It seems that the Championship Playoff finals are often won by the team who is playing best at the end of the season. Last year, Ian Holloway masterminded a Blackpool offensive (cough) juggernaut to promotion behind Charlie Adam and against a Cardiff side who’ve developed the nasty reputation of being playoff chokers. This year, the popular picks from pundits have gone to anyone but the Bluebirds. But is there really a trend to which clubs are most successful come playoff time?

Examining table below, we can draw several assumptions. Firstly, it’s bad luck to finish fourth in the table after the regular season (another reason Cardiff City fans are cursing). Not once has a team who finished fourth won through to English football’s Big Dance.

Secondly, it’s easy to see that when a club finishes higher in the table (as in Watford, Derby County and Hull City from 2006-08), recent league form usually plays less of a part their playoff success – the two worst-performed teams over the last ten league games over the past ten years both achieved playoff success from third place. This means that the club was either safely in the playoffs or had dropped by dint of poor form from the automatic promotion places. In all three cases however, their pursuers failed to take advantage of poor form (cf. Watford 2006 and Derby County in 2007).

Also, it’s important to realise that Goal Difference counts. Every promoted club – excepting a strange mid-noughties phenomenon involving West Ham, Watford and Derby County – had a much superior goal differential to their opponents. Given before last season’s first-half scorefest, the prior 6 Playoff Finals had ended 1-0, the ability to balance defence with attack is crucial.

So how does this year’s championship reflect these trends?

At this stage it would be easy to discount Nottingham Forest as they’ve taken the least points from their last ten league matches of any club who finishing sixth over the past decade. Their collapse – lasting from mid-February to early April – should have effectively put paid to their chances. This is also reflected in their poor goal difference. However as these are finals and – as the quote goes – “You’ve got to be in it to win it”, they can’t be considered definite first-round “outs” just because a decade of stats (not a big sample) says they should be.

Reading‘s form appears irresistible. While Swansea City have won less often, they’ve done so with greater winning margins. This could be put down to facing weaker opposition or their attacking style of play. That their stats match up quite well with Watford’s and Derby County’s is also encouraging for fans of Cyril the Swan and his men. With Cardiff’s reputation as big-game bottlers perhaps overstated but disturbing reports of late-season drinking apparently close to the mark, perhaps it’s easier to discount the Bluebirds (my favourite Football Manager team) against the Shane Long-led Royals.

Fearless Playoff Predictions: Reading over Cardiff City, Swansea City over Nottingham Forest, Dave Jones to get sacked and then Reading to steamroll back into the Premiership, leaving Cyril the Swan distraught, tired and emotional.

For more analysis and opinion, shoot across to Matthew Wood‘s blog, Balanced Sports.

From Soccerlens.com - Football News

The relegation battle in the Premiership has become increasingly intense. As the season progresses and Manchester United seemingly stumbling towards the title pursued by an equally reeling competition, the bottom of the table proves now to be the more intriguing are of the English top flight. This season sees the most intense dogfight to avoid the drop for many years.

It seems no-one in the bottom half of the table is immune, let alone safe. Before the weekend’s win against a Wigan outfit seeminly every bit mid-table Championship calibre, Sunderland had dropped like an action-movie elevator from potential European combatant to also-ran. Blackpool‘s astonishing start to the season came undone at exactly the same time as Charlie Adam’s Liverpool move was rejected. West Ham remain as consistent as the March weather. On the other hand, Wolves have proved the most plucky of all the teams in the relegation zone yet still prop up the table, hit hard by injury to target-man Kevin Doyle.

What confuses this situation more than in years past is that there are no “certainties” for the drop. Last year Portsmouth failed to break twenty points (thanks among other things to a nine-point deduction for going into administration) and in 2008, Derby County broke Sunderland’s record from 2006 for the fewest points in a season. This year, no such luck: the bottom nine clubs sit within one “six-pointer” of the drop zone.

When comparing this season to the previous decade, the only real precedents for such a tight battle was in 2003, 2007 and 2008, where – aside from the three in the relegation zone – five other clubs finished within six points of the drop. In all cases, however, one club was cut adrift much earlier in the season: in 2003 it was Sunderland, 2007 Watford and 2008 the hapless Derby County. Generally (60% over the last ten years), one club is mathematically relegated much sooner in the season than their compatriots. With only four (or five) matches remaining in this EPL season, there is no such bunny.

As always, the complicating factor in the relegation battle is Goal Difference. Goal difference has been known to be crucial – just ask Fulham fans, who in 2008 saw their club survive thanks only to a GD 3 superior to that of relegated Reading’s. Interestingly, while it’s mentioned often and loudly, that’s one of only two times since the turn of the twenty-first century that a club has avoided relegation by virtue of goal difference. The other was the year before, when a David Unsworth penalty against his former club Sheffield United lifted the Latics out of the drop zone at the expense of the Blades.

