http://www.caughtoffside.com English Premier League Football News Blog Wed, 19 Jun 2013 09:03:06 +0000 en-US hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.5 http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/06/19/premier-league-fixtures-201314-opening-weekend-games-announced/ http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/06/19/premier-league-fixtures-201314-opening-weekend-games-announced/#comments Wed, 19 Jun 2013 08:13:47 +0000 Mad Dog and Glory http://www.caughtoffside.com/?p=149865 The fixture computer has got off it's backside and done it's business, if you see what we mean.



Check in to Transfer Window: Done Deal Alerts

The fixture computer has done it's magic and here are the opening fixtures of the 2013/14 season.

Pick of the bunch is perhaps Man City hosting Newcastle United. Crystal Palace open their Premier League return with the visit of Tottenham to Selhurst Park, Arsenal entertain Aston Villa, newly promoted Hull City have a baptism of fire at Stamford Bridge.

Champions Man United start the season away at Swansea City and Cardiff City's first ever Premier League match sees the Bluebirds take on the Hammers at Upton Park.

PREMIER LEAGUE OPENING DAY FIXTURES:

Saturday, 17 August 2013

Barclays Premier League

Arsenal v Aston Villa

Chelsea v Hull

Crystal Palace v Tottenham

Liverpool v Stoke

Man City v Newcastle

Norwich v Everton

Sunderland v Fulham

Swansea v Man Utd

West Brom v Southampton

West Ham v Cardiff

]]> The fixture computer has got off it's backside and done it's business, if you see what we mean.



Check in to Transfer Window: Done Deal Alerts

The fixture computer has done it's magic and here are the opening fixtures of the 2013/14 season.

Pick of the bunch is perhaps Man City hosting Newcastle United. Crystal Palace open their Premier League return with the visit of Tottenham to Selhurst Park, Arsenal entertain Aston Villa, newly promoted Hull City have a baptism of fire at Stamford Bridge.

Champions Man United start the season away at Swansea City and Cardiff City's first ever Premier League match sees the Bluebirds take on the Hammers at Upton Park.

PREMIER LEAGUE OPENING DAY FIXTURES:

Saturday, 17 August 2013

Barclays Premier League

Arsenal v Aston Villa

Chelsea v Hull

Crystal Palace v Tottenham

Liverpool v Stoke

Man City v Newcastle

Norwich v Everton

Sunderland v Fulham

Swansea v Man Utd

West Brom v Southampton

West Ham v Cardiff

]]> http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/06/19/premier-league-fixtures-201314-opening-weekend-games-announced/feed/ 0 Mad Dog and GloryWed, 19 Jun 13 09:13:47 +0000The fixture computer has got off it's backside and done it's business, if you see what we mean. http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/06/18/owen-coyle-warns-everton-boss-roberto-martinez-that-wigan-athletic-stars-wont-come-cheap/ http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/06/18/owen-coyle-warns-everton-boss-roberto-martinez-that-wigan-athletic-stars-wont-come-cheap/#comments Tue, 18 Jun 2013 11:30:32 +0000 Rob Kearsey http://www.caughtoffside.com/?p=149673 Roberto Martinez wants to bring James McCarthy and Aruna Kone to Goodison Park.

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Owen Coyle has said that none of his Wigan stars have to leave the club for less than their worth according to the Daily Mirror.

Wigan stars James McCarthy and Aruna Kone have been linked with a move to former boss Roberto Martinez's new club Everton, with the Spaniard hoping to sign two players who were influential during his time at Wigan.

However, new Wigan boss Owen Coyle has warned Martinez that McCarthy and Kone won't be sold on the cheap despite the clubs relegation from the Premier League.

When asked about the availability of the two players, Coyle said, "Nobody has to leave on the cheap, if someone is leaving, it will be for the full value".

Coyle is hoping to keep the pair at Wigan as they prepared for life in the Championship.

Both McCarthy and Kone could be important players for the club as they try and get back into the Premier League at the first time of asking.

However, Martinez wants to bring the pair to Everton and had been hoping to sign them in a cut price deal but after Coyle's comments that doesn't look like happening.

McCarthy is rated at £15 million and Kone at £5 million, so Everton may have to pay £20 million to sign the pair if Coyle has his way.

]]> Roberto Martinez wants to bring James McCarthy and Aruna Kone to Goodison Park.

Check in to Transfer Window: Done Deal Alerts

Owen Coyle has said that none of his Wigan stars have to leave the club for less than their worth according to the Daily Mirror.

Wigan stars James McCarthy and Aruna Kone have been linked with a move to former boss Roberto Martinez's new club Everton, with the Spaniard hoping to sign two players who were influential during his time at Wigan.

However, new Wigan boss Owen Coyle has warned Martinez that McCarthy and Kone won't be sold on the cheap despite the clubs relegation from the Premier League.

