FOOTBALL IN BRIEF
Vermaelen has Arsenal medical
ARSENAL will wrap up the £10m signing of Ajax captain Thomas Vermaelen today, according to the player.
Centre-back Vermaelen, 23, is set to become the Gunners’ first signing of what is expected to be a busy summer at the Emirates Stadium.
“On Friday I will fly to London to undergo a medical. Then I hope to sign,” said the Belgium international. “I feel so proud. Arsenal is a fantastic club.”
Lyon ready to sell Benzema
MANCHESTER UNITED target Karim Benzema could be allowed to leave Lyon after the French club softened their hardline stance.
Lyon have always insisted the France striker was not for sale, but president Jean-Michel Aulas has hinted at a U-turn.
“There is a tsunami called Real Madrid which provokes reactions at Chelsea, Manchester City and Manchester United. So it is very complicated to say that he is non-transferable.”
Keegan linked with Southampton
FORMER Newcastle and England manager Kevin Keegan has been linked with the Southampton manager’s job after being seen with chairman-elect Matt Le Tissier.
Former Saints hero Le Tissier is part of the Pinnacle group who could complete a takeover of the cash-strapped League One club today.
Ex-Southampton striker Keegan, who has been out of the game since quitting as Newcastle manager in September, was pictured with Le Tissier yesterday. The club declined to comment.
Arbeloa wants Spain return
LIVERPOOL defender Alvaro Arbeloa has welcomed reports of interest from Real Madrid, admitting he would like to return to Spain.
Right-back Arbeloa, 26, has one year left on his contract at Anfield and has been linked with big-spending Real.
“I have something to prove in Spain as I did not show my best form in La Liga,” he said. “One day, I’m sure I will return.”