West Ham United have made their first acquisition of the summer with the arrival of Holmar Orn Eyjolfsson
04.07.2008
West Ham United have signed Iceland Under-21 central defender Holmar Orn Eyjolfsson on a long-term contract from HK Kopavogur.
The 17-year-old first spent a week on trial at Chadwell Heath back in February having caught the eye as he rapidly rose through the Icelandic youth ranks. Eyjolfsson, who has featured regularly for HK since making his debut at the age of 16, has long attracted the attention of some of Europe's leading clubs but was delighted to make the switch to join Alan Curbishley's squad.
"I am really happy to sign for West Ham," he said after his first day at training with his new team-mates on Friday, having arrived in east London last night and passed a medical. "I have heard of many good players that have come from the club's academy. When I was on trial in February I really enjoyed the tempo and style of training and it helped me take my talent to the next level.
"It is obviously very scary to move away from my family but it is my dream to play in England and what I have always wanted to do so that outweighs any apprehension I had about moving here. Playing for the [Iceland] Under-21s has been the best experience for me and I am so grateful to the coach for giving me that opportunity as it has helped me develop my game so much quicker. I am sure that is part of the reason West Ham signed me."
Eyjolfsson made his competitive debut at U21 level last November and had an instant impact, helping Iceland to their first win of the 2009 European Championship campaign with a 2-1 success in Belgium. Despite his young age - he only turns 18 next month - he has four U21 caps and is set to continue at that level for his country with two qualifiers still to play in September.
Capped previously at U16 and U17 level, Eyjolfsson was a star man at the 2007 European U17 Championship and although Iceland failed to make it beyond the group stage was named by UEFA as one of the players to watch in future. Those finals in Belgium also saw him show his versatility as he played in a holding midfield role, although he prefers to play at the back.
His father Eyjólfur Gjafar Sverrisson is a former Icelandic international who was capped 66 times by his country and enjoyed an illustrious playing career with Stuttgart, Besiktas and Hertha Berlin. In the Bundesliga alone, he played 251 games and scored 30 goals. He also went on to have a spell in charge of the Iceland team and, like his son, could play in both defence and midfield.
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Stech signs five-year deal - WHUFC
Czech youth international goalkeeper Marek Stech has agreed a new long-term contract with the club
04.07.2008
West Ham United are pleased to confirm that highly-rated goalkeeper Marek Stech has signed a new contract that will take him up to summer 2013.
The Czech Republic youth international has been at the Boleyn Ground for two years and is tipped to be one of the next talented players to rise from the Academy ranks to the first-team squad. Stech, 18, came to prominence in the 2006 European Under-17 Championship when he helped his country to the final of the prestigious UEFA tournament. He underlined his potential last season with some strong displays for the reserves.
"I am really pleased with the new contract," Stech said. "I am looking forward to the season. I am so happy I have signed for five years. It is great for me and a good opportunity." The shot-stopper is hoping to emulate compatriot Petr Cech, who has established himself as one of the leading keepers in the game but knows he faces a tough challenge to challenge first-choice Robert Green. "The aim is to get in the first team. We have just started back training and I have to work hard and push the other goalkeepers."
Stech, who at 6'4 is still growing, had particular praise for Academy director Tony Carr and goalkeeping coach Ludek Miklosko, with the latter setting the clear example to follow as a former West Ham United favourite from the Czech Republic. "Tony is a great coach and he has given me some opportunities. That has been great and he is a good man. Ludo is unbelievable. He is a nice person and he helps me every day and explains what he wants. I dream of following him, hopefully. That is why I am here."
Although living away from his family, Stech has fully settled at the club. "I feel like I am at home. Everyone at the club is good to me and I love it here. The boys are great so I just love it. I never have any problems. It is great." He added that one thing spurring him on is the chance to play in front of a packed Boleyn Ground. "The fans mean so much for me. Every game I get goosebumps hearing them. They are unbelievable. I just want to play here for them and show what I can do."
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Ashton happy to be back - WHUFC
A shorter summer break than most has not worried Dean Ashton, instead leaving him ready for more
07.07.2008
Dean Ashton is relishing being back in pre-season and has no qualms about the fact he has had a shorter break than most of his team-mates.
"Because I started my summer a bit later than everyone else I haven't had as long as I had hoped but I have managed to rest up as much as I can," said the 24-year-old striker, who was glad not to get a chance to rest until after his debut against Trinidad and Tobago on 1 June. "The experience with England was worth getting a shorter summer for as it is obviously one of my aims to be a regular with the international set-up."
Ashton is also not worried about the intensity of pre-season training. He said: "It is nice to get back because everything is fresh and new. No one loves the first day of pre-season because you have been resting so you don't feel as fit. It is hard work to get back into it and you feel a bit stiff, but a few double sessions with the coaches and that is soon gone. Pre-season is always a tough time but after a few years in the game you know what to expect now. It is going to be hard but you have to get through it."
