Man United Scout Four Defensive Targets Including Mats Hummels And Premier League Duo

With Manchester United having thrown enough money at their attack to make it work again, they are now looking to move on and improve their defence.

The Red Devils have been linked to a number of top names over the last month, with moves looking likely to happen in both January and the summer.


Here are four of the most heavily linked players to Old Trafford...

Aymeric Laporte, Athletic Bilbao



The French centre-back has been linked with the Old Trafford side by the Metro.

He would be available for £32 million pounds and at 20-years-old could be a long term option for the Red Devils. He would be an improvement on the current crop of centre-backs, with Phil Jones and Jonny Evans currently finding it hard to fit in to the new style of play being played by manager Louis van Gaal.

Ron Vlaar, Aston Villa



The Dutchman impressed at the World Cup, where he was working under the current Man Utd manager. He has since been rumoured to be a target.

At 29 he isn't getting any younger, but he would be cheaper than the other choices. He would also be used to Louis van Gaal's methods and management style.

Mats Hummels, Borussia Dortmund



The World Cup winner is apparently United's number one transfer target, according to the Metro.

Another centre back who could come in to shore up the leaky defence, Hummels is also comfortable with the ball at his feet. This would make him perfect for the playing style van Gaal is enforcing. At 25, he would be another long term option, and the Old Trafford hierarchy are willing to part with up to £40 million to get their man.

Winston Reid, West Ham



The New Zealander has shot to prominence after playing a key part in Sam Allardyce's West Ham revival. Due to this he has been linked to a number of clubs, including Manchester United.

With his current contract finishing at the end of the season and stalling on a new deal, the Hammers might be willing to let him go in January. However, they are still hopeful of getting him to sign on for a few more years before it come to that. Alongside Ron Vlaar, the 26-year-old could be another cheap option for the Red Devils.

Former Liverpool And England Goalkeeper David James Auctions Possessions After Being Declared Bankrupt

Having been declared bankrupt in May, David James is having to sell memorabilia to service his debts.

The former England goalkeeper split with his wife Tanya in 2005, and has since blown his £20 million fortune according to the Daily Mail.

James is auctioning off signed match worn shirts from his time with clubs such as Portsmouth, Liverpool and the national side, as well as other assorted items such as his collection of over 1800 vinyl records, a bicycle and a chainsaw.


James' goods will be available for the public to bid on through Kentauctioneer Hilco between November 6th -18th.

13 Massive Moves That Could Happen In the January Transfer Window Including Trio of Arsenal Targets, Massive Potential Liverpool Signing and Chelsea Coup

Marcos Reus (Borussia Dortmund to Liverpool)

The 25 year old has repeatedly linked with a move away from the Westfalenstadion and Liverpool are known to be interested and could well do with a fresh goal-scoring option. The fact that Borussia Dortmund are languishing near the foot of the Bundesliga should hasten his desparture.



Jay Rodriguez (Southampton to Tottenham)

Ronald Koeman has managed just fine without the England man, who is nearing full fitness after six months out injured, and as such a fresh move from former Saints boss Mauricio Pochettino is more than likely to succeed. Tottenham need a new striker and Jay Rodriguez may be the ideal man for the job.



Andre-Pierre Gignac (Marseille to Arsenal)

The French international is the top scorer in Ligue 1 but is out of contract next summer and has been strongly linked with a summer exit and we can well see Arsene Wenger making his interest known. Gignac could be a cost effective option and would leave Arsenal able to cash-in on Lukas Podolski or Olivier Giroud.



Jermain Defoe (Toronto FC to QPR)

Veteran forward wants to move back to the Premier League and we can well see Harry Redknapp reuniting with his former West Ham, Portsmouth and Tottenham charge as he seeks to strengthen his squad in January. Defoe could be the man to help the Loftus Road side pull clear of the relegation zone.



Stephan Lichtsteiner (Juventus to Arsenal)

Arsenal have had a wealth of injury concerns this term and long term injury to new signing Mathieu Debuchy leaves the door open to a move for the Swiss international who is well into the final year of his Juventus contract.



Benedikt Howedes (Schalke to Man United)

Adaptable defender is a player Louis van Gaal is known to be tracking and the World Cup winner is keen on a fresh challenge and has spoken of his desire to play overseas and would surely be tempted by a move to Old Trafford. The German international can play at left-back and centre-back.



Gerard Pique (Barcelona to Chelsea)

Spaniard is apparently a player Luis Enrique is willing to sell and Jose Mourinho sees the Nou Camp star as a potential long term replacement for John Terry. In previous seasons the 27 year old has been a regular but has started just five of Barcelona's ten La Liga fixtures this term. Barcelona's transfer ban may of course be an issue.



