Football transfer news & pre-season

1. Claudio Ranieri appointed Leicester manager
2. Man Utd sign Schweinsteiger & Schneiderlin
3. Begovic leaves Stoke for Chelsea
4. Man City agree £49m Sterling deal
5. Who has done the best business? #bbcsportsday

Have a good evening

Well, that's Sportsday pretty much wrapped up. Thanks for all your comments today.

But let me leave you with this story.

YouTube

A Grimsby Town fan has been found guilty of assaulting a football steward with an inflatable shark.

Kenneth Meech, 51, watched his club win 3-1 at Barnet in a Conference game on 21 February.

Willesden Magistrates' Court heard he assaulted Barnet steward Cgagi Gladyng as he celebrated the victory.

Meech, who was among nearly 1,000 fans who travelled to The Hive stadium, denied a charge of common assault.

BBC

Speaking to the BBC in February, Meech admitted he and other Grimsby fans had taken inflatable objects to the game "in support" of another fan Bryan Winship.

Mr Winship was ejected in an apparent headlock by a steward at Forest Green Rovers in a row over a giant inflatable football.

Meech said: "A lot of lads were saying 'come on lets get together and support Brian' by taking as many inflatables as possible to Barnet and that's what we did, because we've got a good sense of humour us Grimsby fans.

"We were jumping about amongst each other as you do, you know, celebrating as you do and before I knew it - I was shocked really - I was grabbed out by the police and taken away."

Fifa to announce election date on Monday

Reuters

Outgoing Fifa president Sepp Blatter will appear in front of the world's media for the first time since he announced he would be stepping down from football's governing body.

Blatter will take part in a news conference after an executive committee meeting on July 20 (next Monday), when the date for the next Fifa presidential election is expected to be announced.

Either that or he's going to resign again?

Behaving badly

South African batsman Rilee Rossouw has been fined 50 percent of his match fee for a code of conduct breach during a one-day international against Bangladesh.

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Rossouw, 25, was involved in a shoulder barge with Bangladesh's opening batsman Tamim Iqbal, who was walking back to the pavilion after being dismissed during Sunday's second international in Dhaka.

Rossouw pleaded guilty to charges of "inappropriate and deliberate physical contact".

Higuain for £65m? A bargain...

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Daily Express: Napoli president Aurelio de Laurentiis says he would sell Argentina striker Gonzalo Higuain, who has been linked with Manchester United and Arsenal, if the 27-year-old's £64.7m buy-out clause is met.

The crying game

Today we've been asking you: when was the last time sport made you cry?

Richard Armstrong: When Luton finally got back to the Football League. Five years of hell. Two play-off final defeats, one playoff semi-final, defeat oh and Paul Buckle.

Matthew Purchase: Crystal Palace away 2013/14. The day the title dreamed, never been as close in my lifetime. Absolutely inconsolable.

Dave Gales: Paul Gascoigne's cheeky chip over Colin Hendry and then burying it in back of our net at Euro 96. What a goal!

'We sincerely apologise'

We all love a good apology now don't we?

Tennis Australia has apologised for a "clerical error" in a media release that said Bernard Tomic was playing in a 'Hall of Shame' event against compatriot John-Patrick Smith.

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Following the media release about Tomic - who was dropped from Australia's Davis Cup team after a rant against officials - Tennis Australia released a statement, saying: "We sincerely apologises for the typo in the daily results service today.

"This unfortunate error has been widely circulated on social media and there is some discussion as to how such a mistake could occur.

"We have a very upset staff member who made a simple clerical error. There was no malicious intent."

Silver and bronze for GB

Elizabeth Hudson

BBC Sport in Glasgow

Scott Quin and Susie Rodgers have started the Great Britain medal rush at the IPC Swimming World Championships with silver and bronze medals on the first evening.

Quin finished joint second in the SB14 100m breaststroke - 0.89 seconds behind gold medallist Marc Evers of the Netherlands and the Scot said afterwards he was over the moon to win a medal in front of an enthusiastic home crowd.

Earlier, Rodgers won GB's first medal of the championships after she finished third in the S7 100m freestyle behind American Cortney Jordan and Russia's Ani Palian.

Spurs' Lloris suffers broken wrist

PA

A blow for Tottenham ahead of the new Premier League campaign as the club confirm French goalkeeper Hugo Lloris has suffered a broken wrist.

Spurs said the injury occurred "during the close season", and the Frenchman will "work alongside the first team squad to build up his fitness in a bid to be ready for the start of the season".

Reading FC Women 'still strong' despite Kirby exit

The FA

Reading FC Women boss Kelly Chambers says her squad is still strong despite England striker Fran Kirby's departure to Chelsea Ladies last Wednesday.

Reading beat Durham 3-0 on Saturday to stay top of Women's Super League Two.

"The decision to let Fran go and grant her wishes was made because I know the strength of the squad that I've got," Chambers told BBC Sport.

"They're all good players and I trust this squad to do a job out there for me," she added.

Why the long faces?

Hull City

Hull City have revealed their kit for the new season. Safe to say Michael Dawson, Allan McGregor and Andy Robertson are not entirely ecstatic about playing in the Championship this term. Either that, or they're not fans of Flamingo Land...

Columbo or cricket?

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How about this revelation about the first Ashes Test from this fascinating piece in the Guardian...

"Saturday's enthralling final day had a TV audience of 467,000. To put that into context, a 1974 Columbo film - shown on ITV3 at the same time as Joe Root took the winning catch - attracted just under 400,000 viewers."

But the big question is this... are the figures because the first Test was bad or because the episode of Columbo was good?

Dress to impress

BBC News Magazine

The bow tie.

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Getty Images

It's more versatile than you might think.

Further to the news that Lewis Hamilton was turned away from the Royal Box at Wimbledon on Sunday for failing to adhere to the dress code, our friends at the BBC News magazine have put together this piece on five places that still demand ties, and five that ban them.

Ogogo comeback opponent announced

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Unbeaten middleweight Anthony Ogogo will fight Ukrainian Ruslan Schelev on his return to the ring after a year out through injury.

The 26-year-old, who won bronze at London 2012, has had two operations to fix an Achilles problem.

Schelev, who is also 26 and has won 11 of his 14 professional fights, will face Ogogo at the Gerry Weber Stadium in Halle, Germany on Saturday.

''I wanted the very best opponent available for my return,'' Ogogo said. ''I didn't want an easy opponent. I wanted someone who would really test me. He's a quality fighter."

Basso diagnosed with cancer

Earlier today, Italian Ivan Basso announced he has withdrawn from the Tour de France, after discovering he has testicular cancer.

The 37-year-old's fellow riders have been sending messages of goodwill and support throughout the afternoon - Britain's Mark Cavendish and the now retired Jens Voigt amongst them. 

Spurs youngster joins Rotherham on loan

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Rotherham United have signed Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Grant Ward on a loan deal until January.

Ward, 20, had a loan spell at Coventry City last season - playing 11 times for them in League One.

The youngster has been training with Rotherham and scored against Parkgate FC and Stocksbridge in friendlies.

Manager Steve Evans told the club website: "I was delighted when he informed me that he has chosen us versus several Championship options."

Get involved - The crying game

Today we've been asking: when was the last time sport made you cry?

