Theatre Of Dreams #25 - One United!

[Rupert G]

Salam.

Sambung sini Red-Devils!!!

[Rupert G]

What The Papers Say: Thursday 5 June

Red Ron: United land Brazil ace for £9m
Manchester United landed Ronaldinho for £9million last night - and signalled David Beckham's exit from Old Trafford. United chief executive Peter Kenyon was in Paris yesterday to agree the Ronaldinho fee with Paris St Germain. And Beckham's departure was virtually sealed as Real Madrid attempted to hijack Barcelona's bid for the England skipper. Real president Florentino Perez tried last night to contact Beckham on holiday in America to express their interest. Perez insisted last month Real did not want Beckham - now he most definitely does.
Neil Custis and Eric Beauchamp, The Sun

Samba star on mission
Samba football is on its way to Old Trafford - just when David Seaman thought it was safe to head up to Manchester. Ronaldinho, the man with the flowing dark locks who famously lobbed England's keeper during last summer's World Cup quarter-final, will parade his skills in a Red shirt next season. Nothing could be sweeter for United fans - especially as the Brazilian dazzler signed on the same day arch-rivals City finally landed Seaman. And they will hope Ronaldinho, 23, can heap more misery on the ex-Arsenal star.
Eric Beauchamp, The Sun

They're forcing me out: Becks fearing axe from United
A year ago David Beckham hugged Alex Ferguson as his future at Old Trafford was sealed with a new contract. Now the pair hardly speak and it is clear that Manchester United want to sell their star name and cash in. Beckham believes he is being forced out of Manchester United. The star will be in turmoil on his American holiday as news leaks through to him that Manchester United have had meetings about his sale. SunSport reported yesterday how chief executive Peter Kenyon met with a representative of Barcelona's president-elect Joan Laporta on Tuesday to discuss terms of a possible deal. SunSport can reveal that Beckham, 28, will now have make-or-break talks with his advisors on his return from holiday to decide if it is worth trying to stay at the club. Jon Holmes, the head of Beckham's agents SFX, has indicated for the first time that his future could lay elsewhere. Holmes said: "He has said that he wants to stay there with United. If the club alter their view - and it needs all parties to change their view - then, of course, everything is possible in football."
Neil Custis, The Sun

It's Keano the boss
It couldn't be, it isn't, it can't be... it is! Yes, folks, Roy Keane is taking his first steps into management as he tries for a UEFA coaching badge. The Manchester United skipper has worked under the master himself - winning seven Premiership titles with Alex Ferguson in his 10-year career at Old Trafford. But Keane has decided even that is not enough. And this week he enrolled on a 10-day intensive residential course at Warwick University in a bid to get his UEFA B badge. Keano has not exactly got a good track record when it comes to dealing with bosses. Exactly a year ago he hit the headlines when he was booted out of Ireland's World Cup squad following his infamous bust-up with Mick McCarthy. His other misdemeanours include a running feud with Manchester City's Alf-Inge Haaland and constant spats with match officials. But now the boot is on the other foot as he is learning coaching techniques on a course which includes former managers.
Vikki Orvice, The Sun

Skipper ripper
Bryan Robson last night accused Sven Goran Eriksson of demeaning the England captain's armband. Robson was dubbed Captain Marvel as he led his country valiantly in 65 of his 90 internationals. He was stunned as the England boss employed four different leaders during Tuesday's friendly against Serbia and Montenegro. Original captain Michael Owen went off at half-time and the armband was passed to Emile Heskey. He was then subbed and threw the armband to Phil Neville. On his exit, Neville gave it to substitute Jamie Carragher. Robson said: "It demeans what the whole meaning of skipper is all about. I think having four captains is demeaning to the armband. I can't imagine the public particularly like it either. Being captain of your country, as I know, is a fantastic honour but it doesn't look very good when so many people in one game get to do it." Robson was a footballing hero who led from the front. This was a man you wanted with you in the trenches. These days, as long as you are within range of the pitch, you have a chance of leading your country. David Beckham, for instance, has the job as much for what he represents to the FA commercially as what he contributes as a leader on the field.
Shaun Custis, The Sun

Farce has FA foxed
The England captaincy farce that ruined Tuesday's friendly against Serbia has even left the FA totally foxed. With David Beckham absent, four skippers were on show but no one knows just how many players have actually donned the armband after the first-choice captain was substituted or sent off. And that means the all-time list of who has captained England - for years the subject of schoolboy quizzes - is no longer complete.
Shaun Custis, The Sun

sumber: http://www.manutd.com/news/fullstory.sps?inewsid=36844

[Rupert G]

At her Beck and call

Robbo says Mrs Beckham will decide whether David moves to Madrid and insists Wayne Rooney is ready for anything.

Hello Robbo.

Hello son.

How are you?

Good, looking forward to the Liechtenstein game.

Oh yes, the big one.

Ai. It's one of those no-win situations. Even if we win 12-0 people won't be satisfied, but it's nice to get back to a bit of international football.

Indeed it is, but we start today with the domestic scene and Asif from Manchester, who says: Dear Robbo - do you think Real Madrid will sign David Beckham in the summer, as has been widely reported?

History suggests Real always get their man - but are they making the right move?

I wouldn't be surprised if he goes, but then it's not up to Dave, is it? I think Mrs Beckham will have the final say.

She'll be flicking through the Diego Estate Agents manual looking for a nice villa with a mountain view.

It'll also be nice and safe for Romeo, which is after all a continental name - bit of forward planning there I think.

It does annoy me, though, that whenever a quality player comes up anywhere in the world, Real are first in.

Do you remember the good old days when you'd have a Bobby Charlton testimonial and it'd be England against a Rest of the World XI?

Oh yes.

You'd think it was marvellous, all them players coming together for one game - and now it happens every other bloody week at the Bernabeu.

It's such a shame - football's becoming a monopoly.

The thing is, Real are going to end up with too many stars and not enough workhorses - they'll just be spraying it about thinking they're God's gift and get caught out - hopefully.

Well that's it - why do they need Beckham in the first place? They've got Figo for God's sake - and Zidane!

Maybe Beckham's going there because he needs a rest.

And Madrid will also make a few quid on replica shirts around the world.

That's very cynical of you, son.

Can't think where I get that from, Robbo.

sumber: http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/funny_old_game/2892057.stm

[Rupert G]

United they fall

BBC Sport columnist Derek 'Robbo' Robson says Man Utd won't win anything this season and praises England's cricketers.

Scouse Honour

Well I never. Who'd have thought this season's great disappointments would end up with the Mickey Mouse Pot for Also-Rans?

Well done Liverpool. Your 2-0 victory was achieved in spite of the great traditions of the club. A fluky deflection and a last-minute breakaway is always good enough, mind.

But thank you for keeping those shiny metal objects out of Old Trafford. Old Beetroot-Face must have destroyed half of JJB Sports' footwear department by now!

I retract my Man U prediction for the Champs League. When you get there, Old Mother Fergie, the cupboard will be bare! It's like the good old days! FANTASTIC!!

sumber: http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/funny_old_game/2814285.stm

[Rupert G]

Send in the boot inspectors!


BBC Sport columnist Derek 'Robbo' Robson gives his verdict on the Beckham boot saga.

Hello Robbo.

Hello son.

Are you OK?

Well, sort of. I'm not too happy with Boro. I watched the Fulham-West Brom game and when they showed the little relegation caption, all of a sudden we're in it.

Oh well, Juninho's on his way, so maybe that will perk you up a bit. Anyway, a full postbag this week - and most of it about Beckham and Ferguson.

Paul W from the UK has this to say on the subject: Robbo, what do you make of this Beckham-Ferguson boot fiasco?

The least Fergie could do is issue a public apology, mind you Beckham deserves disciplining for wearing that hideous girly Alice band.

Well Paul, I don't think the dispute was about that. It wasn't a case of we've lost this because you're wearing that daft band.

