Chelsea winning the Champions League will see the other English Champions League qualifiers lose a few million pounds each from UEFA’s pot of TV money going to the Premier League.

While this is a small part of the overall Champions League revenue split (explained in detail here for 2010/2011), it represents a loss nevertheless.

As part of the financial benefits of participating in the Champions League, each league’s clubs get a a share of UEFA’s TV money profits depending on their UEFA coefficient rankings. The Premier League were due £30m from the market pool pot, which would have been split according to the teams’ league standings.

Normally, as domestic champions Manchester City would get 40% of Uefa’s “market pool” pot of TV money totalling around £12m, the second-placed Manchester United 30% (£9m), the third-placed Arsenal 20% (£6m) and the fourth-placed club 10% (£3m).

Instead, with Chelsea winning the Champions League and qualifying as winners, they are now ‘tied’ with City in terms of TV revenue share. As such, City and Chelsea will each receive 30% (£9m), United 25% (£7.5m) and Arsenal 15% (£4.5m.). Uefa have said the figures would be confirmed by its executive meeting in July.

To put these numbers into perspective – each team gets a basic fee – £3.5m in 2010/2011 – for qualifying for the group stages each season, and the profits from qualifying for the knockout rounds and progressing further in the Champions League can mean a £20m difference.

The actual reduction in earnings will be loose change for the three Premier League clubs. Far more importantly, Chelsea’s bumper Champions League earnings will paper over the loss of earnings from finishing 6th in the league and continued Champions League participation will mean that they have another £20m-£25m to expect as a minimum next season.

From Soccerlens.com - Football News

Roberto Mancini’s reward for guiding Manchester City to Premier League glory will be a new £20million contract.

Mancini, who has a year left on his current deal, will sign a new four-year agreement worth £5m-a-year. This deal will make the 47-year-old the Premier League’s highest-paid boss alongside Sir Alex Ferguson.

City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak had planned to offer Mancini the lucrative new deal even if the Italian had missed out on the title, such is the club’s faith in him.

But the dramatic final-day title triumph over Manchester United has cemented Mancini’s status as one of the top managers in the world and City know they must reward him accordingly.

Having won the FA Cup and Premier League in his first two full seasons in charge of City, Mancini has set himself a new target for his third campaign at the helm – Champions League glory.

The 47-year-old Italian believes winning the Premier League will arm his players with the belief that they can prove they are not only the best team in England, but the best in Europe.

“That’s the next step,” said Mancini. “The first year was the FA Cup, the second the Premier League, and I hope the third will be the Champions League.

Mancini reflected on two of the most difficult aspects of his triumphant season – managing disruptive duo Carlos Tevez and Mario Balotelli, whose antics could have cost City the title.

Balotelli missed 11 games through suspension over the season but played a key role in the end, coming off the bench to provide the assist for Aguero’s title-winning goal.

These are just two of the issues Mancini has had to deal with this term. But, regardless, his side have come out on top in the fight for the Premier League.

Mancini’s mind games were extremely interesting to see towards the later stage of the season. He refused to admit City’s chances of title success, seemingly motivating the players to perform as they did. Aguero and co recovered an 8 point deficit within a matter of weeks before winning the league on the final day of the season.

Now, the Manchester City boss insists he needs to improve his squad this summer if the Blues are to build on their Premier League title triumph.

Mancini wants to add the UEFA Champions League to this season’s significant silverware, with City having spent heavily since their takeover by Abu Dhabi’s Sheikh Mansour in 2008 to establish a position of prominence in the English game.

Although senior figures at City are ready to back Mancini by pushing through attempts to sign Arsenal’s Robin van Persie and Lille midfielder Eden Hazard, the club’s determination to comply with Uefa’s incoming financial fair play regulations ensures that players must be sold in order to make way for expensive new arrivals.

Having recorded losses of £197 million last year, City could balance their transfer spending by offloading the likes of Edin Dzeko, Mario Balotelli, Adam Johnson and Emmanuel Adebayor in the coming months.

But Mancini insists that if City are to take the next step and become a serious contender for European honours, they must follow the blueprint laid down by Spanish giants Real and Barcelona.

“Barcelona and Real Madrid every year buy two or three players and spend a lot of money.”

“I think for Manchester City it will be the same.”

Furthermore,  Carlos Tevez now looks set to stay at the Etihad. The Argentine striker was widely expected to leave in the summer after failing in his attempts to engineer a move during the January transfer window.