JayLee Andrews: The one time sport made me cry was when West Ham got relegated in the 02/03 season. threw my shirt in the bin! I was only 12.

Matt Atherton: At the Etihad, on my knees in tears as Sergio Aguero scored in the fourth minute of injury time against QPR.

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Burnsie: Crystal Palace v West Brom in 2010, crying my eyes out. If we won, we guaranteed survival. We drew. My face was on the news for 24 hours.

Henry Peng: Eduardo's injury against Birmingham that ruined his career.

Police investigate Sterling tweets

Meanwhile, Twitter users who posted abusive messages directed at the daughter of England footballer Raheem Sterling are being investigated by police.

Officers are analysing the posts, sent after it was reported the Liverpool player was on the verge of a £49m transfer to Manchester City.

A Merseyside Police spokesman said the language used was "abhorrent".

Sterling to City - the latest

If Raheem Sterling's seemingly imminent move to Manchester City from Liverpool goes ahead it will be the biggest transfer ever for an English player, at £49m.

Here's BBC Sport's David Ornstein with the latest:

Shelvey counts the calories

Reuters

Jonjo Shelvey. Not the first name that comes to mind when you think of Premier League footballers and dieting.

But according to WalesOnline, the Swansea City midfielder has taken it upon himself to trim the old waistline.

He's hired a personal live-in chef, to cook him healthy meals at home and admits: "I've always carried a bit of extra weight compared to other players but I've been working hard on that this summer".

A new line of swimwear to follow then.

Simmonds set for finals in Glasgow

Elizabeth Hudson

BBC Sport in Glasgow

Six British swimmers will be in action here on the opening night of finals at the IPC Swimming World Championships.

Ellie Simmonds (S6 400m freestyle), James Crisp (S9 100m backstroke) and Andrew Mullen (S5 50m backstroke) all qualified fastest from this morning's heats.

But Susie Rodgers (S7 100m freestyle), Scott Quin (SB14 100m breaststroke) and Tully Kearney (S9 100m backstroke) will also be aiming for top two finishes which would clinch a Rio Paralympic qualification slot for Great Britain.

The finals start at 18:00 BST but first we've been treated to the opening ceremony with some music and the athlete oath, read by GB's Charlotte Henshaw.

Ryder best skittles Glamorgan

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Essex all-rounder Jesse Ryder took a career-best 6-47 as Glamorgan lost six wickets in the afternoon session at Chelmsford to be bowled out for 162.

The New Zealander received good support from David Masters (3-53) as only Colin Ingram provided resistance with the bat as he made 43 off 56 balls.

The hosts have just resumed their second innings after tea, with a lead of 117.

Lopez joins Inverness

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Here is an official 'done deal' for you.

Former Stevenage and Barnet striker Dani Lopez has signed a one-year contract with Inverness Caledonian Thistle.

The 29-year-old, who has been on trial at Caledonian Stadium, spent the end of last season with La Roda in the third tier in his homeland.

He scored four goals in 16 appearances for the side from Castile-La Mancha, who finished 15th in Segunda Division B Group 4.

Sinclair set for Liverpool exit?

Reuters

According to the Liverpool Echo, Raheem Sterling isn't the only young striker set to leave Liverpool.

Jerome Sinclair is also reported to be close to an exit from Anfield after failing to agree on a new contract.

The 18-year-old became the Reds' youngest ever player in September 2012, coming during a League Cup victory at West Brom when aged just 16 and six days.

Sterling to Man City

BBC Radio 5 live

Reuters

So with Bastian Schweinsteiger and Morgan Schneiderlin safely within the Manchester United transfer net, we're primed for more info on the other big transfer story we're all expecting - Raheem Sterling's move from Liverpool to Manchester City.

Former Liverpool striker John Aldridge has been giving his opinion on the reason's behind the proposed transfer to BBC Radio 5 live.

"Raheem Sterling's been manipulated by his agent," Aldridge says. "He's not come clean early enough, he was using every excuse going, he was just following what his agent was telling him to get a move.

"Players are that powerful now that if they want to go they're going to go but there's a right way and a wrong way to do it. It affected the lad so much in his head that he didn't know whether to kick it with his right foot or his left, his game really really suffered as a result."

Howell excited by St Andrews Open debut

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David Howell will be playing in his 25th major when he tees it up in the 144th Open Championship this week - but his first Open at St Andrews.

However he is one of a select handful in this week's field with the experience of having actually won a tournament there - the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship in 2013.

"It was a very special moment to stand there on the 18th giving my speech and I can only imagine what it would be like to do the same at an Open," he told BBC Sport.

"I've been around 20 years now and, if my whole career had gone by without ever playing in a St Andrews Open, I'd have been gutted. This was certainly one of my big targets at the start of this year."

I can win Open - Woods

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Tiger Woods has spoken exclusively to BBC sports editor Dan Roan ahead of the Open at St Andrews which starts on Thursday.

The 14-time Major winner spoke about how he's dealing with being ranked 241st in the world, and says his priorities away from the course have changed.

Golf now plays second fiddle, with being a dad now more important than practising for 14 hours a day.

Head over here to check out the interview in full.

Ranieri appointed Leicester boss

Leicester City

In case you missed it just now, Claudio Ranieri is making his return to the Premier League as manager at Leicester. The Italian, who managed Chelsea from 2000 to 2004, has signed a three-year deal.

"I have worked at many great clubs, in many top leagues, but since I left Chelsea I have dreamt of another chance to work in the best league in the world again," Ranieri says.

"I wish to thank the owner, his son and all the executives of the club for the opportunity they are giving me. Now I've only one way for returning their trust - squeeze all my energies to getting the best results for the team."

Sam Curran enjoys dream debut

BBC London 94.9's March Church at The Oval: "It was quite a first over for 17-year-old Sam Curran. Handed his Championship debut with his fourth delivery he bowled Joe Denly after Surrey won the toss and put Kent into bat.

"Elder brother Tom then reduced Kent to 27-2 when he dismissed Adam Ball.

"Daniel Bell-Drummond and Sam Northeast played positively adding 61 until Bell-Drummond was lbw to Zafar Ansari for 39.

"Northeast is looking in good touch and a pulsating session sees Kent going to tea at 97-3."

Ranieri appointed Leicester boss

So the 'tinkerman' is back! What do you make of that Leicester fans?

The biggest trophy Claudio Ranieri has won is the Spanish Cup, with Valencia back in 1999. But he should be capable of keeping the Foxes up next season? Assuming that is the priority of course...

Ranieri appointed Leicester boss

Leicester City

Since leaving Chelsea 11 years ago, Claudio Ranieri has coached Valencia, Parma, Juventus, Roma, Inter Milan and Monaco.

He replaces former Leicester manager Nigel Pearson, who was sacked at the end of June.

Ranieri appointed Leicester boss

The Italian 63-year-old has previously managed Chelsea, where he was sacked in 2004, and was also dismissed from his last job with the Greece national team last year.

BreakingRanieri appointed Leicester boss

Claudio Ranieri is appointed new manager at Leicester City.

Ashes points system revamp

Australia coach Matthew Mott feels the revised points system for the Women's Ashes series, which begins next week, is fairer than the previous one.

There will be four points, rather than six, on offer for winning the Test, and two for each of the three one-dayers and three Twenty20 internationals.

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"The weighting's about right," said Mott.