He can wear what he likes, he's captain of England. And if it hadn't been for him we wouldn't even have been in the last World Cup.

I agree with Tommy Docherty on this one, I think Fergie's gone a bit psycho. He's got so much power that he doesn't know where he is.

You can't go around taking people's eyes out - or nearly - and not apologise.

I agree with you there, Robbo.

I think he's become a dangerous dictator and it's time they sent in boots inspectors.

How many more of these boots are lying around? We don't know how many he's got. He could have loads.

No-one's doing anything about it and he's just swanning around and sending people out of press conferences. He's a dangerous, mad dictator!

We should go in there and free Beckham, free Scholes. How many more people are going to suffer before we go and do something?

The lad Beckham did well against Juventus though, didn't he?

Ai that was lovely, that ball in - and then you see Ferguson at the press conference, all smiles - "Ooh that lovely boy David, he set up my Ruud..."

But behind closed doors....

He'll be having that Tariq Aziz doing his press conferences for him soon.

sumber: http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/funny_old_game/2784153.stm

[kaZam]

should we expect trouble(s) now??..
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RONALDINHO brings Brazil's beautiful game to the Premiership insisting: "I am ugly but what I do have is charm."

Manchester United's £9million new boy aims to wow English football - and is sure to wow the ladies if he lives up to his playboy reputation.

The midfield genius fell in love with football as a kid when he watched Maradona juggling an orange with his feet.

Now he cannot wait to show off his own silky skills for United after moving from Paris St Germain.

Ronaldinho, 23, said: "I love the big occasion - the ones you think about days before.

"You think about the dribbles, the passes, the goals you are going to pull off.

"From the start of my career, every time there is a big match, I play well. I don't know why.

"My game is based on improvisation. Often a forward does not have the time to think too much.

"You have a second, rarely more, to decide whether to dribble, shoot or pass to the right or left. It is instinct that gives the orders."

Real Madrid's French superstar Zinedine Zidane is backing Ronaldinho to be a hit.

Zidane said: "Ronaldinho is total class - a very, very great player. He is quick, powerful and has extraordinary technical qualities.

"He is a dribbler but is also a player who can make the play for his team-mates.

"He's not really a No10, a true organiser. He's more a second attacker who can score goals and has the vision to make them - not to mention his ability with free-kicks."

But one thing Ronaldinho does NOT have is Zidane's mild temperament.

And strict United boss Alex Ferguson may find his differences with David Beckham mere child's play if ever confronted by an unhappy Ronaldinho.

Ronaldinho - full name Ronaldo de Assis Moreira - is a hot-blooded man who makes no secret of his love for nightclub music...preferably with a lady joining him on the dance floor.

He even has a samba named after him in Brazil.

But his last boss, PSG's Luis Fernandez, is now out of work after failing to get the most out of Ronaldinho in the French championship.

Fernandez went with insults ringing in his ears after substituting Ronaldinho in a recent match against Nantes.

The Brazilian ace had earlier been dropped by Fernandez after arriving late from Brazil following the winter break - with the pretext of having dental work on his prominent teeth.

And only the club's directors kept Ronaldinho in the team when he was found with a girl in his room late on the eve of a match in Lens last November.

Eric Lovey, Ronaldinho's Swiss co-agent and the man who was responsible for getting him to Paris from Brazil two years ago, says it upsets him when the player's private life gets highlighted.

Lovey said: "Ronaldinho is 23, Brazilian and single so he really does love going to the Montecristo on the Champs-Elysees and listening to latin music.

"Yes, he has girlfriends, but he does not spend every night out. I have seen him once with a beer in his hand and one other time with a glass of champagne.

"Brazilians drink less alcohol than Europeans. On the other hand, they are wild in bed.

"Between two rounds of the World Cup, they had a great time and some went with girls. It did not stop them winning the trophy."

Ronaldinho was just seven when he joined the Gremio club in the southern Brazil town of Porto Alegre.

He said: "I started at that age firing in free-kicks and corners with my dad watching me.

"I practised again and again getting the ball over a wall and into the right or left side of the net.

"When I first saw Maradona juggling with an orange I knew I wanted to be like him. When I was alone I spent my time juggling with a tennis ball. I still work at little things now. When I am at home in Paris I amuse myself by dribbling round the chairs."

Former Brazil coach Mario Zagallo said: "He has shown himself to be very gifted from childhood.

"The chrysalis has become a butterfly, physically and technically.

"He's the kind of kid who catches the eye when he's playing with his pals on waste ground.

"The bumps and the holes are a serious handicap for others but not for those who are chosen by the gods.

"Now when those prodigies start playing on good pitches, the technical gap gets even wider.

"Obviously he has taken time to adapt to different training methods and cultures since coming to Europe.

"But that's over now. He's ready to go."

Brazil great Zico revealed: "Ronaldinho took me as a model when he was young and often quotes my name. I am proud to have been an example for him.

"He plays practically in my position but in a different style because of his bigger size and love for great pushes forward.

"He loses nothing in subtlety and vision when he bursts through. He'll dynamite any defence when he prowls just within the limits of offside and then says goodbye to the opposition."

Ronaldinho scored two great goals in PSG's recent 3-0 win over Marseille - whose side included Belgian defender Daniel van Buyten, another target for Premiership clubs. Van Buyten admitted: "Ronaldinho is very hard to stop because his game is impossible to read. He never makes the same feint twice in a row.

"Even when I'd watched several videos of him he was still hard to counter. He is simply too unpredictable and sharp.

"You have to stick close to him because he doesn't like hard contact. He ought to guard against taking the mickey out of his opponents as well.

"He lets himself go a little bit that way and against us was lucky not to come up against more vicious opponents.

"He really doesn't need that to unsettle teams."

[kaZam]

It’s All Over Now
The Premiership is dead, the competition's gone and Man United are to blame. Everyone says the SPL is boring being a two-horse race, but in England we’re going one better.

In their quest to squash every opponent and reach the pinnacle of football they have destroyed English football as we know it. Is there any other club out there now who can match them?

Only Arsenal have in the last few year on a fifth of the budget but reality has hit - money talks. Ronaldinho is probably the first part of a summer jigsaw which will be the final nail in the Premiership coffin.

I hope they fall flat on their faces so I'll keep watching for now.
David Osborne


How Good Is Ronnie?
Just wondered, how good is Ronaldinho? Without mentioning the World Cup free-kick, can someone please tell me if Premiership and Auropean defences are going to be torn apart by this guy.

I know he is one of Brazil's three 'R's but I don’t remember him getting many headlines pre or post the England game. Have you seen him or heard of him running matches and consistently hurting defences? Surely for PSG in the French league he runs rings round teams?

Or is he one of these moody foreigners who only plays well when he feels like it? Compared to players like Aimar and Totti (who play in his sort of position) just please tell me how good Ronnie is!
Jamie Finer


ManYoo To Win Ugly Cup!
Ferguson must be regretting selling Luke Chadwick now! Imagine a team boasting Ronaldinho, Chadwick, Phil Neville, Paul Scholes and Ruud van Horsetelrooy. I'd rather not think about it.

With no Beckham to add aesthetic balance to the team, Ferguson's clearly trying to win by making the opposition physically sick at the sight of his team.
Gus Park


Becks Must Stay
How can United even consider selling Beckam? United's exit from Europe highlighted the difference between top-quality Premiership players and world-class players.

Beckham is one of the few world0class players at the club, and importantly he is one of the most committed (probably because he is also a fan). Ability without application is useless. Forget the showbiz, on the field Beckham is one of the best.

Are United now a selling club, content to get to the quarter-final and pick up the money but never challenge for the silverware? If United need to raise money to buy I can think of several international players at the club who could command a decent fee (Veron, Giggs and Barthez for starters).

