Tuesday, August 31

Daily WHUFC News - III 31st August 2010

Internationals in action
WHUFC.com
Nine West Ham United players could turn out for their respective countries
this week
31.08.2010

A host of West Ham United players could be in international action for their
respective countries between now and the club's next home fixture against
Chelsea on Saturday 11 September. With the 2012 UEFA European Championship
qualifying campaign getting under way, there will be plenty of vital points
to be played for all over the continent, while Pablo Barrera faces an
11,000-mile round-trip to Mexico to face Ecuador and Colombia in two
international friendly fixtures. Barrera is in Mexico's squad for a friendly
meeting with Ecuador in Guadalajara on Saturday 4 September and Colombia in
Monterrey on Tuesday 7 September. The winger has earned 25 caps and appeared
for his country at the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa.

Closer to home, Carlton Cole and Matthew Upson have been included in
England's squad for their opening UEFA EURO 2012 Group G qualifier against
Bulgaria at Wembley on Friday, as well as the meeting with the Swiss four
days later. The pair were in training at The Grove in Hertfordshire on
Tuesday morning.

Tal Ben Haim is in Israel's squad for their opening EURO 2012 Group F
fixture against Georgia in Tbilisi on 7 September. The Israelis will also
face Croatia, Greece, Latvia and Malta during their qualification campaign.

Fitness permitting, Valon Behrami is likely to be included in Switzerland's
squad for an international friendly meeting with Australia in St. Gallen on
Friday and their meeting with England in Basel four days later.

Herita Ilunga's DR Congo will play host to Senegal in the country's opening
2012 CAF Africa Cup of Nations Group E qualifier in Lumbumbashi on 5
September. DR Congo will also face Cameroon and Mauritius in qualifying.

Thomas Hitzlsperger has failed to recover from his thigh injury in time to
be included in Germany's squad for their EURO 2012 Group A qualifiers
against Belgium in Brussels on Friday and Azerbaijan in Cologne next
Tuesday. Had he been fit, the midfielder would have been included.

At Under-21 level, Holmar Orn Eyjolfsson is in Iceland's squad for their
UEFA European U21 Championship Group 5 qualifier with Czech Republic in
Jablonec nad Nisou on Tuesday week. Coached by Eyjolfsson's father Eyjolfur
Sverrisson, Iceland are in with a chance of qualifying for the finals for
the first time in their history and could clinch at least a play-off place
by beating the Czechs.

To do so, they may have to find their way past Hammers goalkeeper Marek
Stech, who has been called up to the Czech Republic U21 squad for their
European Championship Group 5 qualifiers against Germany in Mlada Boleslav
on Friday, as well as the meeting with Iceland four days later.

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Hammers set sights on Yobo
East London club target out-of-favour stopper
Last updated: 31st August 2010
SSN

Skysports.com understands West Ham are preparing to swoop for Everton
centre-back Joseph Yobo. The Nigerian international has been heavily linked
with a Goodison Park exit this summer after falling out of favour with
Toffees manager David Moyes. And the long-serving stopper could be on his
way to Upton Park, with the Hammers set to table an offer for his services
as Tuesday's transfer deadline draws nearer. Reports suggest Hammers boss
Avram Grantwants the 29-year-old on a season-long loan deal, while Everton
are keen to offload him on a permanent basis. Yobo, who has also recently
been rumoured for a Celtic move, arrived on Merseyside for £3.5million in
2003 from French club Marseille.

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Chim chim cheroo?
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 31st August 2010
By: Staff Writer

West Ham are rumoured to be in for former Tottenham and Wigan defender
Pascal Chimbonda. The 31-year-old right back - currently employed by
Blackburn - moved to Ewood Park a year ago but is said to be on his way to
the Boleyn Ground, possibly on loan. West Ham have been without a recognised
right back since former club captain Lucas Neill departed. Meanwhile moves
to bring 29-year-old Guy Demel in from Hamburg are thought to have hit a
snag.

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Swap deal mooted
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 31st August 2010
By: Staff Writer

Liverpool are rumoured to have made a last-ditch bid to sign Carlton Cole -
with Ryan Babel included as part of the deal. Cole is rumoured to have been
the target of a deadline day swap bid from the Reds, who are said to have
included Dutch international Ryan Babel in the package. Details remain
sketchy at present but we will of course bring you all the latest as it
happens.

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Hammers consider Cole offer
Reds step up pursuit of West Ham star striker
Last updated: 31st August 2010
SSN

Sky Sports News understands that West Ham are considering an official offer
from Liverpool for striker Carlton Cole. It was revealed on Monday that the
Anfield club had made an enquiry regarding the £10million-rated frontman,
with manager Roy Hodgson repeatedly admitting that he wants to sign a
forward. Liverpool are now reported to have progressed in their attempts to
capture former Chelsea player Cole and West Ham are giving thought to a fee
tabled by their Premier League rivals. Cole has been linked with the Reds
since before Hodgson replaced Rafa Benitez earlier in the summer and the
26-year-old is said to be interested in a move to Merseyside. Reports also
suggest that Liverpool are prepared to offer Ryan Babel, who has been linked
with Tottenham, in a part-exchange deal and they will now hope to push
through an agreement before Tuesday's transfer deadline at 6pm. Hodgson has
renewed his attempts to sign Cole after he decided to end interest in PSV's
Ola Toivonen prior to reaching a dead-end in a pursuit of Bayern Munich's
Mario Gomez.
The shortcomings of Liverpool's squad were exposed in an extremely
disappointing 2009/10 campaign when injuries to Fernando Torres left the
club with only youngster David Ngog as a recognised striker.

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Deadline day latest: T minus 90 minutes
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 31st August 2010
By: Staff Writer

Carlton Cole's proposed move to Liverpool is very much on the cards -
although Scott Parker is definitely staying at West Ham. Cole was the
subject of a bid thought be worth in the region of £7million plus striker
Ryan Babel from Liverpool earlier today - although it is unclear at this
stage whether Babel would arrive on a permanent transfer or season-long
loan. With the three parties currently locked in talks time is running our
for a deal to be rushed through, although Liverpool's medical team are
poised to give the 26-year-old the once-over should talks progress smoothly.


