Inter Milan sporting director Piero Ausilio has stated that the club are looking to “lock” up Mauro Icardi’s long-term future amid rumours the Argentina striker could be heading to the Premier League.

Liverpool are believed to be among the clubs who scouted Icardi during his two-goal performance in the recent 3-0 win over Palermo, reported by Simon Johnson of the London Evening Standard. The Reds are “long-term admirers” according to the Daily Star‘s Jonathan Green, who also believes Chelsea “have stepped up their interest” in the 21-year-old.

Ausilio, however, has revealed there is “no rush” to give Icardi a new contract, reported by David Amoyal, who writes on behalf of Sky Italia’s Gianluca Di Marzio.

Johnson previously suggested Inter are only willing to up Icardi’s wages to £28,000 per week, failing to match the £43,000 weekly slice he allegedly wants. Ausilio remains relaxed on Icardi’s future, reported by Amoyal:

We don’t consider Icardi’s situation a problem, maybe someone thinks he deserves more but he’s serene. He has a five year contract and that’s an important reality, maybe it was a lot of money when we signed him, if today it isn’t enough there isn’t an urgent deadline, if not we would see him more often. We want to lock him up long term, we’ll do it at right time and in a way that works for everyone, there is no rush.

Icardi has netted 15 goals in 26 appearances across all competitions this season, per WhoScored.com. He is a potential candidate to lead Brendan Rodgers’ 3-4-2-1 formation and can offer clinical quality in the box. He’s a natural finisher, highlighted below:

It seems the Reds may also come up short in the hunt for Paris Saint-Germain’s Ezequiel Lavezzi, a player who was heavily linked with Liverpool during the January transfer window, reported by Anthony Chapman of the Express.

According to Italian publication Tuttosport (h/t Jamie Anderson of the Daily Star), Lavezzi is now a target for Inter boss Roberto Mancini, who remains “underwhelmed” by Lukas Podolski’s performances. The on-loan Arsenal forward is yet to net since moving at the beginning of the recently closed window and could head back to north London in search of a permanent move elsewhere.

Mancini “will opt to sign” Lavezzi instead of the German, reported by Anderson. B/R UK’s Sam Tighe recently dissected whether or not Lavezzi would be a smart purchase for Liverpool, who possess a number of similarly styled players:

Lavezzi has suffered a poor season, both on and off the pitch. He was recently accused of showing a “total lack of respect” by PSG boss Laurent Blanc after returning to the French capital late from the Christmas break, reported by the Press Association (h/t ESPN FC).

The 29-year-old has just three goals in 26 appearances this season, per WhoScored.com, making him a likely candidate to be chopped in the summer. He would fit in well with Rodgers’ style—he’s direct, quick and can be pushed to work hard—but it seems Mancini will put up a major fight to secure his signature.

Liverpool are getting stronger all the time and have a real possibility of making next season’s Champions League.

Rodgers’ men haven’t lost inside 90 minutes for 15 matches and are looking to build on Tuesday’s terrific 3-2 victory over Tottenham. Quality players are needed to take the team forward in the summer, but with Icardi and Lavezzi reportedly generating major interest, Rodgers may need to scour elsewhere.

from Bleacher Report – Front Page http://ift.tt/1B1ik0u
via IFTTT http://ift.tt/eA8V8J

Lukas Podolski is set to return to Arsenal in the summer after failing to impress Roberto Mancini at Inter Milan, according to Tuttosport (h/t Jamie Anderson of the Daily Star).

Podolski joined the Italian outfit on loan in January after struggling for first-team opportunities at Arsenal. Anderson suggests he has “underwhelmed” Mancini, who will opt to spend greater cash to sign Paris Saint-Germain’s Ezequiel Lavezzi at the end of the season.

Even so, Anderson believes Podolski’s north London reunion will be “brief.” It’s questionable whether we’ll ever see the German international in an Arsenal shirt again, particularly when you consider the poor form and public irritation he displayed while at the Emirates.