Will Ruud get 40+ goals a season without Beckham? The loss of Beckham would be a major blow to the team, symbolically it could be more significant - seeing the end of United as a major force in Europe (or even domestically).

Let's hope Kenyon and co don't get their hands on the Premiership trophy, otherwise it will be appearing at a car boot sale soon. Richest club in the world, pah!

Let's concentrate on being the best club in the world, and you don't achieve that by selling your best players.

[Rupert G]

I've got Becks

BARCELONA are ready to announce they have completed a £30million deal to sign David Beckham.

The transfer, subject to Joan Laporta winning the club's presidency, is set to be revealed in Spain tomorrow.

Tycoon Laporta and deputy Sandro Rosell told SunSport exclusively that Manchester United want to sell them England skipper Becks.

Rosell said: "I have had good talks with United's chief executive Peter Kenyon and I am very optimistic about Beckham signing. Peter has indicated to me he's interested in the possibility of Beckham being sold to Barcelona.

"I can't believe the club have not talked with Beckham's people if they are giving us this indication."

Laporta has an agreement to begin negotiations with midfielder Beckham, 28, and his advisers - if they are elected by Barca on June 15.

In his first interview with a British newspaper, Laporta said: "We have shown United guarantees and they are very happy. Everything is in place."

And Rosell, who knows Beckham's agent Tony Stephens well, added: "We believe we will have him signed before the start of next season."

Laporta already has bank guarantees of £50m.

His campaign chief Xavier Roig said: "We're ready to make an announcement on Saturday."

sumber: http://www.thesun.co.uk/article/0,,2002390000-2003260172,00.html

[Rupert G]

Now get Real

REAL MADRID are sneering at Barcelona's efforts to sign David Beckham.

The world's most successful club believe they have only to snap their fingers for England's captain to come running.

The nine-times European champions orchestrated the revelations of adidas chief Herbert Hainer that Beckham's prime sportswear sponsors see Madrid as "a great option."

Madrid president Florentino Perez reckons he and United chief executive Peter Kenyon already have an agreement. And Becks' agents, SFX, have investigated the financial benefits of his image rights.

The fee is understood to be £20million plus the choice of one player for United boss Alex Ferguson.

Claude Makelele and Michel Salgado are the Madrid players who could enter the equation.

sumber: http://www.thesun.co.uk/article/0,,2002390000-2003260172,00.html

[Rupert G]

United feel third rate

MANCHESTER UNITED'S board have decided to sell David Beckham because they believe the club is no longer his No1 priority.

The Old Trafford directors have grown increasingly alarmed at his off-field celebrity activities.

They also believe that England rates higher up his scale of priorities than United.

That is why they have decided to cash in now on the £30million-rated player.

One senior club source said: "People in high positions at the club believe his priorities go like this - his own personal future, England and then Manchester United. And that is why it has been decided to part company now.

"His relationship with the manager is not the best either, although those problems could be overcome.

"But with only two years left on his current contract this looks like the right time to sell."

Club chief executive Peter Kenyon has already had talks with Barcelona's would-be president Joan Laporta about a deal to sell Beckham.

They have a verbal agreement over a transfer worth in the region of £30m.

But the best thing for United would be for Real Madrid and AC Milan to enter into a bidding war to push the price up still higher.

Laporta is aware of the danger. He admitted: "I know Real Madrid are interested but we will fight them all the way.

"We believe we have the right things in place for it to happen for the good of Barcelona. The fans would be so excited if he was to come here."

The last thing United would want is for Beckham to stay and see his price go down as his current contract runs out.

There have not been any talks about the possibility of a new deal at Old Trafford.

sumber: But the best thing for United would be for Real Madrid and AC Milan to enter into a bidding war to push the price up still higher.

Laporta is aware of the danger. He admitted: "I know Real Madrid are interested but we will fight them all the way.

"We believe we have the right things in place for it to happen for the good of Barcelona. The fans would be so excited if he was to come here."

The last thing United would want is for Beckham to stay and see his price go down as his current contract runs out.

There have not been any talks about the possibility of a new deal at Old Trafford.

sumber: http://www.thesun.co.uk/article/0,,2002390000-2003260173,00.html

[Rupert G]

He'll be my Barca king

DAVID BECKHAM has been told he can be leader of the 'new Barcelona'.


The Spanish club has been in the doldrums in recent years, but president-elect Joan Laporta believes the England captain is the man who can lead them back to the summit of world football.

Laporta is ready to announce tomorrow that he has a deal in place to sign Beckham if he wins control of the club in just over a week.

And he believes landing Beckham would be one of the greatest moves in the famous club's history.

Laporta said: "The way David Beckham plays the game, he is guaranteed to be a star here in Barcelona. The fans will love him.

"I have always admired him as a player. These are the reasons we want him here.

"He can be the leader of the new Barcelona."

Laporta has watched intently as Manchester United have reclaimed their Premiership crown, with Beckham playing his part.

He said: "They are a great team and he is a great player.

"The fans would be so excited if he was to come here.

"He would be at the start of something special."

With Real Madrid and European Cup winners AC Milan still interested in the player, many wonder why Beckham would go to a club that has not even qualified for Europe next season.

But Laporta is convinced he can sell not just the present but the future of the club to Beckham.

Laporta said: "Barcelona is a club with more than 100 years of history.

"The signing of Beckham would not just be about now but what we intend to happen in the future.

"Okay, so we are not in Europe next season. But that is only temporary. We have big plans for this club.

"Remember, Barcelona is a huge name and our strategy is to have it second only to Manchester United as the most lucrative club in the world within the next three years.

"He can be part of that. It is a very exciting prospect for any player.

"I know Real Madrid are interested but we will fight them all the way.

"We believe we have the right things in place for it to happen for the good of Barcelona.

"We are not worried about anyone else.

"The deal we have put together for the player and the club is one we believe will work."

Beckham is understood to be interested in being the main man at Barcelona rather than just one of a clutch of stars at Real, where winning the European Cup is a demand each season.

The player is convinced now that he will have to move on.

He is heartbroken United have decided they want to sell him.

But he knew his relationship with manager Alex Ferguson had broken down. He had grown frustrated - as SunSport have revealed every step of the way.

The incident when Ferguson kicked a boot that left him with a bleeding head was just the start.

When he was then left out of the European Cup semi-final, second-leg against Real Madrid, the writing was well and truly on the wall.

He stormed out of Old Trafford after that game and straight into a meeting about his future with his agent Tony Stephens.

Last month he tried to placate any fans who thought he was initiating a move by saying he wanted to stay put.

Now his mind is being made up for him.

It is a matter of where he goes, but Barcelona are certainly in pole position if Laporta wins the June 15 election to become president.

Should Laporta's presidential campaign at the Nou Camp be successful, much of the praise will go to his organiser, Xavier Roig.

And Roig is sure Laporta can sell one of the world's most famous clubs to the world's most famous player.

Roig said: "We will convince him we are a club that is on its way back."

Laporta had the Spanish media holding their breath yesterday as he unveiled the first signing he has secured for the club if he becomes president.

As many waited for Beckham to appear on the screen, up came Turkish World Cup goalkeeper Rustu Recber, signed by Laporta on a free transfer.

He also has a new coach in place and will sack the present incumbent Radi Antic.

The new coach's name is a secret, but Laporta claims his new man has earmarked Beckham as the central figure in his plans for what he can do with Barcelona.

Laporta said: "The coach wants the player too and he knows how to accommodate him and everything that goes with him."

Beckham enjoyed the most memorable night of his footballing life out here in sunny Barcelona.

In May 1999 he helped drag Manchester United back into a European Cup final at the Nou Camp against Bayern Munich.

They were 1-0 down with time almost expired when Beckham fired over the corners that led to two goals and victory.

At the final whistle he sat on the pitch and stared around the famous stadium as fans chanted his name.

