http://www.caughtoffside.com English Premier League Football News Blog Thu, 23 May 2013 18:55:13 +0000 en-US hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.5 http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/23/liverpool-set-to-complete-5m-deal-to-sign-la-liga-bargain-buy/ http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/23/liverpool-set-to-complete-5m-deal-to-sign-la-liga-bargain-buy/#comments Thu, 23 May 2013 18:55:13 +0000 Mark Brus http://www.caughtoffside.com/?p=146077 Liverpool plotting move for Spanish striker.

Check in to Transfer Window: Done Deal Alerts

Liverpool are reportedly close to agreeing a deal to raid relegation-threatened La Liga side Celta Vigo for their star striker Iago Aspas, according to the Daily Mirror.

The 25-year-old has impressed in the Spanish top flight this season, despite newly-promoted Celta's relegation worries. After scoring 23 goals in the Segunda Division last year to fire his side to promotion, he has scored 11 times this season.

Reading had a bid rejected for Aspas in January, and Chelsea have also shown an interest in this up-and-coming talent, as clubs are on the lookout for the next Michu this summer.

The little-known striker arrived at Swansea for just £2million from Rayo Vallecano this summer and has proved a hit in the Premier League, and Liverpool now think Aspas could emulate his compatriot's success.

Celta are currently bottom of La Liga, four points from safety with two games remaining, and if they go down Aspas would be available for around £5million, which should attract an offer from Reds boss Brendan Rodgers.

Liverpool have been linked with a number of strikers this summer, such as Christian Benteke of Aston Villa and Porto's Jackson Martinez, as they look to take the pressure off star player Luis Suarez to be their main goal scorer.


]]> Liverpool plotting move for Spanish striker.

Check in to Transfer Window: Done Deal Alerts

Liverpool are reportedly close to agreeing a deal to raid relegation-threatened La Liga side Celta Vigo for their star striker Iago Aspas, according to the Daily Mirror.

The 25-year-old has impressed in the Spanish top flight this season, despite newly-promoted Celta's relegation worries. After scoring 23 goals in the Segunda Division last year to fire his side to promotion, he has scored 11 times this season.

Reading had a bid rejected for Aspas in January, and Chelsea have also shown an interest in this up-and-coming talent, as clubs are on the lookout for the next Michu this summer.

The little-known striker arrived at Swansea for just £2million from Rayo Vallecano this summer and has proved a hit in the Premier League, and Liverpool now think Aspas could emulate his compatriot's success.

Celta are currently bottom of La Liga, four points from safety with two games remaining, and if they go down Aspas would be available for around £5million, which should attract an offer from Reds boss Brendan Rodgers.

Liverpool have been linked with a number of strikers this summer, such as Christian Benteke of Aston Villa and Porto's Jackson Martinez, as they look to take the pressure off star player Luis Suarez to be their main goal scorer.


]]> http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/23/liverpool-set-to-complete-5m-deal-to-sign-la-liga-bargain-buy/feed/ 0 Mark BrusThu, 23 May 13 19:55:13 +0000Liverpool plotting move for Spanish striker. http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/23/top-ten-premier-league-wingers-in-201213/ http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/23/top-ten-premier-league-wingers-in-201213/#comments Thu, 23 May 2013 13:32:27 +0000 Mad Dog and Glory http://www.caughtoffside.com/?p=145769 It's end of season poll time.



We invite our readers to vote in a poll that will help us to produce a Premier League Best XI of 2012/13.

Today is the turn of the wingers.



Gareth Bale (Tottenham)

May well end up winning this poll by a country mile, such has been his level of form throughout the campaign. 21 Premier League goals to his name.



Adam Lallana (Southampton)

Saints hero has adapted well to life in the top tier, one of the St Mary's sides chief creators.



Kevin Mirallas (Everton)

Stylish Belgian has done well in his first season in the English top flight, nine goals and six assists to his name.



Steven Pienaar (Everton)

South African has impressed this term, working well in front of Leighton Baines on the flank.



Eden Hazard (Chelsea)

Belgian, who also got a nod in our creative midfielder category, is also worth a mention on our winger poll, 20 assists in all competitions!





David Silva (Man City)

Perhaps a less glorious individual campaign than last term but the crafty Spaniard is still one of the Premier League's most effective attackers.



Aaron Lennon (Tottenham)

Perhaps Bale's displays have left the England man in the shadows somewhat but the pint sized performer has nonetheless impressed this term.



Robert Snodgrass (Norwich City)

Canaries are no doubt indebted to the efforts of the Scottish international.



Theo Walcott (Arsenal)

Arsenal man may like to be considered for the striking role at the Gunners but out wide he has had a very effective campaign, 14 goals and 10 assists in Premier League action alone.



Shaun Maloney (Wigan Athletic)

The Latics may have been relegated by Maloney has still been a very productive player this season.