Podolski scored three goals in 13 appearances across all competitions this season for Arsenal, two of which came during his only start against Galatasaray, per WhoScored.com. He is yet to net in six appearances for Inter, where he hasn’t managed to make Arsene Wenger regret letting him leave.

The former Bayern Munich man was critical of the Frenchman upon leaving Arsenal, reported by The Sun (h/t Sky Sports):

He said nothing to me. He did not call or say goodbye. I don’t need flowers or a kiss from him. But it is about respect, about saying goodbye. For me, respect is important. I did everything for the club I possibly could have. I don’t believe I did anything wrong.

A parting shot of this kind makes it even more difficult for Podolski to be welcomed back to England with open arms. Even if Mancini opts for Lavezzi, it’s unlikely Arsenal fans will see Podolski bombing down the left wing again.

Someone who could operate this side is Real Madrid’s Fabio Coentrao, a player Arsenal have reportedly scouted in recent weeks, reported by Spanish publication Fichajes (h/t Jamie Sanderson of the Metro). It is suggested the full-back has been added to the club’s “list of summer targets” and that the Gunners are “set to make an official offer for the player,” per Sanderson.

Coentrao is a quality all-rounder, the type of individual who struggles to break into the Madrid first-team but would excel elsewhere.

Wenger has deployed Nacho Monreal at left-back in Kieran Gibbs’ absence this season, making additional strength necessary in the summer. Coentrao has the versatility to play further forward and has even been known to slot into defensive midfield, so he could be a smart capture.

The Portuguese player is currently struggling with injury, per AS:

Coentrao’s transfer would be among the most noteworthy of the summer. Bleacher Report UK’s Ryan Bailey and Matteo Bonetti recently looked at a handful of other deals which could grab headlines across Europe:

Wenger’s squad is moving in the right direction. His capture of centre-back Gabriel Paulista during the January transfer window ensures Arsenal have enough defensive cover to see out the season, but there’s no doubt additional quality is needed across the board if the club are to challenge in all competitions.

It’s likely Wenger will target another forward when the summer market opens, particularly if Podolski’s reported return is short-lived. Arsenal have spent big during the last two end-of-season windows—bringing in Mesut Ozil and Alexis Sanchez—so it’s likely Wenger will once again drop significant cash to improve the squad.

from Bleacher Report – Front Page http://ift.tt/1FBscg7
via IFTTT http://ift.tt/eA8V8J

Filipe Luis has made a point of publicly showing he is happy at Chelsea after taking to Twitter to combat claims he wishes to exit Stamford Bridge.

Spanish publication AS (h/t Jack Wilson of the Daily Star) recently claimed Luis has “realised how content he was” at Atletico Madrid, the club he departed for Chelsea in the summer. “It’s suggested that he confessed to fellow Brazilian Miranda that he would like to come back,” notes Wilson.

The left-back has responded quickly, making his love for the Premier League leaders well and truly known:

Luis has made 16 appearances across all competitions this season, per WhoScored.com. The attack-minded full-back has largely failed to knock Cesar Azpilicueta out of the team, but he enjoyed a recent run in Jose Mourinho‘s side during the Spaniard’s recent recovery from injury.

His presence in the squad underlines Chelsea’s top-quality back-up. Luis would automatically make it into most teams in the world, but to be able to field him in something of a rotational role underlines the strength at Mourinho‘s disposal.

Supporters will likely wish to focus on who the club could bring in during the summer transfer window.

Simon Johnson of the London Evening Standard believes Mauro Icardi has become a “contract rebel” at Inter Milan, who are not prepared to meet his £43,000 per week wages demands. The striker’s name continues to be linked with Chelsea, who are “considering” a move, per Johnson.

Interestingly, speculation has emerged suggesting Bastian Schweinsteiger could be looking for a route away from Bayern Munich.

