Arsenal step up Alexis chase

Arsenal are leading the race to sign Barca ace Alexis Sanchez. The Gunners are in pole position to bag the €25m-rated attacker, with Arsene Wenger meeting with the Chilean's agent in Brazil to discuss a potential move

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Manchester United close in on €35m Herrera signing

The Red Devils have dispatched a lawyer to Spain as they look to finalise a deal for the 24-year-old, who will earn a staggering €181,000-a-week at Old Trafford

By Paul Clennam

Manchester United are closing in on a €35 million deal for Athletic Bilbao midfielder Ander Herrera, Goal understands.

The 24-year-old has been offered a staggering €181,000-a-week contract, with United dispatching a lawyer to Spain to thrash out a deal and the player having already bid farewell to his team-mates.

United are keen to finalise a move for Herrera in the coming days as they look to exploit a clause in his contract that would allow him to leave for €35m - a figure that would rise to around €40m on July 1.

New United boss Louis van Gaal, who takes over at Old Trafford after his World Cup commitments with Netherlands, has given the green light to the move as he looks to shape his squad for an assault on the Premier League title in 2014-15.

Herrera, who joined Athletic from Real Zaragoza back in 2011, has long been a transfer target for United, with the Red Devils having failed with a €32m bid to sign him on the final day of the summer transfer window last year.

Then manager David Moyes instead moved to seal a £27.5m deal for Everton midfielder Marouane Fellaini, although Goal understands that the majority of groundwork for Herrera's impending switch to Old Trafford was completed in 2013.

With Chelsea having secured the signature of Cesc Fabregas, and Diego Costa already on his way to Stamford Bridge after the World Cup, United are also signalling their intent to make a splash in the transfer market with their pursuit of Herrera.

Van Gaal has already discussed his list of potential targets with executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward, with Southampton left-back Luke Shaw, who will start England's final Group D clash against Costa Rica on Tuesday, already agreeing to move to Old Trafford.

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Mertesacker joins the 100 club - now the German generation must deliver

When Germany stormed their way to the World Cup semi-finals in South Africa four years ago, only to fall to Spain at the penultimate hurdle, the criticism levelled at them was that they were lacking in experienced heads.

It was a similar story two years later at Euro 2012, when they were defeated in the last four by Italy, playing a naive brand of football which left them vulnerable to the counterattack – and Mario Balotelli twice took full advantage.

This time out there can be no excuses. When he takes to the field against Ghana on Saturday, Per Mertesacker will become the latest player to reach the 100 club for the national team – and he is still under 30.

Since Low’s work with the national team began in 2006, he has gone about moulding a group that would grow together for years and years. Of course, as older stars move on and younger players come to the fore, new faces have appeared here and there, but a core of Mertesacker, Bastian Schweinsteiger, Philipp Lahm, Lukas Podolski and Miroslav Klose has remained for a decade.

As the years have gone by, key players have grown and grown. In 2013, Bayern delivered on the promise they had shown for years and finally delivered the treble they had been threatening to win for years. The mood among the Bavarians' stars will certainly be high.

Sami Khedira has become a key figure at Real Madrid and helped the Spanish giants win La Liga in 2012 – complete with a goal in the critical Clasico – and the Champions League last month.

Mertesacker, along with Podolski and Mesut Ozil helped Arsenal to win the FA Cup and end nine years of disappointment back in May.

Unlike in 2010, or even in 2012 – when Bayern were fresh from Champions League final defeats – this group of players have the experience of winning trophies to go with their undoubted ability.



Age is on their side too. Unlike Spain, perhaps the other most-fancied European team going into the tournament, Germany had only one player over 30 in their starting XI for their opening match - Philipp Lahm, whose talents are hardly on the wane following a great season with Bayern.

The youngest member of the first team for the decimation of Portugal was Mario Gotze, but the 22-year-old is hardly a novice, having won the Bundesliga three times and briefly held the title of the most expensive German player in history prior to Ozil’s move to Arsenal. He is no stranger to the hostility and pressure he’ll face as the tournament wears on.

Crucially, they are also in possession of players who have proved themselves on the big stage. Thomas Muller already has eight World Cup goals to his name, Klose is in hot pursuit of Ronaldo's record of 15 strikes and Podolski has shone at major tournaments throughout his career.

In Joachim Low, they also have an immensely experienced coach. His work with the DFB began in 2004 and he has overseen a huge period of change following the team’s failure at that summer's Euros. He can learn from the mistakes he and his players have made during his decade-long tenure.

The players are totally united behind their coach too, and recognise the importance of winning the competition this time.

“Low has introduced a totally new Germany team – one that is respected across the world,” Ozil said recently. “I hope he will finally be rewarded. He’s one of the best in the world and and we’re happy to have him around the team.”

All that now remains for the squad and their coach is to succeed at international level.

This could be their year. Germany started the tournament superbly, beating Portugal 4-0, despite initial concerns over team selection and a wave of injuries plaguing the team. Their remaining group games are against Ghana and USA and look distinctly winnable.

There should be no lingering doubts as to their ability to win big matches. On a personal level, too, they will want to silence their critics after falling short so many times before.