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Hammers sign Icelandic defender - BBC
West Ham have signed Iceland Under-21 defender Holmar Orn Eyjolfsson on a long-term contract from HK Kopavogur. The 17-year-old, who is the son of former Icelandic international Eyjolfur Gjafar Sverrison, had a week-long trial with the Hammers last season. "It is my dream to play in England so that outweighs any apprehension I had about moving here," he said. Meanwhile, 18-year-old Czech goalkeeper Marek Stech has signed a new five-year contract with the club.
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Holmar deal confirmed - KUMB
Filed: Friday, 4th July 2008
By: Staff Writer
West Ham have finally confirmed the capture of teenager Holmar Orn Eyjolfsson. The 17-year-old centre-half/midfielder put pen to paper on an unspecified 'long-term' contract earlier today after arriving in London last night. He joined his new team mates at Chadwell Heath this morning for his first session as a United employee. Talking to whufc.com, Eyjolfsson said: "I am really happy to sign for West Ham. I have heard of many good players that have come from the club's academy. "It is obviously very scary to move away from my family but it is my dream to play in England and what I have always wanted to do so that outweighs any apprehension I had about moving here. "Playing for the under-21s has been the best experience for me and I am so grateful to the coach for giving me that opportunity as it has helped me develop my game so much quicker. I am sure that is part of the reason West Ham signed me."
KUMB.com revealed back in February how Eyjolfsson had spent a week on loan with the club. A deal was struck back in April but it was only last week that Eyjolfsson's former club, HK, announced that he was departing for West Ham United.
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Five stretch for Stech - KUMB
Filed: Friday, 4th July 2008
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United's young Czech goalkeeper Marek Stech has signed a new contract with the club. The 18-year-old stopper has put pen to paper on a new five-year-deal, and told whufc.com: "I am really pleased with the new contract. It is great for me and a good opportunity. I feel like I am at home. "Everyone at the club is good to me and I love it here. The boys are great and I never have any problems. It is great."
Stech - who was discovered by his mentor, goalkeeping coach Ludo Miklosko - had special praise for his idol who, he says, he wishes to one day emulate.
"Ludo is unbelievable. He is a nice person and he helps me every day and explains what he wants. I dream of following him, hopefully. That is why I am here." The youngster's dreams could come true sooner than later should United's current reserve goalkeeper Richard Wright leave the club this summer, as is widely expected.
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Hammers to discover opponents - KUMB
Filed: Friday, 4th July 2008
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United will learn who they will face in the MLS AllStars XI next Thursday. A press conference is being staged at Toronto's BMO Field next Thursday, July 10th at 11:00am local time (4:00pm GMT) to unveil the first section of United's opponents - voted for by American football fans, coaches and pundits. The first eleven players will be announced during the press conference whilst team manager, New England's Steve Nicol will add a further five and MLS commissioner Don Garber the final two slots to the 18-man squad. The fans' vote - which accounts for 25% of the entire first XI choice - was topped by LA Galaxy's David Beckham and Landon Donovan, Chicago's Cuauhtémoc Blanco, Houston's Dwayne De Rosario and Columbus Crew's Frankie Hejduk. Coaches get another 25% of the vote as do the MLS players and, bizarrely perhaps, the media.
* You can watch next week's live press conference by tuning into mlsnet.com at 4:00pm (GMT) on Thursday afternoon. Those in North America can watch the game live on ESPN, Telefutura and CBC (Canada). Setanta have acquired the UK/European rights.
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Fitter, happier - KUMB
Filed: Friday, 4th July 2008
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United's Scott Parker says he can't wait for the new season to kick off. Parker returned to training at Chadwell Heath yesterday along with the majority of the first team squad. And now that he has finally recovered from his string of injury woes last season, the former Charlton midfielder says that he can't wait for the new term to kick off. "The season ended a bit short for me really as I was making good progress after the stop-start season," he told whufc.com. "Towards the end I got plenty of games and got where I needed to be. Hopefully from there I can push on this season and can build on that.
"I have had a good break. I went away with the family and just chilled out really. Nowadays you still have to do a bit of fitness in the close-season with the way the game is today and the games coming in such quick succession. "I don't really look forward to it as it is four weeks of running around and very hard work but it is obviously nice to see all the lads and catch up. It was especially good to come back and train with a near enough fit squad which is one thing we need to try to maintain this season."
Parker was restricted to just 19 starts in all competitions last season after suffering a succession of injuries. Strained knee ligaments last July - sustained just a matter of weeks after joining the club - kept him out of action until the end of September. After just two appearances he suffered a recurrence of the injury in the 1-0 home defeat against Arsenal at the end of September. The 28-year-old made his second comeback in the 1-1 draw at Tottenham in November but lasted just a month before damaging the knee again, in the home win against Manchester United. Just over two months later he returned for the 4-0 defeat at Spurs and played in every game thereafter.