When asked about the availability of the two players, Coyle said, "Nobody has to leave on the cheap, if someone is leaving, it will be for the full value".

Coyle is hoping to keep the pair at Wigan as they prepared for life in the Championship.

Both McCarthy and Kone could be important players for the club as they try and get back into the Premier League at the first time of asking.

However, Martinez wants to bring the pair to Everton and had been hoping to sign them in a cut price deal but after Coyle's comments that doesn't look like happening.

McCarthy is rated at £15 million and Kone at £5 million, so Everton may have to pay £20 million to sign the pair if Coyle has his way.

]]> http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/06/18/owen-coyle-warns-everton-boss-roberto-martinez-that-wigan-athletic-stars-wont-come-cheap/feed/ 0 Rob KearseyTue, 18 Jun 13 12:30:32 +0000Roberto Martinez wants to bring James McCarthy and Aruna Kone to Goodison Park. http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/06/18/top-ten-huge-premier-league-transfers-we-believe-will-happen-this-summer/ http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/06/18/top-ten-huge-premier-league-transfers-we-believe-will-happen-this-summer/#comments Tue, 18 Jun 2013 09:50:46 +0000 Mad Dog and Glory http://www.caughtoffside.com/?p=149709 Deals that we feel will come to fruition during the summer transfer window.



Check in to Transfer Window: Done Deal Alerts



10. Yohan Cabaye: Newcastle United to Monaco

French TV channel L'Equipe 21 claimed earlier this week that the playmaker was in Monaco to complete a medical. While the Toon have denied the reports, it's clear the mega-rich Ligue 1 outfit want the France international and it's hard to see cash-loving food-eater Mike Ashley turning down a huge bid. The 27-year-old is likely to depart but expect the Magpies to make a huge profit on the £4.25m they paid Lille in 2011.

Originally posted on the always excellent Fanatix





9. Marouane Fellaini: Everton to Arsenal

The big-haired Belgian admitted as far back as September 2012 that he could leave Everton for a Champions League club and, despite the early pronouncements of new Toffees boss Roberto Martinez, it looks likely that Fellaini will get his wish this summer. Arsenal have reportedly bid £22m for the 25-year-old, an offer which should activate a release clause in the midfielder's contract, according to Goal.com.





8. Andy Carroll: Liverpool to West Ham

This deal is all but done. Liverpool reportedly accepted a £15m bid from the Hammers for powerful striker Carroll a fortnight ago and the England international looks to have finally agreed terms with the club where the spent last season on loan - despite reports the 24-year-old was demanding a staggering £100,000-a-week to leave Anfield for Upton Park!





7. Leandro Damiao: Internacional to Tottenham

The longest running transfer saga in the history of the world could finally come to an end this summer if Spurs can agree a deal with Inter for Brazil international Damiao. The north London outfit first targeted the 23-year-old way back in 2009 and reportedly came close to signing the Selecao star in January. The signs are that the Porto Alegre club are finally willing to part company with the forward for the right price this summer.





6. Henrikh Mkhitaryan: Shakhtar Donetsk to Liverpool

Liverpool are closing in on a deal for the Armenian attacking midfielder after reportedly agreeing to meet the 24-year-old's £20m release clause. Mkhitaryan scored a record 25 goals from midfield for Shakhtar Donetsk last season, which would take Stewart Downing roughly two decades at the rate he's currently going.





5. Isco: Malaga to Manchester City

The Spain starlet has openly admitted that he has a straight choice between Real Madrid and Manchester City but we reckon the 22-year-old might just plump for the Premier League outfit. The Malaga playmaker has described new City boss Manuel Pellegrini as his "football father" and can probably get more game-time at Eastlands than the Bernabeu (although there will undoubtedly be more rain).





4. Edinson Cavani: Napoli to Chelsea

Chelsea are in desperate need of a world class striker this summer and Napoli hit-man Edinson Cavani reportedly tops Jose Mourinho summer's wish-list. The Uruguayan powerhouse scored an impressive 29 goals in 34 goals but has a release clause of £54m. If Chelsea paid £50m for Fernando Torres, they'll probably stump up the required cash to persuaded Napoli to part with the 27-year-old.





3. Gonzalo Higuain: Real Madrid to Arsenal

The Argentina striker appears to be nearing a £22m move to Arsenal, with the Gunners set to beat off competition from Serie A giants Juventus to get their man. Higuain has made no secret of his desire to leave the Santiago Bernabeu this summer and has scored a mightily impressive 107 La Liga goals since arriving from River Plate in 2005. Beat that, Giroud!





2. Gareth Bale: Tottenham to Real Madrid

The Real Madrid tapping up machine has gone into overdrive of late where Gareth Bale is concerned. Unfortunately for Spurs fans, as loathsome as Real are, the Spaniards normally end up getting their man. Bale is as grounded as any superstar in world football but the Los Blancos are a tough team to turn down and Spurs chairman Daniel Levy would dearly love £90m to put towards the new stadium.