Yet after returning to the club following his infamous self-imposed exile in Argentina to play a key role in the run-in, the apparently reintegrated 28-year-old has said he wants to stay.

Their dispute now over, Mancini said: “It’s not difficult to manage Tevez. He’s a good guy. We had a good relationship always.

“I don’t know why we had that situation in September but in the end he’s a good guy and a fantastic player.”

After Premier League success, a very exciting future is about to unfold for Mancini and his City side. Backed by their wealthy owners, it would be very surprising if they failed to make a serious challenge on Europe in the next few seasons. I for one, am extremely excited to see how the squad develops, the blue side of Manchester definitely has the potential for European domination in years to come.

From Soccerlens.com - Football News

Depending upon the outcome of Copa del Rey Final on May 25^th against Athletic Bilbao, FC Barcelona can finish the 2011/2012 campaign on a (relative) high.

Winning the domestic Cup competition is nothing to sniff at but it pales to the accomplishments achieved in previous seasons. FC Barcelona finished the season with 91 points; in most cases this total haul would’ve clinched the title in every other league across Europe. However, Real Madrid unseated FC Barcelona at the summit of the Spanish league with a whopping 100 points.

So is it time to panic? Abandon total football?

Not really. However, it is time to make a few adjustments and fine-tune the squad once more. The key adjective here being “fine-tune”.

Unless Sandro Rosell wants to emulate AC Milan’s “model” and hang onto to ageing Champions until they’re approaching retirement he’d be well advised to sell and buy some players.

Whereas the club’s decision to announce their transfer budget ahead of the 2011 transfer window paid rich dividends (signing Cesc Fabregas & Alexis Sanchez below their market value), this year they seem to take a different route. How much money is or isn’t available to Tito Vilanova is pretty much a mystery at this point. However, one is inclined to believe that his transfer kitty is significantly smaller than Guardiola’s in his heyday. Nevertheless, a smaller Barcelona transfer kitty probably still dwarfs that of every other major club bar a few chosen ones (Manchester City, Chelsea FC, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich).

For the purpose of this article let’s assume FC Barcelona has a war chest of 50,000,000 Euro (the transfer budged for 2011). In this massively inflated market it’s probably just enough to open negotiations for Santos Neymar. Bar any significant drop in oil prices it’s not likely that the exorbitant evaluations of top talent will decline anytime soon.

Barcelona were lucky enough that both Cesc Fabregas and Alexis Sanchez have made it known that the only wanted to join the Blaugrana which gave the club some leverage for negotiations. This year it’s pretty much open season on anybody. In order to stay competitive in the transfer market FC Barcelona has to sell.

Let’s take a look at some players who are most likely sold this summer.

Likely to be sold:

Seydou Keita, 32 (8,000,000 Euro)*

Ibrahim Afellay, 26 (10,000,000 Euro)*

Isaac Cuenca, 21 (3,000,000 Euro)* or Cristian Tello, 20 (5,000,000 Euro)*

Should be sold:

David Villa, 30 (35,000,000 Euro)*

Could be sold:

Pedro, 24 (28,000,000 Euro)*

The Breakdown:

Seydou Keita should be sold. The Malian, 32, has never been a regular under Pep Guardiola and will most likely not become one for Tito Vilanova either. The 8,000,000 Euro evaluation represent the high-end of what Barcelona can expect from any sale. The benchmark is Ricardo Carvalho’s transfer from Chelsea to Real Madrid for 8,000,000 Euro. However, Carvalho was a starter in the Blues set-up and one of the best defenders in the EPL. Hence the more realistic fee the Blaugrana can expect is somewhere in the neighborhood of 6,000,000 Euro.

Verdict: Any proposed sale of Ibrahim Afellay would certainly take place after the 2012 European Championships. At present his market value is set at 10,000,000 Euro. A fine performance in the tournament could potentially double his value.

Verdict: Barcelona is not short on wide options (Pedro, Cuenca. Tello, Alexis) so they would probably entertain any offer of 15,000,000 Euro and more.

As mentioned earlier, Barcelona has a lot of wide options. Therefore it would only make sense to sell either Cuenca or Tello. Jeffren was sold to Sporting Lisbon in the previous season and there’s nothing to suggest that it won’t happen again.

Verdict: Liverpool are credited with an interested in Cuenca. 6 – 7,000,000 Euro (for either) seem reasonable since Barcelona sold Oriol Romeu, who had virtually no first team experience, to Chelsea for approximately 5,000,000 Euro.

