reports in Italy.

The former West Ham, Manchester United and Manchester City forward has been linked with a switch to Liverpool in the close season and he is reportedly keen to return to England.
The Argentine forward, who hit 29 goals in 48 outings for double-winning Juve last term, is out of contract at the end of next season and is in talks with a number of clubs over his next destination.
According to Spanish newspaper AS, Tevez's agent will meet with the Old Lady this week to make a decision over his future.

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The 31-year-old, who left City two years ago for Serie A, is also wanted by former club Boca Juniors but his £15m price tag could prove to be a stumbling block.
It remains to be seen whether Liverpool will bid for Tevez having already signed Danny Ings this week, but Mario Balotelli's uncertain Anfield future could convince Brendan Rodgers to dip into the transfer market once again.
Juve have a list of targets lined up as replacements for Tevez should he leave Turin, including Mario Mandzukic, Edinson Cavani and Napoli's Gonzalo Higuain.

Carlos Tevez: Atletico Madrid 'in talks' with Juventus star - Simeone

Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone has said his club's representatives are in talks with Juventus striker Carlos Tevez over a potential summer move.

The Argentine told Spanish newspaper AS  that his compatriot would be an "ideal" signing for the La Liga club.
Tevez, 31, has reportedly told the Italian club he wants to leave.
"I haven't spoken with him but I know people at the club are talking to his agent. It's exciting to be linked with players like Tevez," said Simeone.
Tevez helped Juventus to the Champions League final, where they lost 3-1 to Barcelona on Saturday. The Argentina player has also been linked with Liverpool.  
"He has the game in his blood," added Simeone. "He'd be an ideal signing for our style of play."
The Atletico boss said the signing of Villarreal forward Luciano Vietto was "imminent" and added that he also hoped to bring in their former player and defender Filipe Luis, 29, from Chelsea to the squad.
"He's a player we're very fond of and he knows us well and gave so much to the team. I hope this one comes off," said Simeone of the player who left Atletico for Stamford Bridge last summer

Gossip/Aproko: Mandzukic, Obiang, Remy, Ince, Klopp

For a list of all the latest deals, check out the transfers page.

Manchester United want Atletico Madrid striker Mario Mandzukic, 29, a year after he joined the Spanish club from Bayern Munich for £18.5m. (Sun - subscription) 
United could also move for Paris St-Germain right-back Gregory van der Wiel, 27, after Barcelona's Brazil international Dani Alves, 32, decided to stay at the Nou Camp. (Mail) 
Red Devils boss Louis van Gaal is also considering a move for Southampton full-back Nathaniel Clyne, 24. (Express) 

The Sun links Mario Mandzukic with Manchester United

New West Ham boss Slaven Bilic will be given the funds to bring in Chelsea striker Loic Remy, 28, and Barcelona midfielder Alen Halilovic, 18. (Guardian) 
The Hammers' first signing under Bilic will be Spanish midfielder Pedro Obiang, 23, from Sampdoria for £4.4m. (Mail)  
New Derby County boss Paul Clement wants to sign £6m-rated Hull City forward Tom Ince, 23. (Mirror) 
Midfielder James McCarthy, 24, has not told Everton he wants to leave despite reports suggesting he wants a move. (Liverpool Echo) 
Everton boss Roberto Martinez is looking to sign Crystal Palace defender Scott Dann, 28. (Independent) 
Paris St-Germain's France midfielder Yohan Cabaye, 29, would consider joining Alan Pardew - his former boss at Newcastle - at Crystal Palace. (Le Parisien- in French) 
Wales defender James Chester, 26, is happy to stay at Hull City despite their relegation from the Premier League. (Hull Daily Mail) 
Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino wants Stuttgart striker Timo Werner, 19, as he looks to overhaul his attack. (Mirror) 