Chelsea are outlined as potential candidates for his signature by Bruce Archer of the Daily Express, who indicates the German midfielder believes, “he could move abroad.” This information allegedly comes from Schweinsteiger‘s upcoming autobiography, with Archer citing Spanish sources.

Mourinho is a lover of all-action midfield leaders. During his initial spell in west London, the Portuguese boss deployed Claude Makelele in a holding role, before trying to sign Steven Gerrard. He eventually settled on Michael Ballack, a player who offers similar physicality and energy to German counterpart Schweinsteiger.

Chelsea’s midfield has been in excellent shape this season. Nemanja Matic and Cesc Fabregas offer an often match-winning blend of tackling ability and vision, instantly forming arguably the best central midfield partnership in the division (aided by Oscar sitting just ahead). John Obi Mikel has also performed well during his bit-part displays, and Ramires is currently enjoying a rich turn of form.

There’s no denying Schweinsteiger would be a quality addition, though. The World Cup winner has captured everything imaginable at the Allianz Arena and could continue to progress with a different challenge. He is 30, after all, and may fancy proving his worth outside the Bundesliga.

Schweinsteiger‘s move would undoubtedly be one of the biggest transfers of the summer. B/R UK’s Ryan Bailey and Matteo Bonetti recently weighed up other potential deals which could provide headlines across the continent:

Mourinho continues to fine-tune his squad. Despite only returning to Chelsea at the start of last season, he has proven decisive and ready to act when pinpointing transfer targets. Matic and Fabregas are the result of a manager who doesn’t settle for anything less than world-class.

Schweinsteiger would fit in well and, indeed, further galvanise one of Europe’s most complete squads.

from Bleacher Report – Front Page http://ift.tt/1zL5TEa
via IFTTT http://ift.tt/eA8V8J

Manchester United are one of four clubs currently courting Inter Milan striker Mauro Icardi, according to reports.

BeIN Sports’ Tancredi Palmeri suggests Chelsea are making the most noise ahead of potentially capturing the 21-year-old striker:

Icardi took his Serie A goals total to 13 this season with his recent brace against Palermo, reported by WhoScored.com. Louis van Gaal will have the opportunity of signing Radamel Falcao on a permanent deal at the end of the season, but it remains to be seen whether the Colombian will prove his worth during his current loan spell. If he doesn’t, Icardi could be an option.

Falcao has scored four Premier League goals and provided three assists in 15 appearances this campaign, per WhoScored.com. His work-rate has been impressive, but it’s difficult to shake the feeling this isn’t the same player who romped through Europe at his previous clubs, noted by former Tottenham striker Gary Lineker:

The 29-year-old striker missed an excellent opportunity to equalise during United’s recent draw with West Ham, a result which was salvaged through a last-gasp Daley Blind strike. Falcao continues to throw his weight around but is regularly knocked off the ball.

His partnership with Robin van Persie is slowing United’s forward play, and in truth, Falcao hasn’t hit domestic double-figures since 2013, per WhoScored.com. This is something Icardi has already achieved with an improving Inter side, potentially giving Van Gaal something to think about for the summer.

United are also said to be eyeing Palermo’s Paulo Dybala, tweeted by BT Sport:

Reported target Marco Reus is said to be on the brink of penning a contract extension at Borussia Dortmund, per Ben Jefferson of the Express. Will Tidey of B/R UK thinks Van Gaal will pass with this in mind:

Such a player could be a long-term replacement for Angel Di Maria, who has confirmed he wishes to return to Argentina to finish his playing days. While this shouldn’t happen for some years yet—the 26-year-old is just getting started at Old Trafford—his desire at least provides United ample time to plan for the future.

Di Maria spoke to FifaTV (h/t Jack De Menezes of The Independent):

I think the next step would be to go back to Rosario Central, another giant! Let me explain: it’s true, I have played for big European clubs already. I’ve played two World Cups, I’ve won the Champions League.

I started at Benfica, not as big but one of the biggest clubs in Portugal. I’ve played for Real Madrid. Then I moved to Manchester United, from a giant to another giant. I think after this, it’ll be time to go back home. I hope so.