As fine a player David Villa is, he is just not what Barcelona need (at least the incarnation where Lionel Messi plays centrally). If the plan is to keep him on the left-wing it would be wiser to sell him. Alexis Sanchez wasn’t acquired to warm the bench and Pedro is showing signs that he’s returning to form.

Furthermore, in Cuenca and Tello Barcelona have ready-made back-up players. At 30 years of age his transfer value will drop in subsequent seasons. Though he is rated at 35,000,000 Euro a more realistic fee would be 20 – 24,000,000 Euro.

The most expensive 30 year old was Andriy Shevchenko (AC Milan to Chelsea for 46,000,000 Euro). Nevertheless he was Serie A’s best player and a Ballon d’Or winner. Both Thierry Henry and Ruud Van Nistelrooy transferred to Barcelona and Real Madrid at the age of 30 (Henry turned 30 in the 2007 calendar year) for 24,000,000 Euro.

But that would be the high-end for David Villa. After all, El Guaje turns 31 in December. Sell him and remove his annual wages of 7,500,000 Euro would free up additional funds.

If someone would match Pedro’s evaluation of 28,000,000 Euro it’s probably for the better to sell him. Another inconsistent season and his market value could be less than half. He’s a good player but there’s nothing to suggest that Cuenca or Tello can’t match him. Any offer upwards of 20,000,000 Euro should be seriously considered.

As far acquisitions are concerned there are two positions that need to be addressed – left-back and central defense, perhaps another striker (one that actually plays as a striker).

Center-back:

According to various press reports Barcelona have made AC Milan’s Thiago Silva (rated: 32,000,000 Euro)* their primary transfer target. If these reports are to be believed Barcelona are convinced they can do a deal for about 25,000,000 Euro.

It’s not going to happen folks. Not for 25,000,000 Euro. Adriano Gallani is a lot of things, for instance he looks like Uncle Fester, but he’s arguably the best negotiator in all of football. Along with Ibrahimovic (who he shrewdly bought from Barcelona for just 24,000,000 Euro), Silva is Milan’s most valuable asset. Galliani has already been tasked with rebuilding AC Milan on a shoestring budget and it’s not likely that he’ll sell a world-class defender below market value.

Alternative: Mats Hummels, 23 (20,000,000 Euro)*

Coming off of a second successive German championship the Borussia Dortmund defender wouldn’t come cheap but propose a viable alternative to the Brazilian. A full German International, technically sound, superb sense positioning and, most importantly, he can pass a ball. Perhaps Bundesliga’s best central-defender he is already bordering on world-class, if he isn’t already. Though Dortmund have announced that they aren’t entertaining any sales, save for the inevitable departure of Shinji Kagawa, stranger things have happened.

Verdict: A bid of 25 – 30,000,000 Euro would almost certainly test their resolve. Nevertheless, Mats Hummels doesn’t seem to appear on Barcelona’s radar.

Left-back:

Jordi Alba, 23 (10,000,000 Euro)*

At this point it’s almost a forgone conclusion that Alba either extends his contract with Valancia or rejoins Barcelona. The press suggests that Barcelona is preparing an offer to the tune of 12 – 15,000,000 Euro.

Verdict: Will most likely happen. With one year left on his Valencia contract can’t expect to fetch more than 15,000,000 Euro especially once he makes his desire known to return to Barcelona. In 2010 Mesut Özil transferred under similar circumstances and fee from Werder Bremen to Real Madrid.

Fantasy Football: Gareth Bale, 23 (35,000,000 Euro)*

To make it short – he’s too expensive. EPL-based players are unreasonably more expensive than their continental counterparts. Andy Carroll, Shaun Wright-Phillps, James Milner etc.

Verdict: Not gonna happen

Striker:

Barcelona were found out – opposing teams have figured out how to stop the Blaugrana. However, only a couple of them have the necessary players to execute that particular game plan.

While Barcelona’s usual game plan will work almost against every La Liga team and most European sides, it will most likely not be effective against the likes of Chelsea or Madrid who sit deep and attack on the counter. And there’s the emerging giant Manchester City who could virtually field 10 world-class defenders. A frightening thought.

David Villa is a world-class striker; at least he used to be. But he is absolutely wasted on the left-wing. The feeling, however, is that his situation will not change anytime soon. Maybe it’s because he doesn’t have the imposing striker physique that Pep has mistaken him for a winger. Who knows? Barcelona need an out-and-out striker. Ever seen a Barcelona corner? Nothing fruitful ever happens following a corner. Never. Hence a couple of (potential) recruits.

