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Fabregas `Torn' Between Arsenal, Barcelona, Independent Says: Roundup
The following is a roundup of soccer stories from U.K. newspapers with clickable links to the Web:
Torn Fabregas
Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas said he’s “torn” between staying at the Premier League club or moving to Barcelona, the Independent said.
Fabregas has been linked with a move back to the Spanish club, from which he joined Arsenal as a 16-year-old. The Gunners have already rejected a 29 million-pound ($45 million) bid for the 23-year-old midfielder, the newspaper said.
Fabregas, a Catalan who’s supported Barcelona his whole life, recently spoke with Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger.
“He doesn’t want me to leave,” he was quoted as saying by the Independent. “And in my last conversation with him in London, it was one of the most difficult moments I have experienced. I ended up very upset.”
Priority Signings
New Fulham manager Mark Hughes will make Manchester City’s Stephen Ireland and Craig Bellamy his first transfer targets, the Daily Mirror said.
Hughes, hired at Craven Cottage yesterday, coached both players while in charge at City. He could also move for City striker Roque Santa Cruz, the Mirror said.
Hughes must decide whether to go through with a transfer for Aston Villa midfielder Steve Sidwell, who agreed to terms on a 2 million-pound ($3.1 million) deal three weeks ago, the Mirror said.
Keeper Swap
Hughes could also opt for West Ham and England goalkeeper Robert Green if Mark Schwarzer leaves for Arsenal, the Daily Mail said.
Fulham has already turned down 2 million pounds from Arsenal for the 37-year-old Schwarzer, valuing him at double that. A compromise is likely to be reached and Hughes will have to decide whether to use the money on Green, who is valued at 6 million pounds.
Donovan Talks
Everton has held talks with Major League Soccer and the Los Angeles Galaxy over U.S. midfielder Landon Donovan, the Daily Telegraph said.
Donovan, 28, scored two goals in 13 appearances during a three-month loan spell at Everton last season. If a permanent deal is reached, Everton would have to sell players to fund a move for the 10 million pound-rated American, the Telegraph said.
Back to England
Brazilian striker Robinho is preparing to return to England after talks between Manchester City and Santos broke down, the Guardian said.
City sent Robinho, who was signed from Real Madrid for 32.5 million pounds, to Santos on loan last season. That agreement expires in five days and the 26-year-old may have no option other than to return to the Premier League club, the Guardian said.
To contact the reporter on this story: Bob Bensch in London at bbensch@bloomberg.net.
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