"Whether you win or lose the Test match, it doesn't really disadvantage or advantage you."

Cabaye kicks a ball

Crystal Palace fans, we haven't forgotten you. 

Manchester United have kind of stolen the show today by announcing two major transfers within 20 minutes, as Bastian Schweinsteiger and Morgan Schneiderlin arrived at Old Trafford.

For my money though (nowhere near the Yohan Cabaye's price tag of £10m by the way), Palace have already got one of the best deals of the window so far.

Warwickshire rebuild at rainy Durham

BBC Newcastle's Martin Emmerson at Chester-le-Street: "It's been a frustrating day in Chester-le-Street with four rain delays meaning only 26 overs have been possible in that time.

"At tea Warwickshire are 105-4 with Tim Ambrose on 31 and Sam Hain on 34. Earlier in the day Chris Rushworth was on a hat-trick as he took three wickets in the space of six deliveries without conceding a run.

"All went lbw and Rushworth now has 50 championship wickets for the season."

Get involved - The crying game

Today we've been asking: when did sport last make you cry?

Sandy May: The moment after singing "When your sat in row Z and the ball hit your head that's Zamora!" when Bobby Zamora blasted home for QPR in the 2014 final with my best mate Iain Dyson. A sad sad moment to be a Derby fan...but it still hurts today.

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Gavin Jonathan Griffiths: Alex Ferguson's Farewell to Old Trafford, after United beat Swansea 2-1 thanks to Rio Ferdinand...end of an era.

Kevin Adams: Beating Charlton away on the last game of the season and finding out Watford had drawn and we won the championship! (AFC Bournemouth)

Gary Taylor: 1989 Michael Thomas scoring for Arsenal. Wouldn't change it for the world though, it's what makes sport so exciting.

Allan Bennoch: Held back the tears at Fernando Ricksen's charity match in Ibrox

Arshavin signs for Krasnodar

FC Kuban

Andrei Arshavin. Remember how he brilliant he was at Arsenal? Well, he was for a bit at least (let's not let nostalgia get in the way of a good transfer story now shall we?).

The 34-year-old Russian has signed for Kuban Krasnodar (10th in last year's Russian Premier League) on a free transfer, after being released by Zenit St Petersburg at the end of last season.

Still, we'll probably see him back at the Emirates in a few seasons' time.

Picture this

Former US Open winner Andy Roddick has impressed while covering Wimbledon for BBC Sport and he has just gone up even further in Sportsday's estimations...

Pedro to Chelsea?

Reuters

As brilliant as it must be kicking a ball about with Neymar, Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez in training, there comes a time in every man's life when you've just got to branch out on your own. Get some minutes on the pitch.

Barcelona striker Pedro, 27, has surely got a decent Premier League season or three in him? That's reportedly what Chelsea reckon anyway - they're said to have already put an offer in.

Pedro, who's available for a cool 30 million euros (£21m) after Barca reduced his buyout clause down from 150 million euros (£105m), says "there are offers" for him, but he hasn't said who from, and he hasn't yet said he plans to leave...

Lack of deals 'not due to Norwich'

Chris Goreham

BBC Radio Norfolk commentator

Norwich City manager Alex Neil admits he would like to have signed more players by now ahead of the club's return to the top flight.

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The Canaries have signed midfielder Youssouf Mulumbu from West Brom on a free transfer and have completed a permanent deal for his Baggies team mate Graham Dorrans, who spent the end of last season on loan at Carrow Road.

"You always want to do business by this stage but there's certainly reasons behind us not having done business and I'd go as far as saying the reasons behind that aren't due to us," Neil said.

Cryptic stuff...

Women's Football Show

BBC Two

The Women's Football Show returns later on Monday, with England internationals Lucy Bronze and Claire Rafferty joining Tina Daheley to reflect on the World Cup and look back on the weekend action from the WSL.

You can watch on BBC Two at 23:20 BST.

Boro's Baptiste suffers double fracture

New Middlesbrough signing Alex Baptiste has undergone surgery on a double fracture of his leg.

The former Bolton defender, 29, suffered the injury before half-time during a friendly against York City on Saturday.

Baptiste made 32 league appearances on loan at Blackburn during the 2014-15 season before agreeing a three-year deal with the Teesiders.

The operation took place over the weekend and was deemed a success.

Get involved - The crying game

Pathhar Maria: When Roger Federer lost in 2014 Wimbledon final in five sets.

Tameena Hussain: 1 When Becks left United; 2 Going for a golden duck for my cricket team having trained everyday; 3 Extra-time England lose in quarter-finals ... though should be used to it by now.

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George: Martin Kaymer sinking THAT putt on the 18th at Medinah.

Giannina Caraceni: When I was nine, West Ham were relegated despite not losing a game under Brooking's caretakership. I cried in the bathroom.

Hey, big spenders

As you may have heard, Liverpool and Manchester City have agreed a £49m fee for Raheem Sterling, which will - if all goes through Ok - be the second-biggest deal ever struck between Premier League clubs.

Here's the current top 10 transfers...

Fernando Torres, Liverpool to Chelsea (£50m, January 2011); Juan Mata, Chelsea to Man United (£37.1m, January 2014); Andy Carroll, Newcastle to Liverpool (£35m, January 2011).

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Dimitar Berbatov, Tottenham to Man United (£30.75m, September 2008); Rio Ferdinand, Leeds to Man United (£30m, July 2002); Luke Shaw, Southampton to Man United (£30m, June 2014).

Romelu Lukaku, Chelsea to Everton (£28m, July 2014); Wilfried Bony, Swansea to Manchester City (£28m, January 2015); Marouane Fellaini, Everton to Manchester United (£27.5m, September 2013).

Get involved - The crying game

When did sport last make you cry?

Gary Snoad: When Zidane scored two goals against England in stoppage time at Euro 2004. Couldn't even watch the penalty.

Jack Dawling: Mo Farah winning the 5k and 10k at the London Olympics.

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Office of Engineer: When MS Dhoni hit six to win Cricket World Cup at packed Wankhede Stadium. And Fergie gave his farewell speech on Old Trafford.

What a Waster: Being on a coach in turkey with man city fans when united lost the title from Aguero's goal, three hours stuck with them celebrating

Upset Casillas to get official goodbye

Real Madrid backtracked and gave skipper Iker Casillas an official send-off following criticism over the low-key nature of his departure.

Casillas, who is leaving his boyhood club after 16 seasons to join Porto, appeared alone at the Bernabeu press room and choked up several times as he read out a statement thanking the club for "giving me everything".

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But when Xavi Hernandez left Barcelona for Qatari side Al Sadd at the end of last season, he was given a series of rousing send-offs by fans, officials and team mates surrounded by family and friends and a glittering array of trophies.

After widespread criticism in the Spanish media that Real had not treated their club legend with sufficient respect, the club president Florentino Perez appeared with Casillas earlier today to give him a proper goodbye.

Get involved - The crying game

When did sport last make you cry?

Isaac Qureshi: When Darius Vassell missed a penalty in the Euros and we went out. The sad realisation of how average we are.

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Ttid: EASY. When Drogba scored his penalty in Champions League final preventing Spurs from CL football despite getting fourth spot.

ME: I cried when we sold the goal machine that is Ruud van Nistelrooy to Real Madrid. My favourite goalscorer of all time.