Another trend over the decade has been that as more teams are involved in a relegation battle, a greater impact is seen in goal difference over the course of a season. For example, in the years where eight clubs each year finished the season within six points of relegation (2003, 2007 and 2008) – or one crucial win against a fellow straggler – the average goal difference of any threatened clubs was much lower. The same is true in 2011, where nine clubs are still classified “in danger”.

Excepting Derby County in 2008 (who finished the season with 11 points and an all time goal difference record of -69), it’s easy to see that the average Goal Difference of relegation-threatened clubs decreases as the number of clubs increases.

Derby County are excluded because they are a statistical outlier – their season-long goal difference of -69 a whole 57% worse than any club’s during the past seven years – the next worst club in Goal Difference was 2003′s Sunderland squad, with -44. Since they lost almost every game (season record 1-8-29) we can assume everyone took points off them. This assumption may not necessarily be correct, but statistically speaking, it is safe.

As you can see, the tighter a relegation battle gets, the tighter clubs tend to become – with the possible exception of Ian Holloway’s Blackpool. If more club become involved in a relegation battle, it leads to lower average goal differences across those threatened teams. This season has produced another statistical anomaly which is interesting (but not very interesting) – Mark Hughes’ Fulham join Leeds United’s 2003 squad as the only “threatened” club in the last decade to boast a positive goal difference (+1).

It stands to reason that with an increased number of threatened clubs that average goal difference is reduced. If more clubs are involved in the Relegation battle, then that means for an even competition. An even competition means for even scores across a week-to-week basis and no matter if this Premier League has not been one of “vintage” calibre, it certainly has gone nearly unparalleled for intrigue and competition. In days past, the magic total of 40 points has been suggested to be a minimum safe distance. Only once has a club been relegated who had scored above forty points: West Ham, who were desperately unlucky to go down in 2003 with a record points tally.

Therefore, we can say safely with approximately 10% of the season still to play, the 2010-11 average Goal Difference figures are going to be amongst the lowest of the past ten years. If we extrapolate the figures as they stand now, it could mean an average goal difference as low as -16.85 for all threatened clubs over the course of the entire season. If we use Goal Difference as a marker of how intense a relegation battle is, then this relegation battle is statistically slightly (5%) more intense than than the previous most intense fight in 2008 involving Birmingham, Reading, Fulham and Bolton. Only this year, there’s no Derby County – there are no (relatively) easy points.

For more analysis and opinion, shoot across to Matthew Wood’s blog, Balanced Sports.

From Soccerlens.com - Football News

Hoops continue to impress

Being a QPR fan makes me very weary of all the hype building up around this side. I have seen us flatter to deceive too often to get carried away too fast.

But I must admit that tonight was exciting. Unbeaten Ipswich away looked a tough game; it turned into a stroll. I owe an apology to Jamie Mackie. I didn’t understand why we bought this low-profile youngster from Plymouth. Tonight he came off to a standing ovation.

Another chapter in the Pompey nightmare

It is too early to talk about relegation clashes but tonight’s 4-1 defeat to Crystal Palace is a hammer blow for Portsmouth.

I’ve said this before but I don’t mind repeating the fact that Pompey’s current squad is comfortably talented enough to be in mid-table. It’s hard not to feel that off-field distractions are continuing to damage on-field efforts.

Donny’s chance

I miss Doncaster. It feels like ages since I last watched perhaps the most attractive passing side in the division. I reckon that in an open division they have a very decent chance of making the play-offs. Tonight’s win over Norwich leaves them fourth.

Nothing sharp about these Blades

Sheffield United have long been considered natural contenders in the Championship; they are a side that you always expect to be there or thereabouts at the end. It’s a measure of how much they have fallen that I wasn’t hugely surprised by the thrashing that Scunthorpe inflicted on them tonight. A lot of Championship sides have improved and the Blades have been left behind.

And a bit of smugness

I suggested on Saturday that Leicester and Nottingham Forest would both see their results improve – wins for both tonight.

From Soccerlens.com - Football News

Nottingham Forest v Sheffield United
English Championship

Nottingham Forest will be relieved to have a couple of fixtures at home this week. Their incredible previous 19-game unbeaten streak in the league, which had stretched right the way back to September, was broken a few weeks ago by bitter rivals Derby and this has proved a catalyst in their form away from home – they have now lost three games on the spin, and failed to score in any of them, with their last victory on the road coming over a month ago at West Brom.

As a result, their brief occupation of the second automatic promotion spot came to an abrupt end. Forest now need results in their back-to-back home games with play-off hopefuls Sheffield United and Middlesbrough to maintain the pressure on the top two. They are four points back on West Brom in second, having played a game more, and face two games against fellow promotion rivals in Leicester and Swansea in their next six games.

Meanwhile a torrid opening to Sheffield United’s season is starting to become a distant memory, having slowly turned round to display a suddenly very familiar outlook for Blades fans. Their team are on the coat-tails of the sides in the lower play-off places and only a fool would bet against the kind of strong finish to a league campaign that has become synonymous with the red half of Sheffield over the past few seasons.