Meanwhile vice-captain Parker has reiterated that he will not be leaving the
club - despite Tottenham retaining a strong interest in securing his
services.
Parker has been informed that he will not be allowed to depart, in line with
David Sullivan's statement at the end of last season that he will not be
moving elsewhere during the summer. The 29-year-old told fans upon leaving
training this lunchtime that he will be staying put.

Elsewhere right back Pascal Chimbonda looks poised to complete a switch from
Blackburn, whilst Joseph Yobo's proposed move from Everton is still on the
cards despite having apparently fallen through earlier in the day. One or
two other transfers are thought to be being kept under wraps although any
annoucements by the club prior to the 6:00pm transfer deadline are extremely
unlikely, in line with recent seasons.

Stick with KUMB.com for all the very latest news from a dramatic transfer
deadline day.

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Parker to stay at West Ham
TalkSport
By Marc Isaacs
Tuesday, August 31

Scott Parker has confirmed to West Ham that he is definitely staying at
Upton Park. Parker has been strongly linked with a £7m move to Tottenham and
there were strong fears he would leave the east London club after he delayed
signing a new five-year contract. Harry Redknapp is a big admirer of the
former Chelsea midfielder and had already seen one offer turned down for the
West Ham midfielder. But Parker has given West Ham fans the news they wanted
to hear after revealing he will definitely stay at Upton Park. He is now
expected to put pen to paper on his new long-term contract which will come
as major relief to his manager Avram Grant.

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Liverpool set to offer Ryan Babel to West Ham in bid to sign Carlton Cole
Liverpool are understood to have made an official bid to sign Carlton Cole
from West Ham with a deal dependant on the London club acquiring Ryan Babel
in return
Telegraph.co.uk
By Telegraph staff and agencies
Published: 4:05PM BST 31 Aug 2010

Since replacing Rafael Benitez at Anfield, Roy Hodgson has made no secret of
the fact he wanted to sign a new forward and it seems the £10 million-rated
striker is top of his wish-list. According to the Mail, Liverpool were
prepared to pay £7 million for Cole while West Ham wanted the full £10
million but now it seems a straight swap involving Babel could be on the
cards. Completing the deal would being an end to a relatively unsuccessul
transfer window for Hodgson who missed out on signing PSV's Ola Toivonen and
Bayern Munich's Mario Gomez. Meanwhile, Paul Konchesky has been reunited
with former manager Hodgson after finally completing his move to Liverpool
from Fulham. The 29-year-old has signed a four-year contract, with Liverpool
reserve team players Lauri Dalla Valle and Alex Kacaniklic moving in the
opposite direction as part of the deal. Konchesky was at Anfield to watch
his new team's victory over West Brom on Sunday but the completion of his
deal was held up by negotiations and medicals for Dalla Valle and
Kacaniklic. The two-cap former England international, who played under
Hodgson at Fulham, will provide much-needed competition for Fabio Aurelio at
left-back. Emiliano Insua is destined to leave the club, with a proposed
loan to Galatasaray, after an earlier move to Fiorentina collapsed over
personal terms despite the clubs agreeing a fee.

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http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Daily WHUFC News - II 31st August 2010

Obinna has Chelsea in sight
WHUFC.com
With Chelsea up next, Victor Obinna is aiming to give Avram Grant food for
thought in selection
31.08.2010

Victor Obinna is already targeting a "massive game" on Saturday week when
West Ham United welcome old rivals Chelsea to the Boleyn Ground.
Having sealed his high-profile switch from UEFA Champions League holders and
Serie A champions Internazionale, the Nigeria forward will begin work with
his new team-mates this week. He is eager to put himself in the frame for a
debut at the earliest opportunity. "I can't wait to play," he said. "I am
very happy and excited about moving to West Ham, I also want to thank the
coach for choosing me. He has had the confidence to bring me to London and I
think my game will suit the Premier League. I am looking forward to helping
the club move to the next level. "If I can play against Chelsea, it will be
a massive game for me. I know what derby matches mean for the fans and how
it is important to give everything you can. I am sure the atmosphere will be
fantastic."

Obinna, who had a successful spell at Spanish top-flight side Malaga on loan
last season, may be used to the glamorous surroundings of the Giuseppe
Meazza stadium in the San Siro district of Milan but he was no less in awe
of the Boleyn when he made his first visit to east London. "Inter have an
amazing stadium but West Ham have a big culture and a very long history. It
is an impressive stadium with so much history and I am looking forward to
making it my home. I am going to have a nice life here."

Like his fellow Hammers forward Pablo Barrera, Obinna has only just turned
23. Both are part of Avram Grant's vision for a pacy attack that moves
forward with freedom, but in an organised way. At such a young age, it is no
surprise that Obinna turned to a wise old head for some advice about his
move from Inter. "I spoke to the Legend, as we call him in Nigeria for
advice. [Portsmouth striker] Kanu is the king. He said many good things. He
was so excited for me to come here. He gave me some advice before signing
for West Ham and told me to go for it. He encouraged me. He has played under
the manager and said they had a very positive relationship."

He also sounded out his colleagues in the Nigeria set-up, with several like
Joseph Yobo, Yakubu Ayegbeni and John Obi Mikel playing in the Barclays
Premier League. "I have spoken to all of my team-mates in the national team.
They are so excited. "I know about the club, and the expectation here. I
believe West Ham have a good team. Last season they played well at times but
unfortunately didn't always get the results. I believe it will take a little
time but we will be back and show what we can do. It is going to be exciting
and I can't wait to play for the fans."

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Daprela departs
WHUFC.com
Fabio Daprela has joined Italian club Brescia Calcio on a five-year contract
31.08.2010

West Ham United can confirm that Fabio Daprela has joined Italian Serie A
new boys Brescia Calcio on a five-year contract. The paperwork on the
19-year-old left-back's move was finalised on Tuesday morning. He made eight
first-team appearances for the Hammers, making his debut in the 2-1 home FA
Cup third-round defeat by Arsenal on 3 January 2010. Daprela went on to make
four Barclays Premier League starts at the tail-end of last season, but the
return to fitness of DR Congo international Herita Ilunga and the emergence
of first-year professional Jordan Brown have limited his opportunities in
2010/11. The Switzerland Under-21 defender joined West Ham from Grasshoppers
in his home city of Zurich in July 2009. All at West Ham United would like
to wish Fabio well in the future and thank him for his efforts during his 13
months at the club.

