Football transfers & Europa League as it happened

1. Europa League second qualifying round
2. Newtown v FC Copenhagen (18:45 BST), Astra Giurgiu v Inverness CT (19:00)
3. Aberdeen v Rijeka, Birkirkara v West Ham, Linfield v Spartak Trnava (all 19:45)
4. GET INVOLVED #nightmaredebuts

Sportsday Live

That's it for Sportsday Live for Thursday.

You can follow all of the night's football action via the BBC Sport website and Sportsday will resume at 08:00 BST on Friday with more of the latest pre-season action, transfer gossip and plenty more.

Bees sign German striker

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Brentford have made their seventh signing of the summer by paying an undisclosed fee to Kaiserslautern for Germany Under-21 striker Philipp Hofmann.

The 22-year-old has agreed a three-year contract at Griffin Park.

"Philipp is a target man, physically strong, and a good header of the ball," head coach Marinus Dijkhuizen said.

Thompson loses arm after crash

Northern Ireland motorcyclist Stephen Thompson has lost an arm as a result of injuries sustained in an accident at the North West 200 road races in May.

The Crumlin rider, 39, who suffered a collapsed lung and bleeding on the brain as well as leg fractures in the crash, underwent surgery to have the arm amputated this week.

A statement released by Thompson's family explained that trauma suffered as a result of the crash had been causing major problems since the crash.

Hockaday criticises 'twilight zone'

Former Leeds United boss Dave Hockaday has hit out at the coaching of youngsters in England after revealing plans to set up a new Under-16s talent academy in Wiltshire.

"Twenty years ago I established the first football academy in this country, long before the academies we see in the pro game today. They followed my blueprint," the 57-year-old told BBC Radio Wiltshire.

"I believe massively in the talent in this country. We go wrong from the 15 to 19 age group, which I call the twilight zone, I want to fill that gap."

Noble hopeful of West Ham progression

PA

Midfielder Mark Noble is confident West Ham can negotiate testing conditions in Malta to complete an aggregate victory over Birkirkara and progress to the third qualifying round of the Europa League this evening (19:45 BST).

The Hammers, 1-0 up from the first leg, will face temperatures of around 30C in Malta's National Stadium.

Noble said: "It will be a challenge with the heat and they made it difficult for us last week. But we got the win and now we've got to go and try to finish the job."

Bristol City fans plan ticket protest

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A section of Bristol City supporters are planning to miss their first game back in the Championship over what they call "astronomical" ticket prices.

Away supporters who travel to Sheffield Wednesday on the opening day will be charged up to £39 for a ticket.

"For some of us, it is a matter of principle," said a statement from the Bristol City Supporters' Club & Trust.

"It is going to hurt to do this, but the Supporters' Club & Trust has decided not to attend this game."

McShane joins Tigers in swap deal

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Wakefield Trinity Wildcats hooker Paul McShane has joined Castleford Tigers on a two-and-a-half-year contract.

Scott Moore has moved in the opposite direction as part of the deal, joining the Wildcast on loan for the rest of the season.

Kewell gets role at Watford

Watford have appointed former Australia international Harry Kewell as the club's new Under-21 coach.

The 36-year-old retired last year after a career which included spells with the likes of Leeds United, Liverpool and Galatasaray, as well as 56 caps for the Australian national team - including appearances at the 2006 and 2010 World Cup.

Boro ambition swayed Downing

PA

Stewart Downing says Middlesbrough's ambition was key to his decision to drop into the Championship from Premier League side West Ham United.

The England international winger, 31, has returned to his hometown club for £5.5m on a four-year contract, after playing 37 top-flight games for the Hammers last season.

"This is a Premier League club," Downing told BBC Look North. "If this was a team fighting relegation or mid-table, it wouldn't be good for me to come back. These players were very unlucky not to be promoted last season.

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Dan McConnell: My very own as a 12 year old, 2 OGs, one from 30 yards, outside of the foot, top bin, 2nd deflection from corner.

John Spencer: Delivered daily mail instead of mirror on the 1st day of my paper round. They never let me forget that.

Dean Bedford: Made my England deaf cricket debut and got hit for 24 in my first over and didn't bowl again that day.

Everton duo on way back from injury

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Everton manager Roberto Martinez says defender Leighton Baines and midfielder Bryan Oviedo are both making good progress in their recoveries from injury.

Baines required ankle surgery after suffering a recurrence of an old problem in a game against Sunderland in May while Oviedo broke a metatarsal in training in April but both have been included in the squad for the club's pre-season trip to Scotland.

"They are raring to go as you can imagine," Martinez told the club website. "They are two pristine professionals and they are a similar profile of player, so they have been helping each other with their work. They are full of energy and desperate to join the group."

Coming up

BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

Tonight on 5 Live Sports Extra from 19:30 BST, you can hear commentary from the Super League as Hull FC host Wigan.

Dave Woods will be joined by Huddersfield's Luke Robinson and as well as all the action, you can hear from Leeds prop Adam Cuthbertson on his hopes of playing for England in the end-of-season internationals against New Zealand.

Where's Sepp Blatter?

Richard Conway

BBC Radio 5 live sports news correspondent

"St Petersburg for World Cup draw. Tried to speak to Blatter but, er, robust hotel security stopped me. He's happy, that's as far as we got."

Woodward to return to Manchester United tour

Simon Stone

BBC Sport

Manchester United executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward is heading back to the United States.

It was always planned Woodward would return after leaving United's pre-season tour following last Friday's 1-0 win over Club America.

It will not go unnoticed that United's final two opponents on their 17-day trip are Barcelona and Paris St-Germain.

The Premier League club have been heavily linked with signing Pedro from the former and selling Angel Di Maria to the latter.

Clarke learns from World Cup omission

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Notts County Ladies forward Jess Clarke says she has been spurred on by the disappointment of being left out of England's World Cup squad.

The 26-year-old has played 49 times for England but was left out of Mark Sampson's squad for the tournament in Canada earlier this summer.

"As an athlete you have to take those knocks," Clarke, who scored in Wednesday's 2-1 Continental Cup win over Birmingham City, told BBC Radio Nottingham.

"It is how you come back from it and learn from it. You just try be the best player you can be."

Australia beat England in Women's Ashes

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We said earlier that England were struggling against Australia in the second Women's Ashes one-day international in Bristol.

Well, the visitors have just wrapped up victory by 63 runs to level the series at two points apiece.

The next game takes place at Worcester on Sunday.

McCarthy signs for Palace

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Crystal Palace have signed Queens Park Rangers goalkeeper, Alex McCarthy, on a four year deal for an undisclosed fee.

The 25-year-old signed for the Hoops last summer from Reading and featured three times in the Premier League, as well as being called up to the England squad.

"I'm over the moon," he said. "When I first heard about Palace's interest I was excited because I really wanted to be back in the Premier League. Towards the end of last season I started hearing little inklings about a move and then gradually over the summer things progressed and now, here I am."