However, despite a general upturn in fortune, more recent form has been less than convincing. United’s home record is impressive, certainly solid enough to suggest a top-six finish is achievable. They are unbeaten in their past eight and have been beaten only twice at Bramall Lane all season. Yet on the road there is work to be done if Kevin Blackwell’s men are to reach and of course consolidate a position in the play-off places.

Just 15 of their 45 points amassed so far this campaign have been picked up away from home and the last of those points came way back in mid-December at struggling QPR; one must go back further still to find the Blades’ most recent away success, on December 5. Results just haven’t been good enough and unless they improve soon United’s away record could well prove their undoing come the end of the season.

For that reason it is difficult to see the visitors coming out on top. Forest urgently need a lift – they are rapidly losing ground on the pacesetters and have some testing games coming up soon – and I fancy their chances of getting one from this game. Home win, 1-0.

Paddy Power is giving Soccerlens readers a free £20 bet to predict who will get promoted from the Championship this season. Who’s your pick?

From Soccerlens.com - Football News

England

No Remy Move For Arsenal

Arsenal are passing on making a move for Nice forward Loic Remy due to the French club’s staying firm over a £13m price tag for the highly-touted 23-year-old. (Daily Mail)

Analysis: On one hand, you say ‘sure, why not?’, because with such a tight title race, a Champions League run, and a rash of injuries to the forward line to think about, the need is there. But it might just be better to save that £13m for the summer and roll with a soon-to-be-fit Nicklas Bendtner, unless someone like Klaas-Jan Huntelaar is somehow available on loan.

Birmingham Close On Boselli?

Birmingham City are said to be close to a club-record move for Estudiantes striker Mauro Boselli. The 24-year-old could be set to arrive for £11m, which would surpass the 9m spent on summer signing Cristian Benitez. (The Mirror)

Analysis: Birmingham have swung and missed with their pursuit of Premier League strikers so far, so why not try a target abroad, and a good one at that. Doesn’t seem likely that the deal will happen, but given Boselli’s scoring exploits, it is only a matter of time before he lands somewhere in Europe.

Sunderland In Benjani Talks

Sunderland are in talks with the representatives of Manchester City striker Benjani. (The Sun)

Analysis: Another last-minute January transfer in the cards for Benjani? Can’t say the Premier League would be as nice as they were the last time.

Wilshere Joins Bolton

Bolton have signed Arsenal starlet Jack Wilshere on loan for the remainder of the season. (Daily Mail)

Analysis: With Wilshere and Vladimir Weiss in the fold for the next few months, Bolton supporters should be feeling a lot more chipper than they have been for much of the season. Safe to say that there’s never been a better time to watch Bolton play, even if they’re in the midst of a battle for survival.

Hammers Eye McDonald

West Ham have made an inquiry to Celtic regarding striker Scott McDonald, who’s currently a target for Middlesbrough and has also been linked with Wigan this month. (The Mirror)

Analysis: West Ham are close to landing Benni McCarthy from Blackburn, but they were in the market for multiple forwards and are still in need after losing out on Eidur Gudjohnsen. Celtic Lite, or Boro, rather, have made a £3.5m offer for McDonald, so West Ham need to act quickly if they are serious about him.

O’Hara Returns To Pompey

Tottenham midfielder Jamie O’Hara is back at Portsmouth for a second loan stint, and he’s set to spend the remainder of the season at Fratton Park. (ESPN Soccernet)

Analysis: Well, about time there was some good news for Portsmouth. And there’s never a bad time to mention Danielle Lloyd either. I wonder how she likes it on the south coast?

Burnley Sign Fox

Burnley have completed the signing of Celtic left back Danny Fox for an undisclosed fee. (Football 365)

Analysis: After only leaving the Championship this past summer, I’m sure he doesn’t want to go back that quickly, so it’s safe to safe he’ll be playing his tail off.

Boro Loan Naughton

Middlesbrough have signed Tottenham defender Kyle Naughton on loan for the remainder of the season. (The Mirror)

Analysis: Seeing as how opportunities would’ve been (and ended up being) minimal for Naughton this season, I think it’d have been wise for Tottenham to have immediately loaned him back to Sheffield United as was the case with teammate Kyle Walker. Now, Naughton could have a role in keeping the club who developed him from having a chance to return to the Premier League.

Italy

Fiorentina Eye Rocchi And Tavano

Fiorentina are on the prowl for a new striker, and two of the names on the top of their list are Lazio star Tommaso Rocchi (Transfer Market Web) and Livorno’s Francesco Tavano (Transfer Market Web).

Analysis: Adrian Mutu’s failed drug test could have Fiorentina in a real bind, but even if he escapes a lengthy ban, it’s smart to land some cover either way.

Portugal

Porto Capture Kleber

Porto have signed Brazilian striker Kleber from Cruzeiro for a fee of 5.5 million euros, and they have also loaned out striker Ernesto Farias as part of the deal. (Goal.com)

Analysis: Porto have plenty of depth up front, but only summer signing Falcao is scoring consistently. So, there’s plenty of opportunity for Kleber to have an ample part over the last few months of the season.