The Guardian focuses on new West Ham boss Slaven Bilic's transfer plans

Jurgen Klopp's agent says the former Borussia Dortmund coach, who is taking a break from football but was previously linked with Liverpool, would be open to a move to a Premier League club. (Spox via Liverpool Echo) 
Tottenham's Denmark midfielder Christian Eriksen, 23, has no desire to leave the club and feels "right at home" at White Hart Lane. (London Evening Standard) 
Manchester City striker Alvaro Negredo, 29, will sign for Valencia on a permanent deal after completing his loan spell but could be immediately sold by the Spanish club. (Manchester Evening News) 
Former Manchester United midfielder Nicky Butt is favourite to take over the club's academy team following Brian McClair's departure to the Scottish Football Association. (Telegraph) 
Manchester City want to start the Premier League season away from home so they have time to add 6,000 more seats to Etihad Stadium. (Mirror) 

Best of social media

Liverpool striker Fabio Borini, 24, is evidently enjoying the early days of married life. "Going on our honeymoon while I still think of this beautiful moment!! @erin_borini #efborini #forever #perfectwedding," the Italian posted on Instagram. 
Former Newcastle, Manchester United and England striker Andy Cole said on Kicca  that Chelsea striker Patrick Bamford, 21, needs to leave Stamford Bridge to fulfil his potential.
Manchester City's France full-back Bacary Sagna, 32, hailed his country's 1-0 victory over England in the Women's World Cup in Canada. He tweeted:   "Bravo premier match, premiere victoire de @equipedefrance!" Which means: "Congratulations first game, first win for team France!"
New Liverpool striker Danny Ings posted a tweet thanking Burnley supporters for their backing over the past four years.

And finally

American actor Chris Pratt has told former Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard to look him up when he gets to LA Galaxy - and not to forget the sun block. He said: "Once you get there you're going to see a ball of fire in the sky. Do not be alarmed. It's called the sun." (Match of the Day magazine) 
England striker Charlie Austin leaving QPR is the most likely transfer of the summer window, according to a group of Swiss academics who have created a computer programme to analyse the variables. It says QPR should charge between £7.5m and £9m for their leading scorer, 25. (City AM) 

Real Madrid close to sealing £18m deal for Manchester United's David de Gea

Real Madrid are edging closer to completing the signing of David De Gea from Manchester United.
According to Spanish newspaper Marca, Los Blancos are close to agreeing an initial fee of £18m for the goalkeeper with add-ons set to increase the transfer by an additional £3.5m based on performances.
The report claims De Gea has made up his mind having taken time off to assess his future and is close to agreeing personal terms with Real.
The 24-year-old will become Rafael Benitez's first signing of his reign and the deal is expected to be announced when the transfer window officially opens in July.

Fifa World Cup 2026 bidding process delayed

The bidding process for the 2026 World Cup has been postponed amid allegations around the 2018 and 2022 tournaments.

Fifa secretary general Jerome Valcke said it was "a nonsense" to begin the process in the current climate.
The vote to decide who will host the 2026 World Cup is due to take place in Kuala Lumpur in May 2017.
The United States are front-runners to stage the tournament, but Canada, Mexico and Colombia are also thought to be interested.
Russia and Qatar were selected to host the 2018 and 2022 World Cups by a secret ballot of Fifa's 22 executive members in December 2010.
But Swiss prosecutors are now investigating alleged financial irregularities surrounding the bidding process. Both Russia and Qatar have denied any wrongdoing.
Football's world governing body had planned to inform its member federations this week of the bidding schedule for 2026, but Valcke said: "Due to the situation, I think it's nonsense to start any bidding process for the time being."

Understanding the Fifa crisis
Key questions answered
Who are the indicted Fifa officials?
How Fifa spends its money
Jack Warner: Controversial ex-Fifa chief

Speaking in the Russian city of Samara, Valcke also defended Fifa's handling of a $10m (£6.5m) payment from the South African government towards a Caribbean diaspora legacy programme.
US prosecutors allege the payment was a bribe to help secure the 2010 World Cup for South Africa.
The South African government insists it was a legitimate payment to promote Caribbean football.
"It was not Fifa's money. It was a request from official South African authorities and the South African Football Association (SAFA). As long as it is in line with rules we do it," said Valcke.
"I don't understand what's the problem and why I am such a target in this question."