Louis Vollmer: When Gerrard slipped. Tears of laughter.

Tuned in

The BBC TV audience for Sunday's Wimbledon final between Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer peaked at 9.2m viewers, presumably during that scintillating second set tiebreak when Rog - if we may be so bold as to address a tennis legend in such casual terms - saved set-points galore.

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For the Serena Williams-Garbine Muguruza women's final 24 hours earlier, the peak audience was 4.3m.

Come fly with me...

Defender Chris Smalling has amassed his team-mates for a photo ahead of their flight to the United States...

Further down the plane, MUTV pundit Lou Macari is making himself comfortable...

Lofty aim

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Guardian: New boss Steve McClaren expects Newcastle to finish in the top eight of the Premier League after the club record £14.4m signing of Dutch international midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum, 24, from PSV Eindhoven.

Dann extends Palace stay

Crystal Palace

Crystal Palace defender Scott Dann has signed a new five-year deal with the Selhurst Park club.

Is that a blank piece of paper he's signing?

Get involved - The crying game

We're doing loads of work here so time for you to give us a hand.

After the tears of Iker Casillas as he bid farewell to Real Madrid...

Reuters

And this poor young lad who began sobbing uncontrollably when told Robin van Persie, his favourite Man Utd player, was leaving...

BBC Sport

We want to know this... When was the last time sport made you cry?

For one of our Sportsday team it was when he scored a goal playing on the local football pitch but fell over in the process and almost severed his arm on a glass bottle. Still smarts now.

For another it was when Martin Gritton left Macclesfield Town. A third is muttering darkly about someone called Mark Kerr.

What made you cry? Let us know now at #bbcsportsday

Saints move fast

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The Sun: Southampton hope to sign Netherlands midfielder Jordy Clasie, 24, a as replacement for Manchester United-bound France midfielder Morgan Schneiderlin.

Denayer signs new Man City deal

Belgian defender Denayer, 20, spent last season on loan with Celtic and was named PFA Scotland young player of the year.

Nice dance, wrong decade

Novak Djokovic's tennis might be half-decent but he needs to swot up on his music knowledge.

Asked about his little jig with Serena Williams at the Wimbledon Champions Dinner on Sunday night, the Serbian world number one said: "I thought it was going to be something a bit slower, a bit more classical, a bit more sophisticated, but Serena wanted to move a little bit more on the stage.

AFP

"We started talking about the Eighties, because 1986 was the last time the champions danced, and then we thought it would be symbolic if we chose a tune from the Eighties, and she chose Night Fever."

AP

Lovely stuff. Only problem is Night Fever was released in 1978. Bit pedantic on our part, admittedly, but, hey, we're the BBC and we're sticklers for acuracy.

(NB: For the avoidance of doubt, the misspelling of accuracy was a little joke...)

'No significant progress'

The father of Jules Bianchi - who suffered life-threatening head injuries at last October's Japanese Grand Prix - has admitted he is "less optimistic" that his son will make a full recovery.

"In general, progress needs to be made in the first six months. It has been nine months now and Jules has still not woken up and there is no significant progress," he told radio station France Info.

Jules Bianchi, who will be 26 next month, has been in a coma fighting for his life in controlled medical conditions in hospital in his home city Nice.

His father added: "There comes a point when you have to realise the gravity of the situation. He said to us that if he ever had an accident like that of Michael Schumacher, that even if his only handicap was not being able to drive, he would have a lot of difficulty living. Because it was his life."

Get Involved

We're asking which club has done the best business so far this summer...

Murtaza Ali Khan: Bias aside, best summer buy, gotta be Schweinsteiger for Man Utd. Still got something left in him, also allows Rooney to play up front.

Nathan Ball: Chelsea linking Falcao back up with Costa could be the move of the season.

James: Desperately splashing cash is not the sign of a success. Arsenal have again shown sense and restraint, waiting for quality.

Schneiderlin thanks Southampton fans

Order of play

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And while we're talking golf, the tee times for the first two rounds of the Open Championship at St Andrews have been announced.

Favourite Jordan Spieth is out at 09:33 BST on Thursday alongside Dustin Johnson, who he pipped to the US Open at Chambers Bay.

Tiger Woods tees off at 09:55 BST, while Rickie Fowler, Justin Rose and Nick Faldo form an intriguing threeball at 14:45.

The first group start at 06:35 BST and the last at 16:32 BST.

Spieth looking good

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It's Open Championship week and favourite Jordan Spieth is in fine fettle ahead of the third major of the year at St Andrews.

The American, who has already won the Masters and US Open this year, triumphed in the John Deere Classic on Sunday.

The 21-year-old clinched victory on the second hole of a sudden-death play off with compatriot Tom Gillis.

'Schneiderlin can be fans' favourite'

Adam Blackmore

BBC Radio Solent sports editor

Morgan Schneiderlin is a thoroughbred footballer, who has a great knack of being in the right place at the right time when breaking up opponents attacks, and possesses a fine range of passing.

Southampton signed him as a teenager from Strasbourg before the club went into administration in 2009, and he's been an integral part of their success since.

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His only blip came last summer when he showed his frustration on Twitter at not being allowed to move to Spurs, but he quickly knuckled down, knowing that this summer he would get the move he craved to a Champions League club.

There is nothing stopping him becoming a fans favourite at Old Trafford, something he has been in Southampton for seven years.

Valdes left out of Man Utd tour squad

There are three goalkeepers in United's squad, who fly out to the States today. They are David De Gea (no move to Real, then?), Sam Johnstone and Anders Lindegaard.

German-born midfielder Sean Goss, 19, is the only player without first-team experience, while Under-20 World Cup final goalscorer Andreas Pereira has also been picked.

Players who were on Copa America duty, Angel Di Maria and Marcos Rojo, were not considered for selection.

Valdes left out of Man Utd tour squad

Reuters

Some more on the news Victor Valdes has been left out Manchester United's squad for a pre-season tour of the United States.

Speaking to Spanish newspaper AS earlier today, Valdes' agent said his client was committed to staying at Old Trafford.

"Victor is enthusiastic to have a place in the team for next season and is ready to give his best to help the team much more," he said.

Basso diagnosed with cancer

Ivan Basso's Tinkoff-Saxo team-mates Michael Rogers and Alberto Contador have tweeted these messages of support for the Italian, who has been diagnosed with testicular cancer. 

Basso, 37, has twice won the Giro d'Italia, and was placed 158th in the Tour de France overall standings. 

Basso diagnosed with cancer

Matt Slater

BBC Sport at the Tour de France

Ivan Basso had been complaining of pain in his groin since crashing in the Tour's first week and went to a hospital in the town in southwest France for a check-up on the race's first rest day.

It was there that his cancer was discovered. His teammate Alberto Contador was in tears sat next to him during the press conference. Basso, 37, leaves the Tour immediately to start treatment.

A two-time Giro d'Italia champion, Basso was set to be one of Contador's key lieutenants in the mountains over the next two weeks.

He is also one of the friendliest and more relaxed members of the professional peloton so this news will be greeted with considerable dismay.

Basso diagnosed with cancer

Some shocking news about Italian cyclist Ivan Basso from BBC Sport's Matt Slater...

