VIDEO: Neymar Tries To Exact Revenge On Chelsea Man In Training

It was only natural that Neymar would try and get his own back on Filipe Luis.

The Chelsea defender humiliated the Barcelona star during a Brazil training session and Neymar wanted revenge.

Luis was having none of it as you can see in the video above.

After joining the Blues from Atletico Madrid in the summer in a £15.8m deal, he has made just two Premier League starts, with Cesar Azpilicueta currently ahead of him in the Chelsea pecking order.

EXCLUSIVE! - Arsenal Don't Need Cech! Seaman Wants Wenger To Keep Faith With Szczesny

Arsenal legend David Seaman has advised Arsene Wenger NOT to launch a bid for Petr Cech.

The Gunners are reportedly lining up a £7million swoop for the out-of-favour Chelsea goalkeeper in the January transfer window.

But Seaman is against the move as he wants Wenger to keep faith with Wojciech Szczesny.

Speaking on the Alan Brazil Sports Breakfast, the club’s legendary former stopper said: “Wojciech is coming off his best season last season with Arsenal and I don’t think that anybody warrants taking his place because he is not making mistakes.

“Arsenal are conceding goals, but it is not through goalkeeping errors that they are conceding.”

Arsenal have lost more more points from winning positions than any other Premier League side this season, and are sitting sixth in the table ahead of Saturday's visit of Manchester United.

Seaman insists that has little to do with Szczesny and is instead down to a lack of leadership throughout the team.

He added: “They have not got anybody in the team at the moment that can grab a game and think, right, we are 2-0 up or 3-0 up, let's sit in front of the back four, see ten minutes out so we don't concede a goal, and then push on from there. We used to do that with Patrick Vieira. Tony Adams or I would say, 'Patrick, just sit in front of the defenders for ten minutes'.

"You would think someone like Per Mertesacker would be good enough to do that because he has got tons of international experience. I don’t know how vocal he is in a game or how the other players are, but [Mathieu] Flamini looks like the only one doing it at the moment."

With Arsenal 11 points behind leaders Chelsea just 11 games into the season, Wenger has already given up hope of winning the title.

Seaman insists it is too early to completely write off the Gunners, but admits their London rivals look to be on a different level.

"They have got a slight chance. Chelsea are looking so good and so strong, but if Arsenal can get on one of their runs where they win a big group of games together then they can put a bit of pressure on,” he said.

"At the moment Chelsea are almost in second gear and they have got three more gears to go."

No concerns for Henderson as new Liverpool deal nears

Jordan Henderson admits he has no concerns about signing a new Liverpool contract.

The 24-year-old, who was named the Reds' vice-captain last month and is viewed as the long-term successor to Steven Gerrard, has less than two years to run on his current deal.

Striker Daniel Sturridge signed a new long-term extension last week and Henderson is expected to follow suit as low-key talks have been on-going for some time.

"I am just concentrating on playing football. I am not worried about that," said the England midfielder, who scored Liverpool's winner against West Brom on Saturday.

"I am enjoying my football, I love this club and I want to be here for many years so that shouldn't be an issue.

"I'll let my agent sort that out, it's nothing to do with me."

Raheem Sterling, who has reportedly attracted the attention of this month's Champions League opponents Real Madrid, and Philippe Coutinho are next in line for new contract offers to reflect their growing importance to the team.

Transfer rumours and paper review - Wednesday, October 8

Here's the top transfer-related stories in Wednesday's newspapers...

Liverpool and Arsenal are monitoring Real Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas after the 33-year-old hinted he wants to play in England. (Daily Star)

Liverpool midfielder Suso, 20, will leave Anfield to join AC Milan either in January or for free during the summer. (Daily Express)

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has rejected an approach from Bayern Munich for 25-year-old Germany midfielder Mesut Ozil. (Metro)

Wales international Gareth Bale, 25, has told Real Madrid team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo, 29, not to leave the Bernabeu club in order to rejoin Manchester United. (Daily Express)

Stromsgodset midfielder Martin Odegaard, 15, has courted the attention of several Premier League clubs but Norway coach Per-Mathias Hogmo, who has included the teenager in his squad for his side's forthcoming Euro 2016 qualifiers, has urged him to turn down a move to "an absolute top club". (Daily Mail)

Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City and Manchester United are all interested in 31-year-old Barcelona right-back Dani Alves, whose contract with the Spanish club runs out next summer, but the Brazilian wants to stay at the Nou Camp outfit. (Daily Star)

Southampton midfielder Morgan Schneiderlin, 24, says the club treated him like "cattle" during the summer when he was denied a move to Tottenham, but that he now intends to stay at the south coast side for the rest of the season. (Daily Telegraph)

QPR boss Harry Redknapp will make a move for Tottenham striker Emmanuel Adebayor, 30, and Toronto forward Jermain Defoe, 32, during the January transfer window. (The Sun)

England coach Roy Hodgson has cleared the air with Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal and defused their row over the fitness of 19-year-old defender Luke Shaw. (Daily Telegraph)

Check out Arsenal target Draxler shining against Chelsea

Schalke star Julian Draxler has long been linked with a move to Arsenal and against Chelsea in their Champions League match on Wednesday night he showed just why.

The 20-year-old attacking-midfielder shone against Jose Mourinho's side as he helped the German outfit earn a point at Stamford Bridge.

But it was one particular piece of flashy skill that had fans taking to Twitter to wax lyrical about Draxler.

Check out the footage below and the reaction of supporters as they urge their clubs to sign the German star.

Chelsea cautious over Costa’s ongoing injury struggles, admits Mourinho

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has admitted the club remain cautious over Diego Costa’s hamstring injury, revealing the striker’s niggle prevented him from starting the Blues’ Champions League opener against Schalke.

Mourinho’s men took an early lead at Stamford Bridge when Cesc Fabregas found the net for his first Chelsea goal, but the hosts were wasteful throughout, with Klaas-Jan Huntelaar netting an equaliser after the break to clinch a 1-1 draw.

The Blues certainly missed Costa’s presence up front as Didier Drogba, who was handed his first start since his surprise return to the club this summer, missed a number of glaring chances, while Eden Hazard was also guilty of a lack of clinical touch in front of goal.

And while the Spanish star - who scored a hat-trick in Saturday's victory over Swansea - came off the bench for a late cameo, he had little impact against the German side, with Mourinho revealing his concern over the forward’s condition.

"Costa has a problem," said the Blues boss.

"If he has one week to let the muscle recover he can start a game. Playing on Saturday, three days is not enough for him to recover.

"It was not to protect for the game Sunday [at Manchester City] it was because today he was not in condition to start the game."

Costa limped out of last season's Champions League final with Atletico Madrid with a hamstring problem and the injury recurred while on international duty earlier this month with Spain.

"He played here one match and he was perfect," Mourinho added.

"He went to the national team and after the game against France he came back to us injured.

"He came to us [from Atletico] and he was completely fine. He had a problem again in the national team, not with us.

"Now we have the problem and now we have to resolve the problem the best we can.

"Today he was not in condition to play. Sunday we believe he is.

"Next week against Bolton [in the Capital One Cup] for sure he isn't. We have to manage the situation until the moment he's completely fine.

"If today he starts the game, for sure he cannot play on Sunday. We have to go step by step."

Listen to the full post-match reaction from Jose Mourinho above!