Mendes Close To Sporting Switch

Sporting Lisbon have agreed a fee with Rangers for midfielder Pedro Mendes. (The Mirror)

Analysis: Unfortunate that a lengthy injury absence proved to be a difference maker in his chances for regular opportunities this season, but nonetheless it’s the right move.

From Soccerlens.com - Football News

England

City Eye Mutu

The agent of Fiorentina striker Adrian Mutu says that Manchester City are interested in making a move for the 31-year-old. (Daily Mail)

Analysis: Thank you, Daily Mail, for unnecessarily drudging up Mutu’s past, despite the fact that since then, he’s kept his nose clean, and he’s found the net on a regular basis to boot (speaking of which, he‘s on fire right now – seven goals in five matches since returning from injury).

Spurs In Chiellini Talks?

Davide Lippi, the agent of Juventus defender Giorgio Chiellini, has said that his visit to the Manchester City-Manchester United Carling Cup semi on Tuesday was no was nothing more than a courtesy visit – and he also started that he has held talks with Tottenham officials. (Goal.com)

Analysis: It would seem a bit strange that Juventus would even be considering selling Chiellini, and despite Juve’s current struggles, it’d also seem a little odd why a guy in his prime would be interested in making what amounts to a downward move.

Sunderland Sign Kilgallon

Sunderland have signed Sheffield United defender Matthew Kilgallon for £1.75m. (The Guardian)

Analysis: Hopefully he knows how to do the business when he’s away from the Stadium of Light, because that’s the issue that’s standing between Sunderland being only a few points away from a European place and a few points away from the relegation zone, where they currently find themselves.

Hammers Move For McCarthy

West Ham have made a £1.25m bid for Blackburn striker Benni McCarthy. (The Sun)

Analysis: McCarthy may have seen his starting opportunities diminish at Blackburn under Sam Allardyce, but he has proven what he can do in the top flight, and at that price, he‘d be a smart purchase.

Burnley Sign Nimani

Burnley have signed striker Frederic Nimani on loan for the remainder of the season. The deal includes an option to buy the Monaco man for £3.5m at the end of the season. (Daily Mail)

Analysis: This one could be a nice bargain move for Burnley. Nimani has found regular football hard to come by this season, but he showed a lot of promise and potential last season, scoring six goals in 15 league starts.

Wolves Land Mujangi

Wolves have signed attacking midfielder Geoffrey Mujangi Bia on loan for the rest of the season. (Daily Mail)

Analysis: The production from Wolves’ strikers has certainly been disappointing, but they’ve also greatly suffered because of Michael Kightly’s injury problems, so this signing definitely fills a need for a creative presence in midfield.

Italy

Increased Inter Offer For Ledesma

Inter Milan have made Lazio an offer of €6m plus co-ownership of promising Slovenian midfielder Rene Krhin for midfielder Cristian Ledesma. (Goal.com)

Analysis: Considering the realistic possibility that they could be about to lose Ledesma for nothing, there shouldn’t be much consideration about whether or not to accept the offer, especially given that they would be getting such a talented young prospect as part of the deal.

Turkey

Galatasaray Sign Jo

After the termination of his loan stay at Everton, Manchester City striker Jo has moved to Galatasaray on loan for the remainder of the season. (The Mirror)

Analysis: Hopefully this stint will see him get back to the level that earned him that big-money Manchester City move.

From Soccerlens.com - Football News

Soccerlens’ Football League preview reaches its climax ahead of the big kick-off this weekend, with The Championship playing a starring role.

There’s plenty of big names battling it out for a money-spinning place in the Premiership, so read for our views on who’ll be mixing it with Manchester United next season, who’ll be lowering themselves into League One, and our prediction for Newcastle’s season.

Bluffer’s guide to the league

Even in the days when it was the old Second Division, the league that isn’t the top flight has been well regarded. Known as The Championship since 2004, it’s the richest second-tier league anywhere in the world. The playoff final is often referred to as the most valuable game in the world due to the riches on offer from the Premier League for one season before the inevitable relegation.

If The Championship were a football it would be…

Craig Bellamy. Not quite as good as it thinks it is, but there’s enough class to be able to mix it with the best from time to time. Never quite convinces at the highest level but exciting to watch and genuinely unpredictable.

Last season in a Tweet

Wolves take the title despite a mid-season dip. Nearest challengers also fall over themselves not to win the league. Ex-Premier League teams make up the bottom three.

Tables toppers

In a league where none of the relegated three from the Premier League look quite capable of lighting up the Championship, Sheffield United look a good bet for the title. Although the Blades stumbled in the playoffs, they have the momentum behind them and, at times, looked the best team in the league. There’s plenty of firepower and creativity in the side (Ched Evans is a good signing) and Kevin Blackwell’s side will the the ones to beat.