Ryder strikes between Chelmsford showers

BBC Radio Wales Sport's Nick Webb at Chelmsford:

"New Zealand all-rounder Jesse Ryder continued his star performance with the ball for Essex as he bowled Glamorgan skipper Jacques Rudolph for 24 to claim a fourth wicket.

"But following a late start at 12:15 BST, just 14 balls were delivered in the first session as the rain returned on a murky day at Chelmsford."

Simmonds & Crisp fastest in Glasgow

Elizabeth Hudson

BBC Sport in Glasgow

Britain's Ellie Simmonds and James Crisp have qualified fastest for their respective finals on the first morning of action in Glasgow.

Simmonds put in a strong swim as she started the defence of her 400m freestyle title but will face a tough challenge in tonight's final against Ukraine's Yelyzaveta Mereshko while Crisp, who made his GB debut in 1998, showed his class in the S9 100m backstroke heats.

Elsewhere, Scotland's Andrew Mullen improved his own European record in the S5 backstroke heats.

Rushworth takes three quick wickets

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BBC Newcastle's Martin Emmerson at Chester-le-Street:

"Rain has restricted play to just 4.2 overs today but in that time Chris Rushworth has taken three wickets and Warwickshire have found themselves struggling on 20-3.

"None of the players out managed a run today. Varun Chopra went second ball of the morning, lbw while offering no shot to a Rushworth ball. He didn't add to his overnight score of six.

"In his next over Rushworth removed Jonathan Webb and Laurie Evans in consecutive deliveries, but Sam Hain saw off the hat-trick ball."

De Gea in Man Utd's tour squad

Goalkeeper David De Gea, the subject of interest from Real Madrid remember, has been named in Manchester United's squad for a pre-season tour of the United States. 

But. There is no Victor Valdes, and no Rafael either...

Claim to fame

If this tweet from football writer Richard Jolly is correct, Bastian Schweinsteiger is in esteemed company...

Man United sign Schneiderlin

A little more from Manchester United's latest recruit Morgan Schneiderlin.

"I have enjoyed seven very happy years with Southampton and it's a club that will always be in my heart. But the chance to be part of this squad to help this great club be successful was too good to miss," the midfielder said.

"I'm excited to be starting that journey on our trip to the USA. I know what Manchester United means to fans all over the world and I'm looking forward to experiencing that."

Man United sign Schneiderlin

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Louis van Gaal on Schneiderlin: "He's a very talented player with great energy and ability. His skills will complement our players."

Schneiderlin join the Saints from Strasbourg in 2008 for £1.2m and has played for them in League One, the Championship and the Premier League.

Man United sign Schneiderlin

Man Utd

Schneiderlin, a 25-year-old France international, has signed a four-year deal, with the option for a further 12 months.

He will join Louis van Gaal, fellow new boy Bastian Schweinsteiger and their new team-mates on their flight to Seattle for the start of their US tour on Monday afternoon.

Schneiderlin said: "Once I learned that United were interested in signing me, it was a very easy decision to make."

BreakingMan United sign Schneiderlin

And now there's another new face at Old Trafford... Morgan Schneiderlin has signed from Southampton for a fee in the region of £25m.

The results are in

Well, that was a pretty overwhelming result.

A little earlier we asked which club has done the best transfer business so far this summer.

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A whopping 52.7% of you reckon Man United's Louis van Gaal has been the craftiest boss, bringing in Dutch forward Memphis Depay, Torino defender Matteo Darmian and - in the last few minutes - Bastian Schweinsteiger from Bayern Munich.

Liverpool got 20.6% of the vote, Arsenal next best with 10.8%.

Man Utd sign Schweinsteiger

Let's not forget that Schweinsteiger has played under Van Gaal before, when the Dutchman was in charge at Bayern between 2009 and 2011.

Schweinsteiger helped his Germany win the 2014 World Cup and has one Champions League, eight Bundesliga titles and seven domestic cup triumphs to his name.

Can he add more at Manchester United?

Man Utd sign Schweinsteiger

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal says Bastian Schweinsteiger "brings a wealth of experience and is an excellent addition to our squad".

Schweinsteiger made his Bayern debut 13 years ago. It's probably the equivalent of Paul Scholes joining Bayern Munich...

Man Utd Schweinsteiger

Man Utd

The 30-year-old Germany international joins United on a three-year deal.

"Manchester United is the only club I would have left Munich for," says Schweinsteiger.

BreakingMan Utd sign Schweinsteiger

Manchester United complete the signing of Bastian Schweinsteiger from Bayern Munich.

Jackets off

There's a thoroughly entertaining debate raging on Twitter involving Match of the Day presenter Gary Lineker, Olympic gold medal-winning rower Matthew Pinsent and former England rugby international Brian Moore. 

The topic? Lewis Hamilton being turned away from the Royal Box at Wimbledon for not being suitably attired...

Even former US Open champion and "obnoxious American" Andy Roddick got involved...

Arsene Wenger news conference

What are your thoughts on Manchester City's £49m move for Liverpool's Raheem Sterling, Arsene? Were Arsenal interested?

"For me Sterling is a top-class player," Wenger says. "It's a good buy for Manchester City, personally I like him. It's an expensive one, but they can afford it.

"I didn't make a bid because he plays in an area where we have plenty of players. We have Welbeck, Walcott, Chamberlain. Sanchez, Wilshere can play there, Gnabry."

Arsene Wenger news conference

Arsenal have landed in Singapore today ahead of a series of pre-season friendlies. Can they win the Premier League this season?

"We finished third last season and won the FA Cup," manager Arsene Wenger says. "The pressure is on us to do better, but there are plenty of competitors to win the Premier League.

"You have seen the buys clubs have made already, but we will give absolutely everything to do it."

Get Involved

Which club has done the best business this summer?

Karl Bristow: I'd like to see some Englishmen in Man Utd line up next season. Hope we don't sign Ramos/Hummels now. Jones/Smalling anyone?

Fraser Bernstein: 23-year-old Aguero = £38m. 20-year-old Sterling = £49m. Even when adjusted for inflation, Sterling is clearly overpriced.

Paul Hallett: Liverpool have a good habit of getting top dollar for their players. If only they could develop the good habit of spending it well.

Suited, yes, but signed?

Michael Pendlebury

This is how transfer stories play out in the 21st century.

While we're waiting for official confirmation Bastian Schweinsteiger has completed a move from Bayern Munich to Manchester United, the tailor sorting out the club's new suits is here with the latest. Or at least he was before he deleted the pictures.

It's a bit blurry, but the photo above appears to show Schweinsteiger, 30, dressed to the nines, presumably on his way to join up with his new team-mates, with United set to fly out to the United States for a pre-season tour later today.

Smile please

Cheltenham Town are a brave club.

Despite enduring a miserable campaign last season, which ended in relegation out of the Football League, the club has announced a new sponsorship deal.

Their Whaddon Road ground to be renamed - wait for it - the World of Smile Stadium.

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Jon Burke, managing director of the conservatory and garden building suppliers, said: "You can't say the name World of Smile without grinning and that's what our company is all about."

Whether Cheltenham's supporters will be grinning next season remains to be seen...

Raheem Sterling latest

David Ornstein

BBC Sport

Raheem Sterling is expected to travel to Manchester later on Monday. A medical is likely to take place on Tuesday and therefore an announcement is likely then, too.