Winston Reid (West Ham to Liverpool)

Brendan Rodgers has seen his defence struggle this term and New Zealand international Reid would be a relatively cheap and effective way to remedy the situation. The 26 year old is out of contract next summer and is keen on a move to a 'bigger' club and a move to Anfield may be a perfect fit both player and club.



Saido Berahino (West Brom to Tottenham)

West Brom want £25m but that may not prove too steep a price for a Tottenham side who have spent bigger sums on failed forwards, Roberto Soldado being a recent example. The England Under 21 international has already bagged seven Premier League goals this term and is a player with a very bright future.



Sami Khedira (Real Madrid to Arsenal)

German is not part of Carlo Ancelotti's plans and is now suffering the indignity of training with the reserve with a January exit seeming more and more likely. Khedira would be a superb signing for Arsene Wenger to pursue, offering Arsenal genuine steel and guile in the centre of the park.



Mats Hummels (Borussia Dortmund to Man United)

Another Borussia Dortmund star who could look to move on in January in view of his side's horrific Bundesliga form and Man United could well be the side that benefits. Louis van Gaal urgently needs a central defensive leader and the German international, though not cheap, would be the best option to pursue.



Ron Vlaar (Aston Villa to Man United)

Another possible defensive option for van Gaal to consider, Vlaar being a player the Man United boss knows well from his time in charge of the Dutch national team. The 29 year old would be far cheaper than Hummels as he is in the last year of his Aston Villa contract so a lot could depend on just what sort of budget he is handed to invest in his squad.



Xherdan Shaqiri (Bayern Munich to Tottenham)

The Swiss international is criminally underused at the Allianz Arena and the 23 year old will not want to warm the bench much long and Tottenham are known to be keen on bringing in the winger on a loan deal. Such a move makes good sense for all parties and Mauricio Pochettino may feel Shaqiri can provide some added quality in the final third as he looks to secure a top four finish.

Arsenal Star Insists Players Are to Blame for Champions League Draw With Anderlecht

Arsenal star Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain thinks that it was the players fault that the team let slip a three goal lead on Tuesday night, reports the Metro.

The winger believes that he and his teammates became complacent and didn't focus for the full ninety minutes. They should have closed down the Anderlecht wingers before they were able to deliver the crosses that led to to the Belgian team's three goals.

The England international also says that a lesson has been learnt, and that they have to make sure that it doesn't happen again. He claims that they should have known better having been in a similar position when they came back from a goal down to beat Anderlecht last week.

"They were simple goals, we need to stop crosses... It is hard to put our finger on what went wrong, maybe a bit of complacency there. When you are 3-0 up you cant afford to have any complacency at this level because you get punished.

"We were at Anderlecht a couple of weeks ago in a similar position to what they are now so we should know better than anyone that the game is not over until the final whistle."

"This is a hard lesson that we cant be complacent and we have to go into those games with full focus for the 90 minutes and get the job done."

The Gunners will be hoping for a reaction when they face Swansea City at the Liberty Stadium next Sunday. Manager Arsene Wenger will be hoping for a win so that his team stay in the top four over the international break.

Tottenham Plot Ambitious January Bayern Munich Raid

White Hart Lane side chase Swiss international.

Tottenham are planning a loan for underused Bayern Munich winger Xherdan Shaqiri according to the Daily Star.

The 23 year old Swiss international, who netted a hat-trick at the 2014 World Cup finals, has struggled to retain a foothold in Pep Guardiola's first team set-up and may be ready to quit the Bundesliga side in pursuit of regular action.

Liverpool had been keen on signing the former FC Basel man over the summer but Shaqiri opted to fight for his place at Bayern Munich, a fight that now looks a little futile.

Shaqiri started 13 Bundesliga fixtures in his first season at the club and this reduced to just ten last term and thus far this campaign he has managed just three starts and was subbed on two of thos occasions.

Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino could well do with fresh effective options in the final third as he looks to secure a top four finish and Shaqiri may see a short term move as a good shop window for his services with Juventus and Galatasaray also said to be tracking the wide-man.

UEFA Champions league results

Juventus3 - 2 Olympiakos
Malmo FF0 - 2 Atletico Madrid
Basel4 - 0 PFC Ludogorets Razgrad
Real Madrid1 - 0 Liverpool
Zenit St. Petersburg1 - 2 Bayer Leverkusen
Benfica1 - 0 Monaco
Arsenal3 - 3 Anderlecht
Borussia Dortmund4 - 1 Galatasaray

Liverpool Club Legend Offered Insulting New Contract On Slashed Wages

Liverpool's owners have made their initial contract offer to their captain.

The contract battle between Steven Gerrard and Liverpool began in earnest last week, with the midfielder telling the press he was keen to stay at Anfield, and was just waiting to be offered a new deal.