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The Insider: Balotelli could cost Arsenal €44m

AC Milan will instruct the Italy striker's agent Mino Raiola to squeeze an extra €12.5m [£10m] out of the Gunners, who were hopeful of landing the forward for a €31m [£25m] fee

By Paul Clennam

Arsenal may have to pay up to €44 million [£35m] in order to sign Mario Balotelli if AC Milan get their way, The Insider has learned.

Goal revealed earlier this week that Arsene Wenger and the player’s agent Mino Raiola were due to meet in Brazil - where the Arsenal manager is currently working as a pundit on French television - on Saturday, with a view to thrashing out a deal for the controversial Italy striker.

Arsenal were hopeful of being able to sign the former Manchester City star for around €31m [£25m] but Milan have issued Raiola with a mandate to get an extra €12.5m [£10m] from any potential buyer.

Having missed out on Champions League qualification Milan are willing to let their star player leave, but with Manchester City due to receive a 20 per cent sell-on fee the Italian giants are hoping to drive up the asking price.

Balotelli has scored 28 goals in 51 appearances for Milan since returning to Serie A in January 2013 and was coy when questioned about his future ahead of Italy’s shock 1-0 World Cup defeat against Costa Rica on Friday.

"I'm concentrating on the national team and the World Cup," he told reporters.

"What comes later, we will see. I know nothing."

Raiola was similarly guarded earlier this week with regards to his client’s future, saying:  "Arsenal are a fantastic club," when asked about the report by Sky Sports

"Only eight or 10 clubs in the world can afford Mario Balotelli - like all premium players, and he is one of the greatest.

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Thierry Henry has praised Joel Campbell saying that he hopes the youngster is given

Arsenal legend Thierry Henry has praised Joel
Campbell saying that he hopes the youngster is
given
an opportunity in an Arsenal shirt next season.
Campbell, 21, has been with Arsenal since 2011
but work permit issues have meant that the striker
has
been unable to make a single appearance for his
parent club. However those issues have now
been
solved and after a number of loan spells Campbell is
now ready to take his chance at Arsenal.
Henry, who is working for the BBC at the World
Cup
was effusive in his praise for Campbell saying that
he hoped Arsenal fans would get to see Campbell
lining
up for their team soon.
“Joel Campbell is a great player. He can pass the
ball
well and smells the goal,” Henry said. “We are all waiting to see him in an Arsenal shirt.
Hopefully he will be a player Arsene Wenger likes
because I would love to see him play for Arsenal.”
Henry played over 350 games for Arsenal and he
is
currently their all time record scorer with 226 goals in
all competitions.
This season Campbell has been on loan at Greek
side
Olympiacos where he shot to prominence
following his sensational goal against Manchester United in
the
Champions League.
He started the World Cup with a goal and an
assist as Costa Rica shocked Uruguay to claim an
opening 3-1 victory. He had a slightly more isolated
role against Italy but he still proved himself to be
a
very useful outlet for his team

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Serge Aurier ‘agrees personal terms with Arsenal’ ahead of £8million transfer

Aurier is currently at the World Cup in Brazil (Picture: PA)

Arsenal have agreed personal terms with Toulouse defender Serge Aurier and now hope to complete an £8million deal to bring him to the Emirates Stadium.
Aurier has been strongly linked with a switch to Arsenal all summer, with the club in need of a new right-back following the departure of Bacary Sagna to Manchester City.
And now L’Equipe and Get French Football report that the Gunners have agreed terms to sign the Ivory Coast international on a long-term deal – and now only need to agree a fee with Toulouse.
Arsenal’s opening offer is £8million and Arsene Wenger is now waiting to hear from the French club as to whether it has been accepted.
Aurier has accepted Arsenal’s offer of a five-year contract on terms worth £60,000-a-week, and a transfer could now be completed quickly.
Liverpool and QPR have previously shown an interest in the defender, who can also play left-back or in midfield.

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Arsenal forward Campbell hoped to put Italy to the sword in the early kick-off

After his heroics against Uruguay in the first game, all eyes were on Joel Campbell and whether he could once again step up and deliver - this time against group favourites Italy, fresh from their 2-1 win over England.

After a fairly quiet first half, the Arsenal forward sprung into life just before the half-time whistle blew as he raced through into the Italian penalty area only for Giorgio Chiellini to bundle him to the floor and get away with what looked a stonewall spot-kick.

Campbell had a fairly quiet second half as Italy looked for a way back into the match and was eventually taken off after 74 minutes but he can be pleased with his day's work and can look forward to featuring in the second round after the 1-0 victory secured qualification.

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Giroud, Joel Campbell & more - how the Premier League stars performed on World Cup day nine

There were plenty of representatives from England's top-flight on show in the France game, while Arsenal forward Campbell hoped to put Italy to the sword in the early kick-off

After missing the first game, Olivier Giroud was finally given his chance to shine for France - could he lead the line and ensure Didier Deschamps' men would all but secure their place in the World Cup second round?

Joel Campbell was another Gunner in action but could he really repeat his man-of-the-match display in the first game against Uruguay to put Italy to the sword - and ultimately send England packing?