Come next season, he could be doing a lot more of that.

sumber: http://www.thesun.co.uk/article/0,,2002390000-2003260140,00.html

[Rupert G]

Beckham's true worth

Should Manchester United sell David Beckham? According to a new study, the move makes complete financial sense for the club.

Business analysts FutureBrand has examined the implications for the club of Beckham leaving Old Trafford for £30m this summer.

Their study shows that almost all of United's sources of revenue would be unaffected if Beckham was sold. Here's how it breaks down.

Stadium operations and related business

This stream - of which a substantial portion is match-day gate receipts - accounts for about 40% of the club's revenue. It is unlikely to drop if Beckham leaves United, as all the club's games are virtual sell-outs - and have continued to be so when other star names like Eric Cantona have left.

Media rights

These contribute about 36% of United's revenue. The Premier League brings in £35m, domestic cups £0.6m and the Champions League £10.4m.

The Premier League cash is unlikely to drop if Beckham left - because the deal is negotiated by the Premiership clubs en masse.

International media rights could suffer. Research shows that almost 30% of overseas Premiership fans follow a team because of particular star players - and Beckham is a major draw in Asia.

But because of the equal share of international TV rights between the Premier League teams, the total revenue for United is about 5% of the total international TV rights pot of £60m - i.e. £3m.

Unless the Premier League change how the international pot is divided amongst its members - so that United's greater overseas popularity is reflected in their slice of the pie - Beckham's loss won't hit United hard in this area.


Sponsorship deals

Vodafone pay £8m per year. This agreement is in place until the end of 2004, so there would be no immediate impact there.

Given Vodafone's focus in Asia, the possible renewal of the deal could be hampered if United have no major draw for the fan base in that market. But the current indication is that Vodafone will either renew or be replaced by another company happy to pay a similar amount.

Nike pay £23m per year to be exclusive sponsor, official kit supplier, licensed merchandise provider and operator of global United retail opportunities.

This deal runs until 2015. There is an exit clause in 2008, but Nike are unlikely to take that up even if Beckham were to leave.

Of United's other major sponsors (Pepsi, Budweiser, Ladbrokes and Lycos), Pepsi may be hit by a Beckham move because of their heavy focus on Asia - but this would effect United by less than £0.1m per year.


Merchandising

Merchandising contributes 7% of United's revenue and is almost 100% UK-based. The UK side of things is considered to be immune to Beckham leaving.

United will fear an erosion of their Asian fan base - which could be as much as 25-30% if Beckham moves on - but this small loss of short-term revenue would be more than compensated for by a £30m transfer fee.


The effect on other parties

Both Real Madrid and Barcelona have weak fan bases in Asia, so Beckham's signature would be a major boost. He would also boost their fan base in other European markets.

If Beckham left England, the demand for international television rights to the Premiership could be affected - meaning the Premier League would prefer to see Beckham stay in his home country.

As for Beckham himself, the process can only be good news. Any transfer speculation boosts awareness of his brand and keeps him in the media spotlight - keeping him attractive to personal sponsors.

sumber: http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/m/man_utd/2965336.stm

[Rupert G]

Seaman v Ronaldinho - the re-match

Picture the scene.


Ronaldinho places the ball 30 yards from goal, looks up and sees David Seaman off his line.

The Brazilian tries his luck and the free-kick loops over Seaman's head. The ecstasy is all Ronaldinho's, the despair all Seaman's.

But this is not the World Cup. This is the Premiership, in the heat of a Manchester derby.

Ronaldinho flashes his goofy smile at the Stretford End as he peels off his United shirt, while Seaman is slumped, inconsolable, on the Old Trafford turf, slowly realising the magnitude of his misjudgement.

If, as believed, United chief executive Peter Kenyon concludes a £9m deal to bring the Paris St Germain star to Manchester, Seaman will forced to face his nemesis again.

The former England goalkeeper has agreed a one-year deal with Manchester City and is ready to prove his doubters wrong.

Seaman was told by Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger that he would not be able to guarantee him a regular first-team place at Highbury.

Rather than accept his fate, the 39-year-old keeper decided on a move up north where he will join Kevin Keegan's City revolution.

Seaman, who has enjoyed a long and illustrious career, is more often remembered for his blunders and not his brilliance (his FA Cup save against Sheffield United is one example of the latter).

And it's possible that "Safe Hands", as Seaman likes to sign autographs, may now be shaking at the prospect of another encounter with Ronaldinho.

The 23-year-old forward admitted that his goal against Seaman in the World Cup quarter-finals was a fluke in as much that he was not aiming for the keeper's top right-hand corner but his left.

Whatever the Brazilian's intentions, he ended England's World Cup dreams and left Seaman's reputation in tatters.

But what of Ronaldinho post-Korea and Japan?

He has had a fairly turbulent time at Paris St Germain and his stormy relationship with former coach Luis Fernandez fuelled speculation earlier in the season that he would leave the club.

Ronaldinho was late coming back after the winter break in France, incurring the wrath of strict disciplinarian Fernandez.

Such lax time-keeping will not be tolerated by Sir Alex Ferguson either. But Ferguson has a flair for dealing with over-sized egos which involves more than just knocking them down.

The United manager succeeded in maximising the talents of the mercurial Eric Cantona.

And he once dashed to Paris to dissuade the Frenchman from quitting the game after the striker was banned for nine months for a two-footed kung-fu kick on a Crystal Palace fan.

Those same man-management skills may be called upon if Ronaldinho is as temperamental as some of his Latin American compatriots.

The buck-toothed Brazilian has ability in abundance, but it is his application that will be more closely scrutinised.
The legendary Pele predicted great things for Ronaldinho and he has already delivered on football's greatest stage by winning the World Cup in 2002.

And the player's coach at youth level believes Ronaldinho would fit the bill perfectly at United.

"Ronaldinho is a very good player who I worked with at youth level. He represents another generation of Brazilian football after Ronaldo," said Marcio Maximo.

"He has great technical ability, he is highly creative and he would be a very good signing for Manchester United.

"He showed with his goal against England what he is capable of. People said that it was lucky, but it wasn't. He saw the opportunity and he took it."

The self-styled Theatre of Dreams could end up providing the stage for Ronaldinho's greatest club achievements.

Old Trafford awaits the entry of its first Brazilian with baited breath.


sumber: http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/2965142.stm

[Rupert G]

Ruud delight at Ronaldinho reports

As the summer season of transfer sepculation grows increasingly frenzied, Manchester United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy is barely able to conceal his delight at reports of Ronaldinho's imminent arrival at Old Trafford.

The Premiership champions are understood to be on the verge of closing a £9million deal with Paris St Germain for the Brazilian World Cup winner - and van Nistelrooy could not be happier.


'It is fantastic news for the club and for me. We could not sign a better player, I genuinely mean that,' he told the Daily Mail.

'I imagine Ronaldinho will play in the hole behind the main striker and that is exactly what we need.

'The manager has been looking for that type of player since he tried to sign Paolo di Canio 18 months ago.'

The Dutchman added: 'Now it looks like we are close to getting the best in the business. Ronaldinho is a sensational player and I am so excited.

'It is obvious a player like this will only make the team better. He will help us in the Premiership and he will give us a better chance to go all the way in the Champions League.'

sumber: http://soccernet.espn.go.com/headlinenews?id=269193&cc=4716

[Rupert G]

Fan rage at Edwards appointment

Manchester United fans have greeted the news that outgoing chairman Martin Edwards is to become the club's president with a mixture of amazement and derision.

Former chief executive Edwards will be only the third president in United's 125-year history, following John Henry Davies and Sir Matt Busby.

Althought the role is chiefly ceremonial and holds no executive privilege, the announcement has brought a hostile reception from supporters groups, for whom Edwards has become a figure of contempt.

Edwards was chief executive of United for 20 years from 1980, during which time he attracted widespread criticism for his attempts to sell the club to Robert Maxwell, Michael Knighton and latterly Rupert Murdoch-owned satellite broadcaster BSkyB.