Bony aims to be fit for new season

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Manchester City striker Wilfried Bony expects to be fit for the start of the new season after missing the pre-season tour of Australia and Vietnam due to illness.

The 26-year-old Ivory Coast international has now recovered but is staying in Manchester to continue working on his fitness alone at the City Football Academy.

"I was ill, now it is okay. I feel stronger than last week, so I am happy about that," he told the club's television channel. "I think everything is clear so I am just waiting to do my best for the season."

England face battle against Australia

England are having a bit of a struggle against Australia in the second Women's Ashes one-day international in Bristol.

Chasing 260 to win, England are 180-7 after 39 overs.

Follow the latest via the BBC Sport website

Staying focused

Sir Ben Ainslie is the focus of most people's attentions as the Americas Cup gets under way in Portsmouth...

Austin could stay with QPR - Ramsey

Queens Park Rangers have not given up hope of retaining striker Charlie Austin, who scored 18 Premier League goals last season, despite their relegation to the Championship.

"At the moment, there has been nothing concrete. We've had offers that we've rejected, and we've had offers that Charlie himself has not been happy to take on," said manager Chris Ramsey.

"At the moment, he's a QPR player and he's working hard in training. I'm having the idea that he will be here into the season. If he is here during the season then he is going to be someone that we want to use."

Newcastle United, Leicester City, West Ham United and Crystal Palace have been linked with the 26-year-old striker.

Leicestershire batsman Boyce retires

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Leicestershire's longest serving player Matthew Boyce has retired with immediate effect to pursue a career in finance.

After making his debut in 2006, Boyce scored 4,882 runs at an average of 27.89 in 104 first-class matches.

The 29-year-old left-hander also played 67 List A games, scoring 10 half-centuries, and made 55 Twenty20 appearances.

"I'd like to thank the club, including the coaches, support staff, players and supporters, for making my career in cricket so enjoyable," Boyce said.

Driver tributes to Bianchi

This weekend is the Hungarian Grand Prix and the first F1 race since the death of Jules Bianchi, who suffered severe head injuries in a crash at the 2014 Japanese Grand Prix.

Various drivers will be paying tribute through messages on their race helmets.

Bardet wins stage 18...

...and some praise, I think, from Cannondale-Garmin manager Jonathan Vaughters

Croatia docked one point

Croatia have had a point deducted from their Euro 2016 qualification campaign total for having a swastika apparently mown on the pitch ahead of their 1-1 draw with Italy in Split.

AP

They have also been ordered to play their next two home matches and banned from holding any of their remaining qualifiers at the Stadion Poljud in Split.

In addition, the Croatian Football Federation has been fined €100,000 (£71,000).

The punishment means Croatia's lead over Italy in Group H has been cut to a point.

Commonwealth medallists named on GB team

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Commonwealth Games medallists Antony Fowler, Qais Ashfaq and Joe Cordina have all been included on the Great Britain team for next month's European Boxing Championships in Sofia, Bulgaria.

They will be joined by light-flyweight Harvey Horn, flyweight Muhammad Ali, light-welterweight Pat McCormack and light-heavyweight Joshua Buatsi.

Boxers who finish in the top six in their weight class in Sofia will secure a place at the AIBA World Championships in Doha in September 2015, which is a qualifying event for next year's Olympic Games.

Bardet wins stage, Froome lead intact

AP

French rider Romain Bardet has held off the chasing pack to register a hugely popular home win in stage 18 of the Tour de France.

Yellow jersey Chris Froome finished alongside Nairo Quintana, Vincenzo Nibali and team-mate Geraint Thomas. The Briton is three minutes and 10 seconds clear of Quintana at the top of the overall standings.

Reaction on text and radio here.

Bolt set to star at Olympic Stadium

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Usain Bolt certainly likes to run fast at the Olympic Stadium in London.

The six-time Olympic champion of course won gold in the 100m and 200m at London 2012, but he also put in a stellar performance the last time the Anniversary Games were held at the venue two years ago.

You can relive the moment the Jamaican won the 100m in 9.85 seconds to thrill the crowd.

Can he do the same on Friday night?

Pirlo magic wows the Big Apple

Never mind 'Welcome to America, Andrea Pirlo'.

Try 'Welcome to Andrea Pirlo, America'.

The former Juventus midfielder left some New York FC fans gobsmacked with a little bit of skills as he warmed up with his new team-mates stateside.

Charlton sign ex-Spurs midfielder Ceballos

Empics

Charlton Athletic have signed Cristian Ceballos following his departure from Tottenham Hotspur earlier this summer.

Midfielder Ceballos, 22, did not feature for Spurs after joining from Barcelona in summer 2011.

The Spaniard, who spent the 2013-14 season on loan with Portuguese Primeira Liga side Arouca, has signed a three-year deal with the Championship club.

Hernandez attracting interest

Hull striker Abel Hernandez is raising interest among Serie A sides Bologna, Torino and Napoli according to Forza Italia Football.

Hernandez, 24, signed for the Tigers for £10m last summer, but is thought to be available for £4.2m as Hull prepare for life in the Championship.

Marsh in fine form

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Shaun Marsh, who is likely to replace Chris Rogers for the third Ashes Test at Edgbaston if the opener fails to recover from his dizzy spells, is closing in on a century in a tour match against Derbyshire.

He's 93 not out, with David Warner already retired out after hitting 101. Skipper Michael Clarke was out for just 16.

Follow radio commentary from Derby here

Myhill signs new deal

Goalkeeper Boaz Myhill has signed a new two-year contract with West Brom.

The 32-year-old played 11 games last season in the absence of the injured Ben Foster, keeping four clean sheets including in May's 1-0 win away to Manchester United.

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Winston: Yoshi Kawaguchi was Portsmouth's record signing, conceded after 26 seconds. 12 apps later & 25 goals conceded he left.

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Beqa Khitiri: Marcos Antonio, Nuremberg - gifted a goal to Stuttgart, almost gave another, substituted in 16 minutes. never played again.

Richard J Moir: Alex Baptiste who, 25 minutes into his debut for Boro in a pre-season friendly, suffers a double leg fracture.

Stage 18 coming to the boil

A gutsy descent by Frenchman Romain Bardet has opened up a 30-second lead on his nearest challengers and raised the prospect of a home stage win.

Chris Froome is safe and secure so far in yellow, marking his nearest overall classification rivals tightly.

You can follow the last 15km or so on our live text and radio commentary.

Fee agreed for Shackell Derby move

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Derby County are set to re-sign former defender Jason Shackell after they agreed an undisclosed fee with Burnley.

Burnley manager Sean Dyche told the club website: "It's fair to say Derby County made an offer that was so large he found he couldn't refuse it.

"Outside the Premier League there are still some clubs throwing enormous amounts of money at the situation and Derby are one of those clubs."

Stripped for action?