Goal takes at look at how those two and the other representatives from the Premier Leauge got on on day nine of the World Cup...

After having been left out of France's opening World Cup win over Honduras Olivier Giroud made sure Didier Deschamps knew exactly how he felt about the decision.

The France coach duly gave his sulking striker the opportunity to impress in the second fixture against Switzerland and he certainly didn't let him down.

Giroud, leading the line with Karim Bezema and Mathieu Valbuena behind him in support, popped up with a thumping header after 17 minutes that Diego Benaglio could only push into his own net to give the French the lead.

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‘Special’ Ozil needs to be loved, says Mourinho

The Arsenal attacker was criticised for waning performances last season, but his former boss at Real Madrid believes he is a world-class player when filled with confidence

Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho has defended Arsenal’s record signing Mesut Ozil and says the Germany international is a “sensitive boy” who needs to feel loved.

The 25-year-old was the subject of criticism in the second half of his maiden campaign in England, with injuries and tiredness affecting his performances and contributing to accusations of a lack of work rate

But Mourinho, who coached the playmaker at Real Madrid, insists it is not in Ozil’s nature to tear around the field, but praised his ability on the ball and called for Arsenal fans to get behind the German.

“I think it's hard to criticize him, because Ozil is Ozil,” said Mourinho told Yahoo Sport.

“If you were expecting Ozil to be super aggressive and to be running miles and miles from side to side and to show great enthusiasm and aggressiveness, this is not Mesut.

“If you are waiting for somebody where every time he touches the ball, the ball smiles, every time he makes a pass, the ball goes in the right direction, at the right speed, the right intensity - this is Ozil."

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Vermaelen dismisses Manchester United speculation

Arsenal captain Thomas Vermaelen has dismissed speculation linking him with a move to Manchester United, claiming the rumours are "not true".

Several reports suggested Vermaelen had agreed to move to Old Trafford after the World Cup, where he is currently representing Belgium.

But he has now scotched talk of any move, insisting that he is purely focused on helping his country to glory in Brazil.

He told Sky Sports: "I know there has been a lot of talk and a lot of rumours but the only thing I can say is that they're not true.

"Everybody understands my situation at Arsenal and that I have one year left.

"I understand that people are going to talk but I am here in Brazil and I am enjoying my time and I'm focused on what I am doing."

However, Vermaelen refused to comment when asked if he had held talks with manager Arsene Wenger over his future.

"We talk a lot when I am at Arsenal but it's not what I am going to discuss here,” he added. “It is something you are going to have to ask him.”

United remain on the lookout for defensive reinforcements, with Nemanja Vidic, Rio Ferdinand and Alexander Buttner all set to leave the club this summer.

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Transfer Talk: Arsenal in for Alexis

 
The Gunners have joined Manchester United and Liverpool in the race for the Chilean star. Get the latest rumours with Transfer Talk

Transfer Zone

Transfer Talk: Arsenal in for Alexis

The Gunners have joined Manchester United and Liverpool in the race for the Chilean star. Get the latest rumours with Transfer Talk

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Spain 0-2 Chile: Aranguiz sends holders crashing out of World Cup

The reigning world and European champions have exited the competition at the group stage after being stunned by their South American opponents

World Cup holders Spain crashed out of the tournament after they were stunned 2-0 by a brilliant Chile side on Wednesday night.
After a 5-1 hammering against the Netherlands in their opening Group B clash, Vicente del Bosque's side needed an immediate response, but fell short in another lacklustre showing.
Having fallen behind to Eduardo Vargas' well-taken 20th-minute finish and been pushed to the brink by a second from Charles Aranguiz - helped by another Iker Casillas error - a comeback was never likely.
Del Bosque dropped Barcelona duo Gerard Pique and Xavi following the humiliation against the Dutch, but the change in personnel made little difference as they capitulated once again.

Busquets should probably have put Spain back into the contest early in the second half, but he inexplicably missed the target from close range, and from then on Spain lacked any real invention.
Victory for Chile means that their final group game against the Netherlands will determine who finishes top with both now through to the last 16, while Spain face Australia with nothing left to play for before heading home in despair.

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Fabregas: Arsenal fans' reaction to Chelsea move won't hurt me

The former Barcelona midfielder insists that he will not be affected by any backlash at the Emirates Stadium to his decision to join their Premier League rivals

Cesc Fabregas insists that he will not let any backlash from Arsenal fans to his decision to move to Chelsea affect him.

The Spain midfielder spent eight years with the Gunners and was named their captain before leaving to return to Barcelona in 2011.

Arsenal retained a first option on the 27-year-old if the Catalan side did decide to sell but opted not to exercise it before he agreed to join their London rivals.

"I'm mature enough for that [reaction] not to hurt," Fabregas told the press. "I have explained it well. I've always been very loyal and grateful to Arsenal.

"There was a first option they could exercise - I talked with Arsene Wenger and he told me that the area was covered with Mesut Ozil - but there is always fans who want to cause trouble."

Fabregas has also revealed that he asked to leave Barcelona after three mixed seasons in La Liga. He played under three different managers but only won the Spanish title once.