United’s decision not to spend in January and incoming £75 million per-season shirt deal with Adidas ensures the club can go big in the summer. Players such as Icardi, Dybala and Reus represent real options for Van Gaal, who needs to continue adding quality to his squad.

The Red Devils will become a more attractive prospect if Champions League football can be attained, a feat which would also allow the club to spend further cash in their attempt to become one of Europe’s powerhouse teams once more.

from Bleacher Report – Front Page http://ift.tt/1KDJ1dh
via IFTTT http://ift.tt/eA8V8J

Chelsea have reportedly made contact with Mauro Icardi’s agent after a host of Premier League clubs were said to have scouted the Inter Milan striker during his two-goal performance in Sunday’s 3-0 win over Palermo.

Tancredi Palmeri of BeIN Sports provided the lowdown:

Icardi is currently in the process of negotiating a new contract at the San Siro, according to Serie A specialist David Amoyal, who writes on behalf of Sky Italia’s Gianluca Di Marzio:

The negotiation continues, while a divorce is still a possibility. Inter and Icardi have ongoing conversations about an extension for the striker who currently earns €1 million net. The club has offered €2.8 million a season, but they are still discussing the image rights.

Inter recently changed their policy, they want to control all of those revenues, but they are willing to make an exception and leave Icardi 50 percent.

Amoyal notes that, “despite the ongoing talks, it’s possible Icardi leaves in the summer.” The 21-year-old’s current contract runs until 2018, so his value isn’t likely to take a massive dip for another two seasons.

Inter are likely preserving their own interests with negotiations—perhaps inserting a buyout clause—to ensure prospective suitors pay top dollar for the man who has netted 13 goals in the Italian division this season, reported by WhoScored.com.

Icardi’s brushes with controversy always threaten to lower his value, however. He recently got into a heated confrontation with Inter fans after the team’s defeat to Sassuolo, reported Marcus Christenson of The Guardian. He is also famed for marrying the ex-wife of former team-mate Maxi Lopez, who he failed to shake hands with on the pitch in April 2014.

The youngster certainly picked an excellent time to perform well if scouts were present against Palermo, though, noted by WhoScored.com:

Icardi’s game is built around a natural fire, the kind which you wouldn’t want to completely extinguish in fear of him losing his edge. Those monitoring the player will undoubtedly be making note of the silly antics, but when all is said and done, Icardi’s ability to score goals will signal his true value.

Chelsea currently play a lone striker, so it’s difficult to suggest he would receive much playing time at Stamford Bridge. Both Diego Costa and Loic Remy are capable of spearheading the line every week, while Didier Drogba’s time is running out as a top-level footballer. Whether Icardi would settle for being one of three quality options is debateable.

Manchester United’s interest is curious. Louis van Gaal needs to make a decision over Radamel Falcao’s permanent signing at the end of the season. If he doesn’t bother to retain the Colombian, United will have ample funds to spend on a new striker. The Red Devils need pace up top, however, particularly if Robin van Persie is to continue slowing down.

Liverpool already possess one hot-headed Italian in the form of Mario Balotelli, a punt which has paid off with exactly zero Premier League goals this season. Balotelli’s potential exit would be among the most interest-generating moves of the summer, with other potentially interesting deals recently outlined by Bleacher Report UK’s Ryan Bailey and Matteo Bonetti:

Manchester City’s reported interest appears misplaced after the club spent £28 million on Wilfried Bony in January. Considering Sergio Aguero, Edin Dzeko and Stevan Jovetic still reside at the Etihad Stadium, there’s little room for Icardi right now. 

Should Icardi continue to mop up in the box with regular goals, the controversies and headlines won’t matter. Should he fail to maintain a consistent run of form, these stories will be amplified. There’s certainly a rough diamond on offer here, a player who can go far if he focuses, but Icardi is a risk. 

