Sportingo’s Mark Apostolou brings us another piping hot batch of the good stuff…
Inter Milan’s Brazilian striker can’t shake off Wenger’s interest, but the real battle involves Villa, Tottenham, Manchester City, Portsmouth and Celtic, all keeping an eye on Peter Crouch and Scott Carson. All in another set of today’s news bulletin covering all the gossip and rumour in football today.
Arsenal have been linked with Inter Milan’s Brazilian striker Adriano for what seems like months now. However, there is a new angle now. With unhappy Gilberto apparently heading for the exit, it appears Inter want to make him part of the deal that would see Adriano move to the Emirates (Various).
This deal is unlikely to happen. Adriano has been woefully short of form in recent months. Even last season, when Roberto Mancini’s side swept to the title, the striker was not exactly weighing in with goals.
This term he has found himself frozen out of the side on occasions and may be seeking a new challenge, but it is unlikely Arsene Wenger will offer him a way out. However, Gilberto may still be on his way to Serie A as he doesn’t seem to be getting a look-in at Arsenal.
Aston Villa boss Martin O’Neill is reportedly lining up a £20m double bid for Liverpool’s Peter Crouch and Scott Carson (The Independent). Apparently Spurs new boss Juande Ramos is also keeping close tabs on the pair, with special attention on Carson who he sees as an ideal replacement for flailing Paul Robinson. Crouch is also being keenly watched by Manchester City, Portsmouth and Celtic (Various).
It looks like being a busy January at Anfield with several players rotating on and out of the revolving doors. Both Crouch and Carson are capable of holding down a regular spot with most Premier League clubs. The big question is: Where will they end up.
It seems that with Carson already performing wonders at Villa Park he’s more likely to stay put. But the fee could become the sticking point. I fancy Crouch will opt for Manchester City and the regular first team football he would get under Sven Goran Eriksson.