"There was a certain point when I took the decision and spoke to Andoni Zubizarreta [director of football] and the president [Josep Maria Bartomeu] and asked them to help me make the best decision," Fabregas explained to Cope.

"There were many, many factors. My numbers weren't bad but it's true that in big games I didn't manage to find those goals or assists.

"But I leave satisfied. I have played with my friends and experienced incredible moments in Camp Nou and outside. For me it was a great period but it's over and I wanted to find something new. I asked to leave."

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Balotelli: Wenger's biggest gamble

 

The Gunners boss is set to meet the Italian striker's representatives on Saturday ahead of a proposed €31 million move that would test every facet of his management skills

Arsene Wenger's reputation as the most reluctant of big spenders has been well earned but that should not detract from Frenchman's penchant for extreme risk-taking – the signing of Mario Balotelli, however, would surely represent the biggest gamble of his entire Arsenal tenure.

The professorial Arsenal manager and the wild child of Italian football would make for the oddest of odd couples but the attraction, on both sides, is obvious.

For Balotelli, this latest incarnation of Wenger's Arsenal is at the perfect stage of its evolution to help bring out the best in him. Pace, dynamism and vision are the hallmarks of a midfield that too often have seen their geometric approach work go to waste ever since Olivier Giroud was plucked from Montpellier to replace Robin van Persie

Unlike at Manchester City, the 23-year-old would not be competing with three equally gifted strikers for a starting place, while a supporting cast of Theo Walcott, Mesut Ozil and Aaron Ramsey would share the creative and goalscoring responsibilities that lie almost solely on his shoulders at Milan

For Wenger, the concerns over the player's temperament aside, Balotelli is, at his best, every inch the striker that his side require. Brute strength and devastating finishing are his trademarks but also he boasts a speed of thought and movement that are not exactly the hallmarks of the often-ponderous Giroud's game.

The Frenchman has battled gamely for two seasons now, ploughing the loneliest of lone furrows, and, while 39 goals in 79 appearances represents a more than fair return for a player of such obvious limitations, Wenger's pursuit of, first, Gonzalo Higuain and, latterly, Luis Suarez last summer represented a tacit admission that his faith in Giroud was anything but total.

Strange, then, that Wenger is seemingly prepared to go all in and stake his reputation on one of the most volatile and fascinating personalities in world sport. The Gunners boss has worked with testing characters before – Thierry Henry was at times anything but a model student, while Cesc Fabregas and Robin van Persie possessed a brattish element to their characters – but Balotelli is something different altogether.

A succession of high-profile managers have attempted to unlock the potential that clearly lies within but never with any lasting success. Jose Mourinho's time was too precious to spend on this problem child, Roberto Mancini treated Balotelli like a son and ended up coming to blows with him on the training pitch, while even a character as sage and composed as Clarence Seedorf was forced to admit that Balotelli was best left to his own devices.

At 64 years of age and over 1000 games into his Arsenal reign, it surely must be regarded as a positive sign that Wenger backs himself to succeed where so many others have failed. In truth, however, even if he were able to keep Balotelli on an even keel it would represent a battle only half won, for this is a player who has flattered to deceive since he returned to Italy.

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Cazorla considering Arsenal future

 

The Spain star says that he is concentrating on the World Cup for now but admits that he is aware of links with a summer move to Primera Division champions Atletico Madrid

Arsenal playmaker Santi Cazorla has revealed that he may look to leave the club this summer, with Atletico Madrid reportedly working on a deal to sign the Spain international.

The 29-year-old, who arrived at the Emirates Stadium from Malaga for around €20 million in 2012, has been strongly linked with a return to Spain despite having three years left on his current deal.

Cazorla made 47 appearances for Arsenal last season, scoring seven times with nine assists, but admits he could be tempted by a move to Spanish champions Atletico.

"When the World Cup is over, I'll start thinking about my situation," he told reporters.

"I don't want to be thinking about it right now and I've told my agents not to tell me anything if an offer comes in.

"But I know a few of the Atletico players - [Diego] Godin, Juanfran - and I know the side well from when I was playing the Spanish league.

"But until the tournament is over, I won't know if the rumours are true or not."

Atletico will have money to spend when the expected sales of Diego Costa and Filipe Luis to Chelsea go through for a combined €69m.

Former Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas has revealed that Arsene Wenger turned down the chance to re-sign him before completing his £28.4m move from Barcelona to Chelsea, stating: "Arsenal was my first option for the contract clause [but] we talked with Wenger and my position was filled in his team."

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Wenger to hold Balotelli talks

 

The Frenchman is set to meet with the striker's agent, Mino Raiola, on Saturday to discuss a deal to bring the Italy international back to the Premier League

Arsene Wenger will meet with Mario Balotelli's agent Mino Raiola on Saturday as Arsenal close in on the €31 million signing of the Italy striker, Goal understands.

Wenger is currently in Brazil working as a pundit for French TV and will hold talks with Raiola in an attempt to broker the Gunnders' first major deal of the summer.