Only last month Edwards insisted if the £623million deal with BSkyB had gone through instead of being blocked by the Monopolies and Mergers Commission following a massive public outcry, United would now be able to compete with big-spending Real Madrid in the transfer market.

But Julian Spencer, chairman of the Independent Manchester United Supporters' Association, said: 'I find it strangely perverse that Edwards, a man who has tried to sell the club on more than one occasion, should be afforded a position of such prestige.

'I am struggling to think of anyone less fitting to represent the name of Manchester United.

'How he can be judged fit to take up a post held not many years ago by Sir Matt Busby is beyond me.'

Manchester United shareholders also questioned the decision, with Oliver Houston, spokesman for Shareholders United, branding the decision 'bizarre'.

He continued: 'Perhaps United fans will one day look back on this bizarre decision and say Martin Edwards was the ideal person to have been given the exulted title of president - or perhaps they won't.'

sumber: http://soccernet.espn.go.com/headlinenews?id=269166&cc=4716

[Rupert G]

PSG vow to hang on to Ronaldinho

Paris St Germain have warned Manchester United they will not surrender their prize playing asset Ronaldinho despite reports that a deal to take the Brazilian World Cup star to Old Trafford is imminent.

New PSG president Francis Graille is adamant the player will see out his contract at the Parc des Princes until 2006 although the player's agent and brother Roberto Assis seems equally as convinced that Ronaldinho's time in the French capital is over.

Graille said to Le Parisien: "The club is sticking to its position. We want to go to the end with contracts or at least respect them as much as possible. If there are offers I don't want to hear them. It is not even worth speaking about them."

Wednesday proved a hectic day. With Manchester United chief executive Peter Kenyon stepping up his pursuit of the Brazilian, there were also several meetings at PSG including one involving Bertrand Meheut, the boss of TV channel Canal Plus that bankrolls the club.

Graille and new PSG coach Vahid Halilhodzic were also reported to have met club staff while Assis is said to have had another meeting with Graille who has just succeeded Laurent Perpere at the helm of the underachieving French club.

Asked about a visit to Paris of Kenyon, Graille retorted: "I am delighted for him. He was here three weeks ago and I refused to meet him."

Graille, instrumental in bringing in Halilhodzic who is replacing the departing Luis Fernandez who had a notoriously difficult relationship with the Brazilian, insists neither he nor Halilhodzic will countenance the sale of a player described by the Bosnian coach as a genius.

However, Assis has a different version of events and claims his client and brother has a gentleman's agreement with the previous board to leave the club earlier than 2006.

Ronaldinho moved to Paris from hometown club Gremio of Porto Alegre in an equally fiercely-contested move in 2001 and Assis believes the club's new administration should honour the deal that was reportedly struck with outgoing PSG president Perpere.

"We have talked about the subject with PSG," said Assis who took over responsibility for his younger sibling when their father died when Ronaldinho was eight years old. I think things will move quickly. There was a plan for him to leave (a gentleman's agreement) between PSG and us. After the World Cup we spoke about it again, we stayed, we did not make a drama of it.

"We will find a way of sorting out what remains to be sorted here. We continue to talk with PSG. Ronnie is fine, he is finishing his holidays. We must find the possibility of ending well with PSG."

sumber: http://www.4thegame.com/news/breakingnews/08252

[Rupert G]

Beckham wants to stay, says Dad

Ted Beckham believes his son wants to stay with Manchester United and insists he has never indicated a desire to play in Spain or Italy.

Speculation has raged about David Beckham's future for most of this year, with first Real Madrid and, more recently, Barcelona and AC Milan linked with a 30million move for the England captain.

Beckham, a United fan as a boy, has been on the Old Trafford club's books for more than a decade and his father said: "He is Manchester United through and through. They're the only club he's ever wanted to play for.

"At the end of the day he is a Manchester United player, he always has been and he always will be.

"As far as I know he wants to stay at Manchester United, but at the end of the day it's his decision."

The younger Beckham is currently in the United States on holiday with his wife Victoria and their two sons Brooklyn and Romeo and it is not expected that any discussions on his future will be held until he returns to this country.

He has publicly stated his desire to stay at United after signing a new contract last summer but that has not stopped the rumours.

sumber: http://www.4thegame.com/news/breakingnews/08257

[Rupert G]

What The Papers Say: Friday 6 June

I've got Becks
Barcelona are ready to announce they have completed a £30million deal to sign David Beckham. In an exclusive interview with SunSport, the tycoon bidding to take over the Spanish club revealed Manchester United have offered to sell Becks to them. Joan Laporta and his deputy Sandro Rosell have spoken to United chief executive Peter Kenyon. Rosell said: "I have had good talks with Kenyon and he has indicated to me he is interested in the possibility of Beckham being sold to Barcelona. I am very optimistic about Beckham signing. I can't believe the club have not talked with Beckham's people if they are giving us this indication." Laporta has an agreement to begin negotiations with midfielder Beckham, 28, and his advisers - if he is elected as Barca's new president on June 15.
Neil Custis, The Sun

Real sneering
Real Madrid are sneering at Barcelona's efforts to sign David Beckham. The world's most successful club believe they have only to snap their fingers for England's captain to come running. The nine-times European champions orchestrated the revelations of adidas chief Herbert Hainer that Beckham's prime sportswear sponsors see Madrid as "a great option." Madrid president Florentino Perez reckons he and United chief executive Peter Kenyon already have an agreement.
Ross Gregory, The Sun

United feel third rate
Manchester United's board have decided to sell David Beckham because they believe the club is no longer his No1 priority. The Old Trafford directors have grown increasingly alarmed at his off-field celebrity activities. They also believe that England rates higher up his scale of priorities than United. That is why they have decided to cash in now on the £30million-rated player. One senior club source said: "People in high positions at the club believe his priorities go like this - his own personal future, England and then Manchester United. And that is why it has been decided to part company now."
Neil Custis, The Sun

He'll be my Barca king
David Beckham has been promised he will live like a king as leader of the 'new Barcelona'. In his first-ever newspaper interview, Barca presidential hopeful Joan Laporta told SunSport the England captain is the man who can lead them back to the summit of world football. Laporta is ready to announce tomorrow that he has a deal in place to sign Beckham if he wins control of the club in just over a week. And he believes landing Beckham would be one of the greatest moves in the famous Spanish club's history. Laporta said: "The way David Beckham plays the game, he is guaranteed to be a star here in Barcelona. The fans will love him. I have always admired him as a player. These are the reasons we want him here. He can be the leader of the new Barcelona."
Neil Custis, The Sun

Ronaldinho: I may be ugly but I'm very charming
Ronaldinho brings Brazil's beautiful game to the Premiership insisting: "I am ugly but what I do have is charm." Manchester United's £9million new boy aims to wow English football - and is sure to wow the ladies if he lives up to his playboy reputation. The midfield genius fell in love with football as a kid when he watched Maradona juggling an orange with his feet. Now he cannot wait to show off his own silky skills for United after moving from Paris St Germain. Ronaldinho, 23, said: "I love the big occasion - the ones you think about days before. You think about the dribbles, the passes, the goals you are going to pull off. From the start of my career, every time there is a big match, I play well. I don't know why."
David Barnes, The Sun

Sir Alex goes South
Sir Alex Ferguson is preparing to follow up the capture of Brazilian World Cup star Ronaldinho with a surprise £4million swoop for Gareth Southgate. The Manchester United manager is facing a defensive crisis and has decided to battle it out with his former assistant, Middlesbrough boss Steve McClaren, to take the England star to Old Trafford from The Riverside.
David McDonnell, Daily Mirror