Fernando Llorente, 27 (25,000,000 Euro)*

He’s Zlatan Ibrahimovic minus the outstanding technique and ego. But he more than compensates that with an exceptional work-rate. At any rate, he has quite exceptional technique for a tall guy.

Verdict: 30 – 35,000,000 Euro and not a penny less. Llorente would walk into most sides. On second thought, there isn’t any side that wouldn’t make him their focal point. If Barcelona still have money in the bank after acquiring their primary targets this one is a realistic possibility.

Robin Van Persie, 28 (45,000,000 Euro)*

Europe’s most wanted. The market value credited above is NOT what Arsenal are stand to make should they cash in on their captain – it’s merely a reflection of his outstanding season. Barcelona are said to be interested in the flying Dutchman but apparently he’s asking for a wage package north of 200,000 Euro/week, which would make the highest earner alongside Lionel Messi. Arsenal are reportedly offering 120,000 GBP/week (roughly 150,000 Euro). And then there are the usual suspects of Manchester City, Real Madrid and Italian Champions Juventus Turin.

Verdict: Robin Van Persie could become the first player who commands a 30,000,000 Euro transfer fee in the last year of his contract. The previous high was Samir Nasri’s 27,500,000 Euro from Arsenal to Manchester City. 45,000,000 Euro seem out of the question but 30,000,000 Euro is a distinct possibility if City decide to blow the competition out of the water. Though FC Barcelona have been financially irresponsible in the past it’s unlikely that they will engage in bidding war for a player that only has one year left on his contract.

Overall analysis:

Assuming Barcelona have a basic transfer budget of 50,000,000 Euro and raise cash through the sales of players such as Seydou Keita, Ibrahim Afellay, Isaac Cuenca or Cristian Tello, David Villa and Pedro, they could potentially look 110,000,000 Euro to reinvest in the squad. Unless Barcelona wants to add a striker to their ranks there’s no reason to sell David Villa or Pedro. In that case 50,000,000 Euro should be sufficient enough to buy a world-class center-back and a left-back. A complete overhaul isn’t needed but addressing the left-back and center-back position is essential in mounting another title challenge.

*transfer values courtesy of www.transfermarkt.de

You can always disagree and argue with me on Twitter @JubeiKibagame.

Also See:

• More Barcelona News.
• More Transfer Rumours.

From Soccerlens.com - Football News

Queens Park Rangers find themselves two points clear of the drop-zone ahead of their trip to Manchester City on Sunday. With five goals in seven games, Castrol EDGE Performance Data shows that Djibril Cissé will be crucial to the London club’s final battle for survival.

Cissé’s return to the Premier League has been overshadowed by two sending offs, but his goals have come at a rate of one every 95 minutes – by far the best of any QPR player. His clinical ability in front of goal is confirmed by the fact that his chance conversion rate (56%) is the sixth best in the league.

Premier League 11/12 – QPR Minutes Per Goals & Overall Conversion Rates

YAYA RULES THE WAY FOR CHAMPIONS ELECT CITY

With one game to go, Manchester City are in poll position to win the 2011/12 Premier League.  Castrol EDGE Performance data shows that Ivory Coast star Yaya Touré has been central to the team’s success, making more passes on average than any other player in the League this season.

Touré’s penchant for pushing forward has also seen him bag a decent haul of six goals along with five assists. Indeed, only one other central midfielder this season, Frank Lampard, has been involved in more goals.

Premier League 11/12 – Minutes Per Pass & Goal Involvements For Central Midfielders

MARK HUGHES ENJOYING HIS CITY BREAKS

QPR fans can travel to the Etihad Stadium on Sunday in the knowledge that their manager Mark Hughes has an impressive record against Manchester City.

Castrol EDGE Performance Data shows that Hughes has visited City five times as a manager in the Premier League and is yet to lose there. In four visits in charge of Blackburn Rovers, Hughes registered one win and three draws while last season he secured a 1-1 draw for Fulham.

With third-from-bottom Bolton just two points behind Rangers, a decent result for QPR at the Etihad could be the difference between another season in the top tier or a painful relegation to the Championship.

Premier League – Mark Hughes Visits To Man City As A Manager

From Soccerlens.com - Football News

Manchester City v QPR

Sunderland v Manchester United

From Soccerlens.com - Football News

Here’s a look at the top transfer stories circulating in the Premier League today, with guest appearances from Carlos Tevez (will he stay or go), Leighton Baines (can he match the flying Frenchman) and Didier Drogba.

Manchester City

Manchester United’s so-called Noisy Neighbours are determined to build on their expected title triumph by completing their transfer business early in the close season.