	ARSENAL LATEST
4/6	Mario Balotelli is 4/6 with bet365 to be Italy's top scorer at the World Cup

Having seen Bacary Sagna leave on a free transfer to Manchester City and resisted the temptation to activate the buyback clause in Cesc Fabregas' Barcelona contract, Wenger is now primed to make use of the €122 million warchest it was revealed he would have at his disposal this summer

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Joel Campbell: I'm going back to Arsenal

 

The Costa Rica international, who was the best player on the pitch as his side struck a surprise 3-1 victory over Uruguay, expects to come in from the cold for the Gunners

By Robin Bairner in Fortaleza

Costa Rica's World Cup hero, Joel Campbell, has confirmed that he intends to start next season at Arsenal.

The 21-year-old scored once and created another as the Central American side caused the first upset of the World Cup, beating Uruguay 3-1 in Fortaleza.

Campbell signed for Arsenal three years ago but has spent the entire duration of his Gunners career out on loan, most recently with Greek champions Olympiakos, but hopes that his exploits in Brazil this summer will be enough to convince Arsene Wenger that his long-term future lies in north London.

"Of course I have to go back because I have a contract with Arsenal," he told reporters after the game on Saturday, "but the most important thing just now is my country and the World Cup."

Edinson Cavani scored the first goal of Saturday's game from the penalty spot but Costa Rica roared back in the second half, with Oscar Duarte and Marcos Urena joining Campbell on the scoresheet.

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Draxler dismisses renewed Arsenal links

 

Goal understands the Gunners have been long-term admirers of the Schalke star but he insists he wants to remain in the Bundesliga at Veltins-Arena for one more year

Schalke sensation Julian Draxler has revealed that he is planning to stay with the Bundesliga club for another year following further links to Arsenal.

Goal exclusively revealed that the Gunners were lining up a bid for the Germany international back in January, with Draxler himself confirming that Schalke blocked a potential switch to Emirates Stadium.

The 20-year-old has long been tracked by Arsene Wenger's side and, following reports that he is again being lined up as a potential summer target, Draxler insists he wants to stay put for one further year.

He said, as quoted by BBC Sport: "In January there was an offer from Arsenal but I decided to stay.

"I will do same this summer. I want one more year with Schalke."

Draxler struck two goals in 26 Bundesliga games last season and was an unused substitute as Germany kicked off their World Cup campaign in style with a 4-0 victory over Portugal on Monday.

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Brazil 3-1 Croatia: Neymar inspires Selecao comeback

Two goals from Neymar and a late Oscar strike inspired Brazil to a 3-1 comeback victory over Croatia in the opening game of the 2014 World Cup.

The host nation fell behind to an early own goal from Marcelo, before Neymar was perhaps fortunate to be shown just a yellow card after catching Luka Modric in the throat with a stray arm.

Soon after, the 22-year-old levelled with a fine 25-yard effort on his left foot, before converting a controversial second half penalty after Dejan Lovren was adjudged to have brought down Fred.

And as the game entered injury-time, man-of-the-match Oscar sped forward and toe-poked home an effort from the edge of the box to give Brazil breathing space and, most importantly, three points.

While Brazil had the luxury of naming the same side that started last year's Confederations Cup final success over Spain, Croatia were without suspended striker Mario Mandzukic, leaving Nikica Jelavic to lead the line in his absence.

Also without injured left-back Danijel Pranjic, Croatia fired the first shot in anger as Mateo Kovacic steered an effort wide in the first minute.

Brazil's first significant foray forward saw David Luiz's tame header saved, but the pressure was on them at the other end of the pitch.

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Remy to wait for Arsenal despite agreeing Tottenham deal

The France international has agreed a deal in principle to join Mauricio Pochettino's side but will delay its completion in case Spurs' rivals make a move after the World Cup

EXCLUSIVE
By Greg Stobart

Tottenham are ready to pay the £9 million buy-out clause to sign Loic Remy from QPR but the striker is holding out for the possibility of a move to Arsenal after the World Cup.

Spurs want to sign Remy to strengthen the attacking options for new manager Mauricio Pochettino and extensive talks have taken place over a deal to bring the 27-year-old to White Hart Lane.

Tottenham are long-term admirers of Remy and are confident of signing him on a four-year contract after the World Cup in Brazil, where he is part of the 23-man France squad.

They tried a number of times to sign Remy under Harry Redknapp and the versatile forward is highly-rated by scout Ian Broomfield, who returned to Spurs earlier this year from QPR.

Remy wants to play for a club in the Champions League next season but has been impressed by Tottenham’s ambition and considers the north Londoners a leading Premier League club.

But while he is open to a move to Tottenham, Remy would prefer to wait to establish the extent of the interest from their neighbours, Arsenal.

The Gunners have previously linked with Remy and the former Marseille man was pictured watching their final home game of the season against West Brom in May.

Remy signed for QPR for £8m in 2013 and is almost certain to leave this summer following an impressive campaign on loan at Newcastle last term, where he scored 14 Premier League goals.

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Arsenal in talks to re-sign Carlos Vela, says Real Sociedad chief

The Gunners are keen to bring the Mexican back to north London, and he would be available for just €4 million, though the striker himself hopes to remain in Spain

Real Sociedad president Jokin Aperribay has revealed that Arsenal are in talks to bring Carlos Vela back to the Emirates Stadium this summer.