]]> It's end of season poll time.



We invite our readers to vote in a poll that will help us to produce a Premier League Best XI of 2012/13.

Today is the turn of the wingers.



Gareth Bale (Tottenham)

May well end up winning this poll by a country mile, such has been his level of form throughout the campaign. 21 Premier League goals to his name.



Adam Lallana (Southampton)

Saints hero has adapted well to life in the top tier, one of the St Mary's sides chief creators.



Kevin Mirallas (Everton)

Stylish Belgian has done well in his first season in the English top flight, nine goals and six assists to his name.



Steven Pienaar (Everton)

South African has impressed this term, working well in front of Leighton Baines on the flank.



Eden Hazard (Chelsea)

Belgian, who also got a nod in our creative midfielder category, is also worth a mention on our winger poll, 20 assists in all competitions!





David Silva (Man City)

Perhaps a less glorious individual campaign than last term but the crafty Spaniard is still one of the Premier League's most effective attackers.



Aaron Lennon (Tottenham)

Perhaps Bale's displays have left the England man in the shadows somewhat but the pint sized performer has nonetheless impressed this term.



Robert Snodgrass (Norwich City)

Canaries are no doubt indebted to the efforts of the Scottish international.



Theo Walcott (Arsenal)

Arsenal man may like to be considered for the striking role at the Gunners but out wide he has had a very effective campaign, 14 goals and 10 assists in Premier League action alone.



Shaun Maloney (Wigan Athletic)

The Latics may have been relegated by Maloney has still been a very productive player this season.

]]> http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/23/top-ten-premier-league-wingers-in-201213/feed/ 0 Mad Dog and GloryThu, 23 May 13 14:32:27 +0000It's end of season poll time. http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/23/newcastle-united-deny-approach-for-liverpool-striker-andy-carroll/ http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/23/newcastle-united-deny-approach-for-liverpool-striker-andy-carroll/#comments Thu, 23 May 2013 13:29:09 +0000 Mark Brus http://www.caughtoffside.com/?p=145996 Newcastle not in for Liverpool striker.

Check in to Borussia Dortmund vs Bayern Munich - 2013 UEFA Champions League Final

Newcastle United have supposedly ruled themselves out of a bid for Liverpool's Andy Carroll, according to Sky Sports.

The striker initially joined Liverpool from Newcastle for in 2011 for £35million, a record transfer fee for a British player. However, the 24-year-old has not been a success at Anfield, scoring just 11 goals in 58 appearances for the club.

He has since been farmed out on loan to West Ham, and his form has improved at Upton Park under Sam Allardyce, who is now keen to land the England international on a permanent deal.

The Hammers have agreed a fee of £15million with Liverpool, who have no plans to keep Carroll, and his former club Newcastle have also been credited with an interest in his services.

However, the club claim they will not be making a move for their old player, who is said to be weighing up other options before committing to a move to West Ham.

Monaco have been linked with a surprise interest in Carroll, and Tottenham are also said to be monitoring his situation, and he would favour a switch to a club playing European football.


]]> Newcastle not in for Liverpool striker.

Check in to Borussia Dortmund vs Bayern Munich - 2013 UEFA Champions League Final

Newcastle United have supposedly ruled themselves out of a bid for Liverpool's Andy Carroll, according to Sky Sports.

The striker initially joined Liverpool from Newcastle for in 2011 for £35million, a record transfer fee for a British player. However, the 24-year-old has not been a success at Anfield, scoring just 11 goals in 58 appearances for the club.

He has since been farmed out on loan to West Ham, and his form has improved at Upton Park under Sam Allardyce, who is now keen to land the England international on a permanent deal.

The Hammers have agreed a fee of £15million with Liverpool, who have no plans to keep Carroll, and his former club Newcastle have also been credited with an interest in his services.

However, the club claim they will not be making a move for their old player, who is said to be weighing up other options before committing to a move to West Ham.

Monaco have been linked with a surprise interest in Carroll, and Tottenham are also said to be monitoring his situation, and he would favour a switch to a club playing European football.


]]> http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/23/newcastle-united-deny-approach-for-liverpool-striker-andy-carroll/feed/ 0 Mark BrusThu, 23 May 13 14:29:09 +0000Newcastle not in for Liverpool striker. http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/23/arsenal-goalkeeper-target-wants-barcelona-move/ http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/23/arsenal-goalkeeper-target-wants-barcelona-move/#comments Thu, 23 May 2013 11:55:00 +0000 Mark Brus http://www.caughtoffside.com/?p=145976 Goalkeeper waiting for Barca call.

Check in to Transfer Window: Done Deal Alerts

Arsenal goalkeeper target Marc-Andre Ter Stegen apparently has his heart set on a move to Barcelona, according to the Daily Mirror.