And that means bringing in the world-class names who will ensure domestic and European success becomes a regular occurrence at Eastlands.

City want to go on a £100 million summer spending spree but know they have to start balancing the books so they comply with UEFA’s new Financial Fair Play rules, which come into force in the 2013-14 season.

Mancini is therefore intending to stage a clear-out to partly fund his summer shopping.

As many as eight first-team squad members could be jettisoned as Mancini tries to make his squad even more formidable, so they not only stay ahead of United and the rest of the Premier League but also challenge Barcelona and Real Madrid in the Champions League.

Emmanuel Adebayor, Wayne Bridge and Roque Santa Cruz, all of whom are currently out on loan, will also be offloaded.

Nigel De Jong, Edin Dzeko, Kolo Toure, Stefan Savic and Adam Johnson are set to make way for new faces.

Furthermore, City are open-minded about the prospect of Carlos Tevez staying at the club, but are willing to sell if anyone meets their £25m valuation.

Also See: Manchester City’s Summer 2012 Transfer Targets.

Manchester United

Manchester United will step up their efforts to sign Leighton Baines with a £10million offer.

Sir Alex Ferguson has been given the go-ahead from United owners the Glazers to proceed with a move for the Everton and England left-back.

Ferguson sees Baines as the ideal successor to Patrice Evra, who turns 31 next Monday and has looked unconvincing this season.

United had hoped to land their man for as little as £6m, given Everton’s precarious financial position.

But with Baines under contract for three more years and interest in him from other clubs, they will have to do better than that.

Ferguson is keen to complete as much of his summer transfer business as possible quickly, as he’s done in previous seasons.

That could see a bid for Baines lodged as early as next week, with the United boss aware the England international is in demand.

Also See: Manchester United’s Summer 2012 Transfer Targets.

Arsenal

Robin van Persie has shunned interest from Juventus, despite the Italian giants declaring their desire to sign him.

Mirror Football revealed on April 23 that Juve had made overtures towards Van Persie’s representatives, and were willing to pay £25million for the Arsenal captain.

However, it is believed the Dutchman is not interested, with Spain his most likely destination - if he goes. It’s felt it would take a huge offer from either Barcelona or Real Madrid to tempt away a player the Gunners remain confident of keeping.

The Gunners boss, Arsene Wenger, has already signed Cologne’s Germany striker Lukas Podolski, and Rennes’ France midfielder Yann M’Vila is also due for talks.

Swansea’s Michel Vorm is also on Arsenal’s radar to provide competition for first-choice keeper Wojciech Szczesny.

Also See: Arsenal’s Summer 2012 Transfer Targets.

Chelsea

Chelsea are set to defy the wishes of the fans by letting Didier Drogba leave the club this month.

Ivory Coast goal ace Drogba struck the third FA Cup Final winner of his career last Saturday against Liverpool, and will lead the line for Roberto Di Matteo’s men in the Champions League Final next Saturday.

But that May 19 clash with Bayern Munich will be Drogba’s last game in a Chelsea shirt unless there is a massive change of heart by the powers that be in SW6.

The 34-year-old’s demands for a new two-year deal have fallen on deaf ears, as the Stamford Bridge hierarchy are determined to build the team around fellow forward Fernando Torres.

Also See: Chelsea’s Summer 2012 Transfer Targets.

More:

• More Transfer Rumours.
• Team-by-team Premier League Summer 2012 Transfer Previews.
• League by League transfers.

From Soccerlens.com - Football News

Eden Hazard is arguably the most sought after player in Europe at the moment. It  now looks like the Belgian dazzler has made his decision on where he’ll be playing next season – and Fergie’s not going to like it at all!

Recently the Lille midfielder has dropped his biggest hint yet that he will join Manchester City this summer after announcing he will ‘definitely’ be wearing blue next season.

The Belgian star has long been linked with a move to the Barclays Premier League and both City and Manchester United were front-runners for his signature.

But Hazard is set to rub salt into Manchester United’s wounds by snubbing the chance to join the Red Devils – and opting for noisy neighbours Manchester City. Tottenham and Arsenal have also be linked to the 21-year-0ld, but these comments seem to have brought the end to any further speculation regarding the two London clubs.

Chelsea, who have signed three Belgians in the last year, have also been credited with an interest in the player.

Mancini’s side are on the verge of securing their first top flight trophy since 1968. It’s obvious to see success in the Premier League brings with it certain perks – clearly they’ll now have first choice of Europe’s best players this summer.