Liverpool's American owners have now responded with a low-ball bid that will see the star's current £180,000-per-week deal significantly slashed.

According to the Daily Star, Gerrard will be offered a two-year deal, earning £90,000-per-week in its first year, then £60,000-per-week in its second.

The deal puts the ball back in the club legend's court: does he take the lower offer and prove his love for the club runs deeper than the money, or does he leave for potentially more lucrative offers elsewhere?

The Merseyside club's offer also includes a clause which would allow Gerrard to take up a coaching role when the playing part of the contract expires in 2017.

The Daily Star's report on the situation suggests that the Liverpool skipper is looking for wages closer to his current weekly salary, and thus won't be happy with the offer on the table.

Gerrard has been linked with a variety of moves once his contract expires, with pundits speculating about a move to the MLS or to Italy.

The former England midfielder has had an up-and-down season, with some good performances overshadowed by his sides' troubles.

50 Best Players Of The 21st Century: Cristiano Ronaldo & Lionel Messi Alongside Arsenal, Man United & Chelsea Legends

In no particular order, 50 modern greats of the game: the best footballers in the world since the start of the 21st century...

50) Fernando Torres

49) Yaya Toure

48) Rio Ferdinand

47) Robin van Persie

46) Michael Ballack

45) Karim Benzema

44) Neymar

43) David Beckham

42) Luis Figo

41) Petr Cech

40) Bastian Schweinsteiger

39) Angel Di Maria

38) Paolo Maldini

37) Paul Scholes

36) Xabi Alonso

35) John Terry

34) Ashley Cole

33) Kaka

32) Dennis Bergkamp

31) Didier Drogba

30) Sergio Ramos

29) Steven Gerrard

28) Wayne Rooney

27) Frank Lampard

26) Carles Puyol

25) Fabio Cannavaro

24) Gareth Bale

23) Clarence Seedorf

22) Luis Suarez

21) Philipp Lahm

20) Ronaldo

19) Alessandro Del Piero

18) Francesco Totti

17) Deco

16) David Villa

15) Samuel Eto'o

14) Ryan Giggs

13) Patrick Vieira

12) Iker Casillas

11) Zlatan Ibrahimovic

10) Gianluigi Buffon

9) Andrea Pirlo

8) Raul

7) Ronaldinho

6) Andres Iniesta

5) Xavi

4) Thierry Henry

3) Zindeine Zidane

2) Cristiano Ronaldo

1) Lionel Messi

Chelsea Captain John Terry Bravely Vows To Try And Lower Ticket Prices

This is in the same week that Jose Mourinho complained about the atmosphere at Stamford Bridge

Chelsea captain John Terry has promised to lobby the club's board on ticket prices, reports the Telegraph.

The former England skipper also added that his teammates, and manager Jose Mourinho will help him to put pressure on the club hierarchy to change its pricing policy.

This is following fan uproar about comments from manager Jose Mourinho claiming that the supporters don't give his team enough backing at their home ground. The fans responded with accusations that ordinary followers had been priced out of attending games.

One young supporter, Joe Davies, went as far as to send a message to Terry on Instagram. To his surprise the 33-year-old responded asking for his phone number, and then rang him to say that he would see what he could do.

Davies was complaining after he used to be able to get a ticket for £15, but now that he is an adult the price has sky rocketed.

He told the Telegraph, "Now I'm 18, I'm expected to pay £50 for a game against Hull, even though I'm only on an apprenticeship at the moment." He says that the Chelsea legend agreed that it was "ridiculous."

Liverpool Predicted XI V Newcastle: Fabio Borini To Start Up Top With Mario Balotelli

Here's how we think Brendan Rodgers will line his Liverpool side up for the away trip to St. James' Park on Saturday lunchtime...

Following two goals in the final five minutes of the League Cup win against Swansea using the diamond formation, Rodgers could play two up top from the beginning against the Magpies.

GK) Simon Mignolet

The Belgian goalkeeper is certain to replace Brad Jones between the sticks for the Premier League tie.



DR) Javier Manquillo

The young Spaniard is outperforming Glen Johnson at right-back right now, and could earn the nod once again.



DL) Alberto Moreno

Moreno was rested midweek, but should return to start starting lineup, and provide pace and thrust down the left flank.



DC) Martin Skrtel

The Slovakian will be desperate to improve on his relationship with Lovren at the back, and keep back-to-back clean-sheets for the first time this Premier League season.



DC) Dejan Lovren

With Mamadou Sakho injured, Lovren will continue at the heart of defence. He's played every Premier League minute so far.



DMC) Steven Gerrard

The skipper, barring late injury, will play at the base of the diamond, with young German Emre Can available from the bench.



MC) Jordan Henderson

The engine of the side, Henderson provides a defensive and offensive contribution in the centre.