1. Luis Suarez: Liverpool to Real Madrid

Luis Suarez has made no secret of his desire to leave Liverpool this summer, blaming the press for his need to depart these shores. The Reds have made half-hearted noises about keeping the Uruguayan but the truth, Suarez would be more trouble than he's worth to hold on to and the Anfield outfit will allow Real to get their man for the right price.

Originally posted on the always excellent Fanatix

]]> Deals that we feel will come to fruition during the summer transfer window.



Check in to Transfer Window: Done Deal Alerts



10. Yohan Cabaye: Newcastle United to Monaco

French TV channel L'Equipe 21 claimed earlier this week that the playmaker was in Monaco to complete a medical. While the Toon have denied the reports, it's clear the mega-rich Ligue 1 outfit want the France international and it's hard to see cash-loving food-eater Mike Ashley turning down a huge bid. The 27-year-old is likely to depart but expect the Magpies to make a huge profit on the £4.25m they paid Lille in 2011.

Originally posted on the always excellent Fanatix





9. Marouane Fellaini: Everton to Arsenal

The big-haired Belgian admitted as far back as September 2012 that he could leave Everton for a Champions League club and, despite the early pronouncements of new Toffees boss Roberto Martinez, it looks likely that Fellaini will get his wish this summer. Arsenal have reportedly bid £22m for the 25-year-old, an offer which should activate a release clause in the midfielder's contract, according to Goal.com.





8. Andy Carroll: Liverpool to West Ham

This deal is all but done. Liverpool reportedly accepted a £15m bid from the Hammers for powerful striker Carroll a fortnight ago and the England international looks to have finally agreed terms with the club where the spent last season on loan - despite reports the 24-year-old was demanding a staggering £100,000-a-week to leave Anfield for Upton Park!





7. Leandro Damiao: Internacional to Tottenham

The longest running transfer saga in the history of the world could finally come to an end this summer if Spurs can agree a deal with Inter for Brazil international Damiao. The north London outfit first targeted the 23-year-old way back in 2009 and reportedly came close to signing the Selecao star in January. The signs are that the Porto Alegre club are finally willing to part company with the forward for the right price this summer.





6. Henrikh Mkhitaryan: Shakhtar Donetsk to Liverpool

Liverpool are closing in on a deal for the Armenian attacking midfielder after reportedly agreeing to meet the 24-year-old's £20m release clause. Mkhitaryan scored a record 25 goals from midfield for Shakhtar Donetsk last season, which would take Stewart Downing roughly two decades at the rate he's currently going.





5. Isco: Malaga to Manchester City

The Spain starlet has openly admitted that he has a straight choice between Real Madrid and Manchester City but we reckon the 22-year-old might just plump for the Premier League outfit. The Malaga playmaker has described new City boss Manuel Pellegrini as his "football father" and can probably get more game-time at Eastlands than the Bernabeu (although there will undoubtedly be more rain).





4. Edinson Cavani: Napoli to Chelsea

Chelsea are in desperate need of a world class striker this summer and Napoli hit-man Edinson Cavani reportedly tops Jose Mourinho summer's wish-list. The Uruguayan powerhouse scored an impressive 29 goals in 34 goals but has a release clause of £54m. If Chelsea paid £50m for Fernando Torres, they'll probably stump up the required cash to persuaded Napoli to part with the 27-year-old.





3. Gonzalo Higuain: Real Madrid to Arsenal

The Argentina striker appears to be nearing a £22m move to Arsenal, with the Gunners set to beat off competition from Serie A giants Juventus to get their man. Higuain has made no secret of his desire to leave the Santiago Bernabeu this summer and has scored a mightily impressive 107 La Liga goals since arriving from River Plate in 2005. Beat that, Giroud!





2. Gareth Bale: Tottenham to Real Madrid

The Real Madrid tapping up machine has gone into overdrive of late where Gareth Bale is concerned. Unfortunately for Spurs fans, as loathsome as Real are, the Spaniards normally end up getting their man. Bale is as grounded as any superstar in world football but the Los Blancos are a tough team to turn down and Spurs chairman Daniel Levy would dearly love £90m to put towards the new stadium.





1. Luis Suarez: Liverpool to Real Madrid

Luis Suarez has made no secret of his desire to leave Liverpool this summer, blaming the press for his need to depart these shores. The Reds have made half-hearted noises about keeping the Uruguayan but the truth, Suarez would be more trouble than he's worth to hold on to and the Anfield outfit will allow Real to get their man for the right price.