You look a right lemon, my son
Bleach boy Ryan Giggs’s new blond hairdo is so bad even his DAD was taking the mickey last night. The Sun revealed yesterday how the Man United winger had dyed his jet black bonce bright lemon yellow. But 29-year-old Ryan’s dad Danny Wilson burst out laughing when we asked him about it. Danny even said his son’s style was out of date, adding: “He’s ten years too late. It really is quite bad.” But balding Danny, of Roath, Cardiff, added: “Mind you, I wish I had enough hair to have one myself.” Welsh wonder Ryan unveiled his new bonce while playing golf — then showed it off again shopping in Manchester city centre.
Chris Riches, The Sun

Mr green-Becks
If David Beckham can find a hole in a wall with one of his free kicks he’s sure to spot one in Beverly Hills. Becks, 28, was spotted heading for an ATM to get more greenbacks during a trip to Rodeo Drive’s glitzy shops. The Man United ace had big-spending wife Posh in tow, plus kids Brooklyn and Romeo.
News Reporter, The Sun

Hello, Rio bruvo
Limping England centre back Rio Ferdinand played family defender yesterday — by helping his little brother safely across the road. Injured Rio, 24, was helping mum Janice, 41, with food shopping in Manchester when he led Jeremiah, four, by the hand. The United star is due for a knee op on Tuesday.
News Reporter, The Sun

Stam-pede is on for £4m Jaap
Newcastle, Arsenal and Liverpool have been alerted by news that Jaap Stam is leaving Lazio for a knockdown £4million. The powerhouse Dutch defender cost £16m when he left Manchester United in 2001. But now Lazio are resigned to losing him for a fraction of that fee after failing to pay his wages for six months. Director Luca Baraldi said: "If the player has offers to leave, he can do so because Lazio is not a prison." Juventus and Inter Milan are slugging it out for the 30-year-old. But Bobby Robson, Arsene Wenger and Gerard Houllier are also in the market for a world- class centre-half. And they are trying to persuade Stam to return to the Premiership, where he spent three successful years at Old Trafford.
Mark Irwin, The Sun


sumber: http://www.manutd.com/news/fullstory.sps?iNewsId=36915&itype=466&icategoryid=365

[Rupert G]

A big flap about nothing

Hello Robbo.

Hello son.

Did you see the game?

Oh ai, as a neutral bystander, utterly objective - I hate the both of them!

As soon as one team went behind, I started supporting the other one - the old underdog mentality kicks in.

Yeah, it was good for the neutral.

Yes, although one person who wasn't neutral, I'd say, was the assistant referee, who seemed to miss almost every contravention of the rules by Arsenal for a period.

I quite agree. There was the throw-in and Thierry Henry was about three miles offside when he scored that goal.

It was incredible. I mean they do the decent thing these days and put those nice lines in so you can see.

How hard can it be? They put a little grid on the bloody pitch - he's in the pale green patch and the dark green patch is a bit further up the pitch!

It was just extraordinary. I particularly like the bit when Henry realised he was offside and did a funny little hop - and got away with it!

Well, it is Easter coming up, so maybe he was getting in the spirit of things.

Oh I see, a little bunny hop. Anyway, the thing that really annoyed me about the game - apart from the fact that Arsenal were damn lucky - was Ferguson at the end.

Did you see him, walking on the pitch, shaking everyone by the hand? He looked like some weird gentleman farmer at a barn dance - "Hello, well done everybody".

What the hell are you playing at, Ferguson? Nobody's falling for any of that.

There's been a lot of these mind-games, hasn't there?

So-called mind games - it's not exactly Einstein versus Plato, is it?

And you haven't got Kevin Keegan involved this time, have you?

No, it's not quite so entertaining, because it's very easy to bait Kevin - you only have to say "You're gonna lose" and that's enough.

And what about the sending off of Sol Campbell?

Well...they've done all these things with funny angles haven't they, so they're saying ooh it looks really bad from this angle, but then it looks really good from that angle.

It looked like nowt from every bloody angle. Just a flapping of the hands.

I must do that 10 times a game. The only way to get a bit of space when you play at my pace is to hit someone before you move forward.

And do you think Solskjaer made a bit of a meal of it?

Course he did, they all do. That's one of the first things you learn as a football apprentice - how to go down easily.

And he only looks about 12, so the ref feels sorry for him.

Especially when the other player's Sol Campbell, who looks like he's been around for centuries, chiselled out of ebony.

In the light of the result, who do you think's favourite for the title now?

Well do you know, that's the only good thing about this championship. It's normally between these two, but they usually sort it out with about three games to go.

I don't think it'll happen this time. Arsenal are coming to us on Saturday and I tell you something, they won't take three points from the Riverside.

In which case it'll be Man U, God forbid.

Well there's a couple of possible pointers I noticed while looking at the table.

If you take the initial letter of the top four - Man United, Arsenal, Newcastle and Chelsea, it spells out MANC.

And then take a look at United's last four games, home to Blackburn, away to Spurs, home to Charlton and away to Everton...

Home, Away, Home, Away, take the first letter of each and it spells HA HA!

And what's Arsenal's?

Away, Away, Home, Home, Away.

AAA-HA! So Man U are going 'HA HA!' but Arsenal are going 'AAA-HA!' as a riposte. It works both ways, although I have to say I think you're clutching at straws a bit there, son.

But hopefully it'll go to the wire and they'll have both games on at the same time and be flitting between the two.

I must tell you one thing, though. A Geordie mate rang me up straight after the Arsenal-Man U game and said: "Eh, we're still in it - good result for Newcastle."

Can you believe that? They're in cloud cuckoo land.

They should be skulking around in the undergrowth for the rest of the season after the battering they took against United.

sumber:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/funny_old_game/2956123.stm

[Man_United]

Assalamualaikum ..

sungguh tidak selesa bila ku tertatap cerita ..
Barca mahu memiliki David Beckham biarpun ..
pada aku Beckham tidak berapa penting buat MU .. :(

[Rupert G]

Keep him here

WELL done David Beckham, OBE.

The Sun leads the salutes to our national hero as he is honoured by the Queen.

Becks is more than just a magical footballer: he has become a role model for a generation.

He sets a fine example on and off the pitch. He doesn’t fight, he doesn’t booze or smoke, and he is the model of fair-minded sportsmanship.

He and his glamorous wife Posh have become one of the world’s most fashionable couples.

With his ever-changing style, Becks sets trends that keep the nation excited and entertained.

And behind all the razzmatazz and thrilling goals, Becks remains a modest and friendly guy who never has a bad word for anyone.

He has earned his success, and he has earned his honour.


How crazy that at the height of his fame he looks likely to quit Britain for Spain.

Sir Alex Ferguson has a clear duty to the nation:

Save our Becks!

sumber: http://www.thesun.co.uk/article/0,,2003260855,00.html

[Rupert G]

Going, going, gong

DAVID BECKHAM will pick up the Order of the Big Earner after being offered £32million to sign for Barcelona.

That would make Beckham - due to collect an OBE in the Queen's Birthday honours - the world's top-paid player.

The mega-bucks package has been put together by Barcelona's presidential hopeful Joan Laporta, who has verbally agreed a deal with Manchester United to buy Becks.

To make sure he gets his man, Laporta is prepared to give Beckham £154,000 a week over four years.

Becks pockets £92,000 a week at United from a four-year deal worth £19m.

The Barca offer would eclipse wages paid to World Cup winners Ronaldo, of Brazil, and Zinedine Zidane, of France, who both get £100,000 a week at Real Madrid.

Laporta insisted: "I am satisfied that Beckham's view on the chance of joining Barcelona and the offer is a positive one."