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Keep on improving
WHUFC.com
Tony Carr has encouraged young goalkeepers Marek Stech and Sam Cowler to
maintain their progression
31.08.2010

Academy Director Tony Carr has expressed his pride at seeing two young
goalkeeping graduates make the step up to first-team level this month. Czech
Republic Under-21 stopper Marek Stech, who has been with the club for four
seasons, marked his senior competitive debut with a man of the match
performance in the 1-0 Carling Cup second-round victory over Oxford United
last week. Meanwhile, second-year scholar Sam Cowler was included in the
first-team squad for the visits of Bolton Wanderers and Oxford after Hungary
U21 international Peter Kurucz was laid low with a cruciate knee ligament
injury. Stech has been with the club since the age of 16, when he moved to
England from Sparta Prague, and Carr was naturally delighted to see yet
another Academy youngster make the grade. "Marek wasn't technically
homegrown, but he came through the youth team for two years and has now had
an opportunity to show what he's all about. "He produced a creditable
performance against Oxford, did very well and got man of the match. He made
one great save from a long-distance shot. It was all good experience for him
and he can only improve."

Cowler has been with the Hammers since he was a child, working his way up
through the age-group ranks before becoming a scholar in summer 2009.
After battling Peter Loveday and Deniz Mehmet for the U18s No1 jersey last
season, the young goalkeeper faces competition from Mehmet - a Turkey U17
international - as well as first-year scholars David Wootton and Jake
Larkins. Having been part of the first-team picture, albeit for two matches
as injury cover, Carr hopes Cowler will continue to improve this season by
forcing his way into the reserve-team set-up. "Sam was the next in line and
it was a great experience for him. It will have given him a bit of a taste
for the big time and spur him on to want more of it."

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Transfer deadline day: latest
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 31st August 2010
By: Staff Writer

West Ham continue to be linked with a number of players with the transfer
deadline just hours away. All summer dealings must be concluded by 6pm today
- and as a result, a number of clubs are still desperately trying to
finalise deals. United still have their finger in a number of tasty pies -
although much may depend on who leaves the club first. Everton striker
Yakubu remains very much on the radar although any deal is almost certainly
dependent on someone leaving the club first. The most likely departure
would appear to be Carlton Cole - however weekend rumours suggesting that
Liverpool were interested in the 26-year-old were exaggerated, although the
Reds are keeping tabs on the England striker's situation and could move
should other deals not progress as planned.
With Rob Green sidelined for around a fortnight as a result of a minor hip
operation United remain keen to bring in a recognised back up, with Roma's
Brazilian 'keeper Doni the club's main target. There would be no work permit
issue should the deal be concluded as the 30-year-old holds an Italian
passport. Other possibilities for deadline day moves include Everton's
Joseph Yobo whilst the Hammers remain keen on SV Hamburg's Ivorian
international Guy Demel, although nothing has changed on that potential deal
since the weekend.

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Danny Gabbidon urged against Wales retirement
EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIP 2012 QUALIFYING GROUP G - MONTENEGRO V WALES
Venue: City Stadium, Podgorica Date: Friday, 3 September Kick-off: 1830 BST
Coverage: Live commentary on BBC Radio Wales & Radio Cymru, live text
commentary online and score updates on BBC Radio 5 Live and BBC Sport
website. Live on Sky Sports 3

BBC.co.uk

----------------------------------------------------------------------------
----

Wales defender Danny Gabbidon has been urged not to consider international
retirement after pulling out of another national team squad with injury. The
West Ham centre-back withdrew from Wales' Euro 2012 qualifying opener in
Montenegro due to a calf problem. And former team-mate Iwan Roberts fears
Gabbidon, who has played just three times for Wales in three years, maybe
considering international retirement. But former Wales defender Jason Perry
said: "I hope that it doesn't happen."
Roberts fears Gabbidon may follow the example of fellow Premier League
Welshmen Ryan Giggs and Simon Davies and quit Wales to prolong their club
careers. And prior to the 31-year-old withdrawing from the Wales squad to
play Montenegro on Friday, Wales boss John Toshack warned Gabbidon he is no
longer an automatic choice at centre-back due to the emergence of Swansea
City's Ashley Williams and Craig Morgan of Preston. Gabbidon endured a tough
few years due to long-standing problems his thighs, hamstrings, calves and
lower back. But he has battled back from summer surgery to match-fitness to
start in West Ham United's last two Premier League matches - including
Saturday's 3-0 defeat to Manchester United.

Gabbidon, though, he withdrew from Wales' 2012 European Championship
qualification Group G opener in Podgorica due to calf trouble. And his
former Wales colleague Roberts, a BBC Wales pundit, admits: "He has had
plenty of problems over the past few years with injuries and has battled
back to fitness.
"But once again he has had to pull out of a squad. "He has been a great
servant to Welsh football and maybe the time has come where he looks at the
squad and that he may be third or fourth choice centre-half. "And Danny may
think it is time to start thinking of his club career with West Ham and get
himself fully fit."

Gabbidon, who made his Wales debut in a goalless draw against the Czech
Republic in 2002, made a half-an-hour cameo appearance in Wales' 3-0
friendly win against Scotland last November and BBC Wales pundit Perry hopes
his 43rd cap was not Gabbidon's last. "He may not be starting at present
because he has had such a bad time though injuries," said the fellow former
Cardiff City defender. "But he is trying to get back and is certainly an
important member of the Wales squad - and given half the chance with
injuries, he would hold down the centre-back position. "Wales haven't got
masses of quality players and we're a small nation so we need everyone
especially if they play in the Premier league - we can't afford to have
people retiring."