MC) Coutinho

Rodgers would be mad to leave the Brazilian magician out, who's been easily Liverpool's best player in recent weeks.



AMC) Raheem Sterling

Sterling was rested for the League Cup tie, and should return to the starting lineup - possibly in his favoured no.10 position.



FC) Mario Balotelli

The Italian scored midweek, and will be delighted with a strike partner to play alongside if Rodgers grants him one.



FC) Fabio Borini

Borini's work-rate and enthusiasm is greater than Lambert's, and following his promising performance against Swansea, he could get his second Premier League start of the campaign.

Newcastle Boss Alan Pardew Terrified Of Liverpool Striker Balotelli

Newcastle United manager Alan Pardew is extremely wary of the threat posed by Liverpool striker Mario Balotelli when the two teams meet this lunchtime, report the Express, despite the fact that the Italian is yet to score a Premier League goal for the club since signing from AC Milan this summer.

The Magpies are looking for a third straight victory after successive shock results on the road at Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City, but under fire manager Pardew is concerned about the threat posed by Balotelli after he bagged his first goal in domestic football in the League Cup against Swansea City this week:

"When I've seen the really, really big games come along, he has delivered for Italy and Manchester City."

"Big games turn him on a little bit. It's the other games that you really need to focus on and that's probably an area he needs to improve."

"We're a big game. We are on the television and he's under a lot of pressure, so I'm very wary of him because he can deliver on those days."

Man United Manager Van Gaal Says City Look Vulnerable Ahead Of Manchester Derby

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has suggested that local rivals City could be there for the taking on Sunday, report the Daily Star, as the build up continues ahead of what is sure to be a tense and thrilling Manchester derby.

City have endured a frustrating week, with successive shock defeats against West Ham United in the Premier League and Newcastle United in the League Cup leaving manager Manuel Pellegrini under a degree of pressure - and van Gaal believes that City are vulerable, replying thus when asked:

"It looks like it in the last few games."

"But they are also in a process like Manchester United. But maybe they were also a little bit unlucky in these last three games."

Nigeria’ Folorunsho Alakija Named 9th Richest Woman In The World

American’s website, Wealth X has named Nigeria’s oil mogul, Folunsho Alakija has the 9th richest woman in the world. According to the website the selection was done based on the richest woman in each region of the world. Check out the list below with their estimated net worth;

1. $37.9b Christy Walton North America
2. $31.3b Liliane Bettencourt Europe
3. $14.8b Gina Reinhart Pacific
4. $6.3b Vanessa Paola Slim Latin America
5. $6.3b Soumaya Slem de Romero Latin America
6. $6.3b Johanna Monique Slim Ayub Latin America
7. $.3b Uang Huiyan Asia
8 $4.2b Shari Arison Middle East
9. $1.2b Folorunsho Alakija Africa

Real Madrid To Offer Tempting £20m For Tottenham Hotspur's Best Player

Real Madrid are lining up a £20 million offer for Tottenham Hotspur goalkeeper Hugo Lloris, reports the Express, as Carlo Ancelotti continues to search for the man who is to step in to the shoes of Iker Casillas for the long term.

Chelsea Will Have Star Striker Available For QPR Clash Claims Jose Mourinho

Diego Costa will be available and is in line for a start against QPR at Stamford Bridge this weekend according to Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho...

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has revealed that summer signing Diego Costa is available for the game at Stamford Bridge against QPR this Saturday, according to ESPN.

The Blues striker has been in fantastic form for the London side this season scoring nine goals so far, it was therefore a big blow when they lost him for four games on the trot.

Mourinho has been clashing with Spain boss Vicente del Bosque recently over the handling of the forward, essentially blaming the Spaniard for Costa's injury problems.

The Brazilian-born Spanish ace is set to be called up for the national side again in a week for the next round of the Euro 2016 qualifiers.

Mourinho claims he has no problem with players being called up for international duty as long as they take the same procedures to recover from any problems they may have, but surely most managers would prefer to shield their stars from the hazards and perils of international football.

Man United Ace Radamel Falcao Has Been Ruled Out Of Manchester Derby This Weekend

Manchester United striker Radamel Falcao has been ruled out of this weekend's derby day clash with Manchester City, but Louis Van Gaal will be able to welcome Wayne Rooney back into the fold, the Daily Express reports.

Rooney was spotted limping heavily at a sponsorship event at Old Trafofrd on Monday but Manchester United manager Louis Van Gaal says it was because his shoes were too tight and he will be able to return from his three-game ban at the etihad Stadium.

"Rooney was not injured, the media was writing that. He was never injured. Maybe his shoes were too tight, that is possible, but he was never injured. He shall play, he is my captain. That is all I can say to you because he is my captain and he shall play. But Falcao is still injured," Van Gaal said.