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TV schedules next week - KUMB
Filed: Friday, 4th July 2008
By: Staff Writer
Sky and Setanta are set to announce their Premier League TV schedules early next week. Irish based channel Setanta Sports are set to confirm their full 2008/09 season line-up this weekend, whilst Sky Sports are expected to follow suit on Monday (7th July). The only fixtures currently confirmed for live broadcast by either channel are pre-season friendlies. West Ham United's clash with the MLS AllStars on Thursday, 24th July is the only Hammers fixture currently scheduled for live coverage (Setanta). A schedule currently in circulation (as published previously on KUMB.com's forum) is purely speculative; supporters are advised not to make arrangements until the real schedules are published.
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Sears: an unbelievable year - KUMB
Filed: Friday, 4th July 2008
By: Staff Writer
Hammers striker Freddie Sears has been talking about his 'unbelievable' year ahead of the forthcoming under-19 European Championships. Sears - who will be on duty in the Czech Republic along with fellow Hammer James Tomkins when England's campaign kicks off on July 14th - has become a household name since scoring on his first team debut against Blackburn last season. The young Hammer admitted that it has been something of a whirlwind, but told thefa.com he can't wait to get playing again. "It's been unbelievable what has happened," he said. "To come into the team at West Ham and score a goal and then start playing a few games. "I didn't really see it happening at the start of the season when I broke my ankle, but it was a great way to end the season so it's a shame that it's ended. "[Alan Curbishley] spoke to me and [James] Tomkins and said 'go away with England and do your best and then come back and be ready for the start of the season'. "But with the finals, it's like a way to end the season off and then start the new one really."
Sears is expected to front England's attack in the Czech Republic, and will be hoping to continue the good form that saw him score a vital brace against Poland in the Elite Round qualifiers in May.
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Bellamy ready for big season - SSN
Hammers striker hoping for European football
Last updated: 6th July 2008
Craig Bellamy is expecting a 'real big season' as he looks to help West Ham United qualify for Europe. The Welsh striker endured an injury-plagued debut campaign at Upton Park and was restricted to just eight Premier League appearances. However, Bellamy is now fit again and is confident he can improve upon his first season with the Hammers. "I believe every season I want to keep getting better," Bellamy told Sky Sports News. "Obviously, considering what happened last season it shouldn't be too hard to do much better in this season coming up. "I'm expecting a real big season from me and I'm expecting it from the club as well."
The Hammers squad as a whole was affected by injuries last term and Bellamy feels there is the potential to achieve a Uefa Cup spot. He added: "The ambition really is to get into Europe. We finished 10th with a lot of players out last season. "If you look at the points difference we weren't too many points away from Europe. "We believe, with the players back and with the squad we have already got who played most of last season, we can definitely improve on last season. With a couple of points we shouldn't be too far away from Europe."
Bellamy has changed clubs in the previous three summers, but the 28-year-old says he is at West Ham for the long haul. "I know I've got four more years here," he continued. "I'm really committed. "I signed for five years and I fully expect to see those five years out. I have four more years to play some of the best football of my career I hope."
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Ferdinand future uncertain - SSN
Defender holds talks; Noble rubbishes exit rumours
By James Dall Last updated: 5th July 2008
West Ham United defender Anton Ferdinand is unsure of where his future lies despite holding talks with manager Alan Curbishley. The centre-back has been linked with a summer transfer away from Upton Park, with Aston Villa and Newcastle United believed to be interested. Ferdinand, 23, has insisted he is content with The Hammers, but admits his future remains unclear. "I don't know what is happening. I am happy at West Ham and until I get told I am not a West Ham player I remain a West Ham player," he told Sky Sports News. "Hopefully that will get resolved soon. I had a little chat with him (Curbishley) this morning, which went well and now we are looking to see where we can go from here."
Meanwhile, midfielder Mark Noble has rubbished recent press reports linking him with a move to Arsenal. "Talk about the way I play is flattering, but I want to concentrate on West Ham," the 21-year-old said. When asked if he was set to join Arsenal this summer, Noble replied: "No, I think it is just rumours. I am happy where I am."
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Gala lodge Neill bid - SSN
Turkish side make offer for Hammers defender
By Graeme Bailey Last updated: 4th July 2008
Skysports.com understands that Galatasaray have made an offer for West Ham defender Lucas Neill. The ambitious Turkish side already claim to have captured Harry Kewell, who has been released by Liverpool, despite the winger's agent insisting a deal has yet to be agreed. And they have now set their sights on an Australian double with Neill emerging as a top target. The 30-year-old moved to Upton Park from Blackburn in January 2007 and in his first few months at the club played a key role in their escape from the Premier League relegation zone. He was made captain last summer and again impressed in 2007/08, but West Ham may be tempted by Galatasaray's bid. Neill is one of West Ham's highest earners and club bosses are contemplating whether to let him head to Turkey.