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'No rules were broken' in Russia 2018 World Cup bid

Fifa president Sepp Blatter has announced he will step down from his role, amid the ongoing allegations of corruption in the governing body, including the indictment of 14 people on corruption charges by US authorities.
He is expected to be replaced at an election on 16 December.
When faced with questions over his own future, Valcke said: "You - the media - have decided that after Blatter I am the head to be cut, fine, but don't say it is because of this $10m."
Meanwhile, Uefa chief and former France international Michel Platini declined to comment further on the Fifa scandal.
Platini has previously called for change in Fifa, but speaking at a news conference to mark a year until the start of the European Championship, which France is hosting, he said it was "not the time nor the place" to discuss Fifa matters.
"I do not want the news about Fifa to get in the way of news about Uefa," he said, adding he would "address these matters" as well as speculation he could stand for Fifa president at some point in the future.

Brazil's Marta became the all-time leading goalscorer

Brazil's Marta became the all-time leading goalscorer in Women's World Cup history as she netted her 15th finals goal in a 2-0 win over South Korea.

The 29-year-old forward's second-half penalty took her clear of former Germany striker Birgit Prinz.
Marta's team-mate Formiga opened the scoring to become, at 37, the oldest goalscorer in the tournament's history.
Brazil's victory took them top of Group E after the first round of fixtures, as Spain and Costa Rica drew 1-1.
Formiga, playing at a record-equalling sixth World Cup, took advantage of an error by Korean defender Kim Doyeon to give the 2007 runners-up the lead.
And, making her 137th international appearance, she was then felled in the penalty area by Cho Soh-yun to present Marta with the chance to make history.
Nearly 12 years on from her first international goal, the five-time world player of the year coolly netted her 92nd goal in 93 international appearances.

Brazil's players celebrate Marta's historic goal

'Go find something else to do'

Marta, who plays her club football for FC Rosengard in Sweden, revealed she considered quitting the sport after becoming a professional because of the criticism she received.
"As I got older and became a teenager there were more people criticising me. For example 'this is not a sport for you, go find something else to do in an area for women'," she told BBC World Service.
"I would hear that a lot in my region and it was very hard to find female teams. I would start thinking I would never find somewhere to play but, thanks to God, I never gave up."

Marta's individual honours
Brazil women's football team top goalscorer
Fifa World Player of the Year winner (five times)
Fifa Women's World Cup Golden Ball winner
US Women's Professional Soccer MVP (two times)
US Women's Professional Soccer Golden Ball winner (three times)

The closest Brazil have come to winning the women's game's biggest prize was in 2007, when they lost to Germany in the final.
Marta said it would be a "dream" to win the title and said she hoped to continue playing through to the 2016 Rio Olympics.
"It is a thought that I have, to play in the Olympics," she said.
"It will depend on if I'm playing well. It would be fantastic if we won the World Cup and we would then be very motivated to get the gold medal at the Olympics. That would mean a lot to all of us."

Spain next for Brazil

The reigning Copa America champions will next play newcomers Spain, on Saturday at 21:00 BST.
World Cup debutants Spain and Costa Rica's laboured 1-1 draw was played in a near-empty Montreal Olympic Stadium.
A two-minute span early in the first half produced both goals, with Vicky Losada scoring the Spaniards' first World Cup goal with a low finish after 13 minutes before Raquel Rodriguez side-footed home to equalise a minute later.

West Ham announce Slaven Bilic as new manager

Slaven Bilic has been named the new West Ham manager.
The Croatian has been handed the reins at Upton Park, following Sam Allardyce's departure at the end of last season.
The 46-year-old has agreed a three-year contract with the club he played 54 times for during his playing career.
“I’m really glad to be back with West Ham United,” Bilic said.
“It’s in the Premier League, which is among the best in the world. It’s a big challenge and you are competing with the best and what better club to do it with than West Ham.
“I remember West Ham as a special club. I love these kinds of special clubs. My last club, Besiktas, was that kind of club. It’s not about the size – West Ham is big Club – there is something special about them - they are a cult clubs.
“It is a great place to play and I felt like I was at home. It is a big privilege and a big responsibility to now be manager and I hope that I will prove it to the Board, players and fans.
“My first priority when choosing a club is to look at its ambitions. When I spoke to the Chairmen and Karren Brady, they made clear that it is not only the fantastic new Stadium we are moving into, but they showed their determination and ambition to make what is a big club even bigger.
“I saw their determination and passion that they want to do that. That was the number one reason. I could feel that they really wanted me so it was an easy choice.
“I would say to the West Ham fans that I will give my best and together we will achieve great things.”