Arteta is finished! Arsenal fans slam their captain after Dortmund defeat

It’s fair to say only Wojciech Szczesny came out of Arsenal’s 2-0 defeat to Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League with any credit.

The Gunners were lacklustre and easily dispatched by their German opponents, who barely had to break sweat to claim victory.

And Arsenal fans directed most of their ire towards captain Mikel Arteta who was completely anonymous in midfield for 77 minutes until he was finally replaced by Lukas Podolkski.

Some wanted the Spaniard to retire while others queried if it was possible to have his contract cancelled

Welbeck’s finishing leaves Wenger frustrated

Arsene Wenger admitted Danny Welbeck’s finishing has left him disappointed but insists the striker will improve at the Emirates.

The summer signing from Manchester United, who was criticised for his poor conversion rate by Louis van Gaal, missed several good chances for the Gunners as they lost 2-0 to Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League.

But after the game new boss Wenger stated his belief the England forward will come good for the north London club.

"Danny [Welbeck] will improve,” he said. “I don't think we have to make a problem of that.

"He had a very lively first-half. He had two or three good chances but couldn't finish them. There was one obvious one. We have to be patient with him."

Liverpool aren’t at the standard of last season, admits Rodgers

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has admitted his side’s standards have slipped compared to the Reds team which secured a Premier League runner-up spot last season.

The Merseyside outfit seem to feeling the effects of star striker Luis Suarez’s exit to Barcelona this summer, while their attacking force has taken an additional hit with the early injury blow to now-first choice frontman Daniel Sturridge.

That has left Rodgers with summer signing Mario Balotelli as his main man up front, though the Italian failed to really impress at the weekend as the Reds slumped to a 1-0 defeat to Aston Villa at Anfield.

The maverick forward finally opened his account for his new club just a few days later though, putting Liverpool in front - with what Rodgers described as a "world-class finish" - in their Champions League opener against Bulgarian minnows Ludogorets on Tuesday night.

But despite Balotelli giving the hosts the lead, it was Steven Gerrard who saved the Merseyside outfit once again as the captain netted a stoppage-time penalty to secure a 2-1 victory after the visitors netted shock equaliser.

It was a nervy night for the Reds, but Rodgers insists his new-look squad, bolstered by over £100million worth of summer arrivals, will improve with time as they start to gel.

“We’re not at the standard we were at last season, that’s for sure,” said the boss. “We’re not at the level yet.

“We’ve got a lot of adaptation going on with new players coming in, and even though they fit the profile and are working hard, it’s still a new team.

“We’re still a work in progress, but we could do no more than win tonight, and we did that.

“It’s important to keep winning games through this period, and winning in the Champions League is always good.

"I think it was a great night for everyone at the club," he added. "Obviously it's been five years so to get first game back in and get the result was excellent.

"Big congratulations to the players because they showed great character and commitment tonight to get the result."

Norwich beat Cardiff in six-goal thriller after brilliant comeback

Norwich came out on top of the battle of two relegated Premier League sides, as the Canaries stages a brilliant comeback to beat Cardiff in a six-goal thriller at the Cardiff City Stadium.

Both sides are desperate to secure immediate promotion back into the top flight, but it is Neil Adams’ men who look most likely at this early stage of the season, as a 4-2 victory lifts them up to in second place level on points with table topping Nottingham Forest.

Cardiff got off to a brilliant start with two goals in the opening 22 minutes from Joe Ralls and Aron Gunnarsson.

But the game was turned on his head after the break as Norwich began to dominate, with Martin Olsson pulling one back for the visitors shortly after the restart and Wes Hoolahan pulling them level on the hour-mark.

Bluebirds boss Ole Gunnar Solskjær then brought Nicky Maynard and Tom Adeyemi on from the bench in an attempt to mix it up, but it only got worse for the home side as Michael Turner scored in the 70th minute, with Cameron Jerome also finishing late on as boos began to sound from the home support.

Meanwhile, Brentford are into the play-off places after a 3-2 win over Brighton, with strikes from Moses Odubajo, Andre Gray and Jonathan Douglas sealing victory despite Seagulls duo Danny Holla and Gordon Greer’s goals.

The pressure continues to pile on Fulham boss Felix Magath, as his side slumped to a 3-0 defeat to Reading – the Cottagers’ fifth loss of the season.

Glenn Murray was the star for the home side, with his brace giving to Royals a comfortable lead, while Nick Blackman hammered home in the closing stages to round off a great win, with choruses of ‘Magath out’ sounding from the away stand.

The result leaves Fulham rock bottom of the table with just one point.

Scotland striker Jordan Rhodes was on target again for Blackburn as Rovers secured a 3-1 triumph over Wigan.

After a barren first-half the goals rained in after the break, with the Latics taking the lead through James Perch before Ben Marshall’s double, a goal either side of Rhodes’ finish, steering Blackburn to victory.

Elsewhere, Yoni Buyens’ third minute penalty was all Charlton needed to see of Watford in a 1-0 win at the Valley, two-goal hero Grant Leadbitter netted in stoppage time as Middlesbrough beat Huddersfield 2-1, and a goal apiece from David McGoldrick and Daryl Murphy saw Ipswich see off Millwall in a 2-0 win.

The day’s early kick-off saw Birmingham and Leeds United play out a 1-1 draw at St Andrew’s, Alex Mowatt's second-half equaliser rescuing a point for the managerless Whites, with Jordan Bowery Rotherham’s saviour as his stoppage-time header sealed a 1-1 tie at Bournemouth.

And finally, both Blackpool and Wolves, and Bolton and Sheffield Wednesday played out goalless stalemates.

Exclusive - Martinez can emulate Kendall at Everton, claims Southall

Club legend Neville Southall believes Roberto Martinez is destined for greatness at Everton – and claims the Spaniard is the Toffees’ best manager since Howard Kendall.

The former Wigan chief replaced David Moyes at Goodison Park, following the Scot's departure for Manchester United in 2013.

Martinez led the Merseysiders to fifth in the Premier League table last campaign, securing a Europa League spot for this season in the process.

And that performance has led former goalkeeper Southall to compare the 41-year-old to Kendall, who was successful both domestically and abroad.

“Roberto is definitely the man to lead Everton and he’s the best manager we’ve had since Howard Kendall,” he told the Alan Brazil Sports Breakfast show. “He will win something for us.

“There are not many managers who can walk into a club and change the philosophy,” he added. “His problem this season is going to be the expectation.

“People are turning up to the ground and expecting Everton to win by lots of goals.

“The crowd noise level went down last year. I went to see the match against West Ham last season and it was really quiet. I was wondering why this was happening and then you realise the expectation he’s brought in, and the type of football he’s playing, people are sitting there saying, ‘entertain me’.”

Valencia keen to keep starlet wanted by Arsenal and Chelsea

Valencia are frantically working on a new contract for Spanish wonderkid Paco Alcacer with Arsenal and Chelsea reportedly stepping up their interest in the 21-year-old.

Alcacer has shot to fame this season, making his debut for Spain last week and then scoring his first goal in their 5-1 victory over Macedonia on Monday.

As a result, according to reports in Spain, Valencia are now putting together an improved contract offer for the striker in an attempt to ward off interest from several Premier League clubs.

Arsenal and Chelsea have been touted as possible destinations, while Barcelona also enquired after Alcacer back in 2011 - after he was top-scorer at the under-17 European Championships.