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Bilic and Stimac stays at Upton Park are inspiration for Hammers target Tadic - Daily Mail
By Sportsmail Reporter Last updated at 10:36 AM on 04th July 2008
West Ham are considering a move for young Croatian star Josip Tadic. The 20-year-old striker produced some outstanding displays for Dinamo Zagreb last season, catching the eye of Hammers scouts. Tadic said: 'It would be nice to play for the club where Croatian legends Slaven Bilic and Igor Stimac once played. 'I am very surprised - in a positive way, of course.' Tadic is an Under-21 international who was not included in Bilic's squad for Euro 2008, where Croatia reached the quarter-finals. His contract with Dinamo runs out in the summer of 2011.
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West Ham looking at £6.5m Liverpool winger - Orlando Sentinel
Posted by Brant Parsons on Jul 5, 2008 4:40:00 AM
Jermaine Pennant might be looking for more first-team action - if that's the case, he might want to look at West Ham. That's what at least one report out there is saying. The 25-year-old has made over 50 appearances for the Merseyside club since joining following stints at Arsenal and Birmingham City (along with loans to Watford and Leeds).
Rumor rating
This doesn't make sense for all that we've heard out of West Ham this summer. Cutting wages and getting character guys doesn't gel with Pennant.
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Turks 'make bid' for skipper Neill - TeamTalk
Galatasaray have reportedly made an offer for West Ham defender Lucas Neill, who could be allowed to leave in order to free up funds. The ambitious Turkish side have already captured Harry Kewell, who has been released by Liverpool. And they have now set their sights on an Australian double with Neill emerging as a top target. The 30-year-old moved to Upton Park from Blackburn in January 2007 and in his first few months at the club played a key role in their escape from the Premier League relegation zone. He was made captain last summer and again impressed in 2007/08, but West Ham may be tempted by Galatasaray's bid. Neill is one of West Ham's highest earners and club bosses are contemplating whether to let him head to Turkey.
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Wheels turn on Ferrari/West Ham rumours - Setanta
by Ben Blackmore, 05 July 2008
West Ham are closing in on the capture of Roma defender Matteo Ferrari, according to reports in Italy. Ferrari has become dismayed by his lack of playing opportunities at Stadio Olimpico, where he has rejected a new contract offer from the Giallorossi. It is believed the former Everton defender has given up on staying in Serie A, after Fiorentina declared they would not make any more summer signings. West Ham could well find themselves requiring a new right back, with reports linking Lucas Neill to Galatasaray – where he would link up with compatriot Harry Kewell. As a result, The Hammers have reportedly offered Ferrari a four-year contract, worth £1.9 million-per-year.
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Italian Ace Defender ready to sign with West Ham - Cmon Yu Irons
July 5, 2008
The Italian media have said that The Roma defender Matteo Ferrari is waiting for a respectable offer from West Ham so that he may join up with the Hammers if and when Lucas Neill decides to join Galatasary with long time friend Harry Kewell. It is beleived that West ham will be making a wage offer of around £1.9m a year or just under £40k a week.
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Noble Not Interested In Arsenal - Goal.com
Quite how much truth there was to the initial speculation aside, Noble has declared his loyalty to hometown club West Ham by shrugging off interest from Arsenal. Noble, 21, was mooted as a replacement for Mathieu Flamini, who left the Gunners on a free transfer for Milan. The youngster, who had loan spells at Hull City and Ipswich Town in 2006, was flattered but spoken for when confronted about the speculation. "Talk about the way I play is flattering, but I want to concentrate on West Ham," he said, according to Sky Sports. And when asked directly about a move to Arsenal, he answered: "No, I think it is just rumours. I am happy where I am."
Chet Winter, Goal.com
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Ferrari heading for the Hammers? Sunday 6 July, 2008 - Channel4
Former Roma defender Matteo Ferrari could be set for a second stab at the Premier League with West Ham. The Italian international is effectively a free agent after refusing to extend his contract with the Giallorossi. There was some interest from Fiorentina and Milan, but the Serie A options seem to be thin on the ground. Instead he could accept a four-year-contract from West Ham that is reportedly worth almost £2m per season. It would be a return to British shores for Ferrari, who disappointed in the 2005-06 campaign with Everton. He made just eight appearances that term on loan from Roma and it remains his only overseas experience. The 28-year-old started his career at Inter in 1996-97, but travelled through Genoa, Lecce, Bari and Parma before settling at the Olimpico. However, he has had precious little first team football over the past year with only 16 Serie A games.