Originally posted on the always excellent Fanatix

]]> http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/06/18/top-ten-huge-premier-league-transfers-we-believe-will-happen-this-summer/feed/ 0 Mad Dog and GloryTue, 18 Jun 13 10:50:46 +0000Deals that we feel will come to fruition during the summer transfer window. http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/06/18/roberto-martinez-working-hard-to-bolster-everton-squad/ http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/06/18/roberto-martinez-working-hard-to-bolster-everton-squad/#comments Tue, 18 Jun 2013 09:48:55 +0000 Rob Kearsey http://www.caughtoffside.com/?p=149641 The new manager will target players who fit into Everton's philosophy.

Check in to Transfer Window: Done Deal Alerts

New Everton manager Roberto Martinez has said that he will only target specific players in order to stamp his mark on his new club according to Sky Sports.

Martinez recently became Everton's new manager, taking over from David Moyes who joined Manchester United.

The Spaniard is looking to sign some new players but won't be hasty in his decision making, preferring to sign players who fit into his philosophy for the club.

"There is some work going on already and over the next few weeks we need to make sure that we bring the right characters as well as the right players to the football club," said the Spaniard.

Martinez hopes to do some scouting work himself at this years Confederations Cup, where he is working as a television pundit.

The Spaniard will not meet up with his entire squad until pre-season training and the former Wigan boss may bring in some new faces before pre-season training.

The Spaniard will also need to try and keep hold of some his players, with other clubs interested in midfielder Maurone Fellaini and defender Leighton Baines.

Manchester United have reportedly targeted both players, while Arsenal and Chelsea want to sign Fellaini.

The Gunners reportedly had a bid accepted for Fellaini in the region of £22 million.

]]> The new manager will target players who fit into Everton's philosophy.

Check in to Transfer Window: Done Deal Alerts

New Everton manager Roberto Martinez has said that he will only target specific players in order to stamp his mark on his new club according to Sky Sports.

Martinez recently became Everton's new manager, taking over from David Moyes who joined Manchester United.

The Spaniard is looking to sign some new players but won't be hasty in his decision making, preferring to sign players who fit into his philosophy for the club.

"There is some work going on already and over the next few weeks we need to make sure that we bring the right characters as well as the right players to the football club," said the Spaniard.

Martinez hopes to do some scouting work himself at this years Confederations Cup, where he is working as a television pundit.

The Spaniard will not meet up with his entire squad until pre-season training and the former Wigan boss may bring in some new faces before pre-season training.

The Spaniard will also need to try and keep hold of some his players, with other clubs interested in midfielder Maurone Fellaini and defender Leighton Baines.

Manchester United have reportedly targeted both players, while Arsenal and Chelsea want to sign Fellaini.

The Gunners reportedly had a bid accepted for Fellaini in the region of £22 million.

]]> http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/06/18/roberto-martinez-working-hard-to-bolster-everton-squad/feed/ 0 Rob KearseyTue, 18 Jun 13 10:48:55 +0000The new manager will target players who fit into Everton's philosophy. http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/06/17/leighton-baines-marouane-fellaini-will-leave-everton-claims-former-toffees-star-kevin-ratcliffe/ http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/06/17/leighton-baines-marouane-fellaini-will-leave-everton-claims-former-toffees-star-kevin-ratcliffe/#comments Mon, 17 Jun 2013 18:06:38 +0000 Steven Green http://www.caughtoffside.com/?p=149565 Star duo will inevitably leave this summer.

Check in to Transfer Window: Done Deal Alerts

Former Everton defender Kevin Ratcliffe believes that star pair Leighton Baines and Marouane Fellaini will be heading through the exit door this summer, and has cited it as an inevitability, talkSPORT reports.

Chelsea and Manchester United are both said to be interested in Fellaini whilst United want Baines as a replacement for veteran Frenchman Patrice Evra.

The pair have undoubtedly been the club's star performers over the past two seasons, but Ratcliffe has warned his former side that they'd better have replacements lined up or face a tough life without them.

“It’s not about Marouane Fellaini and Leighton Baines wanting to stick around. I think if big bids come in for them then inevitably they’re going to go.

“There is no way the club will stand in their way because in the past if there has been the right fee the club will reluctantly let you go because they’re not in a comfortable position financially.

“It will have to be decent bids though for the club to allow it to happen.”

Fellaini came close to joining Chelsea in the January transfer window but the deal failed to materialise, however, should the pair leave then it will create a substantial transfer kitty for Roberto Martinez to rebuild with.

]]> Star duo will inevitably leave this summer.

Check in to Transfer Window: Done Deal Alerts

Former Everton defender Kevin Ratcliffe believes that star pair Leighton Baines and Marouane Fellaini will be heading through the exit door this summer, and has cited it as an inevitability, talkSPORT reports.

Chelsea and Manchester United are both said to be interested in Fellaini whilst United want Baines as a replacement for veteran Frenchman Patrice Evra.

The pair have undoubtedly been the club's star performers over the past two seasons, but Ratcliffe has warned his former side that they'd better have replacements lined up or face a tough life without them.