Valencia are said to be determined to hold onto Alcacer, who netted seven goals in 11 games during the La Liga side's run to the Europa League semi-final last season.

The Spaniard's new deal is expected to reward him with a pay-rise, while it is also thought to contain a buy-out clause of around £25m.

Transfer rumours and paper review - Wednesday, September 10

Here are the top transfer-related stories in Wednesday's newspapers...

Arsenal are looking to sign Barcelona's 19-year-old midfielder Sergi Samper - with manager Arsene Wenger ready to pay his £9.6m release clause in January. (Metro)

Barcelona right-back Dani Alves, 31, has emerged as a shock transfer target for Manchester United and Liverpool. (Daily Express)

France midfielder Morgan Schneiderlin, 24, says he was desperate to leave Southampton this summer before club bosses "blocked" his move. (Mirror)

QPR's wage bill is bigger than Italian giants AC Milan. (The Daily Telegraph)

Midfielder Alex Pritchard, 21, is hoping to catch the eye of Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino during his loan spell at Championship new-boys Brentford. (Daily Mail)

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has told Belgian midfielder Marouane Fellaini, 26, that he plans to make him an important part of the team. (Daily Star) 

Exclusive – Arsenal turned down chance to sign Man City defender this summer

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger turned down the chance to sign Micah Richards during the summer transfer window, talkSPORT understands.

Wenger was on the search for defensive steel after selling centre-back and Gunners captain Thomas Vermaelen to Barcelona for £15million in August.

The Frenchman was alerted to Richards’ availability, with the 26-year-old finding first-team opportunities limited at the Etihad Stadium under manager Manuel Pellegrini.

But Wenger instead opted to sign Southampton teenager Calum Chambers in a £16million deal, with Richards eventually joining Italian side Fiorentina on loan for the season on deadline day.

Richards previously revealed to talkSPORT that he was offered more money to stay with Premier League champions City, but decided to revive his career in Florence with the prospect of playing regular Europa League and Serie A football.

Fabregas: Arsenal will always be close to my heart, but I’m committed to Chelsea now

Cesc Fabregas insists he is fully committed to Chelsea following his summer switch to Stamford Bridge, but maintains he will always hold Arsenal close to his heart.

The former Gunners captain says he feels comfortable working under Blues boss Jose Mourinho, after Arsenal decided against taking up an option to bring the playmaker back from Barcelona to the Emirates Stadium.

Fabregas, 27, joined the Gunners from his boy-hood club as a raw teenager and developed into one of the most dynamic midfielders in the game, before returning to the Nou Camp in August 2011.

He won the La Liga title, a Copa del Ray and the FIFA Club World Cup during his three-year spell back in Spain, before returning to the Premier League early in the transfer window in a £28million deal.

And in an interview with Spanish newspaper El Pais, Fabregas explained that he will always cherish his rise to fame at Arsenal and that whatever he may achieve at Chelsea will not diminish his feelings for his former club.

The Spain international said: "Don't think I didn't think about it [playing for Arsenal's rivals when he decided to join Chelsea]. I will keep the Gunner feeling forever and I know that I will return to the Amirates and it will be a special moment, but I am a committed guy.

"I remind you that I played the Champions League final against Barcelona [with Arsenal] and I swear I would have done anything to win that game - and I have been a Barcelona fan since I was a kid.

"So I know that when I play against Arsenal I will know who is my team, who are my colleagues and who I defend. And I know that the Arsenal fans will understand me, I have no doubt."

Fabregas also admitted he needed little convincing to join his former club’s London rivals.

He added: "If you'd told me five years ago that I would play for Chelsea and Mourinho I would not have believed you, but life changes.

"I started to think about leaving Barcelona after the Copa del Rey final. It was when I started to think that it had finished, that there was a change or that I didn't want to continue.

"I spoke with my agent and asked him to find me a new team, and an offer from Chelsea arrived. For me it was coming back to London, where I grew up. There was no better way out.

"I spoke with Mourinho and he told me the things I needed to hear. I felt valued. I felt I was going to be important in an important project."

Welbeck hails new-look England after Switzerland win

England goal hero Danny Welbeck has heaped praise onto his team-mates after a 2-0 triumph over Switzerland.

Roy Hodgson’s side who came under fire after a turgid friendly win over Norway produced a promising display in Basle.

And Welbeck, who scored both goals on the night in the Euro 2016 qualifier, believes they could have won by more had they been slightly more clinical.

He told ITV: "I think we created a number of chances which maybe we could have done better with the final pass.

“Once we got the first goal I think we were in control and played a good team game today and you could see the work ethic - everyone is playing for each other and that's very important.”

Exclusive - Meulensteen: Man United should have promoted from within to replace Ferguson

Former Manchester United first-team coach Rene Meulensteen believes the club were wrong to appoint David Moyes instead of turning to someone already at Old Trafford to lead the side into a new era after Sir Alex Ferguson.

The Scot was effectively annointed by Ferguson as the new Red Devils manager last summer but did not last the season as the then Premier League champions finished a dismal seventh.

Moyes was sacked with four games left of the season and Meulensteen claims United, who are now being led by Louis van Gaal, made a mistake in breaking the continuity and stability built up over 27 years by Ferguson.

"Being there with him first hand, I always felt the biggest challenge for Manchester United was managing the time after Sir Alex Ferguson announced his retirement," Meulensteen told Sunday Exclusive.

"There were only two ways about it – to bring in someone from outside, which they did with David Moyes, or to try and build it from within, which I personally thought would have been the better option.

"Manchester United is such a unique club and SIr Alex Ferguson has been so important in building that uniqueness. There’s been a lot of continuity and stability which are the two main parts for any club to be successful.

"That would have been the key to make sure you maintain that. You maintain that continuity, the stability and the philosophy that has run through the club for so many years."

Moyes took a bold approach after succeeding Ferguson by completely rejigging his backroom team, but it was a decision many questioned and, ultimately, it was one which backfired the former Everton chief.

But Meulensteen, who spent six seasons as coach at Old Trafford, believes the legendary Scot could not have pre-empted just how far United would fall under his compatriot's leadership.

"He had 27 years at the club and he made it the biggest club in the world, a unique club and unique brand," the Dutchman added. "I’m 100 per cent sure he will be very disappointed. He will be surprised. He honestly though David Moyes was the right man to step into it.

"I don’t think he never ever anticipated that David Moyes would get rid of his backroom staff. I think that is where the core of the problems started."

Transfer rumours and paper review - Sunday, September 7

Here are the top transfer-related stories in Sunday's newspapers...

Manchester City and Arsenal are preparing to go head-to-head in a bid to sign £25m-rated Borussia Dortmund winger Marco Reus, 25. (Daily Star Sunday) 

Manchester City are also planning a move to sign Southampton forward and Tottenham target Jay Rodriguez, 25, as manager Manuel Pellegrini looks to buy more English players. (Sun on Sunday) 

QPR are considering a loan move for Portugal forward Hugo Almeida, 30, who has been out of contract since leaving Turkish club Besiktas in May. (Sunday Mirror) 

Meanwhile United have vowed to buy "a Luis Suarez a year" as they reveal a new aggressive transfer policy financed by their lucrative kit deal with Adidas. (Sunday Telegraph) 

Atletico Madrid midfielder Tiago, 33, claims he has turned down "a great offer" from Chelsea to return to Stamford Bridge. (Evening Standard) 

QPR defender Rio Ferdinand, 35, says he "cannot believe" former club Manchester United sold striker Danny Welbeck, 23, to Arsenal. (Sun on Sunday) 

Arsenal ‘still behind Chelsea and Man City’ in Premier League title race, admits Gunners hero

Arsenal legend Alan Smith has told talkSPORT he believes his former side have no chance of competing with Chelsea and Manchester City for the Premier League title this season.