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Duo battle for Babel
Spurs & West Ham target Reds man
Last updated: 31st August 2010
SSN

Skysports.com understands Tottenham and West Ham have made last-ditch moves
for Liverpool's Ryan Babel. It is believed the London duo have contacted
Liverpool to ask about Babel's availability. Liverpool are thought to be
willing to let Babel move on for the right fee as Roy Hodgson looks to
reshape his squad. West Ham have held a long-term interest in Babel and he
has been mentioned in a possible swap deal with Carlton Cole. Tottenham are
thought to have turned their attentions to Babel after missing out on a
number of other top targets. Spurs boss Harry Redknapp is keen to bolster
his attacking options before the transfer window slams shut on Tuesday and
he is thought to be an admirer of Babel. Babel's long-term future at
Liverpool has been the subject of speculation for some time with the
Dutchman struggling to hold down a regular place in the starting XI. Any
move could depend on whether Liverpool can bring in a replacement for Babel
before the close of the window.

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Stoke win battle for Marc Wilson as Portsmouth captain arrives at Britannia
Stadium to complete move
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER
Last updated at 10:21 AM on 31st August 2010
Daily Mail

Stoke City have won the race for Portsmouth captain Marc Wilson after the
Republic of Ireland international arrived at the club to complete
formalities on deadline day. The Potters have been battling for much of the
summer with West Ham and West Brom for the signature of the 23-year-old,
with all three parties having bids in the region of £3million rejected at
some stage. Stoke upped the ante with a cash-plus-players bid involving
Dave Kitson and Liam Lawrence which appears to have won out. Portsmouth had
desperately tried to hold onto Wilson but with the club still blighted by
financial uncertainty they have finally relented in the battle for their
most prized asset. Wilson has been at Pompey since 2004, following four
years in Manchester United's youth ranks. After several caps at Under 21
level for the Republic of Ireland, he earned his first senior call up in
March.

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United sign Payne
Posted on: Tue 31 Aug 2010
Oufc.co.uk

United have further strengthened their squad with the addition of midfielder
Josh Payne on a month's loan from Doncaster Rovers. Josh, 19, is a six foot
tall central midfielder who captained West Ham's under 18 side. He made two
senior appearances for the Hammers as well as having loan spells at
Cheltenham Town, Colchester United, and Wycombe Wanderers Having been
released by West Ham this summer he joined Doncaster Rovers, scoring on his
debut in the Carling Cup against Accrington Stanley: he also scored on his
first appearances for Cheltenham and Wycombe. Boss Chris Wilder is pleased
to have added Josh to his squad: "He's a player we have known about for a
while and was one we looked at in the summer. He likes to get on the ball
and we think he will add something in midfield for us. I spoke about him at
West Ham last week and he was highly thought of there, so he has a good
pedigree and I'm sure he will do well for us."

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Agent: There's a million things West Ham are looking at
Author: Andrew Allen
Posted on:31 August 2010 - 11:18
Sport.co.uk

Renowned football agent Barry Silkman has confirmed that West Ham United are
frantically trying to seal several deals today, but with uncertainty
surrounding so many potential moves it looks as though the Upton Park
faithful will have to keep their fingers crossed ahead of the 6pm transfer
deadline.
The Hammers have been linked with possible moves for Hamburg's Guy Demel and
Portsmouth's Mark Wilson while Tottenham Hotspur's Robbie Keane has been
tipped as a make-weight in a deal taking Scott Parker in the opposite
direction. West Ham currently sit bottom of the table after three
consecutive defeats and with unrest mounting, Avram Grant knows that a
change in fortune must be forthcoming. Speaking exclusively to Sport.co.uk,
agent Silkman stressed that the East End club were doing their utmost to add
to their squad having already signed Pablo Berrera, Thomas Hitzelsperger,
Victor Obinna and Winston Reid. "For me, I'm doing a lot of work for West
Ham at the minute. It's mental," stressed Silkman. "If anything happens I
don't know. They're trying to get a right-back, they're trying to get a
midfield player, possibly a second goalkeeper. There's a million things West
Ham are looking at, I'm not sure what is going to happen. "Everything is up
in the air, to be honest, everything is up in the air."

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West Ham midfielder Behrami must take pay-cut for Palermo move
31.08.10 | tribalfootball.com

West Ham United midfielder Valon Behrami will have to take a pay-cut to seal
a move to Italy. Palermo are chasing the Switzerland international ahead of
today's transfer deadline. However, to make the move happen, Behrami must
accept a major haircut on his Hammers wages.

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Stoke, West Ham linked as Huszti enters Premiership talks
31.08.10 | tribalfootball.com

Zenit St Petersburg midfielder Szabolcs Huszti is in talks with Premiership
clubs. Russian sources say the Hungary international is negotiating a move
to England with a mystery Premiership club. Stoke City and West Ham United
are being linked with Huszti, whose representatives have ties with both
clubs.

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Tottenham Hotspur eye West Ham's Scott Parker in last-ditch transfer window
bid
Tottenham Hotspur are in line to make a last-ditch bid for West Ham's Scott
Parker before the transfer window closes at 6pm today.
Telegraph.co.uk
By Telegraph staff
Published: 8:37AM BST 31 Aug 2010

Despite purchasing Brazil's 21 year-old Sandro from Internacional for £6
million, Tottenham coach Harry Redknapp is understood to want one more
central midfield player to bolster his squad. Redknapp's former club have
already rejected a £7m offer but an improved bid could finally tempt the 29
year-old to north London. Tottenham are also understood to be eyeing Real
Madrid wantaway Lassana Diarra and Inter Milan's Sulley Muntari. Redknapp
could even lure Manchester City striker Emmanuel Adebayor on loan for the
rest of the season. Meanwhile, Tottenham's bid to sign Luis Fabiano failed
on Monday after the Brazil striker signed a new deal with Sevilla, tying him
to the Spanish club until 2013. Redknapp was discouraged by the £25m asking
price.

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West Ham to let Cole go, goalkeeper Doni linked
By Harry Harris, Football Correspondent
August 31, 2010
ESPN

West Ham expect a last minute bid from Liverpool for Carlton Cole after Roy
Hodgson's approach for Fulham's Bobby Zamora was dismissed out of hand by
Mark Hughes. Hodgson wanted to raid his old club again having pushed
through a deal for one of his old boys Paul Konchesky, but talks are
continuing over Cole, with Ryan Babel a potential makeweight in a £12
million deal. A source close to the deal told Soccernet: "The possibility of
Zamora going to Liverpool was a non starter, not even worth going there. But
Liverpool remain interested in Carlton Cole. With Sunderland and Stoke
willing to pay £9 million plus £3 million for add-ons, the Hammers might
have to accept a lesser fee as the England centre-forward will only quit
east London for a big club such as Liverpool. The club are also interested
in signing a goalkeeper and Roma's Brazilian No. 2 Doni is top of their
wishlist. The 30-year-old has been told he can leave Italy with Bogdan
Lobonc and Julio Sergio favoured between the posts for the Serie A side and
could arrive at Upton Park on loan. Doni has also been linked with
Portuguese side Benfica and Manchester City as well.