“It’s not about Marouane Fellaini and Leighton Baines wanting to stick around. I think if big bids come in for them then inevitably they’re going to go.

“There is no way the club will stand in their way because in the past if there has been the right fee the club will reluctantly let you go because they’re not in a comfortable position financially.

“It will have to be decent bids though for the club to allow it to happen.”

Fellaini came close to joining Chelsea in the January transfer window but the deal failed to materialise, however, should the pair leave then it will create a substantial transfer kitty for Roberto Martinez to rebuild with.

]]> http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/06/17/leighton-baines-marouane-fellaini-will-leave-everton-claims-former-toffees-star-kevin-ratcliffe/feed/ 0 Steven GreenMon, 17 Jun 13 19:06:38 +0000Star duo will inevitably leave this summer. http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/06/17/fc-twente-midfielder-leroy-fer-believes-he-is-still-an-everton-target/ http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/06/17/fc-twente-midfielder-leroy-fer-believes-he-is-still-an-everton-target/#comments Mon, 17 Jun 2013 10:56:13 +0000 Rob Kearsey http://www.caughtoffside.com/?p=149371 Fer is very keen on a move to the Premier League.

Check in to Transfer Window: Done Deal Alerts

FC Twente midfielder Leroy Fer has said that he is interested in a move to the Premier League this summer and has said he still thinks Everton are interested in him, Sky Sports reports.

The midfielder was set to move to Goodison Park in January when the two clubs agreed a fee but the move broke down because of a knee problem.

David Moyes has since left Everton to join Manchester United and he has been replaced by Roberto Martinez but Fer still thinks that Everton are interested in him despite the change of manager.

"I think Everton are still interested in me," said Fer.

"I would like to go to the Premier League this summer, it's a very nice competition - but my focus has been the European Championships, afterwards we will see."

Fer could be seen a replacement for midfielder Maurone Fellaini, who has been linked with Arsenal and Manchester United.

Reports suggested that Arsenal had bid £22 million for Fellaini, activating the midfielders release clause, meaning that Arsenal can start negotiating with Fellaini about a move to the Emirates.

Everton could use the money they will get in the Fellaini transfer to sign Fer, who has been a long term target.

New boss Roberto Martinez is also thought to be interested in Chelsea winger Victor Moses.

]]> Fer is very keen on a move to the Premier League.

Check in to Transfer Window: Done Deal Alerts

FC Twente midfielder Leroy Fer has said that he is interested in a move to the Premier League this summer and has said he still thinks Everton are interested in him, Sky Sports reports.

The midfielder was set to move to Goodison Park in January when the two clubs agreed a fee but the move broke down because of a knee problem.

David Moyes has since left Everton to join Manchester United and he has been replaced by Roberto Martinez but Fer still thinks that Everton are interested in him despite the change of manager.

"I think Everton are still interested in me," said Fer.

"I would like to go to the Premier League this summer, it's a very nice competition - but my focus has been the European Championships, afterwards we will see."

Fer could be seen a replacement for midfielder Maurone Fellaini, who has been linked with Arsenal and Manchester United.

Reports suggested that Arsenal had bid £22 million for Fellaini, activating the midfielders release clause, meaning that Arsenal can start negotiating with Fellaini about a move to the Emirates.

Everton could use the money they will get in the Fellaini transfer to sign Fer, who has been a long term target.

New boss Roberto Martinez is also thought to be interested in Chelsea winger Victor Moses.

]]> http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/06/17/fc-twente-midfielder-leroy-fer-believes-he-is-still-an-everton-target/feed/ 0 Rob KearseyMon, 17 Jun 13 11:56:13 +0000Fer is very keen on a move to the Premier League. http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/06/17/caughtoffsides-top-50-footballers-in-the-world-36-marouane-fellaini-everton-belgium/ http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/06/17/caughtoffsides-top-50-footballers-in-the-world-36-marouane-fellaini-everton-belgium/#comments Mon, 17 Jun 2013 08:17:05 +0000 Mark Brus http://www.caughtoffside.com/?p=149067 Everton and Belgium midfielder Marouane Fellaini.

Check in to Transfer Window: Done Deal Alerts

It's been a fantastic season for Everton midfielder Marouane Fellaini. The 25-year-old is one of many talented Belgians starring in the Premier League at the moment, and has relished his new attacking midfield role this year.

Previously used as a defensive midfielder, the former Standard Liege man was moved forward by manager David Moyes at the start of the season in what turned out to be a tactical masterstroke. Fellaini started the season with a superb individual match-winning display against Manchester United, scoring the winner with a header to beat the eventual champions 1-0. He terrorised their defence throughout, taking up positions that made him hard to mark, and simply out-muscling most of their players with his strength and height.

He carried on this way for much of the season, finishing with a personal best record of 12 goals and providing 5 assists for his team-mates as well, often using his height to good effect to win knock-downs against opposition centre-backs.