The 21-year-old Borussia Monchengladbach man is one of the most highly rated young goalkeepers in the world, and Arsenal are determined to land him next season as they look for a replacement for Wojciech Szczesny,

The Gunners have been linked with a number of goalkeepers in this summer's transfer window, including Stoke City's Asmir Begovic and Sunderland's Simon Mignolet, but they have now made the German international a prime target.

Inter Milan are also watching Ter Stegen, but the player himself wants to wait for a chance for a dream move to join Spanish giants Barcelona.

The Spanish champions are also on the lookout for a new 'keeper this summer, with long-serving shot stopper Victor Valdes confirming his desire to leave the club for a new challenge at the end of this campaign.

Barca have been linked strongly with Liverpool's Pepe Reina, though they may now be alerted to Ter Stegen's desire to play at the Nou Camp, and he would be a more long-term option than the 30-year-old Reina.


]]> Goalkeeper waiting for Barca call.

Check in to Transfer Window: Done Deal Alerts

Arsenal goalkeeper target Marc-Andre Ter Stegen apparently has his heart set on a move to Barcelona, according to the Daily Mirror.

The 21-year-old Borussia Monchengladbach man is one of the most highly rated young goalkeepers in the world, and Arsenal are determined to land him next season as they look for a replacement for Wojciech Szczesny,

The Gunners have been linked with a number of goalkeepers in this summer's transfer window, including Stoke City's Asmir Begovic and Sunderland's Simon Mignolet, but they have now made the German international a prime target.

Inter Milan are also watching Ter Stegen, but the player himself wants to wait for a chance for a dream move to join Spanish giants Barcelona.

The Spanish champions are also on the lookout for a new 'keeper this summer, with long-serving shot stopper Victor Valdes confirming his desire to leave the club for a new challenge at the end of this campaign.

Barca have been linked strongly with Liverpool's Pepe Reina, though they may now be alerted to Ter Stegen's desire to play at the Nou Camp, and he would be a more long-term option than the 30-year-old Reina.


]]> http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/23/arsenal-goalkeeper-target-wants-barcelona-move/feed/ 0 Mark BrusThu, 23 May 13 12:55:00 +0000Goalkeeper waiting for Barca call. http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/23/liverpool-line-up-valencia-defender-bid/ http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/23/liverpool-line-up-valencia-defender-bid/#comments Thu, 23 May 2013 11:51:56 +0000 Steven Green http://www.caughtoffside.com/?p=146050 Spanish side willing to sell.

Check in to Transfer Window: Done Deal Alerts

Spanish side Valencia are reported to be prepared to sell Aly Cissokho as Liverpool line up a move for the big Frenchman, according to talkSPORT.

The La Liga giants are currently in a battle to qualify for the Champions League next season and are already putting plans together to build a squad capable of competing on several fronts and it appears that the 25-year-old defender isn't a part of the blueprint.

Liverpool have been credited with a long time interest and Valencia are thought to be willing to listen to offers of around £7 million.

Cissokho only joined up with the Spanish side last summer, signing for a fee of around £5 million from former French champions Lyon, who he'd spent the previous three seasons with after joining them from Porto.

His debut season with Valencia saw him wrack up 37 appearances and scoring twice.

Reds boss Brendan Rodgers is reported to be a big fan of the powerful French international and could be tempted to put a bid in as he continues to search for a replacement to the retired Jamie Carragher. Martin Skrtel's dip in form toward the end of the previous campaign has also given him a cause for concern as he draws up his own plans to re-establish the club as a top four force in the Premier League.


]]> Spanish side willing to sell.

Check in to Transfer Window: Done Deal Alerts

Spanish side Valencia are reported to be prepared to sell Aly Cissokho as Liverpool line up a move for the big Frenchman, according to talkSPORT.

The La Liga giants are currently in a battle to qualify for the Champions League next season and are already putting plans together to build a squad capable of competing on several fronts and it appears that the 25-year-old defender isn't a part of the blueprint.

Liverpool have been credited with a long time interest and Valencia are thought to be willing to listen to offers of around £7 million.

Cissokho only joined up with the Spanish side last summer, signing for a fee of around £5 million from former French champions Lyon, who he'd spent the previous three seasons with after joining them from Porto.

His debut season with Valencia saw him wrack up 37 appearances and scoring twice.

Reds boss Brendan Rodgers is reported to be a big fan of the powerful French international and could be tempted to put a bid in as he continues to search for a replacement to the retired Jamie Carragher. Martin Skrtel's dip in form toward the end of the previous campaign has also given him a cause for concern as he draws up his own plans to re-establish the club as a top four force in the Premier League.