After a productive summer transfer window, with the arrivals of forward pair Alexis Sanchez from Barcelona and Danny Welbeck from Manchester United giving Arsene Wenger an much needed attacking boost, the Gunners are confident of following up last season’s FA Cup triumph with more silverware.

However, Highbury favourite Smith – who won two First Division titles during eight seasons in north London – believes they still have a way to go to finally challenge for the top flight crown again.

“Another trophy would be great this season, but I can’t see them winning the title, I really can’t,” Smith told My Sporting Life.

“They’re still a few furlongs behind Chelsea and Manchester City, as well as they might have done in the summer transfer window.

“I think they have moved forward with the signings of Alexis Sanchez, Danny Welbeck and [teenage defender] Calum Chambers, but I still think they are weak in terms of protecting the back-four.

“Realistically you’re looking at another top-four finish, and maybe they can nick a cup again, but unfortunately I still don’t see them as title challengers.”

Tune into to My Sporting Life from 10pm on Sunday night to hear the full interview with former Arsenal striker Alan Smith.

No Arsenal offer for Bundesliga hotshot

Schalke claim they have received no offers for Arsenal target Klaas-Jan Huntelaar.

The Gunners were linked with a deadline day move for the Dutch striker, who scored 14 goals in 21 appearances last season.

However Schalke general manager, Horst Heldt, has revealed that the Bundesliga side have received no bids for Huntelaar and have no plans to sell him.

"We have not been receiving any transfer enquires from Arsenal or any other club for Klaas-Jan Huntelaar," Heldt told German magazine Kicker.

"Huntelaar is a fixture at our club. We are definitely able to imagine signing a new contract with him.

"There is no doubt he is a top quality player and a true role model. He is ambitious, determined and truly hungry for success."

Disaster for England! Sturridge ruled out of Switzerland match

England have been dealt a massive blow after it was revealed striker Daniel Sturridge has been ruled out of the opening Euro 2016 qualifier in Switzerland with a thigh injury.

The Liverpool forward, 25, pulled up in training on Friday with the problem and has now returned to his parent club for further assessment.

An FA Spokesman said: “Daniel Sturridge picked up an injury on his thigh in training.

"He has had a scan and will now return to Liverpool FC for treatment. He will play no part in the forthcoming Switzerland match.”

The news will come as a massive blow to Roy Hodgson especially as the Three Lions boss is already tasked with taking a vastly inexperienced squad to Switzerland.

Stalwarts Steven Gerrard, Frank Lampard and Ashley Cole have all retired while a lenghty injury list includes the likes of Theo Walcott, Adam Lallana, Ross Barkley, Michael Carrick, Jay Rodriguez and Andy Carroll.

Hodgson's defensive options are also limited with Kyle Walker, Glen Johnson, Luke Shaw, Jon Flanagan, Chris Smalling and Kieran Gibbs all unavailable, while West Brom goalkeeper Ben Foster and uncapped Newcastle midfielder Jack Colback withdrew from the 22-man squad with injuries this week.

Exclusive - Arsenal legend claims signing Welbeck does NOT make them title contenders

Alan Smith has told talkSPORT Arsenal desperately needed to sign Danny Welbeck, but that it will not turn the Gunners into Premier League title challengers this season.

Arsene Wenger snapped up the England striker from Manchester United for £16million on deadline day as a direct replacement for Olivier Giroud, who is out until the New Year.

And while the north London outfit have bolstered their fragile frontline, Arsenal legend, Smith feels the lack of a classy defensive midfielder will be what costs his former side in their pursuit of glory.

Asked whether Welbeck's arrival makes Arsenal title contenders, the former striker told Drivetime: "I don't think so. In all fairness, I still think they're short behind Chelsea and Manchester City.

"I would have liked to of seen a holding midfielder come in. Whether Arsene Wenger was after one at any point, I don't know. Sami Khedira was mentioned along the way, but he's [Wenger] already got the likes of Mikel Arteta.

"I don't think that's a natural role for Arteta, I don't think it's his best role. I think Arsenal suffer at times when Arteta is playing in that role.

"I don't think he's got the legs to do it these days and that is an area where they're not going to be strong enough."

‘I never thought about quitting Tottenham’, insists Lamela

Tottenham winger Erik Lamela says he never considered leaving the club in the summer despite being heavily linked with a return to Italy.

The former Roma man had struggled to settle in north London and was rumoured to be the target of Serie A sides Inter Milan, Napoli, and Fiorentina.

But he looks revitalised under new manager Maurico Pochettino and has hit the ground running this season, with the 22-year-old on target for Argentina on Wednesday night.

And Lamela insists he is keen to star for Spurs in the Premier League.

"I never had any doubts about my future," he told Corriere dello Sport after the international friendly against Germany

"I read a lot of things in the newspapers and perhaps there were a few enquiries from clubs, but I had no direct contact or doubts about my future.

"Last season was complicated for me because of injury, but I feel good now.

"And I have to thank Tottenham for their help and patience - they have always shown faith in me.

"Now I am on the right path and I want to impose myself in the Premier League."

Chelsea star close to signing new deal

Chelsea goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois is close to signing a new deal at the club after ousting Petr Cech as No 1.

The Belgium international still has two years remaining on the contract he signed when moving from Genk in July 2011, but is already on the verge of extending it to ward off any interest and reward his early form.

"It's not yet signed," Courtois said.

"I am here [in Belgium] with the national team so it is difficult, but when I am back at Chelsea I will probably sign the new contract."

The shot-stopper has started the first three Premier League games of the season but Cech has so far remained to fight for a place in the first XI.

Inter Milan failed in deadline day move for Liverpool striker

Inter Milan failed with a deadline day move for Liverpool forward Fabio Borini, according to sources in Italy.

Borini was expected to leave Anfield on Monday and came very close to a move to QPR, only for the player's wages to scupper the transfer.

However, according to TMW, QPR were not the only ones who failed in a late bid for the Italian attacker.

Inter Milan reportedly offered to take Borini on loan for the season, with a view to a permanent deal next summer.

But, Liverpool showed no interest in the proposal as they were focusing on QPR's bid of £10million for the 23-year-old.

I had to sell Torres, insists Chelsea boss Mourinho

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has revealed he had to sell Fernando Torres as the striker needed a change of scenery.

The Spaniard was loaned to AC Milan during the summer transfer window, ending what had been a difficult spell at Stamford Bridge.

Torres will spend two seasons with the Italian outfit, which will see out the remainder of his current contract with the Blues, having failed to live up to his then-British record £50million move from Liverpool in 2011.

Mourinho admitted he has the upmost respect for Torres and hopes he thrives with his new club.

"About Fernando I have to say, with the respect that I bring to all my former players, that as a professional and as a person there is no discussion," said Mourinho.

Man City striker completes Celtic loan switch

Manchester City striker John Guidetti has completed a late seasong-long loan switch to Celtic after being given special dispensation by FIFA.

