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European clubs line up for January sales
(Reuters)
Updated: 2005-12-30 10:32
LONDON, Dec 30 (Reuters) - European clubs will be reaching for their wallets
when the transfer window opens next week, with Real Madrid and Manchester United
expected to spend in the January sales.
Real Madrid's new
player, Brazilian defender Cicinho, heads the ball during his presentation
ceremony at Santiago Bernabeu stadium in Madrid December 29, 2005.
[Reuters] | Though most will be saving their cash for the close-season, the January
window is the last chance to strengthen a team that is chasing trophies or
simply top-flight survival.
Real have made it clear they are looking for a striker to stand in for
injured Raul and AS Roma's out-of-favour Italy forward Antonio Cassano is top of
their list.
Cassano's contract expires at the end of this season when he could leave for
free.
By moving in January, Roma would get a fee for one of Italy's brightest young
talents and Cassano could get more regular football in his push for a World Cup
start.
Real have already made one signing, securing Brazil defender Cicinho from
world club champions Sao Paulo.
Primera Liga leaders Barcelona are not planning to buy any new players, even
though Sweden striker Henrik Larsson has said he plans to leave at the end of
the season.
Espanyol and Real Mallorca are both interested in Birmingham City's Walter
Pandiani.
However, the Uruguayan forward who poached City's late equaliser in their 2-2
draw with Manchester United on Wednesday will not be moving imminently.
City manager Steve Bruce said: "Walter will not be going anywhere until I can
get somebody else in first of all - and that's if he is going anywhere at all.
"I have read all these reports emanating from Spain. We have have had an
offer and we haven't accepted that."
United are almost certain to make one move - having agreed an undisclosed fee
for Spartak Moscow's Serbia and Montenegro defender Nemanja Vidic, due to sign
within days.
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