]]> http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/23/liverpool-line-up-valencia-defender-bid/feed/ 0 Steven GreenThu, 23 May 13 12:51:56 +0000Spanish side willing to sell. http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/23/transfer-rumour-gossip-chelsea-target-real-madrid-dream-team-gunners-skipper-set-for-5m-exit-higuain-serie-a-bound/ http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/23/transfer-rumour-gossip-chelsea-target-real-madrid-dream-team-gunners-skipper-set-for-5m-exit-higuain-serie-a-bound/#comments Thu, 23 May 2013 10:07:56 +0000 Mark Brus http://www.caughtoffside.com/?p=146025 A round-up of Thursday's biggest transfer stories.

Check in to Transfer Window: Done Deal Alerts

French giants PSG are readying a bid of £40million for unsettled Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney.

Full story: Daily Mirror.

Former Real Madrid president Roman Calderon believes Cristiano Ronaldo could follow Jose Mourinho to Chelsea this summer.

Full story: talkSPORT.

Chelsea veteran midfielder Frank Lampard has hinted he could stay at Chelsea for a further three years.

Full story: London Evening Standard.

Arsenal are willing to listen to offers for their captain Thomas Vermaelen, and may accept as little as £5million for the unsettled defender.

Full story: The Sun.



Liverpool want to sell Stewart Downing on a permanent deal, and won't listen to loan offers for the winger. Fulham are said to be interested.

Full story: Daily Mirror.

Darren Bent has reportedly been told that he can leave Aston Villa this summer after being frozen out by manager Paul Lambert.

Full story: Daily Mail.

West Ham are leading the chase to land young Chelsea striker Romelu Lukaku on loan next season after an impressive spell with West Brom this year.

Full story: The Metro.

Arsenal target Remy Cabella has had a huge price tag of £85million stamped on his head by current club Montpellier.

Full story: talkSPORT.

Chelsea duo Rafael Benitez and Fernando Torres are both targets for Serie A side Napoli this summer.

Full story: Daily Mirror.



Tottenham are planning an ambitious £36million double move for strikers Roberto Soldado of Valencia and Leandro Damiao of Internacional.

Full story: Daily Express.

Reports in Italy say Arsenal look like missing out on Real Madrid striker Gonzalo Higuain to Italian giants Juventus.

Full story: La Repubblica.

Chelsea have enquired about free-scoring Galatasaray striker Burak Yilmaz, who has also been watched by Arsenal and Liverpool.

Full story: The Guardian.

Queens Park Rangers goalkeeper Rob Green wants to stay at the club and fight for his place in the Championship next season.

Full story: London Evening Standard.

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers admits Luis Suarez has his price, but that he does not want to sell the striker this summer.

Full story: The Metro.

However, Bayern Munich are big fans of the Uruguayan striker, and may hand new manager Pep Guardiola the funds to sign him.

Full story: Daily Mirror.



Newcastle are not interested in making a bid to bring Liverpool striker Andy Carroll back to St James' Park.

Full story: The Telegraph.

]]> A round-up of Thursday's biggest transfer stories.

Check in to Transfer Window: Done Deal Alerts

French giants PSG are readying a bid of £40million for unsettled Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney.

Full story: Daily Mirror.

Former Real Madrid president Roman Calderon believes Cristiano Ronaldo could follow Jose Mourinho to Chelsea this summer.

Full story: talkSPORT.

Chelsea veteran midfielder Frank Lampard has hinted he could stay at Chelsea for a further three years.

Full story: London Evening Standard.

Arsenal are willing to listen to offers for their captain Thomas Vermaelen, and may accept as little as £5million for the unsettled defender.

Full story: The Sun.



Liverpool want to sell Stewart Downing on a permanent deal, and won't listen to loan offers for the winger. Fulham are said to be interested.

Full story: Daily Mirror.

Darren Bent has reportedly been told that he can leave Aston Villa this summer after being frozen out by manager Paul Lambert.

Full story: Daily Mail.

West Ham are leading the chase to land young Chelsea striker Romelu Lukaku on loan next season after an impressive spell with West Brom this year.

Full story: The Metro.

Arsenal target Remy Cabella has had a huge price tag of £85million stamped on his head by current club Montpellier.

Full story: talkSPORT.

Chelsea duo Rafael Benitez and Fernando Torres are both targets for Serie A side Napoli this summer.

Full story: Daily Mirror.



Tottenham are planning an ambitious £36million double move for strikers Roberto Soldado of Valencia and Leandro Damiao of Internacional.

Full story: Daily Express.

Reports in Italy say Arsenal look like missing out on Real Madrid striker Gonzalo Higuain to Italian giants Juventus.

Full story: La Repubblica.

Chelsea have enquired about free-scoring Galatasaray striker Burak Yilmaz, who has also been watched by Arsenal and Liverpool.

Full story: The Guardian.

Queens Park Rangers goalkeeper Rob Green wants to stay at the club and fight for his place in the Championship next season.

Full story: London Evening Standard.

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers admits Luis Suarez has his price, but that he does not want to sell the striker this summer.

Full story: The Metro.