Promotion pushers

Never underestimate the power of Roy Keane. You can ask questions about his ability to manage in the Premier League but he took Sunderland up from the Championship and should do the same with Ipswich Town. Owner Marcus Evans has deep pockets and Keane has already set about building a squad for promotion. The Tractor Boys know what’s expected of them and Keane is the man to lead them to it.

Playoff prospects

Had Tony Mowbray stayed at West Brom and kept the vultures at bay for the Baggies best players, we’d have made them title favourites. As it is, they should comfortably make the playoffs. Roberto Di Matteo is new to this level but did well with the MK Dons and, in Simon Cox and Rueben Reid has signed players with potential but no proven experience at this level. A lot rests on whether the Baggies can hold onto the likes of Jonathan Greening until the transfer window shuts.

Gareth Southgate has quietly been going about his business at Middlesborough this close season and despite the departure of Stewart Downing, likely to be followed by that of Tuncay, but Boro still have a very strong squad. If Southgate can refocus his troops then expect the Teesiders to be challenging for an immediate return.

Reading should have been good enough to head straight back to the Premier League. As it was they occasionally lost their way last season, and new boss Brendan Rodgers may find it hard to turn them into title contenders. Kevin Doyle may be gone but the Hunt brothers will always be dangerous and the Royals should play some of the most eye-catching football in the division again.

Preston are getting to be a fixture in the playoffs without ever being quite good enough to make the step up to the Premier League. Alan Irvine has slowly put together a very good team that may not be high on star quality but North End will again be tough to break down and may fly under the radar again. Other teams should not underestimate them.

Outside bet

There’s plenty of other teams – Swansea, Cardiff and QPR – who’ll be challenging for the playoffs but keep an eye on Derby County. This will be Nigel Clough’s first full season in charge and all the signs are he could replicate his success with Burton. He’s signed players he knows like Jake Buxton and Dean Moxey and has revitalised a club badly in need of a pick-me-up. Clough will be in for the long haul but the Rams may yet surprise many.

Relegation fodder

Barnsley may have just managed to keep themselves in the Championship in recent seasons but this could be a fight too far. Simon Davey’s team will give it their all but with two strong teams promoted from League 1 and their rivals have strengthened. The Yorkshire club have what it takes to compete at this level, but may need a season in the division below to realise it.

Scunthorpe won a lot of friends by beating MK Dons then Millwall in the League One playoffs last season but it won’t be an easy season in the Championship for the Iron. Nigel Adkins is a good young manager but with the resources at his disposal and the quality of oter teams in the division, Scunthorpe may have to settle for being a yo-yo club.

Blackpool have Ian Holloway as manager and if anybody can save the Tangerines from the drop it’s the outspoken manager from Bristol. Holloway had fellow relegation rivals Plymouth punching well above their weight but his record is somewhat tainted by relegation at Leicester. Much will rest on new signing Jason Euell but even his goals won’t be enough for ‘Pool.

Joker in the pack

Newcastle United, in every sense of the word. After a pre-season of complete inertia with no takeover, no manager and no new players, the Toon are an utter mystery ahead of the season. On paper, the ‘biggest club in the Championship’ looked strong enough to bounce back but many of the squad are looking for an exit and there’s no telling how a bunch of players who looked uninspired last season will fare outside of the Premier League. Death or glory, or, quite probably, mediocrity, awaits.

Solid gold gaffer

Gary Johnson has a knack of getting the best out of teams that are more than the sum of their parts. Defied expectation that Bristol City would head straight back down to League One by turning them into playoff contenders and will continue to do so this time around.

Three players to watch

Simon Cox was hot property in League One last season, topping the scoring table for the division in an average Swindon side. West Brom have paid £2m for his services, and the youngster has much to prove as the Baggies look to fire their way back to the Premier League.

Craig Noone has come a long way since coming up through the ranks at non-league Skelmersdale United. The midfielder leapt from the Blue Square North to the Championship when Plymouth Argyle signed him last season and he was a rare bright spot as the Pilgrims struggled. Wigan and Sunderland were rumoured to be interested and Noone will be a key player again for the Devon club.

George Boyd has already more than justified his record-breaking £260,000 move to Peterborough three years ago. Now the 23-year-old has his chance to make his mark on the Championship. Tipped by many to reach the Premier League, expect the former Stevenage man to terrorise defenders again this season.

Also See:

09/10 League One – Season Preview
09/10 League Two – Season Preview
09/10 Blue Square Premier – Season Preview

From Soccerlens.com - Football News

If you’ve checked out the football transfer lists lately, you’ll notice that we’ve got a couple of new additions in League One and League Two, so if you’re a fan of one of England’s lower league clubs, you can now find their latest transfers here.

And as always, you can count on finding all of the latest transfer news and rumors here, with a fresh hot batch delivered everyday.

England

Liverpool Close To Crumbling On Alonso?