Manchester City will pay Liverpool £44m, plus up to £5m in add-ons over the course of the deal, but these are not guaranteed.

Serena reigns supreme

Serena Williams has widened her lead at number one in the WTA rankings after her fourth consecutive Grand Slam title at Wimbledon, with twice as many points than nearest rival Maria Sharapova.

AFP

Novak Djokovic's third championship at the All England Club allowed him to retain a healthy lead over number two Roger Federer, the man he beat in the final.

Who's on top in the transfer market?

RonCheeseBurger: £49m for Raheem Sterling great business! Sterling like Milan Baros. Headless chicken made to look good by Suarez, Sturridge, Coutinho genius movement.

Shane Daly: I do not see Raheem Sterling ever becoming a world class player, he hasn't the hunger. Well overrated.

Ryan Day: Manchester United have been amazing and logical with business so far. Swansea have done the same with Eder, Ayew and others.

Keep your thoughts on who's done the best transfer business so far this summer. Use #bbcsportsday on Twitter, or you can post on the BBC Sport Facebook page.

Schmeichel for Leicester?

Ian Stringer

BBC Radio Leicester's Leicester City commentator

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Peter Schmeichel has reportedly applied to replace Nigel Pearson as Leicester City manager, but is he a genuine contender?

Who knows? How many of the previous seven favourites for the vacancy were likely to get the job and how many have been drawn from a fragile betting market?

Whilst the former Manchester United and Denmark goalkeeper may well have applied for the job, whether he's the right candidate at this stage remains to be seen. Lots of questions, very few answers.

Van Persie passes Fenerbahce medical

Fenerbahce

Fenerbahce say Robin van Persie has passed a medical at the Turkish club.

Surely official word of the Dutchman's move from Manchester United is only a matter of time now.

He's flown over there, been paraded about, and now Fener seem to be happy he can still play football. Shall we get a sweepstake going as to when it's signed and sealed?

Off to the Hornets

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The Mirror: Benjamin Stambouli will become the second Tottenham player to join Watford this summer as the 24-year-old French midfielder is set to join the Hornets for £4m.

Vote - who has done the best business?

You've been telling us which club you think has done the best business so far this summer and now you can vote on the matter, too.

Select your choice from the panel on the right (if you are using a desktop computer) or by clicking the tab above (if you're on a mobile device).

You've got 12 minutes left to vote and the usual terms and conditions apply.

Home interest in Glasgow

Elizabeth Hudson

BBC Sport in Glasgow

There is plenty of Scottish interest on day one at the Tollcross Swimming Centre.

Scott Quin has qualified second fastest for tonight's final of the SB14 100m breaststroke, while Andrew Mullen set a new European record in the S5 backstroke heats.

Coming up later, both Ellie Simmonds and James Crisp will be hoping to put down a marker ahead of the finals.

Morning washed out at The Oval

BBC London 94.9's Mark Church at The Oval:

"No play before lunch because of rain. Hoping for better weather this afternoon."

No play before lunch at Northwood

BBC London 94.9's Kevin Hand at Northwood:

"Light drizzle turned to heavy rain as an early lunch has been called without a ball bowled on day three at Northwood.

"Somerset are 185-8 in their first innings, still 98 runs behind Middlesex and the hosts will fancy a positive couple of sessions with the bat if they can quickly wrap the visitors' tail up.

"The pitch has offered swing, pace and bounce and has been testing with three batsman struck on the helmet so, weather permitting, an eventual chase of anything over 200 would be unlikely."

It was certainly a different picture on the opening day at the Merchant Taylors' School...

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Listen to live commentary here.

Casillas and his cups

Iker Casillas, after 17 years with Real Madrid, is set to join FC Porto.

A legend at Real, he was almost brought to tears (the manly kind) as he said his goodbyes in a news conference. 

Spanish football writer Sid Lowe has this perspective...

Let the music move you

Meanwhile at Stoke, interpretative dance is high on the agenda as pre-season training gets going in earnest. 

Presumably that's why Begovic left... 

Begovic completes Chelsea move

The first big transfer of the day then. 

How long before the others follow? Are Bastian Schweinsteiger, Morgan Schneiderlin, or Raheem Sterling anywhere near? 

Robin van Persie must have put pen to paper at Fenerbahce by now, surely?

That's if he made it out of the melee that greeted him at Istanbul airport last night...

Thanks for the memories

Cristiano Ronaldo has this message for former team-mate Iker Casillas, who has left Real Madrid after 17 years to join FC Porto.

"Proud to have worked with you for so many years. Good luck with your new team," the Portuguese says.

Really good or absolutely terrible?

Simon Stone

BBC Sport in New York

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There is compelling evidence that "soccer" is making huge advances in the United States.

Over the weekend, home games for New York Red Bulls and the newly launched New York City drew a combined crowd in excess of 45,000. Yet, in the wider sporting sphere, there is a lot of work to do.

Soccer did not warrant a mention in the single page of sport contained in the weekend edition of the Wall Street Journal. And although sport was allocated 37 pages in Sunday's New York Post, only one was given over to the round ball game and three-quarters of that was heralding the World Cup-winning exploits of the USA women's team.

Begovic completes Chelsea move

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The fee for Begovic is expected to be in the region of £8m.

Good business for the Blues? Petr Cech was sold to Arsenal for about £10m...

Begovic completes Chelsea move

Begovic has signed a four-year contract at Chelsea, and is their second signing of the summer following the arrival of Radamel Falcao on a season-long loan from French club Monaco.

Begovic completes Chelsea move

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"I have loved my time at Stoke," Begovic said. "But I feel I had to take this opportunity to develop and challenge myself as a player."

Noble sentiments, but there is the small matter of Thibaut Courtois at Chelsea...

BreakingBegovic completes Chelsea move

Stoke City goalkeeper Asmir Begovic completes his transfer to Chelsea.

The 28-year-old Bosnia international leaves after five years with the Potters.

Bye-bye Bayern

Centre-back Medhi Benatia is one of several Bayern Munich players to have sent their best wishes back to Bastian Schweinsteiger. 

I wonder how manager Pep Guardiola feels about it all?

Schweinsteiger a risk for Man Utd?

Is Manchester United's move for Bastian Schweinsteiger a risk? That's the opinion of Bundesliga football writer Mark Lovell, who's taken a look at how the 30-year-old Germany international might fit in at Old Trafford.

For my money, bringing in a World Cup-winning central midfielder's usually no bad thing...

What's the latest on Bastian? He's said his Bayern Munich goodbyes, and United hope to complete a medical before jetting off for the United States.

Stoke grab Glen

Some transfer news you may have missed... Stoke City have agreed a deal to sign former Liverpool defender Glen Johnson.

PA

The 30-year-old has signed a two-year deal with the option for a third year, after his release by the Reds.

Potters boss Mark Hughes said of the England international: "He will be a fantastic addition. He's a talented defender who also chips in with goals."

Hiss arrival remains subject to finalising of formalities, but he has joined up with Stoke in Singapore ahead of the Barclays Asia Trophy.

Sterling doubts

Not like Joey Barton to have a view on something but he's just tweeted this about the Raheem Sterling to Manchester City deal. Agree with him?

You can keep your thoughts coming on Twitter via #bbcfootball, or you can post on the Match of the Day Facebook page.

How much for Raheem?