However, Bayern Munich are big fans of the Uruguayan striker, and may hand new manager Pep Guardiola the funds to sign him.

Full story: Daily Mirror.



Newcastle are not interested in making a bid to bring Liverpool striker Andy Carroll back to St James' Park.

Full story: The Telegraph.

]]> http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/23/transfer-rumour-gossip-chelsea-target-real-madrid-dream-team-gunners-skipper-set-for-5m-exit-higuain-serie-a-bound/feed/ 0 Mark BrusThu, 23 May 13 11:07:56 +0000A round-up of Thursday's biggest transfer stories. http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/23/liverpool-ready-to-sell-stewart-downing-to-fulham/ http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/23/liverpool-ready-to-sell-stewart-downing-to-fulham/#comments Thu, 23 May 2013 09:03:16 +0000 Charlie Yaxley http://www.caughtoffside.com/?p=146014 Liverpool winger reportedly a target for Fulham.

Check in to Transfer Window: Done Deal Alerts

Fulham are thought to be preparing a move for Liverpool’s Stewart Downing according to The Mirror.

The former Middlesbrough and Aston Villa man has failed to mark his mark at the Anfield club despite the costing the club £20 million in transfer fees.

Downing has become something of a poster boy for the club’s wasteful spending in recent seasons and has had to endure a backlash from the fans who have been disappointed with his inconsistent performances.

While the player did improve towards the second half of the season, it is thought that Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers is ready to cut his losses and move the player on.

Rodgers is keen to raise funds as he has been told by the Liverpool hierarchy that he will have just £20 million to spend on new players this summer, unless he raises additional funds himself.

The manager has previously expressed his desire to bring in between three and four new players so will find himself restricted in the type of player he can bring in unless money is raised for player sales.

But it is thought that Fulham are pushing for a loan move and are reluctant to commit hard cash towards Downing’s signature.

]]> Liverpool winger reportedly a target for Fulham.

Check in to Transfer Window: Done Deal Alerts

Fulham are thought to be preparing a move for Liverpool’s Stewart Downing according to The Mirror.

The former Middlesbrough and Aston Villa man has failed to mark his mark at the Anfield club despite the costing the club £20 million in transfer fees.

Downing has become something of a poster boy for the club’s wasteful spending in recent seasons and has had to endure a backlash from the fans who have been disappointed with his inconsistent performances.

While the player did improve towards the second half of the season, it is thought that Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers is ready to cut his losses and move the player on.

Rodgers is keen to raise funds as he has been told by the Liverpool hierarchy that he will have just £20 million to spend on new players this summer, unless he raises additional funds himself.

The manager has previously expressed his desire to bring in between three and four new players so will find himself restricted in the type of player he can bring in unless money is raised for player sales.

But it is thought that Fulham are pushing for a loan move and are reluctant to commit hard cash towards Downing’s signature.

]]> http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/23/liverpool-ready-to-sell-stewart-downing-to-fulham/feed/ 0 Charlie YaxleyThu, 23 May 13 10:03:16 +0000Liverpool winger reportedly a target for Fulham. http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/23/psg-make-official-approach-to-sign-man-united-striker-wayne-rooney-according-to-french-source-lequipe/ http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/23/psg-make-official-approach-to-sign-man-united-striker-wayne-rooney-according-to-french-source-lequipe/#comments Wed, 22 May 2013 23:17:29 +0000 Mark Brus http://www.caughtoffside.com/?p=146003 French giants approach unsettled United star.

Check in to Transfer Window: Done Deal Alerts

PSG have made an approach for unsettled Manchester United star Wayne Rooney, according to L'Equipe.

The 27-year-old's future has come under much speculation recently after Sir Alex Ferguson claimed that the England international had submitted a transfer request at Old Trafford.

Rooney later denied these allegations, though it is still thought that he is considering his future at the club after becoming something of a squad player this season.

The former Everton star has been on the bench for some important games, and has often been played out of position on the wings or in midfield to accommodate others.

It is thought that new United manager David Moyes very much wants Rooney in his plans, but he will now have to fight off interest from a number of Europe's top clubs for Rooney's signature.

The likes of Barcelona, Chelsea and Bayern Munich have all been linked with the forward, but PSG are now stepping up their interest, as they hope to add Rooney to their latest in the line of recent big-money signings for the club.

The French giants would like to partner Rooney with Zlatan Ibrahimovic next season, in what would be a mouth-watering partnership upfront, and the United attacker could find himself playing under former Chelsea and Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez, who has also been linked with the club.

]]> French giants approach unsettled United star.

Check in to Transfer Window: Done Deal Alerts

PSG have made an approach for unsettled Manchester United star Wayne Rooney, according to L'Equipe.

The 27-year-old's future has come under much speculation recently after Sir Alex Ferguson claimed that the England international had submitted a transfer request at Old Trafford.