Football's top earners
THESE are the world's top-earning footballers, with their weekly salary followed by their total income from bonuses and endorsements:

DAVID BECKHAM (Man Utd). £92,000 per week, £10.55million.
ZINEDINE ZIDANE (Real Madrid) £100,000pw, £9.9m.
RONALDO (Real Madrid) £100,000pw, £8.2m.
RIO FERDINAND (Man Utd) £72,000pw, £6.8m.
ALESSANDRO DEL PIERO (Juventus) £68,000pw, £6.7m.
HIDETOSHI NAKATA (Parma) £61,000pw, £6.6m.
RAUL (Real Madrid) £90,000pw, £6.55m.

sumber: http://www.thesun.co.uk/article/0,,2002390000-2003260697,00.html

[Rupert G]

It's top gonging

AS an industry, sport gives the public back more than they will ever invest in it.


Sport is a no-lose business for us to pay into.

Our team might lose, our heroes may push us to the brink.

But they also let us escape from normality. They take us into a world where for a day, a week - or even just 90 minutes - every other stress and every other concern can be put on the back burner.

Sport gives the public an identity with their allegiances to whatever individual or group has grabbed their heart at an early age.

It can often be seriously under valued. Comments like "well it's only a game" mean little to those whose very demeanour depends on the way a ball might fly through the air and end up.

Which is why the gongs given out to the four sporting figures revealed in this paper today are more than worthy.

Both Gerard Houllier and Arsene Wenger have put pride back into their clubs and in turn the people who support them.

Yes, Liverpool have just had a comparatively poor season, but all those recent trophies will not be forgotten for a club that could not remember what it was like to polish the silverware.

Wenger has turned once-boring Arsenal into the most entertaining team in the country.

Not the best - that's Manchester United - but Arsenal playing at their peak are as good on the eye as Tiger Woods swinging a golf club or Andre Agassi hitting a backhand winner.

As for Alec Stewart, who will also be honoured in the Queen's list, the word professional was invented for this man.

The dedication he has shown to cricket is an example to our youth.

And still now he does not want to let go, and nor should he.

If every player had his application the sporting world would be in another even more spectacular galaxy.

Then there is David Beckham.

There are plenty of footballers who live the high life and think they have made it before they have put a trophy on the table.

Beckham never stops giving of his best for club and country.

The celebrity scene has become an understandably unwanted distraction for those at United who now seek to sell him.

But nobody at Old Trafford will forget what he has done for the club. And he will continue to give everything for England.

He is a man whose next challenge always seems to be the greatest and one who is thoroughly deserving of an OBE.

sumber: http://www.thesun.co.uk/article/0,,2001320027-2003260827,00.html

[Rupert G]

Becks can be new Cruyff

PATRICK KLUIVERT insists David Beckham will become a true footballing legend if he moves to Barcelona.

The Nou Camp's Dutch striker wants his club to complete the £30million purchase of Manchester United's England skipper.

Club presidential candidate Joan Laporta is ready to announce he has agreed a deal to sign Becks if he is elected.

And Kluivert admits his Holland strike partner Ruud van Nistelrooy has convinced him he would be the perfect team-mate.

United hitman Van Nistelrooy believes Beckham plays in the style of a Dutchman.

And Kluivert claims the midfielder, 28, would be as revered at Barca as the legendary Johan Cruyff.

Kluivert said: "Van Nistelrooy always speaks very highly of Beckham.

"He says he has such a good understanding with him, he thinks he's a Dutchman.

"Cruyff and Ronald Koeman are legends at Barcelona and I'm sure if Beckham comes he will take his place among the band of legends this club has produced.

"I'm a centre-forward and if I get good service it's easier for me to score. So, in that respect, I would come out a winner if he signs.

"In my book, he's one of the best free-kick takers and crossers of the ball in the world.

"Ruudy says 30 per cent of United's success is down to Beckham.

"But even if there are lots of names at the club, Barca have to play as a unit.

"Individuals don't solve everything and Ruud has told me Beckham really sacrifices himself for the team.

"He would pull us along and that would be very good for us. Beckham is the sort of player who would be welcome anywhere."

Kluivert is distraught at Barca's struggle to qualify for Europe next season but admits signing Beckham would give the club a huge boost.

He added: "With him or without him, Barca should always be playing in European competition.

"If I'm at Barca and he arrives then of course I'd be delighted, but I wouldn't go mad, either."

United legend Sir Bobby Charlton admits the Premiership champions have had to seriously consider Barcelona's £30m offer for Beckham.

He wants him to stay at Old Trafford but knows the club's plc cannot ignore a hefty offer.

The World Cup winner and United director said: "I'd like David to stay, as I'd like any top player to stay.

"But we are a plc and whatever people's personal feelings, if someone comes in and makes an offer, you have to listen.

"And there is obviously some truth in Barcelona's interest because I have read what the club's presidential candidate has said.

"Anything to do with footballing matters, I leave to the manager Alex Ferguson. He has had to make many difficult decisions and he usually gets them right."

When Charlton was the idol of Old Trafford in the 1950s and 60s, he was only ever regarded as a footballer rather than a marketing tool.

And the player who won 106 caps for England and was part of United's European Cup-winning side in 1968 admits he has been taken aback by the hype which surrounds the Beckham 'brand'.

But he insists Becks will always be best known as a gifted footballer rather than a showbiz icon.

Sir Bobby was yesterday presented with a painting of himself and brother Jack by artist Mackenzie Thorpe.

And he said: "Football is a huge business now and it seems like the game has taken over everything else in terms of its profile. People might talk about him as a marketing commodity.

"But David Beckham will be known and remembered for what he does on the pitch and not for any of the things he does away from it."

Laporta will offer Beckham £500,000 just to visit Barcelona next week as he is desperate for the footballer to be seen in the city.

He believes that will convince the 92,000 voters in the football club's elections on Sunday week his bid to land Becks is real.

Today, he plans to reveal he has done a deal with United to buy the England star.

But he knows getting the player to the Catalan city and being pictured with him could swing the election vote his way.

Laporta is urgently trying to contact Beckham, who is on holiday in America, to bring him to Spain next week.

The problem is Beckham and wife Victoria are in the middle of a busy promotions schedule in the US - then he has further sponsors dates in the Far East to fulfil.

Laporta knows the Beckhams are impressed with Milan, where European champions AC are preparing their own bid.

So Laporta will spare no expense as he gives Becks free rein to have what he wants in Barcelona.

First, there will be the £3m house in the classy Sarria area 30 minutes outside the main centre of the city.

Beckham would be given a property in the same street as Kluivert and former Barca boss Cruyff.

Or, alternatively, he can have a £2m pad in the luxurious Casa Mila apartments in the city centre.

With the Laporta millions, a powerboat berthed in the famous Porta de la Pau could be on offer as well, allowing the Beckhams to cruise over to the celebrities' playground in Majorca.

The couple would also get a Barcelona credit card - no doubt with a hefty balance already on it - to spend in the swanky clothes shops that adorn almost every street.

The Avenue Diagonal boasts the top-name boutiques and is the main place to be seen.
Posh and Becks would find all the best labels to kit themselves out in.

While for sons Brooklyn and Romeo, there is the Tibidabo fairground perched high on a hill giving spectacular views of the city.

The nightlife is vibrant from the spectacular Luz de Gas wine bar on a boat in the port to the hundreds of fabulous restaurants.

But if it all gets too much and the Beckhams fancy a break, Laporta will sort that out, too.

A private jet will be laid on for the family to return to England whenever there are breaks in the football schedule so they can check on Beckingham Palace.

But, of course, the most important incentive is the football club itself.

There is no better stadium to play in than the Nou Camp - perhaps the finest arena for sport in the world.

Built between 1954 and 1957, the 90,000-capacity stadium dwarfs the pitch.

When full, the sound and colour as the Catalan hymn is belted out before kick-off creates one of the truly great atmospheres in the game.

What the club needs is a hero to spark the place back into life.

David Beckham could be that man - and if Laporta has his way, he will be.

sumber: http://www.thesun.co.uk/article/0,,2002390000-2003260783,00.html

[Rupert G]

United Ron a winner

BRAZILIAN great Zico claims that Ronaldinho will become Manchester United's star player.