I have heard that Rooney has scored a lot of goals against Manchester City, the most of any player. I said that to him to stimulate him but he doesn't need that. I am very happy that he can play again and he shall play."

I wish Clarence Peters Is Not My Son- Sir Shina Peters

This morning, popular OAP and Video blogger, Toke Makinwa, hosted legendary music icon, Sir Shina Peters on Hiptv’s ‘Trending’.

The Nigerian Juju musician who was born Oluwashina Akanbi Peters appeared very healthy and lively as he spoke about his life, career and his relationship with his son, Clarence Peters.

‘I would soon be 60, but I believe I am where I’m today by the grace of God. Praying and fasting also helped in sustaining me in the industry. I also owe part of my success to story to Late Fela, for his encouragement and candid advice.

He warned me not to be a one sided musician, but to do something that would be accepted by all- music for all nigerians. That advice helped my acceptability in the whole country and across.”

When asked how he feels about the success of his son, Clarence Peters who has taken nigerian music videos to the next level, the Ogun State born ace musician gushed thus.

“Clearance is from heaven. I call him Yomi. When I look at him, I see myself through him. He is just too much. I’m not saying all these because he is my son. I wish he is not my son, I would have showered him with lot more praises for the great things he has been doing in the music industry.

It was a good combination from Clarion his mother, who’s also a professional in her acting field, and myself. I’m so proud of him.”

Beautiful Anambra State born actress, Clarion Chukwura and Sir Shina Peters were entangled in sweet romance in the 80′s which bore the ace music video director, Clarence Peters.

Aged 31, Clarence is synonymous with top quality musical videos and he has been responsible for stamping the works of lots of musical artistes deep inside our minds with those great musical videos that we just love to watch.

As significant as his success is however, he is one individual who, though having two entertainment icons as parents, has achieved most of what he has without necessarily climbing on their backs.

Confirmed: Blow For Arsenal And Chelsea As Rabiot Signs New Contract

Midfielder Adrien Rabiot signs a long term deal with Paris Saint Germain.

Arsenal and Chelsea, as well as Serie runners-up AS Roma, have been dealt a significant blow in the transfer market this evening with the news that Paris Saint Germain midfielder Adrien Rabiot has extended his contract at the Parc des Princes until 2019.

Rabiot had been expected to leave PSG in the near future, having previously refused to pen an extension to a deal that was due to expire next summer, but PSG have finally found a breakthrough in talks with the player and his representatives, with an extended deal until 2019 now having been agreed with the talented young midfielder.

Le @PSG_inside est très heureux dannoncer la prolongation du contrat d@Adriien_Rabiiot jusqu'en juin 2019. pic.twitter.com/kakDBhl58h— PSG Officiel (@PSG_inside) October 31, 2014
Arsenal, in particularly, were believed to hold a significant interest in the box-to-box star, along with Serie A side AS Roma, but it is the French capital where Rabiot will be playing his football for the next few seasons.

The Three Most In Form Goalkeepers In The Premier League So Far: Impressive Man United Stopper Missing

The Premier League's biggest rocks between the sticks so far this season.

The standard of goalkeeping in the Premier League has taken a boost this season with the arrival of some real class acts adding to the already steady stream of talent that was already there. However, as it stands, three names are already proving to be ahead of the rest, so we have brought you the three names and the corresponding numbers that prove these three are undoubtedly the league's finest custodians.

3. Joe Hart - Manchester City

Games: 8

Goals conceded: 8

Clean sheets: 2

Saves to shots: 69%

The England number one has been in decent form so far this term, but it'll be over the coming weeks where his mettle will really be tested. He has recovered well from a dramatic dip in form last term to highlight exactly why he is one of the best in the country and has risen to the challenge of having a more established deputy pushing for his place behind him.



2. Thibaut Courtois - Chelsea

Games: 9

Goals conceded: 9

Clean sheets: 2

Saves to shots: 71%

The Chelsea youngster is finally back at the club after completing his education with Atletico Madrid. Clearly hungry for more silverware, he has kicked the season off with a bang, displacing the seasoned and decorated veteran Petr Cech to make the Stamford Bridge goalmouth his own. As goalkeepers usually possess tremendous longevity it is exciting to think just how good he could be as he continues to develop.



1. Fraser Forster - Southampton

Games: 9

Goals conceded: 5

Clean sheets: 5

Saves to shots: 76%

The Saints new boy had long been feted to make an impact on the Premier League, and he has done just that already by helping a Southampton side that many thought would struggle to a spot in the top four. He will soon be gunning for Joe Hart's place in the England national team, and stands a good chance of wrestling it off him. With five clear sheets to his name he is the standout goalkeeper of the Premier League so far.