Rooney later denied these allegations, though it is still thought that he is considering his future at the club after becoming something of a squad player this season.

The former Everton star has been on the bench for some important games, and has often been played out of position on the wings or in midfield to accommodate others.

It is thought that new United manager David Moyes very much wants Rooney in his plans, but he will now have to fight off interest from a number of Europe's top clubs for Rooney's signature.

The likes of Barcelona, Chelsea and Bayern Munich have all been linked with the forward, but PSG are now stepping up their interest, as they hope to add Rooney to their latest in the line of recent big-money signings for the club.

The French giants would like to partner Rooney with Zlatan Ibrahimovic next season, in what would be a mouth-watering partnership upfront, and the United attacker could find himself playing under former Chelsea and Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez, who has also been linked with the club.

]]> http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/23/psg-make-official-approach-to-sign-man-united-striker-wayne-rooney-according-to-french-source-lequipe/feed/ 0 Mark BrusThu, 23 May 13 00:17:29 +0000French giants approach unsettled United star. http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/22/top-ten-premier-league-players-who-could-greatly-benefit-from-a-loan-move-next-season/ http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/22/top-ten-premier-league-players-who-could-greatly-benefit-from-a-loan-move-next-season/#comments Wed, 22 May 2013 18:41:09 +0000 Mark Brus http://www.caughtoffside.com/?p=145969 Ten youngsters who need experience, or simply squad players who need more games and could benefit from a loan move next season.



Check in to Transfer Window: Done Deal Alerts



10. Oriol Romeu (Chelsea)

The young midfielder arrived from Barcelona as an exciting prospect in 2011, though he has not looked quite ready to be a regular for Chelsea. He has barely featured for the first team this season and when he has he has looked a little slow and off the pace. No doubt a talent if he was produced by Barca's famed youth system, but at 21 he could certainly benefit from more experience and regular football at a lower level Premier League club.





9. Tom Carroll (Tottenham)

This skillful midfielder is highly thought of at Tottenham, drawing comparisons with Arsenal starlet Jack Wilshere for his playmaking abilities with his left foot from the middle of the park. However, he has a lot of competition ahead of him at Spurs and sitting on the bench isn't doing much good for his development. The 20-year-old has had previous loan spells at Leyton Orient and Derby County, and could be on his way to another Premier League team on loan next season to show what he can do when given more of a chance.





8. Nick Powell (Manchester United)

This 19-year-old midfielder is one of many exciting young players to have come from Crewe Alexandra's youth system, and earned a big move to Manchester United last summer after impressing with the League 2 side. Opportunities have been unsurprisingly hard to come by in this United side, though he has managed to score one goal for the club. With a host of summer signings expected to come in, Powell may be on the way out, at least for the season, as United need him to be playing and gaining experience at this stage in his career.





7. Ryan Bertrand (Chelsea)

Ryan Bertrand has had to make to with playing second fiddle to Ashley Cole for a number of years now at Chelsea, but they are keen to keep this talented youngster around. Still, he is now 23 and no longer going to benefit from simply making brief appearances as a substitute or playing in the less-important cup games. Cole isn't going anywhere any time soon, so why not let Bertrand get a few more games elsewhere next season? This skillful attacking left-back certainly won't be short of suitors from a number of Premier League clubs.





6. Wojciech Szczesny (Arsenal)

Though hardly an inexperienced youngster, Wojciech Szczesny has hit a difficult spell in his Arsenal career. The Polish goalkeeper was very highly rated at the club for a number of years, but was arguably made first choice too soon at the age of 20. He has suffered a dip in confidence and perhaps needs a move away from the spotlight for a while. The talented Pole could do well to spend next season on loan while Arsenal bring in a more experienced short-term solution between the posts to aid their push for silverware. Szczesny certainly won't want to be on the bench at this stage in his career.





5. Raheem Sterling (Liverpool)

It's been a decent breakthrough season for Raheem Sterling, one of the most exciting young players at Liverpool, but it's clear that the 18-year-old winger still looks a bit raw for this level. Sterling has done well to make 36 appearances for Brendan Rodgers' side this season, scoring 2 goals, and also earned a call-up to the England national team. Still, it may all be a bit much too soon for the teenage talent, and he could certainly do with a temporary step down to a lower level Premier League side or maybe even to the Championship, which has shown itself down the years to be a great starting point in many players' careers.





4. Victor Moses (Chelsea)

Perhaps an unexpected signing by Chelsea from Wigan last summer, Victor Moses has unsurprisingly not been a regular feature in the side this season. Still, he has a great deal of potential and perhaps made his big move a bit too early. The Nigerian forward is still only 22 and his talents would surely be in-demand by many mid-table sides next season, with Swansea said to be showing an interest. Chelsea probably won't be using him, and he could come back to them a better player. A similar move has worked wonders for fellow Chelsea youngster Romelu Lukaku this season.