Liverpool representatives are denying that they’ve agreed to sell midfielder Xabi Alonso to Real Madrid, but according to the (Daily Mail), Real Madrid are extremely hopeful of a deal for the Spaniard after upping their offer to £30m.

Analysis: I’ve said for a while that Liverpool shouldn’t sell Alonso, but it seems all too obvious that he wants to leave, and if he does, it’ll be Real Madrid or bust.

Manchester City In For Young

Manchester City could be set to make an £18m bid for Aston Villa winger Ashley Young. (Clubcall)

Analysis: Moving on…

Sunderland Turn To Bent

After missing out on Portsmouth striker Peter Crouch, Sunderland could be set to use the £12m that they were going to use on Crouch on a move for Tottenham’s Darren Bent. (Daily Mail)

Analysis: Tottenham might be willing to back off of their high asking price for Bent now that they’re trying to do some striker shopping of their own (whether it’s for Crouch, Negredo, or Huntelaar), and £10-12m is much more reasonable for Bent than £16m, at least in my opinion.

Evans Set For Sheffield United

Sheffield United have agreed a fee in the region of £3m for Manchester City striker Ched Evans. (Sky Sports)

Analysis: Sheffield United made the Championship playoff final despite selling off their leading scorer (James Beattie) in January, but it was a must to add another scorer to aid their promotion push this season. Evans had a very good loan spell with Norwich City in the 2006/07 season, when he scored 10 goals and had eight assists in 28 appearances, so he’s already got Championship experience and success under his belt.

Spain

Barca Close On Kerrison

Barcelona and Brazilian side Palmeiras have agreed a €14m fee for striker Kerrison, with the 20-year-old set for a medical with Barca tomorrow. (Sky Sports)

Analysis: It might be a season or two before we actually see him in a Barcelona shirt, since they’re going to be loaning him out immediately.

Real Re-Sign Granero

Real Madrid have re-signed midfielder Esteban Granero from Getafe. Real included a buy-back clause into last summer’s sale of Granero to Getafe, and they’ve executed the €4m clause to bring the 22-year-old back to the Bernabeu. (Sky Sports)

Analysis: The ol’ buy-back clause strikes again. It’s hard to see where anyone’s future lies (well, besides the few obvious names) with all of the coming and going at Real, but there’s no indication that they’re going to sell him off immediately. He could see some regular appearances this season, but he could just as well wind up on the bench for much of the campaign, which wouldn’t do very much for his development.

Sevilla Sign Sanchez

Sevilla have signed Espanyol defender Sergio Sanchez for €4m. (Sky Sports)

Analysis: Sanchez’s ability to play both at center back and right back will be an asset for a club that already had one of the most airtight back lines in La Liga, and so will his ability to find the net on occasion (he scored three goals for Espanyol last season).

Zaragoza Close On Kalinic

Real Zaragoza are closing on a deal for Hadjuk Split striker Nikola Kalinic. (Tribal Football)

Analysis: Excellent deal for Zaragoza, who are landing one of Croatia’s top young prospects. The 20-year-old has finished near the top of the goal charts in Croatia’s top flight each of the last two seasons, and he’s got quite the ringing endorsement from Croatia national team coach Slaven Bilic, who’s called him the future of Croatian football.

Italy

Eto’o Agrees Inter Deal

Samuel Eto’o has agreed terms on a move to Inter Milan. (Sky Sports)

Analysis: Still a while yet before the whole deal is actually completed, but Eto’o's part of the deal might have been the biggest piece of the puzzle, given concerns about his wage demands, so it’d seem to be all but a formality now that the deal gets done.

Portugal

Sporting Move For Caicedo

Manchester City striker Felipe Caicedo has agreed a season-long loan switch to Sporting Lisbon. (Sky Sports)

Analysis: Even though City’s glut of forward signings means his future there is likely out the window, doing well at a club like Sporting (not to mention carrying that form over into the World Cup if Ecuador qualify) will either earn him a permanent move there or to another high-level European club next summer.

Turkey

Deco Close To Galatasaray Move

Deco could be close to sealing a move to Galatsaray, according to Turkish media reports. (Transfer Market Web)

Analysis: Though he could still have a part to play at Chelsea, a move might be best if he wants a starting role. A move to Galatasaray worked out very well for Harry Kewell and Milan Baros, and with Frank Rijkaard being installed as manager, there’s some familiarity there, so it’s an opportunity that could prove profitable for Deco if he wants it to.

Daily Links

Football At The Top: It’s A Dog’s Life

If you don’t have a sense of humor, I suggest you not read this.

Manchester United Fans Must Be Patient

Many a Manchester United fan might be looking for the club to spend big this summer, but there’s reason to have a different perspective.

Time For Alonso To Say He’s Staying Or Going

It appears pretty clear that Xabi Alonso wants to leave Liverpool, but a word one way or another from the man himself would be nice, no?

Vuvuzela World Record Attempt Today

Oh. Dear. God.

The Story Of Pies And Shiny Media

If you’ve been wondering what happened to Who Ate All the Pies, here’s the story behind the disappearance.