After Barcelona unveiled a ground-breaking stripey home-kit number, Real Madrid will be wearing this grey-and-green shirt to play Manchester City in a friendly on Friday. 

Cross has X-ray on hand

Englandseamer Kate Cross has suffered a painful injury in England's second ODI againstAustralia.

You can follow all the action here

Bolt in London

Jamaica's double Olympic sprint champion Usain Bolt will be running in the 100m heats on Friday from around 20:00 BST...

'Farah should not get stressed'

Usain Bolt has been talking about his friend Mo Farah ahead of the Diamond League meeting in London.

A BBC investigation has alleged that Alberto Salazar, who coaches double Olympic champion Farah, has practised doping techniques. There is no suggestion that the Briton has been involved.

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"Every day I hear he's in the papers, they're trying to tear him down and I think he works so hard to get where he is for somebody's mistake to be causing him problems," Jamaica's double Olympic sprint champions said.

"I just really hope that he doesn't take it too seriously, doesn't make it stress him out because it's part of the sport, people like to point the finger sometimes."

United knocked back for Biglia

Reuters

Manchester United had a £17.6m offer for Lazio midfielder Lucas Biglia turned down before they switched sights to signing Bayern Munich's Bastian Schweinsteiger, according to Italian newspaper Corriere dello Sport.

Biglia, 29, has a contract that runs until 2018 and is unlikely to be subject of a second United bid with the Old Trafford club having brought in Schweinsteiger and Morgan Schneiderlin.

Lazio were thought to be holding out for an offer of about £28m.

Linfield's Feeney bullish

Pacemaker

Linfield boss Warren Feeney says his players have a fantastic opportunity to make history in their Europa League second leg at home against Spartak Trnava.

The Irish Premiership side trail 2-1 from last week's game in Slovakia. "The away goal is massive for us because I fancy us to score," said Feeney. "But they are a powerful full-time outfit and we must be cautious."

Warrington confirm Sandow signing

Earlier, we reported that Warrington were on the verge of signing half-back Chris Sandow after the player was released by NRL side Parramatta Eels.

Well, the Wolves have now confirmed the deal.

Sandow, 26, has agreed a two-year contract and Warrington are hopeful he will be able to feature in the Super 8s, although that depends on his visa being processed in time.

Newtown retain Europa hope

Newtown manager Chris Hughes insists his side's Europa League hopes are still alive ahead of their second qualifying round, second leg against FC Copenhagen.

AP

The Welsh side trail 2-0 on aggregate after their first-leg loss in Denmark.

"They were probably thinking they would score maybe five or six and send over a weakened side," Hughes said. "That's full testament to our players that they have not been able to do that."

Just another day...

How is your week going?

Lewis Hamilton's has been up to his usual standard.

Chelsea smile

He might have moped at Manchester United but Colombian striker Radamel Falcao seems happy to have signed for Chelsea...

Kemen in demand

Here is a leftfield one...

Newcastle United midfielder Olivier Kemen, 19, has yet to make his first-team debut for the Magpies, but is apparently being tracked by AC Milan, Liverpool and Tottenham according to the Enfield Independent.

Scottish sides in Europa League action

SNS

Aberdeen are well placed to upset the odds by advancing past Croatia's Rijeka on Thursday in their Europa League second qualifying round tie.

The Scottish Premiership side recorded a stunning 3-0 win away from home in the first leg and welcome their visitors to Pittodrie in fine fettle.

Inverness Caledonian Thistle are also in action, an will attempt to overturn a 1-0 deficit against Astra Giurgiu in Romania and set up a potential tie with West Ham.

Shackell in Derby talks

Early test for Billic

Murray Burnell

BBC London 94.9

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It's not even August, and already Slaven Bilic has his first real test as West Ham's manager.

Last week's first leg against Birkirkara was expected to go a lot more smoothly than it turned out, as the Premier League side relied on a last-minute winner from James Tomkins to earn a narrow advantage.

Later on Thursday, they'll face a hostile crowd and a humid atmosphere - temperatures are reaching 33 degrees Celsius in Malta - as they attempt to set up a potential all-British tie with Inverness Caledonian Thistle in the next qualification round.

Sakho & Payet banned for West Ham

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West Ham hold a narrow 1-0 lead going into tonight's Europa League second qualification round second leg against Maltese side Birkirkara.

Progression could see them set up an all-British tie with Inverness Caledonian Thistle, albeit the Highlanders trail Astra Giurgiu 1-0 ahead of the second leg in Romania.

Diafra Sakho and new signing Dimitri Payet are both suspended, but manager Slaven Bilic is expected to name a strong side.

Taylor eyes Ashes Trent Bridge Test

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Nottinghamshire's James Taylor still harbours hopes of playing for England in the Ashes series with Australia.

The 25-year-old, who scored a career-best 291 for Notts this week, made two Test appearances for England in 2012.

Taylor is not in the squad for the Edgbaston Test, but the next match is at his home ground Trent Bridge.

"It's nice to hear your name being talked about for England. Playing at my home ground would be a dream come true," he told BBC East Midlands Today.

Europa League

'Salah to cost Roma £14m'

Chelsea's Mohamed Salah looks set to complete a deal to Roma and more details appear to be leaking out suggesting the Blues will turn a profit on the £11m they paid Basel for the 23-year-old back in January 2014.

Italian journalist Gianluca Dimarzio says that the deal will consist of a one-season loan, worth £1.4m, with an obligation for the Serie A club to buy the Egypt international for £14m once the temporary arrangement is over.

Salah appears set for a change of social media strip at least...

Manchester United set for kit boost

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Manchester United will release their new kit, sponsored by adidas, on 1 August.

The German sportswear giant has paid £750m over 10 years to take over from Nike.

The Daily Mail reports on what went on behind the scenes to secure the deal and how the Old Trafford club will benefit.

Drogba to make MLS decision

Former Chelsea striker Didier Drogba is expected to decide on an offer to join Major League Soccer side Chicago Fire in the next 48 hours.

"We're waiting on an answer, probably in the next 48 hours," Fire head coach Frank Yallop said.

"He has choices. We feel that we've put a pretty good pitch in. He's very happy with what we've done, but, again, it's up the person himself to choose, and we'll see."

Drogba, 37, left Chelsea at the end of the season when his one-year contract at Stamford Bridge expired at the end of the season.

Stage 18 nearing conclusion

The final climb of today's stage is up Lacets de Montvernnier and features 18 hairpins in 3.4km.

Chris Osborne's live text commentary is up and running with 5live audio also available on the same page from 15:00 BST.

Ready for battle?

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Arsenal have published this poster to promote this weekend's Emirates Cup, in which Olympique Lyonnais, Villarreal and Wolfsburg will join them in a four-team tournament.

Danny Welbeck and Olivier Giroud are posing as robots. Of course they are. Welcome to modern football.