3. Jonjo Shelvey (Liverpool)

This talented 21-year-old has shown what he can do in limited appearances for Liverpool this season, and deserves more of a chance to be playing regularly. A previous loan spell at Blackpool in 2011 worked wonders for Shelvey's confidence, and his stock has certainly risen to Premier League level now. He still may not quite be ready for the Reds' first team, but time out on loan could certainly provide him with the experience he needs to make an impact at Anfield the following year.





2. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain (Arsenal)

A lot was expected of Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain when he signed for Arsenal from Southampton for around £12million as a 17-year-old. The winger had a decent first season with the club, but has failed to reproduce his form this time round. At this age he is still likely to be inconsistent, but the talent is there and the experience of playing every week would do him the world of good. Arsenal may not find a place for him next season as they strengthen their squad this summer, so a loan move to a lower level Premier League team could benefit both parties greatly.





1. Javier Hernandez (Manchester United)

Another player who is not a youngster in need of experience, but simply a talented striker who has gone off the boil slightly. Javier Hernandez made a great immediate impact when he joined United in 2010, but he has been in and out of the team over the last couple of years, and will be frustrated not to have cemented a regular place due to his finishing abilities. United may or may not want to keep him, but they would be unwise to sell this talented goal poacher without giving him more of a chance. If he cannot get games at Old Trafford next year, there are many Premier League sides who would take him and give him the opportunity to show what he can do at this level.

]]> Ten youngsters who need experience, or simply squad players who need more games and could benefit from a loan move next season.



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10. Oriol Romeu (Chelsea)

The young midfielder arrived from Barcelona as an exciting prospect in 2011, though he has not looked quite ready to be a regular for Chelsea. He has barely featured for the first team this season and when he has he has looked a little slow and off the pace. No doubt a talent if he was produced by Barca's famed youth system, but at 21 he could certainly benefit from more experience and regular football at a lower level Premier League club.





9. Tom Carroll (Tottenham)

This skillful midfielder is highly thought of at Tottenham, drawing comparisons with Arsenal starlet Jack Wilshere for his playmaking abilities with his left foot from the middle of the park. However, he has a lot of competition ahead of him at Spurs and sitting on the bench isn't doing much good for his development. The 20-year-old has had previous loan spells at Leyton Orient and Derby County, and could be on his way to another Premier League team on loan next season to show what he can do when given more of a chance.





8. Nick Powell (Manchester United)

This 19-year-old midfielder is one of many exciting young players to have come from Crewe Alexandra's youth system, and earned a big move to Manchester United last summer after impressing with the League 2 side. Opportunities have been unsurprisingly hard to come by in this United side, though he has managed to score one goal for the club. With a host of summer signings expected to come in, Powell may be on the way out, at least for the season, as United need him to be playing and gaining experience at this stage in his career.





7. Ryan Bertrand (Chelsea)

Ryan Bertrand has had to make to with playing second fiddle to Ashley Cole for a number of years now at Chelsea, but they are keen to keep this talented youngster around. Still, he is now 23 and no longer going to benefit from simply making brief appearances as a substitute or playing in the less-important cup games. Cole isn't going anywhere any time soon, so why not let Bertrand get a few more games elsewhere next season? This skillful attacking left-back certainly won't be short of suitors from a number of Premier League clubs.





6. Wojciech Szczesny (Arsenal)

Though hardly an inexperienced youngster, Wojciech Szczesny has hit a difficult spell in his Arsenal career. The Polish goalkeeper was very highly rated at the club for a number of years, but was arguably made first choice too soon at the age of 20. He has suffered a dip in confidence and perhaps needs a move away from the spotlight for a while. The talented Pole could do well to spend next season on loan while Arsenal bring in a more experienced short-term solution between the posts to aid their push for silverware. Szczesny certainly won't want to be on the bench at this stage in his career.





5. Raheem Sterling (Liverpool)

It's been a decent breakthrough season for Raheem Sterling, one of the most exciting young players at Liverpool, but it's clear that the 18-year-old winger still looks a bit raw for this level. Sterling has done well to make 36 appearances for Brendan Rodgers' side this season, scoring 2 goals, and also earned a call-up to the England national team. Still, it may all be a bit much too soon for the teenage talent, and he could certainly do with a temporary step down to a lower level Premier League side or maybe even to the Championship, which has shown itself down the years to be a great starting point in many players' careers.





4. Victor Moses (Chelsea)

Perhaps an unexpected signing by Chelsea from Wigan last summer, Victor Moses has unsurprisingly not been a regular feature in the side this season. Still, he has a great deal of potential and perhaps made his big move a bit too early. The Nigerian forward is still only 22 and his talents would surely be in-demand by many mid-table sides next season, with Swansea said to be showing an interest. Chelsea probably won't be using him, and he could come back to them a better player. A similar move has worked wonders for fellow Chelsea youngster Romelu Lukaku this season.