Regardless, Hazard is set to leave French club Lille this summer and both Ferguson and Mancini will continue fighting it out for the £25million-rated youngster.

“I have already said that my wish is to go to the Premier League,” Hazard said. “It’s the blue that I’ll be wearing next season. Definitely the blue.“

Roberto Mancini has told Lille star Eden Hazard that Manchester City would be his “perfect destination”.

 ”I like Hazard a lot,” Mancini told France Football magazine. “He’s a good player, he’s young and he would do great things in our team. Given his technical qualities City would be the perfect destination for him.

“I know him and have been following him for a long time. He’s a player a lot of teams want.”

I’m sure Hazard’s comments will come as a doubly painful blow for Ferguson and United. The Belgian could have been the perfect player to solve the Red Devils creativity problems in midfield.

From Soccerlens.com - Football News

Backed by their wealthy owners, Manchester City have spent a fortune on players including Sergio Aguero, David Silva and Carlos Tevez in recent seasons.

It’s fully expected that the Manchester club will continue to spend big to bring in new, quality, players as soon as the transfer window re-opens. Below are a number of players Mancini’s side have been linked with:

Cristiano Ronaldo – Real Madrid – Winger/ Forward

Manchester City’s audacious bid to lure Cristiano Ronaldo from Real Madrid demonstrates the ambition of the Abu Dhabi owners to confirm the club’s emergence as a permanent part of football’s elite.  Personally I could never see this deal happening.

But the move for the Real Madrid icon is just one element of what is expected to be a significant overhaul of the playing squad this summer.

Eden Hazard – Lille – Attacking Midfielder

Manchester City are in pole position to sign £30 million-rated Lille star Eden Hazard after stepping up their pursuit of the Belgian attacker in the last month. The Premier League leaders have moved ahead of Manchester United and Tottenham in the race for one of the hottest prospects in Europe and are described as “very confident” of landing Hazard in the summer.

Gareth Bale – Tottenham – Winger

Gareth Bale recently told BBC’s Football Focus that if Tottenham failed to qualify for the Champions League, he would “have to discuss what’s best for [himself].”

The Daily Mirror is now reporting that Manchester City are set to test Spurs’ determination to keep their star with a massive transfer offer.

The deal would see Bale move to the Etihad Stadium in return for £40 million. In addition, City are willing to throw in Emmanuel Adebayor and possibly Adam Johnson or Nigel de Jong.

Ezequiel Lavezzi – Napoli – Attacking Midfielder/ Striker

Ezequiel Lavezzi could be heading to England at the end of the season.

The Argentine is widely regarded as one of the best midfield talents in Italian football, and he has enjoyed another impressive season for Napoli this term.

According to the Daily Mail, the 26-year-old has had a dispute with club president Aurelio De Laurentiis, which could lead to his shock departure in the summer.

This would likely spark a transfer battle between Premier League giants Chelsea and Manchester City, who would happily pay £25million for Lavezzi.

Edison Cavani – Napoli – Striker

Roberto Mancini has placed the prolific Uruguayan at the top of his shopping list once again in a bid to lure the 25-year-old from Serie A, after trying and failing to land him in the two previous summers.

Napoli have slapped a £40million price tag on Cavani, whose status as one of the world’s most feared front men is expected to be accompanied by £160,000-a-week salary demands.

Robin Van Persie – Arsenal – Striker

Although Cavani is Mancini’s favoured targets, Manchester City have identified Arsenal striker Robin van Persie as another potential player to lead their attack next season and are reportedly prepared to pay him £250,000-a-week.

The Dutch international has only a year left on his contract at the Emirates Stadium, leading to speculation over where his future may lie.

Mancini may feel his table toppers would be strengthened with 37-goal forward Van Persie to call upon next season.

Arsenal are sure not to let him go without a fight, despite having signed Germany international Lukas Podolski to add to their own group of strikers.

Talks are expected between the Gunners and Van Persie over a new contract at the end of the season, but these could be impacted by the declaration of a huge City offer.

Radamel Falcao – FC Porto – Striker

City have also been linked with Atletico Madrid’s Radamel Falcao but the 26-year-old Colombian is not believed to be a serious target at this point

Angel Di Maria – Real Madrid – Winger

A more intriguing target is another Real Madrid A-lister, the left-footed winger Angel Di Maria. City have been made aware that the 24-year-old Argentine is currently locked in a contract dispute with the Spanish giants after he rejected a pay upgrade from the club.