Ings kick-about hat-trick

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Danny Ings scored a hat-trick as Liverpool thumped Malaysian side Felda United 7-0 in a 30-minute-each-way friendly kickabout at Kuala Lumpur's Bukit Jalil National Stadium according to the Liverpool Echo.

Lazar Markovic, Sheyi Ojo, Pedro Chirivella and Joao Carlos Teixeira scored the other goals.

Liverpool: Fulton, Wisdom, Toure, Sakho, Maguire, Ojo, Chirivella, Rossiter, Teixeira, Markovic, Origi.

No pitch orders for Edgbaston

PA

Edgbaston groundsman Gary Barwell says that he has not been given any instructions as to what sort of pitch to prepare for the third Ashes Test.

Some observers felt that a Lord's pitch which offered little movement for the seamers helped Australia to a 405-run win in the second Test.

"I'm trying to produce a good quality Test pitch with plenty for the bowlers and the batsmen, good carry and good bounce," said Barwell.

"I've had no directives from ECB on what kind of pitch to prepare."

Myhill close to Baggies deal

West Brom are close to agreeing a new deal with goalkeeper Boaz Myhill, according to the Birmingham Mail.

The 32-year-old Welshman could be joined at the Hawthorns by Crystal Palace's goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey, who Baggies boss Tony Pulis signed during his time at the Eagles.

Australia set target for England

PA

Australia have set England a target of 260 to win the second Women's Ashes one-day international in Bristol.

Captain Meg Lanning made a century as Australia reached 235-3 before eventually losing three late wickets and finishing on 259-6 from their 50 overs.

Heather Knight and Natalie Sciver both took two wickets for England.

Follow the latest via the BBC Sport website and on 5 Live Sports Extra.

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Sam Bastable: Fred Grace for England. Played his first test match in 1880, got a pair and died of pneumonia two weeks later.

Doddfather93Official: Long before his seven titles, Michael Schumacher only managed three corners in his F1 debut at Spa for Jordan in 1991.

Farrow targeting Arsenal upset

The FA

Striker Kim Farrow thinks Watford can earn a surprise win against Arsenal in Thursday's Continental Cup tie.

The Lady Hornets are bottom of WSL 2, having won only one game this season, while the Gunners are second in WSL 1.

Millwall currently top Watford's cup group and WSL 1 leaders Chelsea are second after rescuing a narrow victory at second-tier club Reading.

"I think that result just shows that it doesn't matter what league you're in," Farrow, 23, told BBC Sport.

Premier League trio after Bolassie

Tottenham, West Ham and Aston Villa have all made enquiries about Crystal Palace winger Yannick Bolasieaccording to Sky Sports.

Sky claim that the Eagles expect official bids to follow from at least two of those three clubs for the 25-year-old DR Congo international.

St Helens bring in Samoa's Peyroux

Super League side St Helens will sign Dominique Peyroux from New Zealand Warriors in 2016 after he agreed a two-year contract.

The versatile 26-year-old can play in the centres and second row.

Peyroux represented the Cook Islands at the 2013 World Cup and has played for Samoa since 2014.

Sherwood must act quickly

Mark Regan

BBC WM Sport

So Christian Benteke has left Aston Villa, hot on the heels of Fabian Delph putting pen to paper at Manchester City last week.

It means manager Tim Sherwood needs to work quickly with his rebuilding, especially because Benteke's contribution during the latter half of last year effectively kept Villa up.

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Villa are a club holding their breath right now - the proposed takeover seems dead in the water, high-profile players have left in less than ideal circumstances and all this against the context of finishing just above the bottom three last season.

The fans need some good news, a signal of intent from the club that finishing 17th isn`t good enough.

Get Involved

SNS

Tim Stubbs: Chris Iwelumo for Scotland v Norway '08 missed from three yards in a World Cup qualifier. It ended 0-0.

I still maintain that was not as easy a chance as it looked...

Salah Roma bound

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According to Italian journalist and transfer specialist Tancredi Palmeri, ChelseaandRomahave agreed a deal for the Italian club to takeMohamed Salahon loan for next season ahead of a permanent deal from 2016-17 onwards.

Salah, 23, spent last season on loan at Fiorentina after failing to claim a first-team spot at Chelsea following his January 2014 arrival from Basel.

Leicestershire hopeful on McKay

Jason Bourne

BBC Radio Leicester

Leicestershire head coach Andrew McDonald is hopeful they can secure a deal to bring seam-bowler Clint McKay back to the club next year.

The Australian has taken more than 40 wickets in nine-fixtures in the County Championship this season - in a campaign which has seen them win just one four-day game.

Oyston considers takeover offer

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Blackpool owner Owen Oyston has asked for more time to consider a takeover offer from the Supporters' Trust (BST).

On Wednesday, BST said their 21 deadline for a decison on the offer had passed.

But a message sent to them on Oyston's behalf said: "He has not snubbed your offer and is seriously considering it with his professional advisors."

Bolt in London

World champion and six-time Olympic gold winner Usain Bolt has arrived in London ahead of his appearance at tomorrow's Anniversary Games in London's Olympic Stadium.

The Jamaican has been fielding questions on the cheating accusations leveled at Mo Farah's coach Alberto Salazar and the doping past of rival Justin Gatlin, as well as his own indifferent 2015 form.

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SNS

Leon Healy: Du Wei for Celtic against Clyde. Gave away a penalty first half and never came out for 2nd. Never seen again.

Luke Smogson: Andy Dibble at Middlesbrough, conceded 11 goals in his two games - 6-0 defeat to Forest and 5-0 at QPR. Never played again.

Pete Y: Mark Fish, big name loan for Ipswich, at fault for two goals in season opener, injured, lasts 45 mins, never played again.

Colchester sign Parish

A signing in League One to tell you about - Colchester United have signed goalkeeper Elliot Parish on a one-year contract.

The 25-year-old has been involved in all four of the U's pre-season games.

Cooper faces lawsuit if he U-turns on Toulon

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Quade Cooper could be at the centre of a lawsuit costing "millions of euros" if he backtracks on an agreement to join Toulon after the World Cup, according to the French club's owner Mourad Boudjellal.

The Australian fly-half posed with a Toulon shirt earlier this year alongside Boudjellal, but recent reports suggest the Wallabies and the Queensland player has opted to stay in Australia in the hope of leading the nation's sevens team at Rio 2016.

"The Australian federation are speaking to a player who they know has signed," Boudjellal told Sud Radio. "So there is collusion there and I might sue them to ensure our rights are respected."

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Alex Lucy: Kieron Dyer lasting only five minutes into QPR debut then stretchered off with suspected broken foot.

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TEB: Ray Wilkins for Palace. Opening game thrashing at home to Liverpool. Broke his foot early in first half.

Stats and Miniskirts: Talking about Begovic and nightmare debuts. Anyone remember Tony Warner conceding four on his Aberdeen debut against Dundee United?

