Torres’ injury could stop move while Real end interest in Gerrard
Fernando Torres could remain at Liverpool after picking up an injury against the Netherlands in the World Cup final which could rule him out for two months.
Torres had a miserable campaign after recovering from a six-week layoff, and a move to Chelsea could now be off completely. Also, Real Madrid have decided not to pursue their interest in Liverpool skipper Steven Gerrard as they think the £30million asking price is too much.
Wolfsburg striker Edin Dzeko is hopeful of signing for Manchester City as he believes the club will drop their high asking price of £50million. The Bosnian has been a target for City for some time now.
West Ham are set to complete the signing of Mexican winger Pablo Barrera from Pumas. Barrera featured for Mexico at the World Cup and will sign a two-year contract with the option of extending it to a third. The Hammers could also swoop for Loic Remy from Nice, as both Remy and manager Avram Grant are keen for a £12million move to materialise.
Michael Bradley, the son of USA coach Bob Bradley, is being targeted by newly-promoted Blackpool. Bradley currently plays for German side Borussia Mönchengladbach. Also promoted to the Premier League, West Bromwich Albion’s attempts to sign David Ngog on loan have been blocked by Liverpool.
Nigeria international John Utaka is almost certain to leave relegated Portsmouth this summer, with new manager Steve Cotterill saying there is “definitely a move on the cards.” Utaka arrived at Pompey three years ago for £7million, and is a potential target for Sunderland manager Steve Bruce. Meanwhile, Pompey goalkeeper David James could also be departing, as it is believed the club have run out of patience over the time he has taken to make a decision over his future.
Newcastle shot-stopper Steve Harper is a target for Neil Lennon at Celtic, who are looking to replace their No.1 Artur Boruc, who is joining Fiorentina. Newcastle are desperate to hold onto Harper. Celtic’s Scottish Premier League rivals Rangers could lose another player to Middlesbrough to join with former Celtic boss Gordon Strachan, with Kevin Thomson potentially heading to the Riverside to link up with Kris Boyd, Chris Killen and Barry Robson.
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