Darmian deal could hinge on friends in high places
Inter Milan are stepping up their efforts to land Manchester United's Matteo Darmian, and Italian outlet Tuttosport reports that they are hoping an old pals act could be the ace up their sleeve. Javier Zanetti, who captained Inter to huge success during Jose Mourinho's days at the club, is now vice president -- and the report claims Inter are hopeful that he can persuade Mourinho, the current United manager, to agree to a Darmian move.
Darmian, an Italy international defender, is also reported to be interesting to Chelsea and Juventus. He has fallen out of favour after an impressive start to life at United after his transfer from Torino last summer. The 26-year-old has made only one appearance so far under Mourinho -- in the Europa League defeat at Feyenoord.
But one of the player's advisers said recently that United have so far refused to listen to any offers for him. So it's over to you, Zanetti.
Bruce wants Elmohamady to furnish Villa
He hasn't been confirmed as the new manager of Aston Villa yet, but Steve Bruce is already planning his first move in the transfer market if he takes over at Villa Park. The Mirror reports that Bruce wants to raid his old club Hull City for Ahmed Elmohamady, a player he signed for the Tigers and, before that, for Sunderland.
Egypt international Elmohamady, who can play in either midfield or defence on the right-hand side, is in Bruce's sights again, and the Mirror writes: "Bruce wants to make it a hat trick and is ready to move for the 29-year-old if he secures the Villa post.