I do, as it happens. A glorious afternoon in which the combustible Nigel Pepper was sent off a minute after coming on as a substitute.

Chelsea win 'massive' - Flaherty

Chelsea's Continental Tyres Cup win at Reading is "massive" for the club, says captain Gilly Flaherty.

The WSL 1 leaders came from 2-1 down in their first group match against second-tier side Reading to win 3-2.

"That's all we know how to do, how to keep going until the final whistle, and it paid off for us," Flaherty said.

Quins centre Turner-Hall retires

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Harlequins centre Jordan Turner-Hall has announced his retirement from the game because of injury.

The 27-year-old came through the club's academy and made a total of 181 appearances for the club.

Turner-Hall won two international caps for England in 2012, featuring in the Six Nations against Scotland and Italy.

"I've had so many great memories playing at Harlequins and they will live with me forever," he told the Harlequins website.

Friendly with old foes

Real Madrid's former Manchester United forward is ready to renew old rivalries on Friday...

Bolt from the blue?

Rogers to have further tests

Pat Murphy

BBC Radio 5 live

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There will be no further medical update on Australia opening batsman Chris Rogers until he has had further tests in London on Friday.

This week he has seen specialists and undergone scans but further assessments are needed on why he felt dizzy while batting in the Lord's Test on Sunday.

Rogers must be rated a doubt for the Edgbaston Test, which starts next Wednesday.

Kalas signs new Chelsea deal

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Chelsea defender Tomas Kalas has signed a new three-year contract at the club.

The Czech Under 21 international, who joined Middlesbrough on loan last week, signed for the Blues in January 2011 from home town club Sigma Olomouc in Czech Republic but went on loan to Dutch side Vitesse Arnhem

He made his Chelsea debut as a substitute in a 2-0 League Cup victory away at Arsenal in October 2013 before making his full debut against Liverpool at Anfield in April 2014.

Making things happen

Manchester City are reportedly prepared to spend £60m on Wolfsburg's Kevin De Bruyne because...

Froome aims to retain Tour lead

Reuters

The 18th stage of the Tour de France is underway with Chris Froome hoping to retain the yellow jersey.

The route covers 186.5km from Gap to Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne and includes seven climbs and one sprint through the Alps

You can follow the latest on the BBC Sport website and there will be live radio commentary via the website from 15:00 BST.

Real's Harper joins Brighton

A little more background here by the Guardian's Sid Lowe on the news that Scottish youth internationalJack Harperhasrejected a contract offerfromReal Madridto sign forBrighton...

Sauber retain Nasr and Ericsson

AP

Sauber have announced they will retain Felipe Nasr and Marcus Ericsson for the 2016 Formula One season.

The pair joined the Swiss outfit, currently seventh in the constructors' championship, at the beginning of the campaign, and will continue their partnership into a second year.

"We have full confidence in the talents and skills of Marcus and Felipe. Both have shown solid performances, gained experience and learnt quickly," said team principal Monisha Kaltenborn.

Is Southend sexier than Chicago?

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If Phil Brown told you Southend was "sexier than Chicago" would you believe him?

Well, the manager of the Roots Hall club has been whispering such sentiments into the ear of former Ipswich striker Noel Hunt, who is wanted by both the the Shrimpers and Major League Soccer side Chicago Fire.

"I've been doing everything I can to sex up Southend and make it more appealing than Chicago," said Brown. "I've told him all about the town and how Adventure Island was the third best theme park in the country and the 11th best in Europe."

Delph to make debut v Real

MCFC

Fabian Delph is set to make his Manchester City debut against Real Madrid in Friday's pre-season friendly at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

The 25-year-old midfielder signed from Aston Villa last week.

"We are near to the start of the Premier League so I think that the senior players will have more minutes than the last game. I think Delph will be involved," explained City boss Manuel Pellegrini.

City to fight on four fronts

Manuel Pellegrini believes that Manchester City can challenge in the Premier League, Champions League and both domestic cups this season.

Chelsea succeeded them as Premier League champions last season, while they well beaten by Barcelona in the first knockout stage of the Champions League and lost to Middlesbrough in the FA Cup.

"We're going to see a new Manchester City this season - a team involved in four competitions. I have a lot of trust," said Pellegrini

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Callum Law: Lionel Messi. Sent off on his 1st appearance for Argentina.

DanTheMan: Ricky Otto for Birmingham. Scored in first half. Then scored an even better one in the wrong end.

Greg Randles: Surely Ali Dia's first and only game for Southampton. If you can find a worse debut (or player) please let me know.

I can play at 40 - Yaya

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Yaya Toure claims that rumours that he might leave Manchester City - some of which were fuelled by his own agent - were overblown.

"There was too much speculation about me leaving - it's clear that I have my contract at City and I want to see out my contract," said the 32-year-old. His present deal runs until 2017.

But he insists that he could earn at least one more deal when it expires. "I've always known for 32 years that I can play until 40 because I know my quality," he added.

Toure and Manuel Pellegrini have been talking in Melbourne ahead of City's International Champions Cup game against Real Madrid on Friday.

Dzeko's future unclear

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Striker Edin Dzeko's future at the Manchester City is unclear, according to manager Manuel Pellegrini.

"Edin didn't play the last game as It's not clear if he will continue here but he is still working here with the whole squad," Pellegrini said on the club's pre-season tour of Australia.

Roma are reported to have had a £12m offer for the Bosnia striker turned down with City holding out for a bid of closer to £20m.

Australia bat first against England

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Action is continuing in the Women's Ashes in Bristol where the second ODI between England and Australia is taking place.

Australia have been put into bat and after 20 overs are 87-1.

You can follow all of the action via the BBC Sport website with full commentary on 5 Live Sports Extra.

Liverpool interested in Pedro?

Mundo Deportivo

Liverpool have entered the race for Barcelona attacker Pedro, according to Spanish newspaper Deportivo Mundo.

They claim that Liverpool are keen to re-invest more of the £49m received for Raheem Sterling from Manchester City in their squad and could trigger a £22m release clause in Pedro's contract.

Dujardin and Hester get GB dressage call

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Olympic champions Charlotte Dujardin and Carl Hester have been included on the Great Britain team for the European Dressage Championships in Aachen from 12 August.

The event is the last major international championship before Rio where GB will be represented having already qualified a dressage team place following silver at last year's World Equestrian Games.

Also included in the team for the Euros are Fiona Bigwood and Michael Eilberg.

Shackell nears Derby switch

Owen Bradley

BBC Radio Derby Sport

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Derby County are close to re-signing former captain Jason Shackell from Burnley.

Head coach Paul Clement underlined his interest in the defender this week, with the club having been chasing the 31-year-old all summer, and is increasingly confident of getting his man.

With Clement apparently still undecided on who will be his captain, it wouldn't be a surprise if Shackell gets the armband back, too.

England to take on Australia

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England will face current World and Commonwealth champions Australia in a three-match international netball series in January.

