The second part of our transfer roundup from the dingy world of the gutter press…
Deco has been told by the Barcelona big-wigs that he can ‘do one’ in the summer, and this has Manchester United, Chelsea and Arsenal pulses racing. (The People)
Cristiano Ronaldo is set to become the Premier League’s number one moneybags player when Manchester United give him a gigantic £44m contract that will keep him at Old Trafford until 2014. (News of the World)
…And Fabio Capello is reportedly interested in having Paul Scholes’ unique ginger brilliance in the England squad, and will try and turn on the charm in order to convince him. (various)
Portsmouth midfielder Sulley Muntari has revealed that he was a whisker away from signing for Man Utd when he was a teenager – only to succumb to work permit issues – but one day he would love to sign for the Old Trafford club. (various)
…Meanwhile, Manchester City are ready to start legal proceedings to ensure that Benjani’s £9m move from Portsmouth to Man City is stopped. (News of the World)
…However, Man City manager Sven Goran Eriksson claims that he is waiting for Benjani with opens arms and expects the deal to go through early next week. (Mail on Sunday)
Although Jermain Defoe joined Portsmouth it was only a loan deal not a permanent one. Portsmouth maintain that the deal will be made permanently shortly. (Sunday Mirror)
Afonso Alves complicated transfer wrangle will continue with FIFA now steeping in to investigate the Brazilian’s move to Middlesbrough after a complaint from Alves’ former agent. (Sunday Mirror)
…While others claim that Alves signed the contract with AZ Alkmaar only because he cannot read or write and is only in control of what happens on the pitch! (Mail on Sunday)