Jose Mourinho has proven he doesn’t mind taking a chance in the past—Costa is hardly a squeaky-clean player—so it wouldn’t be beyond the Portuguese manager to submit a bid for the Italian and, indeed, get the best out of him.

from Bleacher Report – Front Page http://ift.tt/1KDhQiK
via IFTTT http://ift.tt/eA8V8J

Liverpool “sent a scout” to watch Mauro Icardi and Paulo Dybala in action during Inter Milan’s 3-0 win over Palermo on Sunday, according to Gazetta dello Sport (h/t Kristian Walsh of the Liverpool Echo).

Both strikers are in hot demand this season and are among Serie A’s top goalscorers, per WhoScored.com. Icardi took his tally to 13 with his brace in the aforementioned victory, while Dybala remains on 11 after failing to build on his goal against Verona the week before.

Walsh suggests Liverpool “wanted to keep an eye on” the duo as they squared up at the San Siro. They are wildly different players but could fulfill Brendan Rodgers’ current need to sign a top-quality central striker.

Icardi is a tempestuous, difficult character whose argumentative nature recently saw him confront Inter fans with expletives after the defeat to Sassuolo, reported by Marcus Christenson of The Guardian. Despite his two goals against Palermo, the 21-year-old opted not to celebrate in front of his own supporters.

“It is his decision not to celebrate, but I can assure you in the locker room he was very happy,” said his team-mate Fredy Guarin, per Sky Italia (h/t Football Italia).

The Italian feeds off chances fired into the box but could be accused of being selfish on the pitch. He has played 0.7 key passes per match this season, averaging just 15.9 passes each fixture with a success rate of 73.1 percent in the domestic league, recorded by WhoScored.

Icardi has also only completed an average of 0.2 dribbles in every display, so it’s questionable whether he would fit in with Liverpool, whose players work for each other. Dyabala appears a more natural fit and possesses the attributes associated with Liverpool’s frontline: pace, energy and creativity.

Indeed, he has completed 1.4 key passes per match, averaging 32.1 passes with a success rate of 82.6 percent, per WhoScored. He also creates his own space with three successful dribbles every appearance and has six assists to Icardi‘s one. Dybala is far more of a natural worker and less of a risk for a manager who has consistently banished moody summer signing Mario Balotelli to the bench (or out of the squad) this season.

Dybala‘s qualities are highlighted below, per BT Sport:

It’s also worth noting he missed a clanger against Inter, tweeted by beIN Sports’ Tancredi Palmeri:

Both players are likely to interest many clubs throughout Europe. Icardi has been touted for a move to Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid in the past, meaning Liverpool may struggle to compete financially if huge sums are involved.

Palermo president Maurizio Zamparini previously placed a €40 million tag on Dybala‘s head, telling Mediaset (h/t Ben Gladwell of ESPN FC), “Within two years, he’s going to be better than Cristiano Ronaldo, (Lionel) Messi and (Zlatan) Ibrahimovic.”

This is unlikely to turn out true, but he’s certainly a top prospect for the future. Liverpool will most likely need Champions League qualification to lure players of this potential in the summer.

Daniel Sturridge’s recent return indicates Rodgers will have ample firepower at his disposal for a push to make fourth, but his fitness and Balotelli‘s inability to score a Premier League goal means it’s possible Liverpool could come up short. Such a failure would see the club fall behind those vying to take Icardi and Dybala elsewhere at the end of the season.

Rodgers certainly needs someone to mop up chances in the opposition’s box, as much of Liverpool’s excellent work is done outside the area.

A clinical, speedy marksman stationed in the middle to provide runs ahead of Raheem Sterling and Philippe Coutinho could see Liverpool score with greater regularity—they haven’t netted more than twice in 10 matches, per WhoScored—a feat that would allow the team to maintain pace with England’s best.

from Bleacher Report – Front Page http://ift.tt/1KFuyLY
via IFTTT http://ift.tt/eA8V8J