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Ryan Babel 'to be used in Liverpool's Carlton Cole transfer bid'
Dutch forward Ryan Babel could be used as a makeweight in negotiations
between West Ham and Liverpool over the deadline day transfer of Carlton
Cole.
Metro.co.uk

Could Liverpool use Ryan Babel as a makeweight in their attempts to sign
Carlton Cole from West Ham? Reds boss Roy Hodgson is thought to be
interested in taking Cole to Anfield, especially after the former Fulham
boss failed in his approaches for PSV's Ola Toivonen and Bayern Munich's
Mario Gomez. Hodgson has spoken of his desire to add at least one more
striker to his squad to take the pressure off star man Fernando Torres this
season. And despite the Hammers' desire not to sell their leading hitman,
Cole would welcome a move away from east London to one of the Premier
League's top clubs.
Avram Grant is keen to keep Cole, 26, at Upton Park, but it is thought the
club's owners would be tempted to cash in at the right price. In other news
from the club's training ground at Chadwell Heath, much-discussed midfielder
Scott Parker arrived for this morning's fitness session. However,
speculation continues to surround his future - especially after the player
spent several minutes on his mobile phone while waiting in the car park.
Rumours are currentl circulating he has been in contact with his agent
numerous times over the past few days as offers of big-money moves have come
from several English clubs.

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Defender deal falls through?
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 31st August 2010
By: Staff Writer

West Ham's eleventh hour bid to sign Everton's Joseph Yobo is understood to
have hit a snag. The Nigerian international was linked with a deadline day
switch to the Boleyn Ground - but, according to reports, will not now be
moving south after the deal collapsed. It is thought that United wanted to
take the 30-year-old on loan for the remainder of the season - an offer
rejected by Everton who are said to have only been interested in a permanent
deal.
Yobo is just one of two Everton players the Hammers are keen on landing as
the transfer deadline rapidly approaches; Yobo's fellow Nigerian
international Yakubu, who worked alongside Avram Grant in Israel has been on
West Ham's radar all summer.

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West Ham boosted by Anthony Vanden Borre's U-turn on Hapoel Tel Aviv move
By JOHN EDWARDS
Last updated at 12:36 PM on 31st August 2010
Daily Mail

Avram Grant has been handed an unexpected opportunity of a last-minute
signing after defensive target Anthony Vanden Borre surprisingly changed his
mind over a one-year loan to Hapoel Tel Aviv. The versatile 22-year old, who
can play at right-back or centre-half, flew to Tel Aviv for talks and seemed
certain to sign after indicating a strong interest in being part of their
Champions' League campaign. But Grant, who had Genoa's Belgium international
on loan at Portsmouth last season, was alerted to the possibility of
strengthening West Ham's defence after the deal fell through at the 11th
hour. Borre evidently felt Hapoel's Champions' League run would prove
shortlived, and his Italian agent Dario Ristori appeared to encourage an
approach from West Ham boss Grant by saying: 'Anthony is heading back to
Genoa, but we are certainly not ruling out the prospect of another club
coming in for him before the window closes.'

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West Ham try again for Everton striker Yakubu
31.08.10 | tribalfootball.com

Everton striker Yakubu Aiyegbeni remains a target for West Ham United. The
People says West Ham may go back in for Everton's Yakubu if they sell
Carlton Cole. West Ham have failed in multiple bids for Yakubu so far this
summer.

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Hamburg defender Demel in West Ham talks
31.08.10 | tribalfootball.com

Hamburg defender Guy Demel remains in talks with West Ham United. The People
says Hamburg have made it clear the Ivory Coast international has no future
with them. And Irons boss Avram Grant is offering a three-year contract to
the full-back, who spent a year with Arsenal in 2000.

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West Ham attempt loan deal for Villa fullback Young
31.08.10 | tribalfootball.com

West Ham United are seeking a loan deal for Aston Villa defender Luke Young.
Young has already turned down an offer from Liverpool this summer and scored
the winner in Villa's victory against Everton on Saturday. The Daily Star
Sunday says West Ham are keen to use their final loan slot on Young. The
England international's younger brother, Jake Young, is already on the books
at West Ham.

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Sullivan, Gold buying up more West Ham shares
31.08.10 | tribalfootball.com

West Ham United co-owner David Sullivan is making a killing in his buy up of
club shares. The Guardian says Sullivan and his co-chairman at West Ham
United, David Gold, have increased their stakes in the club by more than 5%
each over the past month. In building his stake to 30.6% from the 25%
Sullivan had held since the former Birmingham City owners' part takeover of
the Upton Park club, he has spent only a little over £2m. In the latest
stake-building exercise the 61-year-old has not spent even half of the
£4.165m he received for the 4.9% of the club's shares he sold to Bjorgolfur
Gudmundsson in November 2006.

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Defender moves to Serie A club
9:24am Tuesday 31st August 2010
Guardian Series

AN up-and-coming young player has walked out of West Ham, the club has
announced. Nineteen year-old Fabio Daprela has signed a five-year deal with
Brescia Calcio, newly promoted into Serie A. The left-back made eight
appearances for the Upton Park from last January.

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Keown: West Ham defender Upson will thrive in England situation
31.08.10 | tribalfootball.com

Arsenal hero Martin Keown believes West Ham United defender Matthew Upson
will thrive in the situation of England's depleted squad. Keown says England
go into their Euro2012 qualifiers with the most inexperienced defence in the
last 20 years. He told the Daily Mail: "I think Matthew Upson will be
pleased to have a break from what is going on at West Ham at the moment. "He
has the most experience among them and so I would start with him and Michael
Dawson, unless Phil Jagielka is fit."