Pep Guardiola To Quit Bayern Munich To Replace Arsene Wenger At Arsenal In 2016

Arsenal could be set to land the ideal successor to current manager Arsene Wenger in 2016, with the London Evening Standard reporting that Pep Guardiola will quit Bayern Munich to move to the Emirates Stadium that year.

The Gunners have recently been linked with a number of potential replacements for their long-serving boss, who took over at the club all the way back in 1996 and may soon be set to retire.

Although Wenger is a popular figure at Arsenal for the success he brought to the north London club in the earlier half of his reign, it is growing accepted among supporters that he is struggling to have the same influence as he used to.

Arsenal won the FA Cup last term, but had gone eight seasons without silverware prior to that, managing only to keep themselves in the running for the top four places in that time.

Guardiola, meanwhile, has won every trophy possible in his short career so far, finding instant success during his time at Barcelona, whom he guided to the treble in his first campaign in charge back in 2008/09.

The Spanish tactician also won the double for Bayern last season, and is expected to quit his post at the Allianz Arena in two years' time, with Arsenal his likely destination after that.

Lionel Messi Is 'More Skilful' Than Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo Claims Ex-England Boss

Barcelona star Lionel Messi is better than arch rival Cristiano Ronaldo claims former England manager...

Former England manager Fabio Capello has claimed that Barcelona's Lionel Messi is a far "more skilful" player than Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo

The current manager of the Russian international team spoke to AS about how he once tried to sign the diminutive Argentine, discussing the differences between the 27-year-old and his La Liga rival Ronaldo.

"Cristiano is a powerful player, with very good technique, but he does not possess the pure technical skill of Messi," Capello said.

"Cristiano Ronaldo and Messi are two extraordinary players but they are different.

"Leo Messi is a very difficult player to play against.

"When I saw Messi play I knew he was special. I could see that he could do things that didn't occur to other players."

He is certainly correct that the Barcelona star is special, with the prolific South American set to break the La Liga all time scoring record if he scores a brace against Celta Viga at the Nou Camp on Saturday.

Currently on 250 goals in 284 appearances, Messi still has plenty of years at the top level left in him. The tricky forward is no doubt well capable of obliterating the current record, held by former Athletic Bilbao star Telmo Zarra in the 1940s and 50s.

Ronaldo is currently tenth on the list with 193 goals, the Portuguese superstar has however played just 173 games.

The 29-year-old's form this season has been unparalleled, scoring 16 goals in La Liga so far. Messi is struggling in comparison with just seven goals, two behind Barcelona teammate Neymar.

Ten Things To Watch Out For This Weekend: Arsenal's Defensive Headache & Unlikely Liverpool Star

1) Mario Balotelli... Again.

Premier League fans just can't stop paying attention to the maverick Italian, who can be as brilliant as he can be awful. Having scored midweek versus Swansea, his manager will be desperate for him to find the back of the net at St. James' Park - but he'll need to seriously up his performance levels.



2) Balotelli's new strike partner...

It looks like the 24-year-old could be paired with the strike partner he so desperately wants at the weekend. Brendan Rodgers has come out in the press praising Fabio Borini for his League Cup performance, and rumours are rife that he could get a chance to start on Saturday from the start.



3) Arsenal's injury ridden back-four...

It doesn't even seem like Arsene Wenger knows which back-four he's going to choose for the clash with Burnley. Mathieu Debuchy and Laurent Koscielny remain long-term injuries, while Kieran Gibbs has been ruled out, too. Will Calum Chambers or Nacho Monreal partner Per Mertesacker at the heart of defence?



4) The Manchester derby...

Of course, all eyes will be on the first Manchester derby of the season on Sunday. For the first time, managerial behemoths Louis van Gaal and Manuel Pellegrini will face each other - and it'll be mightily intriguing to see who comes out on top - especially considering both sides' shaky form right now.



5) QPR's 4-4-2 formation...

Harry Redknapp seems to have found a formulae that could save his QPR side from relegation - fielding an old fashioned 'big man - little man' strike pairing featuring Bobby Zamora and Charlie Austin. While it earned him against Aston Villa, will he have the bravery to use it against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge?



6) The Newcastle fans' reaction to Alan Pardew...

Poor Alan Pardew has been booed and jeered all season by the Toon Army, but their Newcastle side has won its past two matches. If they take an early lead against Liverpool, surely the tirade of abuse will stop?



7) Tottenham on the 'big pitch'...

Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino came out last week blaming his side's home woes on the size of the White Hart Lane pitch! Tottenham play Aston Villa away from home at the weekend though, and Paul Lambert's men play on one of the biggest pitches in the country. Three points for  Tottenham then, Mauricio...?



8) Saido Berahino v Leonardo Ulloa

While rangy Argentine Ulloa started the season superbly, his goals have dried up, while Baggies forward Berahino has found some terrific form. Both Leicester and West Brom rely heavily on their two star strikers for goals, but who'll come out on top at the King Power?