The games will take place at the Echo Arena in Liverpool (20 Jan) and London's Copper Box Arena (22 and 24 Jan).

Australia's last series in England was in 2013 when the home side claimed a 3-0 victory. It will be the first time for England fans to watch the team in action following this summer's World Cup.

Blown off course

Significant breaking news from Anfield, with the tantalising promise of updates to follow...

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Thomas: Eric Thorstvedt's debut for Spurs v Forest, an utter howler in a 2-1 loss for Spurs. My earliest football memory.

Adam: Samba Diakite, sent off after 32 minutes on his QPR debut... And then sent off on his Watford debut 2 yrs later.

Stephen Gray: Stanley Milton - Halifax 1934 goalkeeper. Lost 13-0.

Remember it well, Stephen?

Derbyshire v Australia - live

They are underway in the tour match. You can follow it live here.

Jovetic set for Serie A return?

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Manchester City are close to agreeing a deal to sell striker Stevan Jovetic to Inter Milan according to Sky Italia.

The Montenegro international scored five goals in 26 appearances for City last season.

Argyle bring in Palace's Boateng

Plymouth Argyle have signed Crystal Place midfielder Hiram Boateng on loan until 2 January 2016.

The 19-year-old has been at Selhurst Park since he was eight and made his debut as a 17-year-old in an FA Cup tie at West Bromwich Albion.

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George Edwards: Jack Bonham for Watford against Leeds in 2013. Pats ball into the goal from a lob to send Hull up instead of us.

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Steve: It has to be Joe Cole at Liverpool. Saw red for a dreadful tackle and that set the tone for his time at the club.

Mark Taylor: William Prunier, Man Utd v Spurs on 1 Jan, 96. Although his second game, he didn't play again.

Lambert to West Brom?

Steve Hermon

BBC WM

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Christian Benteke's depature to Liverpool may be bad news for Aston Villa but it could be good news for their neighbours West Brom, who are now being linked with Anfield striker Rickie Lambert.

The Belgian's arrival pushes further the former Southampton frontman down the Liverpool pecking order and the Baggies have reportedly held talks with him ahead of a potential move to the Hawthorns.

What is the Americas Cup?

BBC

• First staged in 1851 off the Isle of Wight. Won by US yacht America
• Takes place roughly every three to five years
• The winner decides the rules and venue of the next event
• As holders, Oracle Team USA have revamped the format. Qualifying rounds have been streamlined with the finals to be held in 2017
• Up to nine World Series events will be held in 2015 and 2016
• The teams' overall placement will affect the seeding and starting score they take into the America's Cup qualifier events in Bermuda in 2017
• The top crew will win the chance to take on champions Oracle Team USA boat-on-boat, called match-racing

Ainslie leads from front

Juliette Ferrington

BBC Sport in Portsmouth

BBC Sport

Olympic gold medallist Sir Ben Ainslie is on news conference duty. His Land Rover BAR team line-up for the opening event of the America's Cup World Series in Portsmouth this weekend.

Vince set to remain four-day captain

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Hampshire batsman James Vince says he is likely to remain as four-day captain until the end of the season.

Vince, 24, who is also the county's one-day captain, was appointed on an interim basis after Jimmy Adams decided to step down to focus on his batting.

Hampshire held on for a draw against Durham in Vince's first County Championship match in charge.

"There's a nice period between now and the end of the season to get a taste for it," he told BBC Radio Solent.

Digne linked with Liverpool

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Paris St-Germain left-back Lucas Digne - a rumoured target for Liverpool - has asked to leave the French champions according to boss Laurent Blanc.

"First, it is he who very clearly asked to leave," Blanc told L'Equipe. "For now, he is with us, he is very professional, he trains very well and has prepared excellently. He has shown the results in friendlies."

The Daily Mail report that Digne is seen by Liverpool as possible competition for Alberto Moreno at left-back with Atletico Madrid and Roma also interested in Digne.

Hibs reject Rangers' Allan bid

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Hibernian have described Rangers' £175,000 offer for midfielder Scott Allan as "easy" to reject.

Boyhood Rangers fan Allan is midway through a two-year contract and could leave for free next summer.

The offer comes after the club rejected an offer in excess of £200,000 from Dundee United earlier this year.

"Scott Allan is one of Scotland's best midfield talents and last season's Championship player of the year, and any approaches for him are unwelcome," said Hibs chief executive Leeann Dempster.

Hughes wants Stoke signings

Graham McGarry

BBC Radio Stoke Sport

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Mark Hughes says that Stoke City captain Ryan Shawcross should be available for Saturday's trip to Brentford after sitting out the first three friendlies as a precaution to protect his back.

The manager was not so open on Stoke's interest in Dynamo Kiev winger Andriy Yarmolenko, but agreed there was still transfer business to be done before the window closed on September 1.

"We are working hard trying to get the right quality into the group. I think there's opportunities still," Hughes told BBC Radio Stoke after the 6-0 win at Wrexham on Wednesday.

Newcastle close in on Mbemba

Oluwashina Okeleji

BBC Sport

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Newcastle are set to complete the £7m signing of Anderlecht's DR Congo defender Chancel Mbemba, 20, after he arrived at St James' Park for a medical.

Sandow set for Warrington move

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Australian half-back Chris Sandow is set to join Warrington before Friday's Super League transfer deadline after being granted a release by Parramatta Eels.

The 26-year-old, who has been in dispute with the NRL club, agreed a two-year deal with the Wolves starting next season but has spent the last fortnight trying to secure an immediate release.

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Mike Peters: Alan Wells for Eng. Got a Golden Duck to Curtly Ambrose in 1st innings, scored 3no in 2nd inns. Never played again.

Rob Sutton: Andy Goode for Wasps hitting the post with a conversion that would have beaten Harlequins.

Goalkeeper Old Trafford bound?

Bill Rice

BBC Radio Manchester

AFP

Reports in Italy suggest Manchester United have agreed a deal to sign Argentina international goalkeeper Sergio Romero on a three-year deal following his release by Sampdoria.

Ronnie and Rafa get to know each other

AS

Things got heated at Real Madrid's training session yesterday with Cristiano Ronaldo complaining after boss Rafael Benitez ruled out one of his goals in a practice match.

The 30-year-old's mood did not improve much as he complained that only Portuguese players were being penalised for fouls and then criticised an exercise in which the players attempted to hit the crossbar.

"It's meant to be the ball in there, in the net," Ronaldo pointed out, before adding a few swearie words for effect.

"My relationship with Cristiano is totally normal. I wish that all players had his appetite to compete and win," said Benitez when asked about the incident.

Real's Harper joins Brighton

We told you a few minutes ago (10:20 BST) that Brighton were poised to sign Real Madrid's 19-year-old Scottish striker Jack Harper and, lo and behold, the club have now confirmed it...