Swansea City hold talks with Ghana forward Andre Ayew

Ghana forward Andre Ayew has held talks with Swansea City about a possible move to the Liberty Stadium, BBC Wales Sport has learned.

Talks will continue on 10 June when the player could also have a medical.
The 25-year-old's contract with Marseille expired in June. He scored 52 goals in 181 appearances for the French club after joining them in 2006.
Swansea need to bolster their attacking options having lost Wilfried Bony to Manchester City in January.
His short-term replacement, Nelson Oliveira, has returned to Benfica following his loan spell at the Welsh club.
Ayew's departure from Marseille brings to an end a 28-year association that his family have with the club.
His father, Abedi Pele, signed for the Ligue 1 club in 1987 and was part of their Champions League-winning team in 1993.
Younger brother Jordan also started his career at the State Velodrome, before joining Lorient.
Ayew, a former BBC African Footballer of the Year, had talks with Queens Park Rangers in January but they came to nothing.
In May the Ghanaian said he was weighing up options to join clubs in England, Italy and Germany and admitted the Premier League is a huge attraction for him.

Blow for Manchester United! Dani Alves agrees new Barcelona deal

Dani Alves has rejected the attentions of Manchester United and AC Milan to sign a new a deal with Barcelona.

The Brazil defender will remain at the Nou Camp until at least 2017, but has an option to agree another year with the Spanish giants.
A statement on the club's website: "FC Barcelona has announced that Dani Alves has accepted its proposal for the renewal of his contract, which expires on June 30 of this year.
"The new agreement binding both parties will be for a further two seasons, through to 30 June 2017, with the option of a third additional season."

Petr Cech to hold Chelsea talks next week

Petr Cech will hold talks with Chelsea next week, with the goalkeeper eager to establish where he will be playing next season.

The 33-year-old has a year left on his contract at Stamford Bridge but was demoted to the role of back-up to Thibaut Courtois last season as the Belgian enjoyed an impressive campaign.

Blues boss Jose Mourinho has stressed on several occasions he is eager for the Czech stopper to stay and Cech is keen to resolve the issue sooner rather than later.

"First I have to agree with the club what the conditions would be for leaving," he told reporters in his homeland ahead of the European Championship qualifier against Iceland on Friday.

"Next week we will have a meeting with Chelsea.

"At the moment it is with my agent. When it is clearer and all the cards are on the table, we will decide.

"I believe that for what I have done for the club and what the club has done for me, we can arrange it so we are all happy."

He added: "I keep all options open, regardless of the country. I will decide based on what is best for me and my family. It does not matter whether it is England, Germany, France or Spain.

"If I move, it brings difficulties. It must change everything, looking for housing, a school for children and so on.

"Therefore, the sooner I know what to do the better. I can plan everything and even rest before the new season."

Aston Villa in Pogba chase

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Aston Villa are lining up a move for Paul Pogba's brother, Florentin.

The 24-year-old is currently at Saint-Etienne, where he has impressed under the management of Christophe Galtier.

The French club are eager to tie the defender down to a new contract, but interest from abroad has led to talks stalling.

And, according to L'Equipe, Aston Villa are now working on a deal which would bring Pogba to the Premier League.

Manager Tim Sherwood is keen to bolster his defence this summer and views the Guinea international as the ideal man to reinforce his ranks.

The centre-back's contract is up at the end of next season and, if he decides to reject a new deal, Villa are optimistic he will be available for a cut-price transfer.

West Ham hope 'to make an announcement on a new manager within the next 48 hours'

West Ham have announced they hope to make an announcement with regards to to their managerial vacancy in the next 48 hours.

The club took to Twitter to make the announcement, confirming talks are in an advanced stage after meeting a shortlist of candidates.

The Hammers have been managerless since Sam Allardyce left the east London club at the end of the season, with Slaven Bilic and Marcelo Bielsa the bookies' favourites for the job.

Co-chairman David Gold informed the club's website on Sunday that Allardyce's replacement will be an 'established manager.'