9) Phil Jagielka's pace...

Bizarrely, the Everton skipper was recently named the Premier League's fastest player this season by EA Sports player analysis, much to the amusement of the footballing world. All eyes will be on him when he begins his first sprint versus Swansea on Saturday!



10) Tika-taka football at Stoke v West Ham...

A few years back, this fixture would almost guarantee itself to be shown last on Match of the Day because of the agricultural brand of football both sides insisted on playing. Now though, Stoke prefer to keep the ball on the ground under Mark Hughes, while Sam Allardyce's Hammers are one of the top flight's in-form teams, playing an exciting brand of football themselves.

News And Rumour Roundup: Steven Gerrard Open To Liverpool Exit, United Track Ghanaian Striker, Gunners Suffer Another Injury Crisis And Silva Ruled Out Of Derby

Friday's news and transfer rumour gossip.



Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has revealed he could join another club if he is not offered a new contract - (BBC)


Manchester United are on the trail of 23-year-old Ghana striker Abdul Majeed Waris, according to his Turkish club Trabzonspor - (Daily Mail)

Crystal Palace and QPR both want Tottenham defender Benoit Assou-Ekotto, 30, but are not prepared to meet his £40,000-a-week wages - (Daily Mirror)

QPR winger Shaun Wright-Phillips, 33, has rejected opportunities to go on loan and will fight for his place at Loftus Road. The former England international has not made a Premier League appearance this season - (Talksport)

Fulham owner Shahid Khan is prepared to hand newly-appointed manager Kit Symons transfer funds in January as he aims for the club to bounce back into the Premier League at the first attempt -  (Daily Express)



Italian club Napoli have rejected suggestions that they will make a move for Liverpool striker Mario Balotelli, 24, in January - (Daily Mirror)

Former Manchester United captain Roy Keane has criticised former team-mate Paul Scholes by claiming the midfielder was too lazy to do TV interviews as a player - (Daily Express)

Everton striker Samuel Eto'o, 33, has already earned himself a new Everton contract, after inspiring his team-mates with his winning mentality - (Daily Mirror)

The Football Association has collected about £350,000 in fines from social-media-related offences in the past three years, with the governing body investigating 121 cases - (Guardian)

Police are on red alert at the prospect of drones flying overhead during Sunday's Manchester derby - (Daily Mail)



Spain manager Vicente del Bosque will not back down over picking Chelsea striker Diego Costa, 26, for next month's internationals against Belarus and Germany - (Daily Telegraph)

West Brom manager Alan Irvine has admitted the club are taking steps to ensure the heightened attention on top-scorer Saido Berahino does not go to the 21-year-old England Under-21 striker's head - (Daily Star)

Manchester City boss Manuel Pellegrini, 61, is heading for the sack, according to former Blues forward Rodney Marsh. City are without a win in three games, losing their last two - (Talksport)

West Ham signings Enner Valencia, Cheikhou Kouyate, Mauro Zarate and Diafra Sakho could be handed a Christmas break by manager Sam Allardyce in an attempt to avoid a repeat of the injury crisis that hampered the Hammers last season - (Daily Express)

Arsenal can win the Premier League this season if they sign Real Madrid midfielder Sami Khedira, 27, in January, claims former Gunners winger Perry Groves - (London Evening Standard)



Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy will begin a major restructuring of the club's scouting and recruitment procedures after their poor start to the Barclays Premier League season - (Daily Mail)

Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino is set to leave in-form striker Harry Kane, 21, sweating until the last minute to find out whether he has earned his first Premier League start of the season against Aston Villa on Sunday - (Daily Telegraph)

QPR boss Harry Redknapp will consider involving midfielder Adel Taarabt at Chelsea on Saturday after burying the hatchet with the 25-year-old following their row over his weight - (Sky Sports)

Garry Monk has asked a fan who posted advice on how the Swansea boss can improve to his home address to send any future correspondence directly to the club - (Daily Star)

FIFA has apologised for an embarrassing mistake after its video launching the logo for the 2018 World Cup showed the disputed Crimean peninsula as part of Russia - (Guardian)



Aston Villa assistant manager Roy Keane, 43, is set to make an appearance on I'm A Celebrity...Get Me Out Of Here! - (Daily Star)

Arsenal have been left with just THREE senior defenders after Kieran Gibbs added to the clubs growing injury list this week - (Metro)

Manchester United are keeping tabs on Bayer Leverksen defender Omer Toprak - (Daily Star)

Liverpool's Daniel Sturridge is set to miss Real Madrid, Newcastle and Chelsea games - (Daily Mirror)

David Silva is OUT of Sunday's Manchester derby with a knee injury and fears he could be facing three weeks on the sideline - (Daily Mirror)

Chelsea Stars Receive Threat From QPR Hard Man Ahead Of Stamford Bridge Meeting

Combative midfielder issues threat to Chelsea stars ahead of Premier League clash at Stamford Bridge...