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Lightning Quick Lazio Winger in Demand: West Ham Lead Spurs, Everton, Aston Villa & Newcastle in the Race for Euro 2008 Star! - footballpools.com
The latest in a long line of potential West Ham signings is Swiss midfielder come defender Valon Behrami. The 23-year-old Lazio player would reportedly cost a fee of approximately £9million if the Hammers do wish to add him to their ranks.
The Kosovo-born player has been playing in Italy for the past 5 seasons at Genoa, Verona and now the Rome giants Lazio. He can play on either flank but is mainly used on the right by his club either at full-back or on the wing. If he does sign, the right-hand side of the Swiss national team will have a Premier League feel to it now full-back Philipp Degen has joined Liverpool.
In 3 seasons in Rome, Behrami has played 65 League games and scored 4 goals. He is one of the stars of the disappointing Swiss national side and has 19 caps and two international goals to his name.
The 6 ft 1 player has been heavily linked to the Premier League on a number of occasions with Tottenham seriously tracking the player though their interest seems to have switched to David Bentley this summer. However, with so many clubs in the chase for the Blackburn winger it would be of no surprise if the North London club reignited their long-term interest in the Lazio star. Everton, Aston Villa and Newcastle are all looking to strengthen the right-hand flanks of their respective line-ups so it's unlikely the Hammers will have the negotiations all their own way.
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Ivan Klasnic: Euro 2008 Star Striker in Demand: Wigan, West Ham, Sunderland & Bolton in Chase! - footballpoools.com
Wigan manager Steve Bruce and West Ham manager Alan Curbishley are reportedly leading the race to sign Croatian Euro 2008 striker Ivan Klasnic. The 28-year-old is available on a free transfer after his contract expired at Werder Bremen despite the Bundesliga club's attempts to keep him.
Klasnic made two appearances for his nation at Euro 2008 and scored in both (against Poland & Turkey). His record at international level is almost 1 goal in every 3 games (31 appearances & 10 goals) so he has some pedigree. The striker has played his entire career in Germany which is unsurprising as he was born and raised in Hamburg. He even turned down advances from the Germans to play for them in favour of the country of his parents birth Croatia.
He began his professional career with St Pauli where he scored 26 League goals in 95 appearances before joining Werder Bremen in 2001. His first few seasons were hampered by 2 long-term knee injuries as well as poor form as Klasnic scored just 3 goals in 36 League appearances (6 starts). However, he returned to form with 13 League goals as Werder won the 2003/04 Bundesliga title. The Croatian followed this up with 10 goals in 2004/05 and 15 in 2005/06 before lack of form and then Kidney failure in January 2007 looked set to end his career. Klasnic's mother acted as donor but unfortunately his body rejected the organ. A second operation this time with a kidney from his father was successful and after a 6-month absence he returned to the Werder side.
Last season he scored 7 League goals in 16 appearances (9 starts) and broke back into the Croatian national team after a year-long absence. Klasnic is now back to full fitness and available on a free transfer so would surely be worth a gamble for numerous Premier League clubs in need of strikers. The Latics and West Ham have reportedly opened negotiations for the player but the likes of Bolton, Sunderland and French club Nantes are also chasing the striker.
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Hammers eye Silvestre - manchestereveningnews.co.uk
6/ 7/2008
MIKAEL Silvestre is being linked with a move to West Ham after Bordeaux gave up the fight to land the United defender. The Frenchman has been told he can leave Old Trafford this summer and is considering a move to Italians Roma, while Club America of Mexico are also interested in him. A sticking point for any move would be the testimonial Silvestre would be entitled to at Old Trafford next year. He is understood to be seeking wages of around £60,000 a week to end his time at United and it remains to be seen if West Ham would be willing to meet those demands. Curbishley is on the lookout for defensive cover with Anton Ferdinand expected to leave this summer. United would be looking for around £2m if Silvestre was to leave.
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Turkish giant now has eyes for Neill
Peter Kogoy | July 07, 2008
SOCCEROOS defender Lucas Neill has joined Harry Kewell on the wish list of Turkish champion Galatasaray, according to weekend reports in the British press. The West Ham United captain will be offered a lucrative deal to head to Turkey, according to The Daily Mail. West Ham's Icelandic owners are said to be looking to slash their wage bill. Neill, reportedly the Hammers' top earner on $170,000 a week, could be considered excess baggage after the club signed defender Homar Orn Eyjolfsson. But Neill's Australian agent and a key figure in a proposed second Sydney A-League team, Paddy Dominguez, rejected media speculation that Neill was about to be off-loaded. "It doesn't make sense that a manager who brought Lucas to the club and has installed him as captain would look to sell him," Dominguez said. "It would be very strange. Lucas' relationship with Alan Curbishley is good and he is relishing the role of captain."