The Mexico international made a permanent switch to the San Sebastian outfit in 2012, though the Gunners included a buy-back clause in his sale which allows them to re-sign Vela for a fee of just €4 million [£3.2m].

And while Sociedad are keen to keep both the 25-year-old striker and goalkeeper Claudio Bravo - a €9m [£7.3m] target for Barcelona - Aperribay admits the club could lose the pair, even though Vela would prefer to stay.

"We are talking with great clubs like Barcelona and Arsenal. Things are really difficult, but nothing is finished," he told Euskal Irrati Telebista

We are in a difficult moment if we want some players to continue at Real Sociedad next year, but we'll try to complete our squad in the best way.

"We understand what Arsenal represent and what Barcelona represent. There aren't deadlines with them, just talks, and we are looking at what is best for us.

"Arsenal have told us they are interested in the player [Vela] and we have to think on that.

"The player wants to continue here, in San Sebastian, and this is an important point for us.

"Bravo wants to join for Barcelona, and you know there are advanced talks for him. I'm not going to talk about the price."

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Arsenal make first summer signing: a new fitness coach

Shad Forsythe, who works for the Germany national team, will join the Gunners after the World Cup following Arsene Wenger's review of the team's training methods

Arsenal have taken a major step to reduce their injury problems by appointing a new fitness guru, Goal can reveal.

Shad Forsythe, who is head fitness coach for the Germany national team, has reached an agreement to join Arsene Wenger's backroom team after the World Cup

The 40-year-old American will work alongside Tony Colbert, Arsenal's first-team fitness coach for the last 16 years, as Wenger addresses the injury issues which have consistently held back his team at critical times of the season in recent years

Wenger vowed to review the Gunners' training and medical procedures following serious injuries suffered by key players in the second half of the recent domestic campaign, including Aaron Ramsey, Mesut Ozil, Theo Walcott and Jack Wilshere.

According to a study by physioroom.com, Arsenal players were unavailable for more days last season due to injury than at any other Premier League club.

Gunners chiefs hope Forsythe's appointment will modernise their injury prevention methods at their London Colney headquarters.

Forsythe was recruited by Germany in 2004 by former manager Jurgen Klinsmann and has spent the last 10 years overseeing the national team's fitness preparation. He will link up permanently with the Gunners after the World Cup in Brazil.

His appointment is especially noteworthy as Wenger, who recently signed a new three-year contract, very rarely makes changes to his backroom staff

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Insigne honoured by Arsenal link, says agent

 

The Italy international's representative admits Napoli would not be willing to sell the forward as they view him as a key player for the future

Lorenzo Insigne’s agent claims the Napoli forward is “honoured” to be linked with Arsenal but admits a move to Arsene Wenger's side this summer will be difficult.

The 23-year-old scored three goals in 36 Serie A appearances this season and is in Italy’s 23-man World Cup squad.

Insigne has a contract with Napoli until 2018 and the player’s representative admits reaching a deal is unlikely unless the Serie A club no longer view him as a "key player".

“We take into account the praising reports that Wenger has given about the player,” Antonio Ottaiano told Tuttomercatoweb.

“We are honoured that a club like Arsenal could have Lorenzo on their wish list. However, from here to take it to the next level, that is a possible transfer, there is a huge mountain in between named Napoli.

“The club consider him without a shadow of a doubt as one of their key players for their ambitious project.

“Hence, as of today, I don’t see that there can be any further developments unless Arsenal speak to Napoli directly and Napoli change their view on Lorenzo’s role here.”

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De Laurentiis: Arsenal's Insigne interest makes me laugh

 

The Napoli president has no desire to sell the 23-year-old, despite the Gunners' overtures, and also poured cold water on a potential bid for Tottenham winger Erik Lamela

Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis says Arsenal's interest in Lorenzo Insigne makes him “laugh.”

Insigne's agent appeared to open the door to a potential move to the Emirates on Saturday, telling
Tuttomercatoweb: “We are honoured that a club like Arsenal could have Lorenzo on their wish list.”

Reports have suggested Arsenal could table a £20m bid for the 23-year-old, but De Laurentiis claims he has not intention of allowing the player to leave.

“Arsenal offers 20 million for Insigne? This makes me laugh. I want to make Insigne rise to a value of 60-70 million,” he told Repubblica

De Laurentiis also admits the club were interested in signing Javier Mascherano – who renewed his contract with Barcelona earlier this week – but says they “wanted him only on loan.” 

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Mandzukic puts Arsenal and Chelsea on red alert

 

The striker, whose contract expires in 2016, has confirmed he will leave Bayern Munich after becoming frustrated with the club's style of play under Pep Guardiola

Mario Mandzukic has confirmed he will leave Bayern Munich this summer, putting Arsenal and Chelsea on red alert.

The striker vowed to fight for his place following the announcement of the signing of Robert Lewandowski in January, but an exit became increasingly likely for the Croatian, who has admitted Bayern's style of play under Pep Guardiola does not suit him.

The news will likely interest Arsene Wenger, who has promised Gunners fans a busy summer, while Chelsea will also be looking to bolster their attacking options, with Diego Costa due to move to Stamford Bridge, while Samuel Eto'o and Romelu Lukaku are on their way out.