The Scottish champions tried to sign the 22-year-old Swede just before the 11pm transfer deadline on Monday night but part of the paperwork arrived just after midnight.

However, the Bhoys have been permission from football's governing body to complete the deal after the Scottish football authorities succeeded in an appeal.

A FIFA spokesperson said: "After checking the documentation received and the information contained in the international transfer matching system managed by FIFA TMS, the Scottish Football Association was informed today that the envisaged loan deal may proceed."

Guidetti, who is on Sweden Under-21s duty, welcomed the news.

He wrote on his Twitter account: "Delighted to have finally joined @celticfc on loan ... Can't wait to get started and play in front those fans #TheBhoys"

Bundesliga transfer round-up: Draxler could move to Arsenal in January

talkSPORT German football expert Olly Knaack thinks Arsenal target Julian Draxler will leave the Bundesliga either in January or next summer.

The Gunners have long been linked with the Schalke attacking midfielder and have seen bids knocked back for the 20-year-old in previous transfer windows.

Draxler signed a new five-year deal with the Gelsenkirchen side in May and revealed he had turned down a move to north London because he wants to spend one more season in Germany.

The World Cup winner is understood to have a £38million buy-out clause in his contract and Knaack reckons a Premier League side will meet that figure soon.

"I’m quite sure he’s got an opt out clause for next summer," the German football expert told Drivetime.

"If he plays a decent Champions League campaign he will definitely be a player who Schalke will find it’s hard to keep. There will be a club from the Premier League who will put up the money and he will leave, maybe even in the winter."

Another Die Nationalmannschaft star, Marco Reus, is another who has been linked to the Premier League with Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester United all known admirers.

And Knaack added: "Dortmund will do everything to keep him. But he’s also got an opt out clause [believed to be £28m for next summer] and Bayern Munich are already talking about how difficult it will be for Dortmund to re-sign him.

"If Reus wants to leave, there are lots of clubs who would love to have him in their team. So it’s more or less Reus’ decision, Dortmund can’t do much about it if he decides to leave."

Italy star set to spurn Arsenal and Manchester United interest

Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Marco Verratti is set to commit his long-term future to the club amid lingering interest from Arsenal and Manchester United.

As reported by talkSPORT this week, both Premier League clubs are admirers of the 21-year-old midfielder, who joined the Ligue 1 outfit from Pescara in 2012.

And there was some uncertainty surrounding his future, with Verratti angling for a new deal which would take him in line with some of the club's highest earners.

Real Madrid attempted to take advantage of the situation with a reported late bid for the Italian in the closing stages of the transfer window.

But now, according to sources in Italy, Verratti is ready to pen a five-year deal in Paris which will also provide a healthy pay rise.

Exclusive - Davies: Liverpool boss Rodgers should replace Hodgson as England manager

Stan Collymore has told talkSPORT England should drop captain Wayne Rooney in favour of starting Danny Welbeck for the Euro 2016 qualifier against Switzerland.

The Three Lions skipper scored the only goal in the 1-0 friendly win over Norway, but was anonymous for much of the match and was overshadowed by an impressive substitute cameo from the new Arsenal signing.

And ex-England striker, Collymore, believes Welbeck linked up better with Daniel Sturridge and should be preferred ahead of Rooney for Monday's match in Basel.

"I would honestly go with Sturridge and Welbeck, I would have no problems with that at all," he told talkSPORT.

"I don't think there's any excuses from Wayne Rooney tonight. As the game went on he dropped deeper and deeper to try and do that little Hollywood thing he does where he picks it up and pings the ball out to a right winger and a left winger and it gets a polite round of applause from everybody saying 'ball, what a great ball that is.

"He's a better central striker than that. But the reality is he hasn't played consistently as a central striker for a number of years. I don't think he believes he can do it over 90 minutes anymore because the movement you need, both mental and physical, perhaps he isn't up to.

"He has got 400 games under his belt and a lot of miles on the clock. I actually thought, and a lot of people agree with me, that Danny Welbeck and Daniel Sturridge looked a lot more of a threat and brought the likes of Raheem Sterling much more into the game than Wayne Rooney did.

"It's a debate we've got to have but we obviously know when you're captain of Manchester United and captain of England, he won't be dropped by club or by country unless he has an alarming drop off in form.

"Of course, he scored the penalty but Sturridge looked much livelier and tellingly looked for Danny Welbeck a lot more. They looked a far more intuitive partnership."

Transfer rumours and paper review - Thursday, September 4

Here's the top transfer-related stories in Thursday's newspapers...

Real Madrid forward Cristiano Ronaldo, 29, would like to "come back" to Manchester United one day because the club remains in his heart. (Daily Mail)

The Red Devils are also looking to put together a £60m bid to bring Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba, 21, back to Old Trafford next summer. (Daily Express)

Liverpool striker Fabio Borini, 23, is already being targeted by Inter Milan for a move during the January transfer window. (Daily Express)

Joel Campbell's agent has criticised Arsene Wenger after the Arsenal manager rejected an offer for the 22-year-old forward to join Benfica on deadline day. (Daily Star)

Colorado Rapids are closing in on the signing of former England defender Zat Knight, 34, who is a free agent after leaving Bolton Wanderers. (MLS)

Benoit Assou-Ekotto's future is in doubt after the defender, 30, was left out of Tottenham's Premier League squad. (Daily Mail)

Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, 22, is set to sign a new contract at Chelsea. (Daily Mirror) 

New Arsenal striker a doubt for England friendly after training injury

Roy Hodgson has confirmed new Arsenal striker Danny Welbeck is a doubt for England’s friendly against Norway after suffering an ankle injury in training.

The 23-year-old sealed a £16million deadline day move to the Emirates from Manchester United in the early hours of Tuesday morning.

But in his first session at the Gunners’ London Colney training ground, where the Three Lions made their preparations for Wednesday’s tie at Wembley, the striker picked up a knock in training that puts his participation in doubt.

On Welbeck’s late move, England manager Hodgson said: "We are happy for Danny. He felt the move might lead to more regular football and that will only be to our advantage and we think or hope he will be ready to start for Arsenal.

"But unfortunately in training today he did manage to receive a knock in the session, but I have been assured he is okay and that it will not rule him out, but obviously I suppose it could happen.

"I would be very disappointed if he could not play tomorrow because of what happened with the last kick of the session."

Hodgson is planning to field a "young team" against Norway, although the Three Lions coach revealed none of the four uncapped players in the 22-man squad will start.

While Calum Chambers, Fabian Delph and Danny Rose may get a chance off the bench, Jack Colback will have to wait.

The Newcastle midfielder will be available for the Switzerland match but an injury he injury picked up while playing for Newcastle at the weekend rules him out of the Wembley encounter, where he could be joined on the sidelines by Welbeck.

Hodgson confirmed Colback's absence from Wednesday night's match, saying: "He's been having treatment since we got together on the Sunday but unfortunately it's still going to be a day too soon for him.

"Hopefully he'll recover by Thursday so when we go to St George's Park he'll train but unfortunately he's out of the game for tomorrow, but he's the only one."

Tottenham defender has surgery following ongoing injury troubles

Tottenham and England right-back Kyle Walker has undergone lower abdominal surgery, his club have announced.

The 24-year-old has not played for Spurs since March, and no timescale was put on his recovery in a brief statement on their official website on Tuesday evening.

"Kyle Walker has undergone lower abdominal surgery," it read.