Kewell's manager Bernie Mandic last night revealed former Socceroo Ned Zelic's role in getting him to the Turkish giant. "Zelic was the final piece in the jigsaw puzzle," Mandic said. "He's a good mate of the club's German coach and after talks, the decision to get him to sign became very simple really.
"Galatasaray is the best club for him. Other clubs who were chasing him put up ridiculous health conditions."
Kewell says he is "thrilled to bits" at the prospect of playing for the Turkish champion after spending two days inspecting five schools in Istanbul for his three children. He has agreed to terms for the next two seasons. But former Socceroo Robbie Slater labelled the move to Turkey as a "massive gamble".
"It's hard to figure out this move," Slater said. "For me, Turkey would have been the last place I'd expected to see Harry next season." Kewell's move to the Turkish side hasn't gone down well with Leeds United fans. The Socceroo, who will wear the No19 shirt in Turkey's Supa Liga, the same number he first wore when he played for Leeds against Galatasaray eight years ago when two United fans were stabbed to death on the eve of the match. Leeds fans are furious Kewell has showed a lack of sensitivity by joining Galatasaray. But the player insists he is just concentrating on a new chapter in his career.
Kewell, who quit Liverpool at the end of last season, said: "It was a tragic thing what happened but we can't live in the past. We've got to look to the future and that's what I'm concentrating on. I gave a good nine years to Leeds and left on good terms. There shouldn't be any bad feeling." Kewell, 29, passed up the possibility of staying in the Premiership by joining FA Cup winner Portsmouth to sign with the Istanbul club. "They are a great club. They showed faith from the very start," Kewell said. "There were other clubs out there but they were persistent and treated me very courteously."
Kewell was also reported to be heading to Celtic, Italy's AS Roma or Valencia in Spain, but Galatasaray swooped first. "I'm ecstatic, I'm thrilled to bits and looking forward to the new challenge," Kewell said on the club's website. "I can't wait to join the team and get going. There's a lot of talk about the Turkish league, it's coming up in the world. "The national team has done well in the last couple of international tournaments and there's a lot of young talent here. "It's different and that's what I'm looking forward to - the new challenge. This is a new chapter for me, I'm looking forward to it."
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Don't hold your breath - Just Like My dreams
The following is a round-up of all the West Ham United related transfer gossip from the last day or two. I suggest for added fun you should attempt to read this post without drawing breath. By the time you reach the end you might actually be light-headed enough to believe one or more of the stories contained within, (though probably not the one about someone actually wanting Nigel Quashie)...
West Ham United are set to make a dramatic double swoop for two Euro 2008 stars according to the News of the World. Rob Shepherd believes the Hammers are ready to pay £9million for Lazio right-back Valon Behrami, and also hope to secure Croatia striker Ivan Klasnic on a free transfer from Werder Bremen. Kosovan-born Behrami is a Swiss international who has previously been a target for both Manchester United and Liverpool. The Anfield club wanted to sign Behrami, 23, in January but were put off by Lazio's £10m price tag. Shepherd claims West Ham's recently appointed director of football Gianluca Nani now hopes to seal the deal this week in a move that will see club captain Lucas Neill switch to centre-half next season.
Neill is himself rumoured to be a target for Galatasaray with Sky Sports carrying the story that a bid has been tabled for the United skipper. The ambitious Turkish side, who have already captured newly released Harry Kewell, are said be confident that a deal can be struck. Sky speculate that Alan Curbishley could be tempted to cash in on a player who is on a big wage, as he weighs up other options. One of which could be Mikael Silvestre thinks the Sunday People. The Frenchman is being linked with a £2 million move to Upton Park after Bordeaux gave up the fight to land the defender. The Manchester United player has been told he can leave Old Trafford this summer and is considering a move to Italians Roma, while Club America of Mexico are also reported to be interested in him. A sticking point for any move would be the testimonial Silvestre would be entitled to at Old Trafford next year. He is understood to be seeking wages of around £60,000 a week to end his time at United and it remains to be seen if the Hammers would be willing to meet those demands.
Another option could be Matteo Ferrari according to Sky Sport Italia. The player is ready to make a move back to the Premier League after he refused to extend his deal with the Giallorossi having become a second choice stopper in Luciano Spalletti's side. Fiorentina have also been heavily linked with the defender but they have not made a move for him with Viola director Pantaleo Corvino earlier stating that his club will not sign any new players. Reports in Italy claim that the Hammers have offered the stopper a €2.5m(£1.9m) deal per season over a four year deal. The offer dwarfs what the player was previously earning at Roma and he is likely to give it some deep consideration, especially if there are no other concrete offers from Italy. Ferrari has already played in the Premier League making eight appearances for Everton during the 2005/06 season when he was on-loan there from Roma.