Ainslie begins British bid

Sir Ben Ainslie will begin Britain's bid to win the 35th America's Cup as the opening leg of the sailing series gets under way in Portsmouth this weekend.

PA

The Olympic champion's team - Ben Ainslie Racing (BAR) - hopes to be the first British challenger to win the trophy as six crews battle it out at World Series regattas around the world ahead of the final races in 2017.

A four-day event in Portsmouth will open with a sailing parade later on Thursday, with racing taking place at the weekend.

Muller is priceless - Rummenigge

Bayern Munich chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge says German international Thomas Muller is priceless amid reports of a £70.5m bid from Manchester United.

"There are some players who just don't have any price tag," Rummenigge said. "We would be out of our minds to sell Muller."

Reuters

He also touched on the future of coach Pep Guardiola, whose contract is up for renewal next summer.

"I can't currently think of any reason why Pep would leave us," he said. "Maybe we'll just meet for an espresso and clear everything. But if Pep doesn't want to stay, our world would not fall apart."

Carragher doubts over Benteke

Former Liverpool captain Jamie Carragher fears that the club's new striker Christian Benteke might not fit into the playing style of manager Brendan Rodgers.

"While we've been impressed by how Benteke has torn teams apart, we also know when his touch has been poor and his lack of interest has been apparent. He can be devastating and infuriating in equal measure," he told the Daily Mail.

"My worry at Liverpool is, will he be suited to the short, sharp and incisive passing game that Rodgers favours? Brendan wants his side to play through teams, rather than getting the ball into him from wide areas."

Real's Scottish striker to join Brighton?

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The Scottish Daily Mail are reporting that Real Madrid starlet Jack Harper has opted to leave the La Liga giants to sign for Brighton.

The 19-year-old Scotland youth international forward still has two years left on his Real deal but, instead of being sent out on loan in Spain, he has opted to move to the Championship.

Casty to miss rest of the season

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Catalans Dragons captain Remi Casty has been ruled out for the rest of the season with a knee injury.

The Super League side have revealed the France international prop ruptured ligaments in his right knee during his side's 14-12 home defeat by Huddersfield last Saturday and will undergo surgery next month.

Casty, who spent the 2014 season in the NRL with Sydney Roosters, has missed only three matches since returning to the Dragons at the start of the year and that was after he broke his hand in the opening game at St Helens.

Di Maria-PSG talks off?

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Paris St Germain have abandoned attempts to sign Manchester United attacker Angel di Maria after talks over a deal stalled, according to broadcaster Bein Sport in the Middle East.

Bein Sport is owned by Nasser Al-Khelaifi - who is also chairman of the Qatar Investment Authority which owns Paris St Germain.

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We've got an early favourite for the worse sporting debuts...

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Scott Johnson: Worst debut ever has to be Jonathan Woodgate at Madrid. Waits months whilst injured then scores own goal and gets sent off, classic.

Ben Rabinovich: The best (worst) has to be Woodgate for Real Madrid, surely. £14m, scores own goal and gets sent off.

Alex Crawford: Hard to look past Woodgate for Real Madrid. The fact it took him months to get fit just added to the disaster.

Frimpong 'racist abuse' video

The Ghana FA have tweeted a link to video of an incident for which former Arsenal midfielder Emmanuel Frimpong, now playing for Spartak Moscow, was banned for two games.

Frimpong, 23, was sent off after gesturing at a section of fans racially abusing him.

Russia hosts the World Cup in 2018.

England women resume Ashes challenge

Reuters

The Women's Ashes continues today with England up against Australia in the second of three ODIs in Bristol - and you can hear live coverage on 5 Live Sports Extra from 10:15 BST.

England triumphed in the first match on Tuesday, winning by four wickets thanks to Natalie Sciver's 66.

Victory earned England two points, with a further 14 available from the remaining six games in the multi-format series. After the ODIs, the teams play one Test - worth four points to the winner - and three Twenty20s.

Szczesny set for Roma?

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Arsenal goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny, 25, is set to agree a season-long loan with Roma after falling further down the pecking order at the Emirates Stadium according to the Daily Telegraph.

"Roma had been interested in signing Szczesny permanently, but that did not suit the player or Arsenal at this stage," writes Matt Lawton.

"Szczesny still firmly believes he can return to Arsenal to challenge Petr Cech for the number one spot in the future."

On this day

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In 2014, the Glasgow 2014 opening ceremony was held at Celtic Park, including performances by acts such as John Barrowman and Rod Stewart.

Doubts will never end - Froome

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Tour de France leader Chris Froome believes he will never be able to completely silence the questions over whether he is drugs-free.

The 30-year-old Briton's impressive climb to victory on stage 10 of this year's race has been described as "abnormal" by a French physiologist. Team Sky released data on Tuesday to prove his innocence.

"I'd imagine it's going to be never-ending," said Froome after keeping hold of the yellow jersey on stage 18.

You can follow the stage with BBC sport's live text commentary

Tour de France - Stage 18

Geraint Thomas

Team Sky's six-time Tour de France rider

Tour de France

"This should be a day for the breakaway to succeed. I don't think a lot will be happening in terms of the yellow jersey because everybody will be keeping an eye on each other before the final two days in the mountains, because even though they're short, they have got some savage climbs. Everybody will want to keep as much in the tank as possible."

One to watch: "Switzerland's Mathias Frank is a decent climber and if his IAM Cycling team have not had a good Tour, he may go looking for a stage win."

You can follow the stage with BBC Sport's live text commentary

From Bernabeu to Brentford

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Josh McEachran, who signed for Brentford from Chelsea earlier this month for £700,000, has revealed that Spanish giants Real Madrid made an attempt to sign him as a teenager.

"They had offered me a very good contract. I was about 15 or 16," he told the Kingston Guardian.

"Real Madrid were going to fly my family out, but I chose Chelsea because I'm a Chelsea supporter and I'd been there since I was such a young age."

McEachran made his Champions League debut at just 17 for Chelsea, but made only 21 other appearances for the club over the next five years. He spent time on loan at Swansea, Watford, Wigan, Middlesbrough and Dutch club Vitesse Arnhem.

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Jason Flannigan: Henrik Larsson at Celtic had a bad start. He gave the ball away, lost a goal, turned Chic Charnley into a hero for Hibs then lost the game... but look how his career at Celtic went. Total legend.

SNS

Philip Bagley: Patrice Evra for Man United against City. We lost 4-1 I think. Thankfully it was the only bad game I remember him having, solid as a rock from then on.

Richard Tooley: Could be worse he could have had a debut like that Aussie (whose name I can't spell or pronounce) who played one game for Norwich when they lost 7-1 to Colchester.

The player you are thinking of, Richard, is goalkeeper Michael Theoklitos. He is currently back in his homeland with Brisbane Roar

TNS lose out in extra time

Tibor Illyes

There was heartbreak for TNS, though, with the Welsh champions losing out to Videoton.