QPR midfielder Sandro has issued a warning to his Brazilian teammates at Chelsea, claiming that friendship will mean nothing when the two teams meet this weekend, reports the Standard.

The former Tottenham star is close friends with the likes of Oscar, Willian, Filipe Luis, and Ramires, but he is desperate to clinch the win at Stamford Bridge on Saturday and will do whatever it takes to ensure his side comes away with all three points.

"We know Chelsea are a big team but Liverpool came to Loftus Road and we did very well against them, so I think we can play that way against Chelsea, too," he said

When asked about his friend's at the club, he said, "I have told them we are coming for them."

Sandro has been suffering with a serious knee injury recently, but finally seems to be recovering and getting some game time under his belt. He was the victim of cruciate ligament damage back in 2013 during his time at White Hart Lane, and a number of niggling injuries since then have somewhat hampered his recovery.

He will be hoping to stay injury free and get a run of games for his new club QPR, with the Brazilian having the potential to be a season changer for Harry Redknapp's side.

Unwanted Chelsea Star Set For Contract Extension With Everton

Former Chelsea striker Samuel Eto'o could be set for a contract extension with Everton following his goalscoring exploits at Goodison Park...

Despite only having joined the club a couple of months ago, the superb form of former Chelsea star Samuel Eto'o may already have earned the Cameroon international a contract extension with Everton, reports the Metro.

Eto'o signed for Everton for free on a one year deal this summer after his contract with Chelsea expired. Having already bagged four goals in his nine games for the club however, the 33-year-old is looking like being rewarded with a further year added to his current deal.

The ex-Barcelona striker currently has a clause in his contract which states a further year could be added if he makes the required number of appearances for the club. With the form he has been showing so far it may only be a matter of time before the clause is triggered .

His nine goal return for Chelsea last year was not enough to convince Jose Mourinho that he should be kept on, but Roberto Martinez believes he is more than capable of competing at the highest level over the next two seasons.

"I think it's just natural he'll get another year. The option for a second year is based on number of games played so it will come automatically," the Toffees boss said.

"I always thought his period at Everton would be a minimum of two years, because the option reflects that.

"He could trigger the clause very soon, the way he's playing. But the clause is not in my mind, his mind, hes happy playing for Everton, enjoying his day to day work."

Arsenal Injury Crisis Worsens With Defender A Doubt For Game vs Burnley This Weekend

Arsenal could be set to field a highly makeshift defence for their Premier League game against Burnley this weekend after Arsene Wenger admitted that left-back Kieran Gibbs is a doubt for the game, the Daily Mirror reports.

The England international damaged his hip in last weekend's win away to Sunderland, joining Mathieu Debuchy and Laurent Koscielny on the sidelines as the club's back four is dealt another major blow.

There are no further additions to a long injury list, while key midfielder Jack Wilshere is also set to return from suspension in a small boost for the Gunners as they look to build on last weekend's win.

Still, the absence of Gibbs could mean another star for Spanish youngster Hector Bellerin, who has made a few unexpected appearances in the first-team this season as a host of big names have been out of key fixtures.

Bellerin would likely play at right-back, meaning Calum Chambers can move centrally to fill in for the absent Koscielny alongside Per Mertesacker, moving Nacho Monreal back to his favoured left-sided position to replace Gibbs after a few unsuccessful games in the middle for Wenger's side.

On the state of his squad, Wenger said: "There are a few uncertainties, like Kieran Gibbs. Apart from that, everyone should be available.

"Wilshere is back from suspension. Gibbs is a hip problem. He is a doubt but we'll know more tomorrow."

Trabzonspor Confirm That Manchester United Are Watching Prolific Striker

Turkish Super League club Trabzonspor have confirmed that Premier League giants Manchester United have scouted their in-form striker Abdul Majeed Waris, report the Mail, seeming to confirm suggestions that the Red Devils had representatives at the club's Europa League victory over Lokeren last week.

Ghanaian international Waris has been in fine form for Trabzonspor this summer since joining from Russian outfit Spartak Moscow, continuing his form from Valenciennes, where Waris spent a successful loan season despite failing to keep the club in the French top flight.

It had been suggested that United had sent assistant manager Ryan Giggs to Turkey last week to scout Waris during the Europa League tie against Belgian outfit Lokeren, and comments from Trabzonspor now seem to confirmed that representatives from United have been watching their player in recent weeks:

"We have not have any direct offers however, we know Manchester United are scouting Waris and keeping close tabs on him."