Reuters

Raheem Sterling. Is he any good? Worth £49m? Or has a decimal point gone awry?

Here's what former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher has had to say.

"Raheem Sterling is a very good young player but he has not yet hit the heights of an Owen, Rooney, Fowler or Giggs at this stage of his career so there's no doubt £49m is a great deal for Liverpool."

You can read more from Carragher in his blog, over here. Thoughts?

Can we eat our packed lunch?

We've already heard from Liverpool over in Thailand, Swansea are off to Germany, Manchester United to the United States and now Arsenal have landed in Singapore. 

Arsene Wenger sporting the 'teacher on a school trip' pose in this one. It's not lunchtime yet.

Britton out of Swans tour

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Is Leon Britton about to leave Swansea?

The midfielder has not travelled with the first team for the Swans' pre-season tour to Germany. Britton took the decision to stay at home after it emerged that he would not get a lot of game time.

The 32-year-old, who has made 476 appearances and scored 17 goals for the Premier League side, has been linked with a move to America.

Stevenage winger signs new deal

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Stevenage winger Tom Pett has signed a new contract to keep him with the League Two club until 2017.

The 23-year-old former Potters Bar player joined Boro from Wealdstone last summer, and went on to score eight goals in 38 appearances.

"The club believe he has a bright future ahead of him," said a statement.

The Tour de France 2055

Is this a vision of the Tour de France in 40 years' time?

Erm, no. But's it's good to see German sprinter Andre Greipel still favours two wheels over four, even on his day off. Kudos for keeping the shorts on, too.

By the way, you can catch up on what's gone down in the Tour's first week with Geraint Thomas's latest column.

Man United stand firm on De Gea

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The Sun: Manchester United are ready to block 24-year-old goalkeeper David De Gea's proposed move to Real Madrid unless a deal can be done before the club leaves for its tour of the USA.

Thumbs up from Ramos

Manchester United are looking to complete the signings of Bayern Munich midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger and Southampton's Morgan Schneiderlin before heading off an pre-season tour of the United States. 

Meanwhile, one happy chappy already on the plane for Real Madrid's trip to Australia, is defender Sergio Ramos. No move to Old Trafford, then?

Get Involved

Which club has done the best business so far this summer?

Harry Partridge: Man Utd splashing cash again, but most of Utd's joy in past three yrs was down to de Gea or RVP, who both look to be on the way out.

Adam Joseph: How can it not be #MUFC? All areas for need for great prices! Ed Woodward has figured out the market & we aren't done yet.

Ben Rabinovich: Liverpool shouldn't worry about sale of Sterling, after all Henderson is on the cover of FIFA 16 and that's all that matters...

Donaldson makes Dundee Utd move

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Dundee United have signed defender Coll Donaldson on a three-year-deal after the 20-year-old was released by Queens Park Rangers.

"He is skilful, physical and quick and will add to the competition amongst our defenders," United manager Jackie McNamara said of the former Livingston centre-back.

"We are extremely fortunate that he was available and it was important that we got him before others were aware."

County Championship prospects

Weather permitting, Middlesex will be looking to make short work of the Somerset tail when the visitors start the third morning on 185-8, 98 runs behind, at Merchant Taylors' School.

Warwickshire will begin day two on 10-0 at Chester-le-Street after dismissing Durham for 314, despite an innings of 112 by opener Mark Stoneman.

In Division Two, third-placed Glamorgan are looking to rebuild from 40-3, having bowled out Essex for 279 on the opening day at Chelmsford.

Meanwhile, Surrey - the team immediately above Glamorgan in the table - start their latest match against Kent at The Oval.

Pogba delay

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Daily Star: Manchester City's attempts to sign Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba are being held up over an issue with the 22-year-old French international's image rights. Pogba will also have to ask for a transfer request to push the move through.

Porte moving on

Australian Richie Porte confirms he will leave Team Sky at the end of the season after four years.

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"Yes it's true. I'm leaving the team. I'm going. But it's important to know that I'm leaving the team on really good terms and I want to finish my fourth year with them on a real high," Porte, who is riding the Tour de France, wrote in a column in the Sydney Morning Herald.

Porte has been linked with American team BMC Racing, but did not say where he was heading...

Vote - who has done the best business?

You've been telling us which club you think has done the best business so far this summer and now you can vote on the matter, too.

Select your choice from the panel on the right (if you are using a desktop computer) or by clicking the tab above (if you're on a mobile device).

The vote will remain open until 13:00 BST and the usual terms and conditions apply.

Brendan Rodgers news conference

And that is that from Bangkok.

The latest on Raheem Sterling's seemingly imminent move from Liverpool to Manchester City?

Two clubs have agreed a transfer. And that transfer will go ahead subject to a medical. So in short, there is no latest.

Brendan Rodgers news conference

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Lots of questions about Raheem Sterling, and how Liverpool can replace him. Will Roberto Firmino "fill the void?".

Not much doing in terms of answers, though.

Rodgers: "Roberto Firmino is a top class player. Of course there is no pressure. He will come into the Premier League, it takes a bit of time to adapt. But he has all the traits we want from a player. He works very hard.

"Transfers is not really something I want to go into in a press conference. I spent a lot of last season talking about transfers and don't intend to this year. Any business done will be done behind the scenes at the club."

Brendan Rodgers news conference

More on Raheem Sterling, from 'Mr Rodgers'. Questions from the less formal international media now...

"At this moment in time it's only about the players who have travelled here. I spoke to Raheem at length yesterday, there is no issue. Two clubs have agreed a deal and subject to a medical he will move on. At this moment in time our interest is in the players here."

Welcome to Bangkok

How pleased does 'Mr Rodgers' look to get this gift on his arrival in Bangkok?

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Though poor old Jordan Henderson looks all sad to be left out.

Brendan Rodgers news conference

Are there going to be any new signings, Mr Rodgers?

"The most important players to me are the ones here, like Lucas, who are here to work hard."

How much for Raheem Sterling? £49m? Let's just say that money is very unlikely to be banked, surely.

Brendan Rodgers news conference

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The second question for Mr Rodgers (this one from the audience) pulls no punches. Straight to the heart of the matter of whether Raheem Sterling will make a £49m move to Manchester City.

"The club has agreed with another club a deal for Raheem to be transferred," Rodgers says. "Subject to a medical the deal will go through.

"On the subject of what has been written in the last week, Raheem and I have always remained strong in our relationship. There is no issue there."

Brendan Rodgers news conference

Brilliant skills from the host on stage in Bangkok. Not only is he translating Brendan Rodgers' answers (posed in perfect English) into what I can only assume to be fluent Thai, but the guy is treating him with big respect.

An easy first question to 'Mr Rodgers' - after one for 'Mr Lucas' - and the answer is: "It was a long journey but we're all glad to be here in Thailand. It's been a nice start to the trip."

Glad to hear it...

Brendan Rodgers news conference

Lucas Leiva is also out this morning. I would imagine this is the first time he's been introduced on stage accompanied by strobe lighting and dance music.

Both Brendan Rodgers and Lucas go to sit down but clearly the fun's just getting started. Shirt presentations, selfies, men in blazers. This is football.

Sir Alex to be offered SFA role?

SNS

The Herald are reporting that former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson is to be offered a specially-created role within the Scottish FA in which he will promote and develop the game in Scotland.