"At Bayern it was fantastic. It's a fantastic club. Indeed, until recently I didn't even think about leaving, and especially that it would happen now," he told Sportske novosti.

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Transfer Talk: Arsenal want Ospina

Arsenal are targeting Colombia international goalkeeper David Ospina following Lukasz Fabianski's exit to Swansea. Arsene Wenger wants Ospina to provide competition to Wojciech Szczesny

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Fabregas should come back to Arsenal, says Cazorla

The Gunners playmaker is keen for the Barcelona midfielder to spurn the likes of Chelsea and Manchester City to rejoin the club whom he left for Camp Nou in 2011

Arsenal midfielder Santi Cazorla is keen for Cesc Fabregas to turn down the Premier League teams chasing him and to return to north London this summer.

It has been revealed that Manchester City are preparing a €37 million bid for the Barcelona star, who is widely expected to leave Camp Nou, but Chelsea join Manchester United, Liverpool and the Gunners in also monitoring his situation.

 Fabregas spent eight years with Arsene Wenger's side before rejoining the club who oversaw his development at youth level in 2011 and Cazorla believes that it would be a good fit for his Spain team-mate

I have read that Cesc could go to Chelsea but I prefer it if he came to Arsenal. He has given a lot to the club and he knows it well," the ex-Villarreal star told reporters ahead of La Roja's final World Cup warm-up game against El Salvador.

"I hope that he is happy, he chooses his club well and is comfortable there."

Cazorla argues that Fabregas's performances for Barcelona have not merited some of the criticism that has been sent his way and believes that he would be warmly welcomed back on British shores

The playmaker added: "I don't see any differences between his performances in the Premiership and with Barca.

"His record is spectacular at Barcelona and he has demonstrated that he has adapted but they haven't given him the same value as in England.

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Brazil 3 vs 0 Panama in progress innternational friend-Brazil vs Panama LIVE Commentary

 

27′ Neymar

 

40′ Daniel Alves

 

46′ Hulk

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Arsenal on brink of clinching £7m Aurier deal

 

The Toulouse right-back's agent denies an agreement has been reached, but the Gunners remain confident the defender will be among their first signings of the summer

Arsenal are on the brink of agreeing a £7 million deal for Toulouse defender Serge Aurier, Goal understands.

The Gunners have held extensive talks with the French club about the fee to be paid for the right-back and are close to finalising the structure of payments

Arsenal have not yet agreed personal terms with the 21-year-old, who is preparing for the World Cup with the Ivory Coast squad.

But the London club are confident of securing the player's signature following the summer tournament.

Goal revealed earlier this month that Arsenal had opened preliminary talks with Toulouse over a move for Aurier after making the versatile right-back their top target to replac

 Arsene Wenger has also considered a move for Atletico Madrid's Juanfran but appears to have settled for the considerably more youthful Aurier.

The Ivorian has impressed Wenger's scouting team with his performances for Ligue 1 side Toulouse, providing a regular supply of goals and assists from his right-back berth. He can also fill in at left-back and centre-back, a position he held in many games during the recently completed domestic season.

Wenger wants deals in place for two new players before the World Cup, even if the formalities are not completed until after the event.

Aurier's agent Stephane Courbis has told French radio station RMC that Arsenal have held discussions over a move for his client but denied that an agreement had been reached and claimed another Premier League club were pursuing the player.

Nevertheless, Arsenal are increasingly confident that Aurier will be one of their first summer signings as Wenger steps up plans to strengthen his squad.

Given his age, the likelihood is that Aurier will battle it out with Carl Jenkinson, 22, for a starting role at Emirates Stadium next season.

Sagna, meanwhile, is expected to join Manchester City after being offered a lucrative three-year deal during talks in Manchester earlier this month.

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ARSENAL STRIKER SEARCH- Transfer Talk: Arsenal target Bony

 According to the Daily Star, Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger wants to rival Chelsea for Wilfried Bony and is prepared to pay as much as £25 million for the Swansea striker. The Ivorian scored 25 goals in 48 appearances for the Swans in his debut season

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Arsenal face Aurier fight, says agent

Despite holding preliminary talks over a move for the Toulouse right-back in May, the Gunners have not held further discussions, according to the player's representative

Arsenal face competition from another English club for Toulouse right-back Serge Aurier, according to the player’s agent.

Goal exclusively revealed in May that Arsene Wenger’s side had opened preliminary talks with the Ligue 1 club over a €9 million deal for the 21-year-old, who is lined up as a replacement for Bacary Sagna.

But Aurier’s agent, Stephane Courbis, claims Arsenal have not followed up their interest in his client, who is in Cote d'Ivoire's 23-man World Cup squad, and has revealed another Premier League club are competing for the defender’s signature.

"There is no agreement with Arsenal or anyone else," Courbis told RMC.

"There have been discussions with Arsenal in the past, but it's been a while since there has been any talks.

"To tell you the truth, we are even talking to another English club, so there is really nothing to act upon."