"The England right-back's pre-season preparations were disrupted by the abdominal injury and the decision to have surgery was taken following further medical assessment by specialists."

The north London club had initially hoped to avoid surgery, but resorted to sending the player for an operation in a bid to fix the long-standing problem.

"Kyle is good some days. On other days he has a bad feeling," boss Mauricio Pochettino said last month.

"We believe he may recover soon, but we need to be calm with him because it is an injury that he has had for five months."

Exclusive – Wenger can get the best out of Welbeck, says Man United legend

Manchester United legend Peter Schmeichel believes Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger can take Danny Welbeck to the next level.

The England striker joined the Gunners on transfer deadline day in a £16million move as Radamel Falcao signed for the Red Devils on loan.

And as it looks like Welbeck will be given a chance to play as a central striker at the Emirates with Olivier Giroud absent through injury, Schmeichel feels Wenger is the right man to get the best out of the 23-year-old.

“I don’t think it’s a gamble [by Arsene Wenger to sign Welbeck]. It’s unfair to use his goalscoring stats against him. I know he has started a few games [centrally] but he’s not really had a proper opportunity to be a number nine and he will get that at Arsenal.

“Danny Welbeck is a fantastic player he’s got great technique it looks a bit awkward but it’s difficult to play against.

“He’s lightning quick and I think he appreciates he has to work on his goalscoring ratio. It’s not what it should be as he gets chances, but he hasn’t been able to put them away.

"Maybe he’s been working too much on the flanks and using up all his energy so when he gets an opportunity in front of goal he hasn’t got that little bit of concentration you need to stick it away.

“He’s getting a chance with Arsenal now, it’s a great opportunity. I think he’s getting a great manager [in Arsene Wenger] who can bring him up to the next level.”

Transfer rumours and paper review – Wednesday, September 3

Here's the top transfer-related stories in Wednesday's newspapers...

Manchester United are lining up a move for Roma's Netherlands midfielder Kevin Strootman, 24, in the January transfer window. (Daily Mail)

Liverpool have agreed personal terms on a one-year deal with former Barcelona goalkeeper Victor Valdes, with the free agent set to move to Anfield imminently. (Daily Express)

But the Reds could have to wait until November to sign Valdes, 32, as he is recovering from a knee injury. (Daily Star)

Liverpool striker Fabio Borini's demands over wages and a get-out clause in his contract scuppered a move to QPR for the 23-year-old. (The Sun)

French winger Hatem Ben Arfa, 27, is likely to have played his last game for Newcastle United after joining Hull City on loan. (Daily Telegraph)

Ben Arfa almost cried at the warm welcome he got when he arrived at Hull. (Daily Mirror)

Paris St-Germain president Nasser Al-Khelaifi claims Argentina winger Angel Di Maria, 26, wanted to join the Ligue 1 club before his move from Real Madrid to Manchester United. (Daily Mail)

Manchester United striker Welbeck joins Arsenal

Arsenal have signed Danny Welbeck from Manchester United, the club have announced.

The Gunners, along with Tottenham and Everton, were linked with a move for the forward on transfer deadline after he was deemed surplus to requirements at Old Trafford by new manager Louis van Gaal.

And, after bartering over the deal, a transfer worth a reported £16million was finally agreed, with Welbeck signing a long-term deal at the Emirates.

The Man United academy product, 23, scored 20 Premier League goals in 90 appearances across six seasons and has 26 England caps to his name.

Manchester United seal loan swoop for Falcao

Manchester United have completed an incredible transfer deadline day loan swoop for Radamel Falcao, the club have confirmed.

Most of the talk surrounding the Red Devils suggested they need to bring in a new defender but manager Louis van Gaal pulled a rabbit out of the hat by landing the Colombian striker in a season-long switch with an option to buy him.

The Monaco man, 28, scored 11 times in 20 Ligue 1 games last season before an anterior cruciate ligament injury ended his campaign early and stopped him from playing in the World Cup.

But now, as he returns to fitness, the former Porto and Atletico Madrid sensation has the chance to prove himself at Old Trafford after a loan deal was agreed.

Radamel Falcao told the club's official website: “I am delighted to be joining Manchester United on loan this season. Manchester United is the biggest club in the world and is clearly determined to get back to the top. I am looking forward to working with Louis van Gaal and contributing to the team’s success at this very exciting period in the club’s history.”

Louis van Gaal said: “I am delighted Radamel has joined us on loan this season. He is one of the most prolific goalscorers in the game. His appearance-to-goal ratio speaks for itself and, when a player of this calibre becomes available, it is an opportunity not to be missed.”

Transfer Rumours And Paper Review: Tuesday, September 2

Here's the top transfer-related stories in Tuesday's newspapers...

Real Madrid forward Cristiano Ronaldo, 29, says Colombia striker Radamel Falcao, 28, will be a fantastic signing for Manchester United. (Daily Mirror)

Liverpool striker Fabio Borini's £10m move to QPR broke down because the 23-year-old could not agree personal terms. (Daily Mail)

The Reds are likely to sign former Barcelona goalkeeper Victor Valdes, 32, as a free agent in October. (Independent)

Toronto FC striker Jermain Defoe, 31, failed in his attempts to find a Premier League club on deadline day despite travelling to England to push through a deal. (Daily Telegraph)

And here are the latest talkSPORT.com transfer tales...

Wenger targeting deadline day move for injured Giroud replacement

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has admitted he is targeting a transfer deadline day swoop for another top striker to replace injured frontman Olivier Giroud.

The north London club confirmed this week that France international Giroud is set for a lengthy stint on the sidelines after undergoing surgery on a broken ankle, and is unlikely to return to action before the New Year.

That leaves £35million summer signing Alexis Sanchez plus youngsters Yaya Sanogo and Joel Campbell at Wenger’s disposal up front, though the back-up duo are still largely untried at the top level.

The Gunners have been linked with a sensational late move for unsettled Paris Saint-Germain forward Edinson Cavani.

And, asked if his priority ahead of Monday’s fast-approaching 11pm deadline is to strengthen his attacking options, Wenger admitted: “Yes, because we have a big injury there.

“But we still have plenty of players on our bench with a lot of quality, today we had Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Jack Wilshere, Lukas Podolski, Tomas Rosicky, Calum Chambers and Joel Campbell.

“We’re still working very hard but it doesn’t depend only on us, you need all three parties to agree.

“We are open, we work on it, but let's not fool ourselves; Man City lost against Stoke and had strikers, it's not just about buying one player.

"But we want to and we are open to it. The pressure to buy is always there, we have to live with that, we try our best.”

The Gunners’ lack of flair in front of goal was evident as they could only manage a 1-1 draw against Premier League newcomers Leicester City at the King Power Stadium on Sunday.

Sanchez opened the scoring after 20 minutes though the Foxes immediately equalised through Leonardo Ulloa, and Wenger believes the injury to commanding centre-back Laurent Koscielny in the first-half had a lasting effect on the whole team.

He added: “After the injury to Koscielny we lacked that bit of sharpness and creativity to transform our possession into goals.

“We weren’t cautious enough at the end, we could have maybe lost the game because we wanted to win so much.

“Having three away games in the last two weeks, at Besiktas, Everton and here at Leicester, you could see we were mentally a bit jaded.”

Chelsea striker Torres completes two-year loan switch to AC Milan

Chelsea striker Fernando Torres has joined AC Milan on a two-year loan deal.