Gonzalo Higuain – Real Madrid – Striker

Real Madrid striker Higuain’s CV should make him the most desired striker in Europe, especially as it appears Madrid are keen to sell him this summer.

He has 21 goals in 16 La Liga starts this season, and 29 in 24 in all competitions. That doesn’t tell the whole story of his season though, as he has made an additional 24 appearances from the bench, but it remains a thoroughly impressive strike rate.

No doubt Mancini would love to bring the Argentine forward to the Etihad.

Daniel Sturridge – Chelsea – Striker

According to the Mail Online, Manchester City are plotting a sensational bid to bring Daniel Sturridge back to the club after enquiring about the Chelsea striker’s contract situation.

City have been asked to be kept updated on developments regarding Sturridge’s future.

The England international only left the Etihad Stadium in July 2009 after agreeing to join Chelsea following a contract dispute.

Nicolas Gaitan – Benfica – Attacking Midfielder/Winger

Manchester City are keeping a close eye on Benfica winger Nicolas Gaitan.

Gaitan has been strongly linked with a new challenge after an impressive start to his second season at the Estadio da Luz.

Manchester United are also tracking the 23-year-old, with manager Sir Alex Ferguson confessing that he is a fan of the former Boca Juniors star.

Mamadou Sakho – PSG – Defender

A strapping centre-back of Senegalese decent, Sakho is held up as the new Lilian Thuram in his native France. Despite being just 22 years-old, he’s already racked up over 100 appearances for PSG, who are one of the few teams in Europe that don’t need City’s cash. Liverpool tried – and failed – to sign Sakho last summer. Mancini will be hoping to succeed 12 months on.

Raul Albiol – Real Madrid – Defender/Defensive Midfielder

Another defensive option for Mancini, Spanish international Albiol has been told he can leave the Bernabeu. The 25 year-old is capable of playing at right back, in the middle or even further forward, which already makes him a much more attractive proposition than Stefan Savic.

Javi Martinez – Athletic Bilbao – Defensive Midfielder

After failing in a bid to land Mancini’s No.1 target Daniele De Rossi from Roma in the last two windows, the title chasers have turned their attention to capturing Athletic Bilbao’s versatile midfielder Javi Martinez.

City scouts have watched the 23-year-old a number of times this year and, although his contract has a £34m buy-out clause, Bilbao are understood to be open to an offer in the region of £25m.

Also See:

• More Manchester City News.
• More Transfer Rumours.
• Team-by-team Premier League Summer 2012 Transfer Previews.

You can follow The author, Chris Linnell, on Twitter or his blog.

From Soccerlens.com - Football News

Every year, Soccerlens brings comprehensive football transfer news and detailed transfer lists of the major football leagues in Europe.

This year’s new feature is a detailed preview of the Premier League’s 2012 summer transfer window, looking at the reported transfer targets for each team.

Transfer previews currently available:

• Arsenal
• Chelsea
• Everton
• Fulham
• Liverpool
• Manchester City
• Manchester United
• Newcastle United
• Tottenham

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From Soccerlens.com - Football News

A look at this weekend’s Premier League matches as Manchester fights for the league title and London teams play for their Champions League futures.

Arsenal v Norwich

The chase for third place remains in Arsenal’s hands, but with Tottenham and Newcastle in close pursuit there is no room for error. Arsene Wenger’s team, without a win in three games, have laboured since Mikel Arteta’s injury removed the metronome which keeps everything ticking, and the responsibility to drag them over the line rests with a tired Robin van Persie. With Norwich having relaxed since securing a second season in the EPL, this is a good opportunity for the Gunners to grab a much needed victory.

Norwich have conceded 11 goals in their last three matches, including hat-tricks for Carlos Tevez and Luis Suarez. Van Persie will be hoping the Canaries defence continues to be accommodating. The Gunners are fortunate to close out the season with two imminently winnable games against teams without anything tangible to play for, but the spoiler factor should never be underestimated.

Prediction: Arsenal win

Newcastle v Man City

The sums are simple for Manchester City now: win their last two games and the title is all but guaranteed. It is a difficult assignment though, as Newcastle confirmed with their midweek victory at Chelsea. Of all the important games being played this weekend, this one might have the widest-reaching effects. Newcastle will need to pick up the points if they hope to lay claim to a Champions League place.

Manchester City did what they needed to do against their crosstown rivals on Monday, but with United facing a slightly less daunting end of the season schedule they’ll be able to take nothing for granted. On top of this, these are two very good teams that are generally quite enjoyable to watch. Both have incredible attacking talent with the likes of Papiss Cisse, Sergio Aguero, Demba Ba and Carlos Tevez. This is arguably the weekend’s biggest game, in any league.