Everton are the latest club to be linked with Anton Ferdinand reports the News of the World. The unsettled defender is on a collision course with boss Alan Curbishley for pricing him out of a move even though the club are receptive to offers. After enquiries from Tottenham and Everton, the price for the former England Under-21 international is said to have soared from £6million to £10m. According to the Sunday Mirror that figure will not be a problem for Aston Villa. They report the Midlanders are closing in on the defender after the 23-year-old emerged as a prime target for Villa manager Martin O'Neill. He is looking to reinforce his defence following the departure of Olof Mellberg to Juventus. Ferdinand is said to have told friends that he wants to leave after five years at Upton Park and is angry with Curbishley for blocking his exit. Everton are reputedly the player's preferred choice, though manager David Moyes has supposedly told him he will not be guaranteed a first-team place.
It is possible a swap deal involving striker Andy Johnson could be the answer. Several sources continue to report West Ham United's interest in the player although Goodison chairman Bill Kenwright has already rejected £10m offers from both Roy Keane's Black Cats and Wigan. The News of the World suggest he could do business if the bidding hits £12 million. That would see the Toffees make a £4 million profit on the unsettled, £40,000-a-week frontman they signed from Crystal Palace two years ago. Despite a host of interested suitors, Wigan and Sunderland continue to make the early running. Sunderland, of course, are also thought to be very keen on re-acquiring the services of George McCartney.
If Alan Curbishley misses out on Andy Johnson then he could make a £7.5m bid for Reading's Kevin Doyle insists the Sunday Mirror. It is reported the player was the subject of regular checks by the club's scouting team last season. Reading could also cash in on midfielder James Harper, another rumoured target for the Hammers, as well as for Middlesbrough and Fulham. To fund such bids it is variously reported West Ham could look to offload Bobby Zamora (to QPR), Danny Gabbidon (to Stoke), James Collins (to WBA), Freddie Ljungberg (to Roma) and Nigel Quashie (Hull City).
Finally the News of the World claim West Ham United hope to secure at least two more quality signings (in addition to Behrami and Klasnic) before the big kick-off. Although much will depend on how many players exit Upton Park, one of those incoming could be Eidur Gudjohnsen. Many well-placed sources are indicating a deal for the former Chelsea striker is imminent. Other names placed in the frame over the last week with varying degrees of plausibility include Hernan Crespo, Joe Cole, Brescia's Lithuanian defender Marius Stankevicius, Palermo striker Edison Cavani, Argentinian Raul Bobadilla, Croatian hotshot Josip Tadic, Roland Linz, Nickey Shorey (again), Martin Petrov and Jermaine Pennant.
And breathe.
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Hammers After Behrami? - Goal.com
According to News of the World, the Hammers will spend ₤9million to bring Behrami to Upton Park. The Swiss international had previously garnered interest from Liverpool, but the Merseyside giants instead opted – strangely, according to some – for his compatriot Philipp Degen on a free transfer.
The 23-year-old's price tag means the east London outfit will have to sell before they buy, with the likes of Danny Gabbidon, Anton Ferdinand, John Pantsil and Luis Boa Morte all potential leavers. Irons boss Alan Curbishley has also been keeping an eye on Croatia striker Ivan Klasnic, who is looking for a new club after choosing not to extend his stay with Werder Bremen.
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Bellamy settled at West Ham
tribalfooball.com - July 06, 2008
Craig Bellamy is determined to put down roots at West Ham. "I know I've got four more years here," he told Sky Sports News. "I'm really committed.
"I signed for five years and I fully expect to see those five years out. I have four more years to play some of the best football of my career I hope."
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Man United's Silvestre linked with West Ham
By Ian Ferris - July 06, 2008
Mikael Silvestre is being linked with a move to West Ham. It looked as though Silvestre was on his way to Bordeaux, but that deal fell through over personal terms. The Frenchman has been told he can leave Old Trafford this summer, and would be a welcome addition at Upton Park. The first sticking point for any move would be the testimonial Silvestre would be entitled to at Old Trafford next year. The second is Silvestre's wages, rumoured to be around £60 thousand a week. The fee would be around £2 million for a player with plenty of Premiership experience.
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Ferdinand unhappy with West Ham price
tribalfooball.com - July 06, 2008
Anton Ferdinand is angry with the price-tag West Ham have slapped on him. The News of the World says after enquiries from Tottenham and Everton, the price for the former England Under-21 international has soared from £6million to £10m. Ferdinand, 23, has told friends that he wants to leave after five years at Upton Park but is angry with Alan Curbishley for blocking his exit. Everton are said to be the player's preferred choice, though manager David Moyes has told him he will not be guaranteed a first-team place.