The 30-year-old will play for the Serie A giants, following three-and-a-half years at Stamford Bridge, in which he helped the Blues lift the Champions League, the Europa League and the FA Cup.

A statement on the west London club's website said: "Chelsea Football Club thanks Fernando for his service during the past four seasons and wishes him the very best for his loan in Italy."

Sannino resigns as Watford manager

Watford have announced the resignation of Giuseppe Sannino as Hornets manager, 24 hours after his side beat Huddersfield 4-2 at home to climb up to second in the Championship table.

The 57-year-old Italian has called time on his stay at Vicarage Road after just under nine months in charge, saying he had taken the club "as far as I can" despite their promising league position.

"I took over a very talented squad when I arrived - but they were boys in many ways", Sannino said on Watford's official website.

"I'm proud of what we have achieved and I have no doubt that the squad now, who look very much like men who know exactly what they must do, are very capable of getting promotion from this tough Championship league.

"I know I have given everything to Watford; I have given my heart and soul to the job and I have been happy to do this because of the wonderful support I have received from everyone - and most of all the fans, who are truly amazing.

"However I feel I have gone as far as I can so, for the benefit of me and the club, I feel the time is right for me to move on."

Sannino's departure leaves a third vacancy in the Championship, with Leeds and Huddersfield also searching for a manager.

Watford must now start their hunt, with several Italian names likely to be linked.

Under the rule of the Pozzo family, the Hornets have opted for Gianfranco Zola and then Sannino, with the latter replacing the former after he left the job in December last year.

A brief statement from the club said: "Watford FC wishes to thank Beppe Sannino for all that he has achieved while with the club, wishes him well for his future in football and extends an open invitation to Beppe and his family as guests of the Hornets at any future matches."

Blind will be a success at Man United, believes Dutch expert

Daley Blind has all the talents to be a huge success at Manchester United, Dutch football expert Marcel van der Kraan has told talkSPORT.

The Ajax man looks set to join the Red Devils within the next 48 hours, after the club confirmed that they have had a bid – thought to be in the region of £14m – accepted by the Eredivisie champions.

However, despite enjoying a hugely impressive World Cup with the Netherlands, there remain questions over whether Blind will adapt to the Premier League, but Van der Kraan has dismissed such suggestions, telling the Weekend Sports Breakfast that the 24-year-old will prove the doubters wrong.

“He comes in with league titles and trophies under his arm and has been crowned footballer of the year in the Netherlands," he said. "If he follows in the footsteps of his dad [former Ajax defender] Danny, then he will be a success at United.

“He’s an absolute first class player. He played every single position apart from goalkeeper for Ajax and the good thing about young players coming from there is that they have a good education, are very skilful and I think this is why Louis van Gaal has gone for this particular player.”

Transfer rumours and paper review – Saturday, August 30

Here's the top transfer-related stories in Saturday's newspapers...

Chelsea have opened talks with QPR forward Loic Remy, 27, after striker Fernando Torres, 30, joined AC Milan. (Daily Telegraph)

Manchester United midfielder Tom Cleverley, 25, is weighing up a £7m move to Aston Villa following talks with former Old Trafford captain Roy Keane, who is now assistant manager at Villa Park. (Daily Mirror)

New Crystal Palace boss Neil Warnock is set to return to former club QPR and bid £2.5m for defender Armand Traore, 24. (The Sun)

Arsenal have been given a boost in their pursuit of winger Alessio Cerci, 27, after Torino's president Urbano Cairo revealed the forward would be sold for the right price. (Daily Star)

Manchester United want to sign defender Timothy Fosu Mensah, 16, from Ajax. (Daily Express)

Defender Marcos Rojo's move to Manchester United is under threat due to work permit and third party issues concerning the 24-year-old. (The Sun)

Leicester are ready to complete an £8m deal for Ipswich striker David McGoldrick, 26, after having already had a £6.5m offer rejected. (The Sun)

Dutch defender Virgil van Dijk has told Celtic he wants to leave the Scottish champions. (Daily Express)

Agger leaves Liverpool for Brondby

Daniel Agger has left Liverpool to rejoin Brondby, the Premier League club have announced.

The Danish defender, who joined the Reds back in 2006, returns to his hometown side in a deal worth a reported £3million.

Agger made more than 200 appearances for the Anfield side over nine seasons but found himself out of the first-team under Brendan Rodgers.

And as he returns to Denmark with Brondby, who finished fourth in the Superliga last season, the centre back thanked Liverpool fans for their incredible support.

"Liverpool have been such a big part of my life and my family's lives for so long, that leaving is extremely difficult," Agger told Liverpoolfc.com.

"The opportunity arose for me to return home to Brondby and at this stage of my career it felt like the right decision for me.

"I wouldn't leave here to go anywhere else and that has been proven by my actions in recent seasons - I have turned down many offers to move to other Premier League and European clubs.

"I would like to thank the Liverpool supporters for the incredible backing they have given me in my time here and the warmth and generosity of spirit displayed to my family.

"This has been our home and somewhere we have been very happy and settled. However, more recently I have started to feel the effects of playing regularly in a league that is as physically demanding as the Premier League is, and I would not want to stay if I did not think that I was able to meet that challenge week in, week out.

"The club itself is very special and I shall remain a supporter for the rest of my life. I regard every game I played at Anfield as a privilege."

'Time for Arsenal to bite the bullet and sign this world class striker' - Young Guns blog

It's becoming more common, but it's still quite rare for genuine top quality players to be available - and when they are, you have to move quickly.

Arsenal have been great at that recently, snapping up Mesut Ozil and then Alexis Sanchez for big money in successive summers, and we've been presented with another opportunity this week to sign another world class game changer.

Radamel Falcao has been told he can leave Monaco on loan, and with Real Madrid cooling their interest, Arsenal are clear to grab him.

But for some mad reason, Arsene Wenger is not keen on bringing in the Colombian. It's bonkers.

Falcao will be expensive, of course. His wages are about £8.5million a season and Monaco want a £11.5million loan fee on top of that. It's a total package of £20million to have him for just one season. But it's worth it.

He's a lethal striker with genuine superstar quality. He's a game changer, a big match performer and a total handful for any defender.

With Olivier Giroud out until the New Year, a quality striker is absolutely needed - and there are not many better than Falcao.

Wenger needs to bite the bullet, be brave, be bold and bring Falcao in. It could just be the best decision he's ever made.

Exclusive - Warnock confirms Crystal Palace close to deal for Man United's Zaha

Neil Warnock is ‘optimistic’ Wilfried Zaha will complete a move back to Crystal Palace today.

The 65-year-old was appointed Tony Pulis' successor at Selhurst Park on Wednesday and he has wasted no time in trying to lure Zaha back to the club.

The 21-year-old winger left Palace for Manchester United in a £15million deal in 2013 but has struggled to make any impact at Old Trafford and is now set to rejoin the Eagles on loan.

Asked if Zaha is his main target, Warnock told the Alan Brazil Sports Breakfast: "Yes. I did speak to him last night.

"I had half hour last night telling him why I want him to come back and I'm optimistic we are going to do it today."

Zaha has made just a handful of appearances for United since his switch to Old Trafford and there have been persisent questions marks over his attitude.

But Warnock insists he is simply in need of backing, and he is confident the youngster can reignite his career at Selhurst Park.