His fine form has seen him unsurprisingly linked with a move to a bigger club, with Moyes said to be keen on taking the Belgian with him to his new post at Manchester United. Arsenal and Chelsea are also showing a strong interest in him, and it seems increasingly likely that he will be playing for a bigger team before long. His minimum release fee clause, rumoured to be around £23million, looks a bargain for such an influential player.

Fellaini's form at Everton has been excellent and he would surely only improve with better players around him. He is already up there with the best players in the world on current form and if he can get his big move he will cement his place among the world's best.

]]> Everton and Belgium midfielder Marouane Fellaini.

Check in to Transfer Window: Done Deal Alerts

It's been a fantastic season for Everton midfielder Marouane Fellaini. The 25-year-old is one of many talented Belgians starring in the Premier League at the moment, and has relished his new attacking midfield role this year.

Previously used as a defensive midfielder, the former Standard Liege man was moved forward by manager David Moyes at the start of the season in what turned out to be a tactical masterstroke. Fellaini started the season with a superb individual match-winning display against Manchester United, scoring the winner with a header to beat the eventual champions 1-0. He terrorised their defence throughout, taking up positions that made him hard to mark, and simply out-muscling most of their players with his strength and height.

He carried on this way for much of the season, finishing with a personal best record of 12 goals and providing 5 assists for his team-mates as well, often using his height to good effect to win knock-downs against opposition centre-backs.



His fine form has seen him unsurprisingly linked with a move to a bigger club, with Moyes said to be keen on taking the Belgian with him to his new post at Manchester United. Arsenal and Chelsea are also showing a strong interest in him, and it seems increasingly likely that he will be playing for a bigger team before long. His minimum release fee clause, rumoured to be around £23million, looks a bargain for such an influential player.

Fellaini's form at Everton has been excellent and he would surely only improve with better players around him. He is already up there with the best players in the world on current form and if he can get his big move he will cement his place among the world's best.

]]> http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/06/17/caughtoffsides-top-50-footballers-in-the-world-36-marouane-fellaini-everton-belgium/feed/ 0 Mark BrusMon, 17 Jun 13 09:17:05 +0000Everton and Belgium midfielder Marouane Fellaini. http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/06/16/arsenal-set-to-launch-10m-plus-player-swap-bid-for-marseille-midfielder/ http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/06/16/arsenal-set-to-launch-10m-plus-player-swap-bid-for-marseille-midfielder/#comments Sun, 16 Jun 2013 19:54:29 +0000 Mark Brus http://www.caughtoffside.com/?p=149397 Gunners to try swap deal for talented midfield playmaker.



Check in to Transfer Window: Done Deal Alerts

Following the news that French side Marseille have expressed an interest in Arsenal's Gervinho, it has emerged that the Gunners will now look to do business in the hope of signing Mathieu Valbuena in return.

Gervinho has flopped since moving to the Emirates Stadium from Ligue 1 side Lille, but is still highly thought of in France and Marseille are one of a few clubs who are keen to sign him this summer.

Lyon have also been tracking the Ivory Coast international, who has only scored 11 goals in two seasons in England, but it is now thought that Arsenal will look to press on with a deal with Marseille, as they are interested in their star player Valbuena.

The 28-year-old is one of the best midfield playmakers in France at the moment, scoring 14 goals and providing 30 assists in the last two seasons, and would fit in nicely in Arsene Wenger's side's style of play.



The Gunners boss is hoping that an offer of around £10million as well as Gervinho should be enough to sign Valbuena, though Arsenal are yet to receive a response from Marseille as they ponder the deal.

Marseille finished second in Ligue 1 to PSG this season, and will not want to lose a key player as they hope to maintain their title challenge next year, when they will also be up against the wealth of big-spending Monaco, who have brought in some world class players such as Radamel Falcao and Joao Moutinho already this summer.

However, Valbuena may feel the time has come for him to try a new challenge in a bigger league, after spending the majority of his career with Marseille.

The French international won the Ligue 1 title with the team in 2009/10, but with the emergence of PSG and Monaco it is looking increasingly unlikely that they will manage to repeat this success, and Valbuena is certainly a player that could fit in to most teams in the world.

Although Arsenal are well-stocked in the midfield department, they are said to be keen on bringing in some big names this summer as they will have more cash to spend than usual. They have also been linked with Everton's Marouane Fellaini and Newcastle's Yohan Cabaye as possible reinforcements in the midfield department.

They have also been linked with several replacements for Gervinho upfront, most notably Real Madrid's Gonzalo Higuain, who could sign for around £25million.

]]> Gunners to try swap deal for talented midfield playmaker.



Check in to Transfer Window: Done Deal Alerts

Following the news that French side Marseille have expressed an interest in Arsenal's Gervinho, it has emerged that the Gunners will now look to do business in the hope of signing Mathieu Valbuena in return.