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West Ham launch bid for Lazio's Behrami
tribalfooball.com - July 06, 2008
West Ham are launching a £9 million bid for Lazio midfielder Valon Behrami. Kosovan-born Behrami is a Swiss international who has previously been a target for both Manchester United and Liverpool. Liverpool wanted to sign Behrami, 23, in January but were put off by Lazio's £10m price tag. West Ham's recently appointed director of football Gianluca Nani hopes to seal the deal this week. Boss Alan Curbishley plans to play Behrami at right-back and move club captain Lucas Neill to centre-half.
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West Ham in Klasnic talks
tribalfootball.com - July 06, 2008
West Ham United are moving for Werder Bremen striker Ivan Klasnic. Wigan, Borussia Dortmund, Celtic, Porto, Besiktas and Olympiakos have all been linked with the player. But West Ham believe they will win the chase.
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West Brom chasing West Ham's Collins
tribalfootball.com - July 06, 2008
West Brom boss Tony Mowbray is eyeing West Ham United defender James Collins. The Wales international struggled for first team action last season and Mowbray sees him as an ideal replacement for new Derby signing Martin Albrechtsen.
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QPR push for West Ham striker Zamora
tribalfooball.com - July 06, 2008
QPR are continuing their pursuit of West Ham striker Bobby Zamora. Talks are now expected to intensify with preseason now having kicked off for all clubs.
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Curbishley overseeing West Ham clearout
tribalfooball.com - July 06, 2008
West Ham boss Alan Curbishley is expected to oversee a major clearout in the coming weeks. Bobby Zamora is a target for QPR while James Collins is wanted by WBA, says the News of the World. Danny Gabbidon, John Pantsil, Nigel Quashie and Luis Boa Morte could also move on.
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West Ham's Parker eyeing injury-free run
tribalfooball.com - July 05, 2008
West Ham midfielder Scott Parker is hopeful of an injury-free season ahead. "The season ended a bit short for me really as I was making good progress after the stop-start season," he told whufc.com. "Towards the end I got plenty of games and got where I needed to be. Hopefully from there I can push on this season and can build on that."
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Carr backs more West Ham kids to make senior breakthrough
tribalfootball.com - July 05, 2008
West Ham United academy boss Tony Carr expects more youngsters to make the first team breakthrough next season. Carr told whufc.com: "Marek Stech has had an excellent couple of seasons. He is a promising young goalkeeper and I am sure he has got a great future. "Junior Stanislas and Jordan Spence have been regulars for the youth team and the reserves. Both had very good seasons. Junior has been called into the England U19 squad on occasion and Jordan is captain of England U17 and on the fringes of the U19s as well. They are promising players that we should all keep an eye on. "That is what we are talking about, the conveyor belt. We are looking for the next in line and we are hoping the conveyor belt continues."
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West Ham academy boss Carr: Sears similar to Cottee
tribalfootball.com - July 05, 2008
West Ham academy boss Tony Carr doesn't shy away from comparing Freddie Sears with former Upton Park hero Tony Cottee. Carr told whufc.com: "He is a true product of the Academy system. Freddie has been here since he was eight or nine years old. He is a local lad who lives in Essex and is a West Ham fan from a West Ham family. He got himself a place on the bench through his efforts in training and all the goals he had scored with the youth team.
"There is no better way to announce your arrival in the Premier League than to score the winning goal at Upton Park. It was fantastic. It was shades of Tony Cottee's debut ... he has got a lot to live up to but he has had a great start."
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West Ham in talks with Roma's Ferrari
tribalfooball.com - July 05, 2008
West Ham United are in talks with Roma defender Matteo Ferrari. Ferrari is off contract and ready to quit Serie A for a return to England, where he had a previous spell on-loan at Everton. The Hammers have reportedly offered Ferrari a four-year contract, worth £1.9 million-per-year.
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Galatasaray seek deal for West Ham skipper Neill
tribalfooball.com - July 04, 2008
Galatasaray have expressed interest in West Ham United captain Lucas Neill. The Turks, who have also made an offer to Harry Kewell, want to give Neill a lucrative deal.
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Dinamo Zagreb's Tadic backtracks over West Ham rumours
By Ian Ferris - July 04, 2008
Dinamo Zagreb have ruled out the possibility of Josip Tadic leaving the club in the face of reports linking the talented young striker to West Ham. The 20-year-old striker is currently one of the bright lights at Dinamo so they have no intention of letting him leave so early into his development. Zagreb sports director Zoran Mamic got straight to the point when he told a Croatian reporter: "Tadic can't go anywhere. He will stay at Dinamo. "We are counting on him because we believe in his ability." Barely 24 hours after fuelling rumours by saying that he would be keen on joining West Ham, Tadi admitted that he was purely reacting to press reports and that he has not had any contact with the London side. "It is true it would be an honour for me to move to such a great club," he said. "But everything I heard about my transfer to West Ham, I read it in the newspapers. "Nobody spoke to me about this."
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