"When you get the chance, you can't turn down Manchester United but there are so many big players there and sometimes you get a bit lost," said the Yorkshireman.

"He is still developing, Wilfired, and he has got so much talent. When you are a wide player, or a forward, you need to feel loved.

“I've heard it said about his attitude, but I've always thought his attitude has been spot on, so I'm looking forward to working with him."

Di Maria is 'one of best signings' Man United could make, insists Old Trafford hero

Federico Macheda insists Angel di Maria is "one of the best signings" Manchester United could make.

The Argentine winger is on the verge of completing a British record move from Real Madrid, and Macheda believes his arrival will give everyone a boost.

Macheda, now at Cardiff City, said: “I think he's one of the best signings they could make. At Man United a player like Di Maria will lift the players and the club as well. If they can get him it will be great for the club.

"He has played already for a big club in Real Madrid so he will be fine with the pressure on him.”

Reports: Eto’o close to agreeing Everton move

Veteran striker Samuel Eto’o is set to join Everton on a free transfer, according to reports.

The 33-year-old is a free agent following his release from Chelsea at the end of last season and was strongly linked with a move to Merseyside rivals Liverpool this summer, as well as fellow Premier League sides West Ham and Sunderland.

It was thought Eto’o was close to signing for the Reds, though they instead opted to sign £16million striker Mario Balotelli from AC Milan.

Upon his release from Stamford Bridge, the Cameroon international insisted he wanted to continue playing in the Champions League, with Serie A runners-up Roma one of a host of other European sides linked with a swoop.

But it now seems Everton, who can offer the striker Europa League football this season, are leading the race to agree terms with the former Real Madrid, Barcelona and Inter Milan ace, whose career club tally exceeds well over 300 goals.

The Blues held detailed negotiations with the forward last week but after those initial discussions the chances of a move to Merseyside appeared to cool.

However, talks have re-started over a potential two-year deal as manager Roberto Martinez searches for an understudy to record signing Romelu Lukaku, with current back-up forward Arouna Kone still to return from a knee injury sustained in October.

Eto’o represents a wise buy for the Toffees boss, with the Spaniard surely hoping the experienced striker will have a positive impact on Lukaku’s progression following the Belgian's £28m permanent switch to Goodison Park.

Transfer rumours and paper review – Tuesday, August 26

Here's the top transfer-related stories in Tuesday's newspapers...

Angel di Maria flew into England last night to complete his record £60m move to Manchester United. The Argentina midfielder will undergo a medical today and the deal should be confirmed in the next 24 hours. (Various)

Louis van Gaal wants to follow up the signing of Di Maria by signing Juventus midfielder Arturo Vidal in £34m deal. (Daily Telegraph)

And United could be prepared to use Javier Hernandez as part of their deal for Vidal. (Daily Express)

Manchester United are also lining up an £18million swoop for Ajax star Daley Blind. (The Sun)

Arsenal could turn to Danny Welbeck or Loic Remy as fears grow that striker Olivier Giroud has broken his ankle. (The Sun)

Arsenal and Manchester United have received a huge boost in their pursuit of Roma defender Mehdi Benatia after the Italian club scrapped a proposed meeting with potential suitors Bayern Munich. (Daily Star)

Arsenal have been handed another major transfer boost after Sporting Lisbon agreed to lower their demands for defensive midfielder William Carvalho. (Daily Express)

Everton are closing in on a deal to sign Samuel Eto’o as Roberto Martínez seeks to add experience and quality to his attack to relieve some of the pressure on Romelu Lukaku. (The Times)

AC Milan are continuing talks with Chelsea over a potential deal for Fernando Torres. Milan want to take the former Atletico Madrid forward on loan but the player's camp are awaiting proposals for a permanent transfer. (Daily Mail)

Southampton are lining up a raid for Feyenoord's Holland midfielder Jordy Clasie. (The Sun)

Tottenham are willing to meet the release clause of Sevilla captain Federico Fazio, according to the La Liga club's sporting director Monchi. (London Evening Standard)

West Ham have made enquiries about Bayer Leverkusen defender Philipp Wollscheid. The 25-year-old centre-back has spent the last two years at Leverkusen, and played 24 times last season for the German side, who finished fourth in the Bundesliga. (Daily Mail)

West Ham are ready to sell Carlton Cole to Bournemouth for £1million – but the striker is reluctant to move to the Championship. (Daily Mirror)

Sunderland are closing in on a deal to bring Liverpool defender Sebastian Coates to the Stadium of Light on a season-long loan. (Daily Star)

Leicester midfielder Andy King is being eyed by Sunderland, QPR and West Brom. (The Sun)

Blackburn striker Jordan Rhodes is poised to ask for a transfer to help push through a £12million move to Hull City. (Daily Mirror)

Balotelli is back! Liverpool complete £16m signing of striker from AC Milan

Liverpool have completed the signing of striker Mario Balotelli from AC Milan.

The Italy international moves to the Merseyside club for an undisclosed fee and has signed a 'long-term' contract with the side.

It will be Balotelli's second spell in the Premier League, the 24-year-old having spent three years at Manchester City before being sold to Milan in 2013.

His City career was littered with controversy, with numerous unsavoury incidents on and off the pitch overshadowing occasional flashes of brilliance.

He had similar behaviour-related problems at Inter Milan prior to joining City, and was described as 'unmanageable' by Jose Mourinho, his former manager at the San Siro.

Brendan Rodgers was warned against signing the player by a host of former Liverpool stars, including Gary McAllister and Steve Nicol, after it emerged that the Reds had made a move.

But that has not stopped Rodgers from pushing through the deal, with AC Milan understood to have received a fee of £16million from the Reds.

And the Reds boss believes the club have secured one of the bargain deals of the summer.

"This transfer represents outstanding value for the club and I think we have done a really smart piece of business here," the Northern Irishman told the club's official website.

"There is no doubting Mario's ability; he is a world-class talent and someone who, for such a young age, has vast experience of playing at the very highest level.

"He has scored goals in the Premier League, in Italy, in the Champions League and for his country at international level.

"I believe we have the infrastructure, culture and environment to get the best out of him and help him achieve his true potential. We are a strong group here, committed to hard work and he will benefit from being around it.

"I am looking forward to working with him and helping him learn more, improve and progress as a player. I'm sure the supporters will make him feel very welcome."

Balotelli also said he is excited to be back in England following his short return to Italy.

The striker added: "I'm very happy. We've been talking about coming here and now I'm happy to be here.

"Liverpool are one of the best teams here in England and the football is very good here.

"It's a great team with young players, and that's why I came here."

Balotelli's arrival ends Liverpool's extensive search for a replacement for Luis Suarez following the Uruguayan's £75million for Barcelona.

He has not been signed in time to play in Monday night's Premier League clash with his former club City, but is expected to be at the Etihad Stadium to watch his new teammates in action.

Tottenham star exits on loan

Swansea City have completed a season-long loan move for Tottenham’s Tom Carroll.

The talented 22-year-old midfielder has been on the fringes at Spurs for the last two seasons and spent time on loan with Derby County before helping Queen Park Ranger earn promotion to the Premier League last year.

And now Mauricio Pochettino has decided to allow the playmaker to move to the Jacks to gain valuable top-flight experience.

Swansea manager Garry Monk, who is currently without Leon Britton and Jay Fulton through injury, will be able to call on Carroll in Saturday’s match with Burnley at the Liberty Stadium.