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England aiming to win World Cup - Oxlade-Chamberlain

 

Despite Roy Hodgson announcing a youthful and inexperienced 23-man squad, the Arsenal forward is confident the Three Lions can impress during the summer tournament

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain says England are going to the World Cup looking to win rather than use it as a "stepping stone" for the future.

Roy Hodgson has selected a youthful and inexperienced 23-man squad - including the likes of Luke Shaw, Ross Barkley and Raheem Sterling - but that does not worry the Arsenal forward.

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Germany deserve World Cup glory, believes Ozil

 

Arsenal star Mesut Ozil believes Germany deserve to win this summer's World Cup after going without a major trophy for several years, but has acknowledged that Joachim Low's men face a tough task to beat favourites Brazil.

Germany made it to at least the semi-finals at the past three World Cups, but have not won the competition since beating Argentina in the final in 1990.

Consequently, Ozil is determined to help his country to finally regain the game's most prestigious prize.

"Germany deserve to win a World Cup again," the attacking midfielder told Bild. "The entire nation seemingly expects us to win the World Cup.

"We were all still young in 2010 and everybody was surprise that we were that good, but there's plenty of pressure this time around.

"Everything's different now because we have been playing some great football over the past four years.

"But winning the World Cup will be quite difficult. Brazil are the favourites, but we can make history by becoming the first European country to win the title in South America.

"When you get to play at the World Cup, you want to win the tournament, too. And we definitely have the potential to win it."

Germany meet Portugal, Ghana and USA in the group stages this summer

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Thiago Silva: Neymar will be star of the World Cup.

 

 The 21-year-old scored just nine goals in his first season in La Liga following last summer's move to Barcelona, with off-the-field concerns surrounding his transfer making headlines more frequently than his form for the Blaugrana.

However, the former Santos star was key to Brazil's charge to Confederations Cup glory in 2013, picking up the Golden Ball after being named the tournament's best player, and his international team-mate has no doubt he will light up this summer's finals on home soil once again.

"Our strength has always been the collective quality of our group," Thiago Silva was quoted as saying by Mundo Deportivo. "We're good as a team, we're ready and we hope to have a great World Cup.

"But certainly Neymar is a triumph of individuality. Neymar will be the World Cup's star."

Brazil are the pre-tournament favourites heading into the World Cup as they bid to claim their sixth global crown, and Thiago Silva insists the squad are fully confident they can live up to the weight of expectation.

"We have confidence we can win," added the Paris Saint-Germain skipper.

"I will do it for all of us, all Brazilians, to live that special moment."

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Eto'o mocks Mourinho... yet again

 

Samuel Eto'o has yet again mocked Jose Mourinho after celebrating a goal in Cameroon's 2-2 friendly draw against Germany on Sunday night.

Mourinho was caught on camera lamenting the quality of the forwards at his disposal at a sponsors' event in Switzerland in February, and suggested that Eto'o could be older than he claims to be.

The 33-year-old striker netted the first goal against Joachim Low's side on Sunday, and repeated the celebration he first unveiled against Tottenham where he held his back in mock pain and used the corner flag as a walking stick.

Despite the previously strong relationship between the pair at Inter helping to secure Eto'o's signature last summer, the forward has since labelled Mourinho both a "fool" and a "puppet", and has been released by the Stamford Bridge side.

"Today, I am 33-years-old - and it is not because a fool called me an old man that you must believe it," Eto'o said on 15 May, while he believes he did more at his age than Mourinho's other striking options last season.

"Contrary to what a puppet says about my age, I am still physically fit. At 33, I feel really good. I have proven that I can do better than the younger players," he said a week later.

Goal understands that Eto'o is in talks with Chinese side Guangzhou Evergrande over a move, though his high wage demands may prove a stumbling block.

Another Chelsea forward, Andre Schurrle, also netted in the friendly as both Germany and Cameroon stepped up their preparations for the World Cup.

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Aurier appears to confirm Arsenal move

 

The Toulouse right-back seemed to suggest to a fan during an Ivory Coast game that a deal had been done, with Arsene Wenger currently searching for Bacary Sagna's replacement

Toulouse right-back Serge Aurier appears to have confirmed that he will be joining Arsenal as Bacary Sagna's replacement.

Goal revealed in May that the Gunners had opened preliminary talks with the defender over a £7 million summer move to the Emirates Stadium following an impressive Ligue 1 campaign in which he scored six goals and created six more.

And after being asked by an Arsenal fan at the Ivory Coast's 2-1 friendly defeat against Bosnia, the 21-year-old said he would be joining the north London club this summer.

Aurier has since retweeted the video from his official Twitter account, and made no secret of his desire to play for Arsene Wenger's side last month.

"I've never prioritised a club in England as even the promoted clubs are respectable," he told Eurosport France in May.

"I will privilege the one that will show the most interest in me, that will give me the most game time. After that, you can't really say 'no' to Arsenal.

"It's a club with history, with a French manager, who has welcomed many French players."

Current Arsenal right-back Sagna has confirmed he will leave the club this summer after letting his contract run out, stating: "It's no longer a secret, I will leave Arsenal for sure."

Goal revealed in May that the 31-year-old has opened former talks with Manchester City over a contract, leaving Carl Jenkinson as the only recognised right-back for Wenger to choose from.

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