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West Ham close in on Valenciennes fullback Tiene
31.08.10 | tribalfootball.com

West Ham United are attempting to close a deal for Valenciennes fullback
Siaka Tiene. Tiene is a £1.5 million target for the Hammers, though Fulham
are also keen. The Ivory Coast international would arrive at Upton Park as a
replacement for new Brescia signing Fabio Daprela.

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http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Daily WHUFC News - 31st August 2010

Manager on Monday
WHUFC.com
Avram Grant said his team should be judged over ten to 15 games and not just three tough opening fixtures
30.08.2010

Avram Grant is hoping to have new faces in his squad come Tuesday night's closure of the transfer window as the manager reiterated how he is prepared to be patient this season. Although the campaign has started in stuttering fashion, he said the time to judge his squad would be after ten to 15 matches. The fixture list has been unkind to the Hammers - Chelsea are up next on Saturday week - but the manager has positives in the form of those returning after long absences and the addition of half-a-dozen quality players to his options. The first to arrive in the summer was Thomas Hitzlsperger, and the manager is hopeful his influential Germany midfielder will be back sooner rather than later while Nigeria forward Victor Obinna, signed from the UEFA Champions League holders Internazionale, could make his debut against Chelsea. Add Tal Ben Haim and Winston Reid to the defensive mix and help is certainly on the way. "It's only the beginning of the season so we cannot make any conclusions after three weeks," said Grant as he reflected on a 3-0 defeat at a rampaging Manchester United side virtually at full strength on Saturday. "We must wait for 10-15 games to see our direction. "They are a good team, a better team than us for sure but we were in the game in the first half until the [Wayne Rooney] penalty. This is football. Of course we are disappointed but in time it will be better. "There are positives I can take from that. Kieron Dyer did well and with time we will be more organised to help him. We have two weeks to think about Chelsea. "We are trying to bring in new faces. Still we have Obinna, Ben Haim, Reid and Hitzlsperger. Half of the team will be back [including Saturday substitutes Pablo Barrera and Frederic Piquionne] and I hope to have them in the next few weeks. I am sure we will do good things and we are patient. "

Grant has identified his greatest areas of need for strengthening - "we didn't have players in the positions we needed them" - but also reiterated that his players need to focus on the future rather than the past. "Chelsea is a tough fixture and I can't ever remember a team at our level having such tough fixtures at the beginning of the season. But these are fixtures we have been given and, in football, anything can happen. We have two weeks to think about things. We can become stronger. "It's not easy to keep the morale up - especially after last season - but I don't like talking about last year because we do not need to be reminded about it. "It's not easy but I've told the players from the beginning that I want to see their character both when they win and when they lose. It's only the beginning of the season and if we win two games we will be as good as any other team. "Last season things were decided for me off the pitch [Portsmouth] but this year they will be decided on the pitch. It's a big, big difference."

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Daprela on the move
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 30th August 2010
By: Staff Writer No.2

Promising left back Fabio Daprela has left the club for Brescia, according to the Italian club's website. The Swiss U19 international has joined the Serie A side on a five-year deal for an "undisclosed fee". Daprela joined United in July 2009 from Swiss side Grasshoppers, for whom he made his first XI debut at the age of 16. He made only 7 appearances in the claret and blue during the 2009/10 season, despite a long term injury to first-choice left-back Herita Ilunga. Many observers believed that the Swiss youngster showed a great deal of promise on his rare first team outings. However, it appears that this was not a view shared by Avram Grant and the defender follows Alessandro Diamanti on the road to Lombardy.

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Fabio Daprela leaves West Ham for Brescia
BBC.co.uk

Italian side Brescia have signed Swiss defender Fabio Daprela on a permanent deal from West Ham. The 19-year-old has agreed to a five-year contract with Brescia, who have been promoted to Serie A. A statement from the club read: "Brescia announce the acquisition of Fabio Daprela. Daprela has signed a five-year contract." The left-back made seven appearances for West Ham last season, having joined them from Grasshoppers in 2009.

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Harry's Scott to get Parker
The Sun
Published: Today

SPURS will make one final bid for West Ham star Scott Parker. The Hammers are desperate to hold on to their prized midfielder and have already resisted a £7million bid. And even though West Ham boss Avram Grant is a fan of unsettled Spurs striker Robbie Keane, it is unlikely he would be tempted into a swap deal. Midfielder Parker, 30, has been offered a new deal at Upton Park but has yet to put pen to paper. Spurs boss Harry Redknapp missed out on Luis Fabiano after the striker opted to stay at Seville.

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Siaka hoping for Prem switch
Ivorian defender holding out for 'dream' move
By Giscard Gourizro Last updated: 30th August 2010
SSN

Tiene Siaka is hoping to secure a 'dream' move to England, with West Ham and Fulham reported to be keen. The Ivorian full-back is currently on the books of Ligue 1 outfit Valenciennes, but could soon be on his way to the Premier League. Fulham are in the market for a new left-back, with Paul Konchesky set to join Liverpool,while West Ham are still looking to strengthen. German giants Werder Bremen are also understood to be keen on Siaka, but the African ace admits the Premier League would be his preferred destination. "My advisors in England are on top of all the contacts," he told skysports.com. "I am waiting to see what will happen. There is one day to go and anything is possible. "I am a bit nervous but if everything can be put in place, I could fulfil my dream of joining my Ivorian colleagues in England."

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Brescia bag Daprela
Defender signs five-year deal with Italian outfit
Last updated: 30th August 2010
SSN

West Ham United have sold Swiss full-back Fabio Daprela to Serie A new boys Brescia. The 19-year-old has penned a five-year contract with the promoted Italian side after being deemed surplus to requirements by Hammers boss Avram Grant. A statement from the Serie A side read: "Brescia announce the acquisition of Fabio Daprela. Daprela has signed a five-year contract." The left-back, who is currently on international duty with the Switzerland Under-19 squad, made seven appearances for West Ham last season, having joined the Hammers in the summer of 2009 from Grasshoppers.