From Soccerlens.com - Football News

So, John Terry is apparently going to stay at Chelsea. That shouldn’t exactly come as a surprise to anyone, though a few Chelsea fans might have worried themselves into a frenzy over the last several days about the possibility of losing their beloved captain to Manchester City.

Now that that situation looks to be resolved (possibly, maybe, I think…), we can move on to the next potential saga(s) or turn our attentions back to already ongoing sagas.

Xabi Alonso is still being linked with Real Madrid, and a move may/may not happen, but in case it does, then Liverpool have a potential replacement lined up.

Speaking of replacements, a certain Dutch striker might be hoping that Arsenal see him as the perfect replacement for Emmanuel Adebayor, but if not, he’s got Stuttgart on the backburner.

Keep on reading to find out more about those tidbits and a whole lot more, and make sure you check out the latest confirmed signings in our updated summer transfer lists.

England

Liverpool Eye Aquilani

Roma are claiming that Liverpool are eying midfielder Alberto Aquilani as a potential replacement for Xabi Alonso, if the Spaniard makes a big-money move to Real Madrid. (The Mirror)

Analysis: On talent alone, Aquilani’s well worth the investment. However, he’s a big, big risk because of injuries that seen him miss extended periods of time over the last few seasons (only 48 Serie A matches in three seasons).

Huntelaar Holding Out For Prem Move?

Real Madrid striker Klaas-Jan Huntelaar is stalling on a move to VfB Stuttgart in the hope of either Arsenal or Tottenham make a move for him. (Daily Mail)

Analysis: It could well be a futile wait, because Tottenham appear to have their sights set on another Real striker, and there are no signs that Arsenal are in any hurry to buy (or to spend upwards of 15m on a new striker).

Tottenham Make Negredo Bid

As I said above, Tottenham have their sights set on another Real Madrid striker, as they’ve tabled a 17m bid for Alvaro Negredo. (The Mirror)

Analysis: Tough call here – Negredo or Huntelaar? They can’t go wrong with either, honestly.

Spurs Sign Sheffield United Duo

Tottenham have completed the signings of Sheffield United defenders Kyle Naughton and Kyle Walker for an undisclosed fee. (Daily Mail)

Analysis: Everton will certainly feel a little hard done by that Tottenham were able to come in late and nab someone that they were close on in Naughton, but that’s the way the business works sometimes. Sheffield United are losing a couple of top young prospects in the two Kyles, but it’s a deal that works out well for them, both because of the financial windfall and the fact that Walker will immediately come back to Sheffield United on loan.

Fulham And Everton Battle For Turner

Fulham are looking to beat Everton to Hull defender Michael Turner, hoping to lure the 25-year-old with a part-exchange move that includes 5m Bobby Zamora, who Hull had already agreed a fee for, along with 4m in cash. (The Mirror)

Analysis: I don’t really see how this deal would make a lot of sense for Hull, and I’m not even mentioning the Bobby Zamora factor.

Everton Interested In Onuoha

After losing out on Naughton, Everton could make a move for Manchester City’s Nedum Onuoha. (The Guardian)

Analysis: Injuries have affected Onuoha’s ability to be able to log a full season of work in the Premier League, but he was a regular starter for City in the second half of last season.

Fulham Sign Riise

Fulham have signed midfielder Bjorn Helge Riise from Norwegian side Lillestrom. (Sky Sports)

Analysis: John Arne worked out pretty well for Liverpool, so that bodes well for Roy Hodgson.

Sunderland Move For Reo-Coker

Sunderland could make a move for Aston Villa midfielder Nigel Reo-Coker. (Daily Mail)

Analysis: Reo-Coker’s playing time dipped from his first season to his second at Villa, and with Martin O’Neill eying multiple midfielders, his chances for regular playing time next season could be even more limited.

Portsmouth Reject Distin Bid

Portsmouth have rejected Aston Villa’s 2.5m bid for defender Sylvain Distin. (The Mirror)

Analysis: Distin has started 252 out of a possible 266 Premier League matches over the last seven seasons, so it’s no wonder that Aston Villa were after him. However, when you’re trying to build a successful team, even if you have a large amount of riches to do it with, having someone with that kind of experience and durability is invaluable.

Mallorca In For Riquelme

Mallorca are looking to lure Boca Juniors star Juan Roman Riquelme back to Spain, where he spent time with Barcelona and Villarreal before returning to his first club in 2007. (Tribal Football)

Analysis: Mallorca do have the need for a new star playmaker after selling Juan Arango to Borussia Monchengladbach.

Germany

Bremen Bring Back Borowski

Werder Bremen have completed the re-signing of midfielder Tim Borowski from Bayern Munich. (Sky Sports)

Analysis: Another one of those cases where the pastures are not nearly as greener on the other side as they appeared to be. Borowski did score seven goals for Bayern last season, but he made only nine starts in 34 total appearances.