Gervinho has flopped since moving to the Emirates Stadium from Ligue 1 side Lille, but is still highly thought of in France and Marseille are one of a few clubs who are keen to sign him this summer.

Lyon have also been tracking the Ivory Coast international, who has only scored 11 goals in two seasons in England, but it is now thought that Arsenal will look to press on with a deal with Marseille, as they are interested in their star player Valbuena.

The 28-year-old is one of the best midfield playmakers in France at the moment, scoring 14 goals and providing 30 assists in the last two seasons, and would fit in nicely in Arsene Wenger's side's style of play.



The Gunners boss is hoping that an offer of around £10million as well as Gervinho should be enough to sign Valbuena, though Arsenal are yet to receive a response from Marseille as they ponder the deal.

Marseille finished second in Ligue 1 to PSG this season, and will not want to lose a key player as they hope to maintain their title challenge next year, when they will also be up against the wealth of big-spending Monaco, who have brought in some world class players such as Radamel Falcao and Joao Moutinho already this summer.

However, Valbuena may feel the time has come for him to try a new challenge in a bigger league, after spending the majority of his career with Marseille.

The French international won the Ligue 1 title with the team in 2009/10, but with the emergence of PSG and Monaco it is looking increasingly unlikely that they will manage to repeat this success, and Valbuena is certainly a player that could fit in to most teams in the world.

Although Arsenal are well-stocked in the midfield department, they are said to be keen on bringing in some big names this summer as they will have more cash to spend than usual. They have also been linked with Everton's Marouane Fellaini and Newcastle's Yohan Cabaye as possible reinforcements in the midfield department.

They have also been linked with several replacements for Gervinho upfront, most notably Real Madrid's Gonzalo Higuain, who could sign for around £25million.

]]> http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/06/16/arsenal-set-to-launch-10m-plus-player-swap-bid-for-marseille-midfielder/feed/ 0 Mark BrusSun, 16 Jun 13 20:54:29 +0000Gunners to try swap deal for talented midfield playmaker. http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/06/16/everton-boss-roberto-martinez-hopes-to-make-chelsea-attacker-his-first-toffees-signing/ http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/06/16/everton-boss-roberto-martinez-hopes-to-make-chelsea-attacker-his-first-toffees-signing/#comments Sun, 16 Jun 2013 17:29:17 +0000 The Newshound http://www.caughtoffside.com/?p=149403 Goodison Park boss plots Stamford Bridge raid.



Check in to Transfer Window: Done Deal Alerts

Newly appointed Everton boss Roberto Martinez will look to lure his former Wigan Athletic charge Victor Moses to Goodison Park this summer according to the Daily Star.

The 22 year old played a limited role at Chelsea last season and could see his first team chances further limited since the arrival of Jose Mourinho back at the West London club. The signing of German international Andre Schurrle is bound to leave the Nigerian international further down the pecking order and any further subsequent signings may leave the speedy attacker considering his options.

Moses made 23 Premier League appearances last season, 11 of which were from the bench, and managed just one goal but was far more effective in cup action during which he scored a further nine goals, netting in the Champions League, Europa League, FA and Capital One Cup runs.

Martinez signed Moses from Crystal Palace in February 2010 and begrudgingly sold the youngster to Chelsea last August in a £9m deal and one would imagine that it would take a fee in the same region to persuade the Blues to sell.

Roberto Martinez's first task as Everton boss will be to keep hold of his top talents but if he fails to do so then he may be even more likely to look to spend any funds made available by chairman Bill Kenwright on exciting new additions, Moses may well be an ideal player to target this summer though perhaps a loan deal is more likely to succeed.

]]> Goodison Park boss plots Stamford Bridge raid.



Check in to Transfer Window: Done Deal Alerts

Newly appointed Everton boss Roberto Martinez will look to lure his former Wigan Athletic charge Victor Moses to Goodison Park this summer according to the Daily Star.

The 22 year old played a limited role at Chelsea last season and could see his first team chances further limited since the arrival of Jose Mourinho back at the West London club. The signing of German international Andre Schurrle is bound to leave the Nigerian international further down the pecking order and any further subsequent signings may leave the speedy attacker considering his options.

Moses made 23 Premier League appearances last season, 11 of which were from the bench, and managed just one goal but was far more effective in cup action during which he scored a further nine goals, netting in the Champions League, Europa League, FA and Capital One Cup runs.

Martinez signed Moses from Crystal Palace in February 2010 and begrudgingly sold the youngster to Chelsea last August in a £9m deal and one would imagine that it would take a fee in the same region to persuade the Blues to sell.

Roberto Martinez's first task as Everton boss will be to keep hold of his top talents but if he fails to do so then he may be even more likely to look to spend any funds made available by chairman Bill Kenwright on exciting new additions, Moses may well be an ideal player to target this summer though perhaps a loan deal is more likely to succeed.