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Hammers ponder Keane move
Grant would welcome addition of Irish striker to Upton Park ranks
By Chris Burton Last updated: 30th August 2010
SSN

West Ham boss Avram Grant has admitted to holding an interest in Tottenham striker Robbie Keane. The Hammers, who remain pointless three games into the new season, are looking to bring in fresh faces before Tuesday's transfer deadline. Having mustered just one goal in the Premier League so far, it is clear that their shot-shy attack could do with some fine tuning. Grant is well aware of the need to strengthen if possible, providing the club's board make the necessary funds available. Should he receive the kind of backing he requires, he admits that Spurs ace Keanewould be towards the top of his wish list. "The club has big, big debts but he's a player I would like to get," said the Israeli coach.

Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp has been quick to play down any suggestion that Keane could be moved on over recent weeks, maintaining that the Irishman remains an integral part of his plans. "I wouldn't accept an offer for Robbie Keane before the window shuts, not at the moment," he said. "We haven't got anybody else. I couldn't afford to let him go."

However, having been restricted to just two substitute outings in all competitions so far this season, the experienced frontman may welcome the opportunity to leave White Hart Lane, either on a short-term deal or in a permanent switch. Keane took in a productive loan spell at Celtic last season and could be tempted by a similar agreement in 2010/11.

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Spurs in last-ditch bid for Parker
Published 22:30 30/08/10 By Darren Lewis
The Mirror

Tottenham have made a new bid to sign Scott Parker from West Ham. The north Londoners remain sufficiently encouraged - by Parker's reluctance to sign the new five-year-deal on the table for him at Upton Park - to try again for his services. But the Hammers have again rejected the offer from their London rivals, understood to be £8million plus right-back Alan Hutton. Spurs have included the Scot in the deal because they are well aware that West Ham are desperate to fill their right-back slot. But the Hammers are more keen to do a sizeable cash deal. Parker, 30, is seen as central to Avram Grant's plans at the Boleyn. But Spurs boss Harry Redknapp has publicly admitted his is a big fan and has already had an £8m bid turned down. The offer sparked fury within the Hammers boardroom with the club accusing Spurs of unsettling their captain. It is believed, however, that Parker IS keen to play Champions League football with own club without a win, or even a point for all their expenditure during the summer.

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Tottenham miss out on £7million Scott Parker and unsettled Everton star Steven Pienaar
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER
Last updated at 2:42 AM on 31st August 2010
Daily Mail

Harry Redknapp has failed with bids for unsettled Everton midfielder Steven Pienaar and West Ham's Scott Parker. Pienaar is in the final year of his contract, but Tottenham's offer was described as derisory by Everton. The Goodison Park club have expressed an interest in a loan for Wolfsburg's Brazilian forward Grafite but are unlikely to get a work permit before the transfer deadline. West Ham underlined their desire to keep Parker after rejecting a fresh £7million bid from Tottenham. Hammers manager Avram Grant is trying to sign Ivory Coast left back Siaka Tiene, 28, for £1.5m but Swiss defender Fabio Daprela has joined Brescia. Fulham are back in for Monaco striker Eidur Gudjohnsen.

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Spurs to make new bid for Scott Parker, offering Robbie Keane as bait
Tottenham keen to sign midfielder and will make improved offer
Parker 'not for sale at any price' said West Ham after first bid
David Hytner
guardian.co.uk, Monday 30 August 2010 23.01 BST

West Ham have offered Scott Parker an improved deal which he has yet to sign. Harry Redknapp will test West Ham United's resolve over Scott Parker by making a renewed attempt to sign him from Upton Park before the closure of the transfer window. The Tottenham Hotspur manager is expected to offer the striker Robbie Keane to sweeten the deal. Redknapp wants another body in central midfield, even though he has signed the 21-year-old Brazil midfielder Sandro from Internacional for £6m, and he has looked at Parker, Lassana Diarra of Real Madrid and Internazionale's Sulley Muntari. Redknapp has already seen a £7m bid for Parker turned down but, in keeping with the Tottenham strategy of going down to the wire on deadline day, he is ready to go back to West Ham, his former club, with an improved offer. He knows that Parker, West Ham's captain and key player, would welcome the chance to consider the move, despite its potential for acrimony, yet there is resistance to the sale at boardroom level at Upton Park. When the club's co-chairman David Sullivan rejected Tottenham's £7m offer at the end of July, he was categorical on the situation. "I made a promise that I would not sell Scott and I will not, for any amount of money, break that promise to the West Ham supporters," he said. "Scott is not for sale at any price, to anyone."

Parker has three years to run on his West Ham contract and the club have offered him a lucrative new five-year deal, which he has not yet signed. Keane has grown frustrated at his fringe role at Tottenham and Avram Grant, the West Ham manager, is on record as saying that he likes the Ireland striker.
Redknapp watched one of his attacking targets, the Sevilla striker Luís Fabiano, commit his future to his current employers by signing a two-year contract extension today. Redknapp had admitted that the Brazil international was "a player I like" but Tottenham were put off by Sevilla's valuation. "One year left on his contract, in excess of £24m-£25m for a 29-year-old – the figures don't stack up," Redknapp said.

The Tottenham winger Aaron Lennon will see a specialist tomorrow about an ankle problem that has bothered him of late. He has been left out of the England squad for the upcoming Euro 2012 qualifiers against Bulgaria and Switzerland. West Ham hope to conclude a loan deal for the Everton centre-half Joseph Yobo. Fabio Daprelà, the 19-year-old Swiss defender, has left West Ham to sign a five‑year deal with the Italian club Brescia.

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Palermo Set Sights On West Ham Midfielder Valon Behrami - Report
Palermo have turned their focus back on West Ham's Valon Behrami.
By Rick D'Andrea
Aug 30, 2010 11:46:00 PM
Goal.com

Palermo have turned their focus back onto West Ham midfielder Valon Behrami, hoping to sign the player prior to the end of the transfer window.
The Rosanero were interested in the Swiss international during the winter transfer window, but were unable to land the player,according to Palermo24.net.
Roma wished to acquire the services of the former Lazio player on a season-long deal, but the Hammers rejected the notion, preferring to only sell him.
The side are seeking €4 million for the 25-year-old. The player are his agent currently find themseves in Milan, hoping to finalise a deal prior to the transfer deadline.