Prediction: Draw

Aston Villa v Tottenham

This is a huge match for both clubs. An Aston Villa win in this match would all but guarantee their Premier League survival. However, Tottenham are well in the race for the Champions League places, Redknapp will be anxious to take third from their London rivals Arsenal, just in case Chelsea are successful in the Champions League final. Tottenham travel to Villa Park after back-to-back victories, while Mcleish’s side have failed to take 3 points from a Premier League game since November. Scott Parker’s return to fitness is a huge boost for Tottenham, having recovered from an ankle injury. He is expected to return to the starting line up in this fixture.

Prediction: Tottenham win

Bolton v West Brom

Roy Hodgson’s West Brom now have very little left to play for this season. However, this can’t be said for their opponents, Bolton. It’s been a very emotional season for Owen Coyle’s team, both on and off the pitch. For quite some time now, Bolton fans have been clinging to their side’s games in hand to give them hope for another season in the Premier League. The Wanderers caught up to the rest of the league in terms of games played on Wednesday, but faced a heavy 4-1 defeat to Tottenham. Bolton are even on points with 17^th place QPR, but they’ve got a serious mountain to climb in terms of goal difference. Hodgson’s appointment as the new England boss may prove a blessing in disguise for Bolton. A distracted West Brom side could prove ideal opposition.

Prediction: Bolton win

Fulham v Sunderland

Both Fulham and Sunderland will be looking for the three points that would virtually guarantee a top-10 finish but the form of these teams could not be more different. The hosts have taken 13 points from their last six Premier League games, including a first ever win at Anfield in midweek. By contrast, Martin O’Neill’s side have not had a victory since 24 March and are playing very much like a side with one eye on their summer holidays.

Prediction: Fulham win

QPR v Stoke

QPR’s fortunes took a turn for the worst last season as they suffered a 6-1 loss to London rivals Chelsea. However, luckily for Mark Hughes’ side, other results at the bottom of the table ensured they sit one place above the relegation zone with just two games left. With a very tough last game against current leaders Manchester City, QPR really need 3 points from this home match to achieve survival, beating a tired Stoke on Sunday could be sufficient to keep them up.

Prediction: QPR win

Wolves v Everton

These teams will be playing for different types of pride this weekend. Everton can open up a six-point gap over local rivals Liverpool, while Wolves – who are already relegated – can secure their first win under Terry Connor’s leadership. Connor will make a late decision on whether Matt Jarvis (groin) and Kevin Foley (hamstring) are fit to play. Moyes is hopeful Leighton Baines will return for the final game of 2011-12 but he will sit out this weekend’s match, along with Victor Anichebe, while Jack Rodwell is out until next season.

Prediction: Everton win

Manchester United v Swansea

United’s hope this season now heavily rely with Newcastle and QPR. A Newcastle victory against the current league leaders would put United back into the driving seat assuming Ferguson’s team can take 3 points from this fixture. Failing that, United need a huge number of goals in their remaining two games if they hope to win the title. Expect a high scoring match, as the hosts attempt to close the goal difference gap with City. Although Swansea have had an excellent season, their form has faded of late, with just a single victory for Brendan Rodger’s side.

Prediction: Manchester United win

Blackburn v Wigan

This is, undeniably, the last chance for Blackburn to save themselves from the drop. The Monday night shift has not generally proved popular with clubs or supporters this season, but neither Blackburn nor Wigan will be complaining this week. By kick-off at Ewood Park they will know the fortunes of Bolton, QPR and Aston Villa, and Wigan could need only a point to ensure they stay up. Whatever their rivals muster, Rovers – who are away at Chelsea on the final day – realistically must win this one, and hope that Wigan return to their meek early-season form rather than continue their recent heroics.

Prediction: Wigan win

Liverpool v Chelsea

Liverpool-Chelsea, twice in the space of three days. There’s no doubt the importance of this match is negligible compared to Saturday’s FA Cup Final. Liverpool have already secured a European place through their Carling Cup victory earlier in the season and of late their league form has been extremely poor, now they only have their own pride to play for. Chelsea, on the other hand, are still chasing Champions League football next season. If they fail to beat Bayern Munich in May’s final, then they have to ensure a fourth place league finish to ensure playing in the elite continental competition next season. Clearly, Di Matteo’s side still need as many league points as possible.

Prediction: Chelsea win

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From Soccerlens.com - Football News