Matty Williams's 78th-minute goal had taken the game into extra time after cancelling out the Hungarians' first-leg lead, but Adam Gyurcso's extra-time goal was enough to put the hosts through.

Celtic set up Azerbaijan test

SNS

Celtic will face Azerbaijan champions Qarabag in the Champions League third qualifying round after easing past Stjarnan.

Olafur Karl Finsen's briefly gave the Icelandic part-timers hope of overturning a 2-0 deficit from the first leg in Glasgow.

But a Nir Bitton header and low Charlie Mulgrew drive either side of the interval put the tie beyond them, before late goals from Leigh Griffiths and Stefan Johansen added the gloss.

Draxler set for Juve move?

AP

Might Italian champions Juventus already have Arturo Vidal's replacement lined up?

Schalke's Julian Draxler - who has been extensively linked with Arsenal in previous transfer windows - is close to agreeing a deal with the Serie A side according to RevierSport in Germany.

The 21-year-old has already thrown a farewell party according to their report. He will cost between £17.5m and £24.5m after his £31m release clause expired on 30 June.

Get Involved

EPA

Asmir Begovic will likely have been excitedly anticipating his Chelsea debut for a few weeks now, only for his first appearance for the club to be scarred by the concession of four goals inside a torrid 45 minutes against and experimental New York Red Bulls side.

The Bosnian is not the first to suffer such a fate but we want to know about the nightmare debuts you remember.

Tweet us on #nightmare debuts or post your comment on the Match of the Day Facebook page.

Vidal deal confirmed

The move is believed to be worth an initial £25.8m with a further £2.1m in performance-related add-ons.

Bayern boss Pep Guardiola has denied that Vidal's switch paves the way for attacker Mario Gotze to move in the opposite direction

Vidal agrees Bayern switch

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An early bit of concrete transfer news for you this morning.

Bayern Munich have been stereotypically efficient, announcing that they have reached an agreement with both Juventus and Arturo Vidal to bring the 28-year-old Chile midfielder to the Allianz Arena.

"However, the player still has to complete his medical and sign the contract. He should be able to start training with us next week," chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge.

On this day

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In 2000, Tiger Woods won the Open Championship at St Andrews by eight shots to become the fifth player to complete a career grand slam of major titles. And on the same date in 2006, the American won the Open at Hoylake.

Quintana: I can still catch Froome

L'Equipe

French sports newspaper L'Equipe lead on Colombian Nairo Quintana's claim that he can still overhaul Britain's Chris Froome at the top of the yellow jersey standings.

The gap between the two is three minutes 10 seconds.

Today's stage is in the Alps - 186.5km from Gap to Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne - and is one of only three chances for Quintana and the rest to catch Froome before the peloton rolls into the Champs-Elysees.

There will be live radio and text commentary on this website from 12:30 BST

A storm in Atlanta

Reuters

Players clashed and items were thrown from the stands as Mexico won a controversial Gold Cup semi-final against Panama last night to set up a match with surprise finalists Jamaica.

Mexico came from behind courtesy of two penalties - in stoppage time and extra time - to win 2-1 in Atlanta.

Panama's Luis Tejada was sent off in the first half.

At full-time, Panama players charged at the officials, who were escorted from the pitch by security.

Names in the frame for Man City

Ian Cheeseman

BBC Radio Manchester

It seems that Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba has now fallen off Manchester City's radar, but it could be that they will push hard for Wolfsburg's former Chelsea attacker Kevin De Bruyne and Valencia central defender Nicolas Otamendi.

Getty Images

That said, but with 20-year-old Belgian international centre-back Jason Denayer impressing last season at Celtic, and 19-year-old Portuguese playmaker Rony Lopes looking a little "David Silva like" on his return from a loan spell at Lille, maybe City's squad improvements are happening by stealth rather than simply with money.

Happy birthday

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Celebrating today are former England and Essex cricket captain Graham Gooch (62), former Chelsea, Aston Villa and Republic of Ireland midfielder Andy Townsend (52), Sydney Olympics 100m champion Maurice Greene (41), and Saracens and England winger David Strettle (32).

Real boss wants Ramos stay

EPA

Real Madrid manager Rafael Benitez says that defender Sergio Ramos will not be heading to Manchester United this summer.

"I have a lot of respect for Louis van Gaal, but Sergio will be staying with us," Benitez said at a press conference in Australia prior to the team's friendly against Manchester City.

"He is our player, our captain. I would like to see him [at the club] at the beginning of the season, because he's a key player for us."

Ramos, 29, has been appointed club captain this summer following the exit of long-serving goalkeeper Iker Casillas, who has joined Porto on a two-year deal.

Otamendi to stay at Valencia?

Super Deporte

After being heavily linked with moves to both Manchester City and Manchester United, might Nicolas Otamendi being staying put at Valencia?

The 27-year-old Argentina international defender has enrolled his children in a school in the Spanish city according to local paper Super Deporte.

On this day

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In 1988, Greg LeMond won the Tour de France for the second time, beating Laurent Fignon by a mere eight seconds.

Blues got the blues

Reuters

"It's only pre-season."

That will be the phrase you can expect to hear from Chelsea fans this morning after the Blues were beaten 4-2 by a developmental New York Red Bulls side, featuring mostly academy players.

New York scored all four goals in the second half after goalkeeper Asmir Begovic arrived on the pitch for his Blues debut. Sixteen-year-old Tyler Adams scored one of the MLS's side's goals.

Back pages

Daily Mail

The Daily Mail lead on the warning from brain injury charity Headway that Australia opener Chris Rogers should not play in the third Test against England at Edgbaston next week.

The 37-year-old retired hurt after suffering dizzy spells in the second Test. He was struck by a delivery from James Anderson two days prior, but the two events are thought to be unrelated.

The back pages

The Sun

The Sun also focus on comments by Arsene Wenger, but speculate that Blackburn striker Jordan Rhodes could become the most expensive player in Championship history with Middlesbrough preparing a £14m bid.

That fee would surpass the £11m paid by Fulham for Leeds' Ross McCormack last summer.

The back pages

Daily Mirror

The Daily Mirror lead on a report that Kevin de Bruyne will be the target of a £60m bid from Manchester City, just a year and a half after being sold to Wolfsburg by Chelsea for a reported £16.7m.

The back pages

Daily Telegraph

The Daily Telegraph lead on manager Arsene Wenger's belief that the signing of Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech has turned his team into genuine Premier League title contenders.

Welcome to Sportsday

EPA

Good morning and welcome to Sportsday.

This is the place for all the breaking transfer news and gossip ahead of the start of the new season.

We will also be looking forward to pre-season friendlies with Chelsea, Manchester City, Arsenal, Manchester United and Liverpool all in action in the next two days.

There is also news from the Tour de France, the Women's Ashes, Australia v Derbyshire and build-up to the Anniversary Games.

Let's get started with what is on your local newsstand this morning.