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Everton FC defender Yobo could be set for West Ham loan move
Aug 31 2010 by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post

EVERTON are considering allowing Joseph Yobo to join West Ham United on loan. The Hammers have contacted their Goodison counterparts about the possibility of taking centre-back Yobo on a temporary deal before the transfer window closes at 6pm today. Follow our transfer deadline day live blog by clicking here. And the London club have not given up their interest in Yobo's Nigerian counterpart Yakubu, although they would have to improve their previous best bid of £6million for the striker. Yobo, though, has become West Ham's priority as manager Avram Grant looks to plug a defence that has leaked nine goals in three Premier League games to leave the Hammers bottom of the table. The defender, who is 30 next week, has not been involved for Everton since returning from the World Cup and has made just three starts this calendar year. And with Phil Jagielka, Sylvain Distin and John Heitinga all ahead of Yobo in the centre-back pecking order, David Moyes may allow the player to leave on loan.
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Grant : I'm not worried yet
The Sun
Published: Today

AVRAM GRANT insists there is no need for rock-bottom West Ham to hit the panic button. The Hammers have lost all three of their opening Premier League games and face champions Chelsea next. But Grant is adamant a defeat against the Blues at Upton Park on September 11 will not be a disaster. He said: "It's only the beginning of the season, so we cannot make any conclusions after three weeks. "We must wait for 10 to 15 games to see our direction. "Chelsea is a tough fixture and I can't ever remember a team at our level having such tough fixtures at the beginning of the season. "But these are fixtures we have been given and, in football, anything can happen. "We have two weeks to think about things. We can become stronger."

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Tottenham launch renewed bid for Scott Parker
ESPN Soccernet staff
August 30, 2010
ESPN

Tottenham have made another attempt to sign West Ham midfielder Scott Parker, though the offer - believed to be around £7 million - is not substantial enough to convince the Hammers to sell. Soccernet understands that Spurs have made a new enquiry for Parker just ahead of transfer deadline day, putting a cash plus player deal on the table - with Jermaine Jenas or Robbie Keane likely to be those players offered as makeweights. However, there are a multitude of problems for Spurs trying to clinch a deal for Parker, mainly because his current employers believe the north Londoners are way off the mark with their valuation of the player. Parker has agreed a new five-year contract at Upton Park, but as yet hasn't actually signed it, and Harry Redknapp is still keen on a ball-winning midfield player having become concerned about the form of Wilson Palacios. A West Ham insider informed Soccernet of the new approach on Monday, but the Hammers are incensed that Spurs are continuing to try to lure him away and will not even begin to think about letting Parker leave until a significantly increased offer is put forward.

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Daprela Off On a Free: Staggering
West Ham Till I Die

I can hardly believe I am writing this, but West Ham have let Fabio Daprela join Brescia (Nani's new home) on a free. Daprela was a brilliant young prospect who cost us £1 million when we signed him 18 months ago. His debut against Arsenal was sensational and I could never understand how Zola seemed to prefer Spector to him when Ilunga was injured. I have to say I am dreading the next 24 hours. I'm now convinced we will let Parker join Spurs.

UPDATE: Some people are suggesting we got a fee for Daprela. If that were the case, I suspect it would have been trumpeted on the official site by now.

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Spurs set to offer Keane in bid to sign Parker
Soccernet staff
August 31, 2010
ESPN

Tottenham are set to make a deadline day bid for West Ham's Scott Parker as Harry Redknapp looks to strengthen his Champions League squad before the transfer window closes on Tuesday. Spurs had a £7million bid rejected previously but Redknapp is reportedly willing to offer striker Robbie Keane as part of a cash plus player package. West Ham manager Avram Grant is reluctant to let Parker go. The 30-year-old midfielder was in inspired form in the late stages of last season as the Hammers narrowly avoided relegation. And West Ham co-chairman David Sullivan has promised supporters he will not Parker at any price when knocking back Spurs' initial offer. With mega-spenders Manchester City having completed their transfer activity for the summer, few major purchases are expected on deadline day, with loan moves and swap deals more likely.

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West Ham join race for Tottenham's Robbie Keane but Harry Redknapp needs a replacement first
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER
Last updated at 12:45 PM on 30th August 2010
Daily Mail

West Ham have joined the race to sign out-of-favour Tottenham striker Robbie Keane. Fitness concerns over leading man Carlton Cole as well as Benni McCarthy and new boy Frederic Piquionne, have forced Hammers boss Avram Grant into a desperate search around the transfer market for a striker. West Ham are pointless in the Premier League and have found the net only twice all season, with one of those coming from the penalty spot. The club secured a loan deal for Inter Milan forward Victor Obinna last week but Grant would rather deploy the Nigerian out wide. And after missing out on the likes of Thierry Henry, Yakubu, Loic Remy and Roque Santa Cruz, Grant's search has bought him back to London, and to the unsettled Keane. But he admits financial constraints may prevent him beating the likes of Aston Villa and Newcastle to the Irishman's signature. The club has big, big debts but he's a player I would like to get,' said the Israeli coach. Any deal for Keane depends on Tottenham's own recruitment plans. The London club want to bring another body in up front before they let Keane go. Luis Fabiano has been mooted as a potential target after Sevilla missed out on a spot in the Champions League. Manager Harry Redknapp, though, claims no deal either way is close. 'I wouldn't accept an offer for Robbie Keane before the window shuts, not at the moment,' he said. 'We haven't got anybody else. I couldn't afford to let him go.' Keane has made just two substitute appearances for Spurs this season, continuing his indifferent form. The Irishmen appeared rejuvenated by a loan spell at Celtic in the second half of the campaign and Neil Lennon is another keen to rekindle the relationship.

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West Ham keeper Stech ponders loan exit
30.08.10 | tribalfootball.com

West Ham United goalkeeper Marek Stech admits he could move away on-loan. The Czech Republic Under-21 international was handed a debut in the Carling Cup win against Oxford and was awarded the man-of-the-match award. And, with Peter Kurucz picking up an injury, it looks unlikely Stech will be allowed to leave unless a new keeper is brought in by Hammers boss Avram Grant ahead of Tuesday's deadline. "When I spoke with Mr Grant, he said I had a great talent and he would like to give me somewhere to play," Stech, 20, told the press in his homeland. "Maybe in the second or third league, where I could play two games each week. "So certainly there were rumours that a keeper would be bought as a deputy [to Green] and I was sent out on loan.
"But I still don't know how things stand."

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http://vyperz.blogspot.com