Rozenhal Set For Hamburg Switch

Hamburg SV are closing in on a deal for Lazio defender David Rozenhal. (Sky Sports)

Analysis: Yep, in case it wasn’t known already, a lack of success at Newcastle doesn’t serve as an indicator of your talent level. So, fear not, Jose Enrique, Jonas, and Xisco, the best may be yet to come.

Daily Links

Sven Makes England Return…At Notts County

Nope, that’s not a typo. But if there’s anyone who can get Notts County to the Premier League, it’s Sven.

Adebayor Retires From Football

Shocking, isn’t it?

How Arsenal Have Ensured Australia Will Host the World Cup

I’m sure I’m not the only one who YouTubed that Bergkamp goal (you know the one) to see it in all its goodness all over again.

Chelsea’s U.S. Tour Is A Preview of the 39th Game

Could a well-attended U.S. tour by Chelsea give the Premier League more incentive to push for a 39th game?

The Ultimate USA Traveling Fan’s Guide to Mexico City

Planning on going to Mexico City for the USA’s World Cup qualifier against Mexico next month? Here’s all you need to know to make your trip a success.

Babes of the Day: Charlize Theron and Alyssa Milano

You can look for more pictures on your own time, but here’s a look at actresses Charlize Theron (here) and Alyssa Milano (here) showing their football fandom.

From Soccerlens.com - Football News

It’s a relatively slow day on the transfer news and rumors front, but since it’s a Monday, that may be something to be expected.

Nonetheless, there’s still a little something from here and a little something from there to give you your transfer gossip fix today.

England

Terry To Address Rumors?

Chelsea captain John Terry is expected to issue a statement to address his future, which has been the target of speculation with Manchester City’s persistent interest in him. (Daily Mail)

Analysis: I think he’ll end up staying at Chelsea when all’s said and done, but how much longer will Mr. Chelsea stay that way? It seems like City’s interest has gotten him thinking at the very least, and with him edging ever closer to 30, he might look to explore opportunities if they come his way next summer.

Arsenal Target Gignac?

Arsenal are considering a bid for Toulouse striker Andre-Pierre Gignac, though the 23-year-old could cost the Gunners £18m. (Daily Mail)

Analysis: Arsenal were able to talk Zenit St. Petersburg down from their original asking price for Andrei Arshavin, so don’t doubt their bargaining powers. However, seeing as how Lyon had a bid of £13m turned away, they may well have a hard time trying to knock more than a few million off the price, if anything at all.

City Up Lescott Offer

Manchester City are set to up their offer for Everton defender Joleon Lescott to £18m, and they want to offer the 26-year-old £100k per week, which would more than double his current salary. (The Mirror)

Analysis: Still short of what Everton would consider, but if City keep pushing the number higher and above the 20m mark, it might be a little hard to turn down. If things don’t go their way with Terry, that could see their interest in Lescott intensified, and they could have the mindset that repeated bids could force Everton’s hand, whether by the amounts themselves (and their unrelenting interest) or by an unsettled Lescott requesting a move.

Tottenham Close On Sheffield United Duo?

Tottenham are close to capturing Sheffield United’s Kyle Naughton and Kyle Walker in an £11m double deal. (The Mirror)

Analysis: Everton don’t look like giving up on Naughton, so this one doesn’t look to be over just yet.

Fulham’s Second Greening Bid Rejected

After making one failed bid for West Brom midfielder Jonathan Greening, Fulham have had a second bid of £3.25m turned down by the Baggies. (ESPN Soccernet)

Analysis: Understandable that he’d want to be able to continue playing in the Premier League, and he’d be a quality signing if Fulham can land him. Might well cost them at least double their original cash bid) if West Brom are willing to sell, and if it does, it would represent a more than triple profit from their purchase of Greening in 2004.

Korean Winger Set For Bolton Talks

Bolton are close on a £2m deal for FC Seoul winger Lee Chung-Yong. The 21-year-old South Korea international was set to fly to England for contract negotiations and a medical. (Sky Sports)

Analysis: Here’s a little highlight video of him, via YouTube. Looks to be a pretty promising talent, and he’s already got a nice amount of international experience under his belt. Could prove to be a big bargain for Bolton if he pans out in the Premier League.

Hull After Voronin

Hull could make a loan move for Liverpool striker Andriy Voronin. (The Mirror)

Analysis: I’d have to say that Voronin’s a much better option than Bobby Zamora, but he might prefer to try to carve out a place for himself at Liverpool rather than join a battle for survival.

Italy

Juventus Move For Caceres

Juventus have confirmed their interest in Barcelona defender Martin Caceres, and the two parties could be set to work out a loan deal for the 22-year-old. (Sky Sports)

Analysis: You’d think that Barcelona would look to hold on to him so that they can have him in case of injury problems and to maintain quality depth at the back, but a move to Juventus would allow him the chance to flourish, earn experience in one of Europe’s top league and in the Champions League, and put himself in position to figure more prominently for Barca come the 2010/11 season.

From Soccerlens.com - Football News