'Good luck Van Pizzle!'

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If you're hankering after a long-form read this morning, head over to Rio Ferdinand's Facebook page (where else?).

The former Manchester United defender has had quite a lot to say about Robin van Persie's expected move to Turkish club Fenerbahce. Especially interesting is what Rio says about the Dutchman's relationship with former United boss Sir Alex Ferguson.

For the latest on Van Persie's seemingly imminent move to Istanbul, head over here. There's even a picture of him flying a plane (well, nearly).

Brendan Rodgers news conference

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In about 10 minutes' time, Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers will be speaking to the world, live from Bangkok.

Why Thailand? Liverpool are on a pre-season tour down there. First stop South-East Asia, next stop Australia, for the Reds.

Oh, and if you didn't know, Raheem Sterling hasn't joined them. Actually, maybe that will come up...

Crosswinds, cobbles and crashes

AP

No Tour de France today, instead it's a very well earned break for the peloton.

Team Sky's Geraint Thomas has been speaking to us about how the opening week's gone (it's the most stressful start to the race he's ever known, by the way).

Catch on your crosswinds, cobbles and crashes in the Welshman's latest BBC Sport column.

Push for Pedro

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Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho wants to sign forward Pedro, 27, from Barcelona and is willing to meet the Spanish international's £22m buyout clause, reports Spanish website Sport.

Get Involved

BBC Radio 5 live

Your Call is asking if £49m for Raheem Sterling is the sale of the century or a rip off...

Steve, Lancs: £49m? You could buy Greece for that. Barmy.

Keith, Chichester: He will be a complete and utter failure. Liverpool must be laughing their socks off.

Stephan, Kent: Man City have got a good player, he has done a good deal for himself and Liverpool cannot complain about the fee. That said to Man City the difference between £25m to £50m is negligible so they can afford to take the chance.

Listen live here

Getting a boost

And on the subject of women's game, record crowds turned out to watch as stars of the World Cup returned to domestic action with their clubs.

The FA

Of the 23 England players that finished third overall in Canada, 17 made league appearances on Sunday.

A new league-record crowd of 2,102 saw Manchester City beat Birmingham City 1-0 at the Academy Stadium, while the average attendance of Sunday's Women's Super League games was 78% higher than the average for the first half of the 2015 season.

Injury worry for Man City Women's Harding

The FA

Manchester City Women midfielder Natasha Harding will have an ankle scan this week after picking up an injury in Sunday's 1-0 win over Birmingham.

The Wales international hobbled off the pitch after only 10 minutes following a tackle by Kerys Harrop.

She was later seen leaving the Academy Stadium in a compression boot.

"The medical team put her in a boot straight away for precautionary reasons because it's swelled quite a lot," City manager Nick Cushing told BBC Sport.

Legal fight

Here's an interesting one. New Zealand are to take legal action after their men's team were thrown out of Olympic qualifying for fielding an ineligible player.

The Kiwis were due to play Fiji in the final of the Oceania qualifiers after beating Vanuatu 2-0 in the semi-finals.

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Deklan Wynne has played for the New Zealand senior team

But the Oceania Football Confederation (OCF) upheld Vanuatu's protest that South-African born Deklan Wynne was ineligible to play in the match.

Wynne, who was not born in New Zealand and doesn't have a New Zealand parent or grandparent, would have to have lived in New Zealand for five years from the age of 18 to be eligible.

Vanuatu were awarded a 3-0 win, but lost to Fiji in Sunday's final.

Richards sets the record straight

First he was staying, then he was going, and now he's staying again. 

Fabian Delph signed a new contract with Aston Villa, was widely reported to be on the verge of a move to Manchester City, but then decided to "set the record straight". 

And just for further clarity, Delph's Villa team-mate Micah Richards (formerly of City, of course) is letting people know he had nothing to do with it.

Angel deal 'difficult'

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Paris St-Germain are interested in signing Argentine winger Angel Di Maria from Manchester United but the French club's manager Laurent Blanc says a deal would be difficult for the 27-year-old due to competition from other clubs and the cost of the player, reports French paper L'Equipe.

Sale of the century or rip-off Raheem?

BBC Radio 5 live

Over on BBC Radio 5 live, the debate between 09:00 and 10:00 BST today - in other words a debate already under way - is on Raheem Sterling.

Almost £50m for the Liverpool winger - sale of the century or rip-off Raheem?

You can listen live here.

Get Involved

After a relatively quiet close season, the fax machines are whirring into life and transfer deals are beginning to be completed.

But who has done the best business so far this summer?

We've already had a shout for Bury...

Let us know via #bbcsportsday, text 81111 (UK users only) or post on the Match of the Day Facebook page.

Busy day haead

Right, back to football, and strap yourselves in for today is going to be a busy one.

There are plenty of deals brewing and these are the ones that could come to fruition over the next few hours:

Raheem Sterling, Liverpool to Man City.

Robin van Persie, Man United to Fenerbahce.

Bastian Schweinsteiger, Bayern Munich to Man United.

Morgan Schneiderlin, Southampton to Manchester United.

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David de Gea, Man United to Real Madrid (rumour has it, it's getting closer).

We'll bring you the news as it happens...

Sorry Lewis, you can't come in

Best story from men's final day at Wimbledon, though, involved not the main protagonists - Djokovic and Federer - but the Formula 1 world champion.

Lewis Hamilton was turned away from SW19 for not wearing a jacket, tie and shoes, having arrived in a bright floral shirt and a hat.

His spokesperson said: "Due to a misunderstanding over dress code, he is disappointed to have missed the final."

Prior to the final, Hamilton had posted Wimbledon photos on Instagram, one of which accompanied a message in which he expressed his delight of having been invited to the Royal Box.

Lewis Hamilton

Lewis Hamilton posted a photo of himself at Wimbledon on Instagram

Oh dear.

Dressing up

At the risk of turning into Hello magazine, want to see a few shots from the glitzy Wimbledon Champions Dinner, starting with Novak Djokovic and Serena Williams doing a slightly weird dance? Of course you do. Here you go then.

PA

Mr and Mrs Djokovic arrive.

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And a little snap of Team Djokovic to finish.

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Does Boris look proud or annoyed? Maybe, given Novak has just equalled his record of three Wimbledon wins, it's the latter...

Lampard debut delayed again?

Simon Stone

BBC Sport in New York

Getty Images

Frank Lampard may have to wait another week to make his much-anticipated MLS debut.

The 37-year-old midfielder watched his New York City team draw 4-4 with Toronto at the Yankee Stadium on Sunday after being ruled out with a calf injury.

New York City manager Jason Kreis is hopeful of Lampard being fit for Saturday's visit to New England Revolution but, as the Gillette Stadium has an artificial surface, he is mindful of not taking any risks with the former Chelsea and Manchester City man.

"We need to understand whether he has even played on an artificial surface before," said Kreis. "We need to make the smartest decision we can and that decision needs to come later in the week."

Action replay

Want to remind yourself of what happened in the final and watch Djokovic eat some grass?

Click here and watch this highlights video.

BBC Sport

'Novak can dominate'

More than half an hour in and no mention of Wimbledon yet. Shocking, so we'd better put it right.

As you are no doubt aware - and if you're not, what the hell have you been up to for the last 24 hours? - the mighty Novak Djokovic