Transfer news

Only three weeks to go now to the opening of the transfer window, but with a busy calendar over the last fifteen days, there has been no big news as yet of any major signings. The only rumours so far are of possible new players for the teams struggling near the bottom of the league, with a desperate Espanyol at the forefront. The Catalan side are even reportedly talking to Rivaldo, who recently agreed to rescind his contract at AC Milan, although his wage bill is so high that it appears to be an impossible dream.

Many stories appearing in the local press though about possible signings in the summer, with Real Madrid as ever in the headlines. A throw-away remark from club president Florentino Pérez that the next big star has already been signed sent the press into overdrive, with Van Nistelrooy, Henry and Nedved the favourites (but as ever no defenders in the offing). Barcelona too will be in the summer market for new players now that their debt has been rescheduled, and Henry, Trezeguet and Eto'o were the biggest names that have appeared in the last few days. (13.12.03)