]]> http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/06/16/everton-boss-roberto-martinez-hopes-to-make-chelsea-attacker-his-first-toffees-signing/feed/ 0 The NewshoundSun, 16 Jun 13 18:29:17 +0000Goodison Park boss plots Stamford Bridge raid. http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/06/16/arsenal-set-to-use-entire-80m-budget-in-pursuit-of-deals-to-sign-marquee-pair/ http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/06/16/arsenal-set-to-use-entire-80m-budget-in-pursuit-of-deals-to-sign-marquee-pair/#comments Sun, 16 Jun 2013 10:17:18 +0000 The Newshound http://www.caughtoffside.com/?p=149309 Emirates Stadium side ready to splash the cash in search of major silverware in 2013/14.



Check in to Transfer Window: Done Deal Alerts

The Daily Star believe that Arsene Wenger is set to change the habits of a lifetime as the Arsenal boss looks to make two big money signings in the space of one summer transfer window.

They claim that the Gunners boss is ready to blow his entire £80m transfer budget on the signing of two players, no doubt a move that long suffering Arsenal fans will heartily support.

Wenger is ready to meet Everton midfielder Marouane Fellaini's £24m release clause as well as making him a wage offer that would make him the North London club's top earner. There is no denying that the addition of the powerful midfielder could greatly aid Arsenal's push to end a eight year silverware drought.



The Belgian is not only proven at Premier League level he is also at the peak of his powers having greatly impressed last season, during which he netted a dozen goals. The 25 year old powerhouse has the bite and power to help repel opposition advances and could well give the likes of Jack Wilshere and Santi Cazorla the protection they need in the absence of an out and out enforcer.

The Arsenal manager is also keen to step up efforts to sign a slightly less likely target, namely Man United's want-away striker Wayne Rooney.

Any successful bid for the 27 year old England man would have to involve a bid in excess of £30m or if you prefer, double Arsenal's current record transfer spend, and would also need to see Arsenal offer a salary of at least £200k a week, or if you prefer, double the club's current top earners Theo Walcott and Lukas Podolski, both of whom are thought to be on around £100k a week.



On the plus side Wenger's interest in the Old Trafford star would be with a view to using Rooney in his preferred striking position, a role that David Moyes will be unable to offer his former Toffees charge due to the likely presence of Robin Van Persie in his starting eleven.

Even though Rooney has placed a verbal request to leave Man United it would still be a surprise if the Premier League title holders did indeed sell the club's fourth highest goal-scorer of all time, and even more of a shock if they choose to offload the unhappy forward to a domestic rival.

]]> Emirates Stadium side ready to splash the cash in search of major silverware in 2013/14.



Check in to Transfer Window: Done Deal Alerts

The Daily Star believe that Arsene Wenger is set to change the habits of a lifetime as the Arsenal boss looks to make two big money signings in the space of one summer transfer window.

They claim that the Gunners boss is ready to blow his entire £80m transfer budget on the signing of two players, no doubt a move that long suffering Arsenal fans will heartily support.

Wenger is ready to meet Everton midfielder Marouane Fellaini's £24m release clause as well as making him a wage offer that would make him the North London club's top earner. There is no denying that the addition of the powerful midfielder could greatly aid Arsenal's push to end a eight year silverware drought.



The Belgian is not only proven at Premier League level he is also at the peak of his powers having greatly impressed last season, during which he netted a dozen goals. The 25 year old powerhouse has the bite and power to help repel opposition advances and could well give the likes of Jack Wilshere and Santi Cazorla the protection they need in the absence of an out and out enforcer.

The Arsenal manager is also keen to step up efforts to sign a slightly less likely target, namely Man United's want-away striker Wayne Rooney.

Any successful bid for the 27 year old England man would have to involve a bid in excess of £30m or if you prefer, double Arsenal's current record transfer spend, and would also need to see Arsenal offer a salary of at least £200k a week, or if you prefer, double the club's current top earners Theo Walcott and Lukas Podolski, both of whom are thought to be on around £100k a week.



On the plus side Wenger's interest in the Old Trafford star would be with a view to using Rooney in his preferred striking position, a role that David Moyes will be unable to offer his former Toffees charge due to the likely presence of Robin Van Persie in his starting eleven.

Even though Rooney has placed a verbal request to leave Man United it would still be a surprise if the Premier League title holders did indeed sell the club's fourth highest goal-scorer of all time, and even more of a shock if they choose to offload the unhappy forward to a domestic rival.

]]> http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/06/16/arsenal-set-to-use-entire-80m-budget-in-pursuit-of-deals-to-sign-marquee-pair/feed/ 0 The NewshoundSun, 16 Jun 13 11:17:18 +0000Emirates Stadium side ready to splash the cash in search of major silverware in 2013/14.