Monday's gossip column - transfers and rumours
Last updated on .From the section Football
TRANSFER GOSSIP
Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema, 24, has ruled out a summer transfer to Manchester United, who he claims have been trying to sign him for four years.
However, that may not deter neighbours Manchester City from making a move for the France international.
Newcastle have made an offer for Ajax's versatile defensive midfielder Vurnon Anita, 23, as they bid to build on last season's top-five finish
Arsenal are ready to offer 28-year-old striker Marouane Chamakh to Montpellier in part-exchange for forward Olivier Giroud, 25.
New Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers could make a summer move for Chelsea striker Daniel Sturridge, 22.
Italian side Napoli are favourites to land Arsenal centre-back Johan Djourou, 25, who has already attracted a bid of more than £8m, according to his agent.
EURO 2012 GOSSIP
England manager Roy Hodgson has told John Terry to stand tall for his country in their Euro 2012 opener against France on Monday.
Germany defender Mats Hummels believes he can help knock the Netherlands out of the competition on Wednesday night.
The Russian Football Federation has appealed to its fans to behave afterbeing charged by Uefaover a series of unsavoury incidents during their 4-1 victory over Czech Republic.
OTHER GOSSIP
France manager Laurent Blanc has emerged as a possible successor to Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United.
Team GB manager Stuart Pearce has left Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere out of a 35-man list he has sent to Fifa. The Football Association has not yet released the list, which details who is in contention to feature at the Olympics.
Newcastle midfielder Danny Guthrie has played down reports of a lobster-throwing brawl at his wedding
AND FINALLY
Former England captain Gerry Francis has sent a good-luck message to Roy Hodgson's Euro 2012 hopefuls - by carrier pigeon.