3. Jonjo Shelvey (Liverpool)

This talented 21-year-old has shown what he can do in limited appearances for Liverpool this season, and deserves more of a chance to be playing regularly. A previous loan spell at Blackpool in 2011 worked wonders for Shelvey's confidence, and his stock has certainly risen to Premier League level now. He still may not quite be ready for the Reds' first team, but time out on loan could certainly provide him with the experience he needs to make an impact at Anfield the following year.





2. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain (Arsenal)

A lot was expected of Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain when he signed for Arsenal from Southampton for around £12million as a 17-year-old. The winger had a decent first season with the club, but has failed to reproduce his form this time round. At this age he is still likely to be inconsistent, but the talent is there and the experience of playing every week would do him the world of good. Arsenal may not find a place for him next season as they strengthen their squad this summer, so a loan move to a lower level Premier League team could benefit both parties greatly.





1. Javier Hernandez (Manchester United)

Another player who is not a youngster in need of experience, but simply a talented striker who has gone off the boil slightly. Javier Hernandez made a great immediate impact when he joined United in 2010, but he has been in and out of the team over the last couple of years, and will be frustrated not to have cemented a regular place due to his finishing abilities. United may or may not want to keep him, but they would be unwise to sell this talented goal poacher without giving him more of a chance. If he cannot get games at Old Trafford next year, there are many Premier League sides who would take him and give him the opportunity to show what he can do at this level.

]]> http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/22/top-ten-premier-league-players-who-could-greatly-benefit-from-a-loan-move-next-season/feed/ 0 Mark BrusWed, 22 May 13 19:41:09 +0000Ten youngsters who need experience, or simply squad players who need more games and could benefit from a loan move next season. http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/22/rafael-benitez-eyed-up-as-carlo-ancelotti-replacement-at-psg/ http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/22/rafael-benitez-eyed-up-as-carlo-ancelotti-replacement-at-psg/#comments Wed, 22 May 2013 16:27:04 +0000 Mark Brus http://www.caughtoffside.com/?p=145957 French giants look to departing Chelsea boss.

Check in to Transfer Window: Done Deal Alerts

PSG are considering an approach for Rafael Benitez when he leaves Chelsea, as they seek a replacement for the Real Madrid-bound Carlo Ancelotti, according to L'Equipe.

The former Liverpool and Valencia manager has been in charge on a temporary basis at Stamford Bridge this season, and will leave the club in the summer as they seek a permanent appointment for the team.

Benitez led the Blues to the Europa League in his short time with the club, and is now being linked with a number of managerial vacancies around Europe, including at Napoli and Malaga.

However, PSG have now made the Spaniard their main target to replace their manager Ancelotti, who in turn will replace the Chelsea-bound Jose Mourinho at Real Madrid.

The Italian has just led the French giants to the Ligue 1 title, and has been approached by Real Madrid after they confirmed Mourinho would be leaving the Benerbeu at the end of the season.

Arsene Wenger had also been linked with the PSG job, but he has committed his future to Arsenal, and it seems they are keen to wrap up a deal for a new boss as quickly as possible, and will move to hire Benitez swiftly.

Benitez generally divides opinions in the game, but has brought success wherever he has gone, apart from a short-lived spell with Inter Milan in 2010.

]]> French giants look to departing Chelsea boss.

Check in to Transfer Window: Done Deal Alerts

PSG are considering an approach for Rafael Benitez when he leaves Chelsea, as they seek a replacement for the Real Madrid-bound Carlo Ancelotti, according to L'Equipe.

The former Liverpool and Valencia manager has been in charge on a temporary basis at Stamford Bridge this season, and will leave the club in the summer as they seek a permanent appointment for the team.

Benitez led the Blues to the Europa League in his short time with the club, and is now being linked with a number of managerial vacancies around Europe, including at Napoli and Malaga.

However, PSG have now made the Spaniard their main target to replace their manager Ancelotti, who in turn will replace the Chelsea-bound Jose Mourinho at Real Madrid.

The Italian has just led the French giants to the Ligue 1 title, and has been approached by Real Madrid after they confirmed Mourinho would be leaving the Benerbeu at the end of the season.

Arsene Wenger had also been linked with the PSG job, but he has committed his future to Arsenal, and it seems they are keen to wrap up a deal for a new boss as quickly as possible, and will move to hire Benitez swiftly.

Benitez generally divides opinions in the game, but has brought success wherever he has gone, apart from a short-lived spell with Inter Milan in 2010.

]]> http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/22/rafael-benitez-eyed-up-as-carlo-ancelotti-replacement-at-psg/feed/ 0 Mark BrusWed, 22 May 13 17:27:04 +0000French giants look to departing Chelsea boss.