The World Cup-winning attacking midfielder from Paris St Germain has agreed to join United for £9million.

And Zico insisted United's first-ever Brazilian signing will prove a smash-hit at Old Trafford.

He said: "Ronaldinho is a world-class player and is not afraid to take on responsibility in a game.

"If Manchester United use him well he will be their best player.

"But he has a free role on the pitch and that may be difficult for an English team to incorporate."

Meanwhile, there were claims yesterday that Ronaldinho's Brazil team-mate Roberto Carlos had stepped in to persuade him to join Real Madrid instead of United.

Full-back Carlos, who was also influential in bringing Ronaldo to the Bernabeu from Inter Milan last summer, said: "I'd really like to have Ronaldinho alongside me at Real Madrid.

"It would be very positive for the club and for the fans."

Ronaldinho's agent and brother Roberto Assis added: "Real, as well as other sides, have made us an offer and Ronaldinho has more friends there than elsewhere.

"Everybody knows that and it could influence our decision."

sumber: http://www.thesun.co.uk/article/0,,2002390000-2003260698,00.html

[Rupert G]

Xab is up for grabs

SPANISH golden boy Xabi Alonso has begged Alex Ferguson to put his money where his mouth is and make his dream come true.

Now Fergie has landed Ronaldinho, Alonso is praying he is next.

Last week, the Manchester United boss was singing the praises of the Real Sociedad midfielder, saying he would love him at Old Trafford.

Although Alonso is contracted to Sociedad until 2007, Real Madrid are chasing the £20million-rated star and would allow him to stay put until the end of next season.

But Ferguson, seeking a long-term Roy Keane replacement, is also a huge admirer. And now Alonso, 21, admits the feeling is mutual.

Alonso said: "Just thinking about playing for United gives me the shivers.

"The truth is, nobody's approached me or my club yet - but I'm good enough for the Premiership."

sumber: http://www.thesun.co.uk/article/0,,2002390000-2003260699,00.html

[Rupert G]

Beckham would ruin us

BARCELONA presidential candidate Lluis Bassat last night insisted: "Buying David Beckham would put us in the sh*t financially".

The millionaire publicity tycoon is the main opposition to Joan Laporta, who has surged into the lead for Sunday's election on the back of the 'Becks Effect'.

But the battle for Barca is getting dirty and Bassat has warned the electorate that Laporta's attempt to buy Beckham would leave the club penniless.

Bassat plans to open talks with Ajax to bring in Ronald Koeman as manager - and the Dutchman does not want Becks near the team.

Bassat said: "Laporta thinks he is king of the world with all this Beckham stuff but it worries the hell out of me.

"Our club is already in the cr*p financially and starting to rebuild with Beckham is a brutal risk.

"It's like starting to build a house from the attic downwards - it is almost impossible not to make a mistake and then the entire house falls to pieces.

"Beckham might be the icing on the cake but at Barcelona we don't have a cake.

"What would be the point in chucking all our money at 'the best crosser in the world' if we have no one to stick it in the goal?

"Anyway, from what I hear, Beckham is going to Madrid.

"He has three or four years of top-class football in front of him? Do you really think he is going to chuck one of them away playing for us in the UEFA Cup?"

sumber: http://www.thesun.co.uk/article/0,,2002390000-2003270870,00.html

[Rupert G]

We want shirt off your Beck

DAVID BECKHAM has been told he can have the No7 shirt off AC Milan hero Andrei Schevchenko's back.

The European champs are so keen to snatch the England skipper they have offered the Ukrainian £1MILLION to give up his number.

But Shev's agent Fabio Parisi said: "He'd have a real problem with losing it, just as David Beckham would have a problem with losing the No7 shirt to a new player at Manchester United.

"Andrei's contract says he must have the No7 shirt."

The Italian giants know Beckham will demand his favourite number whether he joins Milan or opts for either Spanish giants Barcelona or Real Madrid.

And it means AC face a tricky battle to stop Shevchenko leaving in anger.

He is a hero at Milan since his penalty secured the European Cup last month and insists he will never give up his lucky shirt to Becks.

Club owner Silvio Berlusconi publicly states there will be no more signings following the arrival of Brazil star Cafu from Roma this week.

But he is waiting to see the outcome of Joan Laporta's Becks-fuelled bid to become Barca president.

Then Milan will make a decision on whether to take on Real. AC also say a Becks swap deal involving United target Shevchenko is a non-starter.

A club source said: "We want to keep Shevchenko but realise he will be very reluctant to give up his squad number.

"It's a difficult situation but we are prepared to dig deep to find a resolution."

sumber: http://www.thesun.co.uk/article/0,,2002390000-2003271013,00.html

[Rupert G]

June 23 is B-Day

B-DAY is nearly upon us, when the true big guns join the transfer merry-go-round spinning about David Beckham.

That key date is June 23, the day after the Spanish season ends.

It is when Real Madrid have told Manchester United they will hit them with a new bid for England's captain - and expect AC Milan to follow.

United will certainly be hoping those bids improve on the initial offers put to them by the two clubs and which have left Old Trafford officials reeling.

Real have talked about a figure of around £12million plus two players. AC Milan have come in with something similar.

Both have been rejected by United, who want cash. And only an offer better than that proposed by Joan Laporta in Barcelona will be good enough.

The entire deal hinges on Sunday's Barcelona presidential election. Both AC and Real have been waiting for that before showing the real colour of their money.

If Laporta wins, his offer of around £24m rising to £30m based on Beckham's success with Barca - and already accepted by United - will set the benchmark for everyone else.

Whether Laporta gets the midfield superstar or not, that is the sort of deal both Real and Milan must match.

And so far their offers in talks have been derisory in comparison.

If Laporta loses the election to close rival Lluis Bassat, Real and Milan will be able to drive the price down as they are the only two other clubs in the world able to afford 28-year-old Beckham.

So United are crossing their fingers Laporta wins. And it is one reason why they officially verified Laporta's claim this week that he had a deal agreed with United to sign Becks.

Real certainly look keen to go into battle, with their director of sport Jorge Valdano yesterday telling his club president Florentino Perez: "Give me David Beckham and I'll give Real Madrid the world."

The ruthless Argentinian was the first Madrid executive to reveal the Spanish club's desire to sign the United ace this summer.

He has been silent for the past three months but has now declared: "In the world of football you have icons - and David Beckham is the greatest of them all.

"In the current Real Madrid team we are almost of the Latin mentality. Most of our players are 'of the South'. We have Ronaldo and Roberto Carlos and Zidane with his Arabic roots. We also have players like Solari of Argentina and players from France and, of course, from Spain. All very Latin.

"What David Beckham represents right now is 'the North', which is complementary to the identity of our team in terms of football and nationality. That makes him seem very attractive at the moment."

Valdano believes Beckham must play for Madrid in central midfield - and has come up with another surprise in that he wants Sven Goran Eriksson as coach next season.

Current team boss Vicente Del Bosque is struggling in La Liga and out of contract on June 30.

Reacting to the news that Madrid want the England chief, Del Bosque said: "If the club is not happy with me then that is the most important thing. And if they are not happy, the best thing for them to do is to sign a new coach."

Madrid have tempted Eriksson twice before - first when they sacked John Toshack in 1999 and the Swede was committed to chasing the Champions League with Lazio.

They then sounded out Eriksson early last season when Barcelona were making moves to put the Swede on their shopping-list for this summer.

Eriksson now knows that if Madrid do not win the league, Del Bosque will be released and he may well have to choose between managing the Spanish giants and taking England to Euro 2004.

Beckham-mania, meanwhile, has even hit North America thanks to his high-visibility promotional tour there with wife Victoria.

Unusually both the New York Times and the Los Angeles Times used major stories yesterday on the deal Manchester United have struck with Barcelona.

The New York Times asked: "Will Beckham really accept his move to Barcelona?" It continued: "That would be like a great baseball star like Derek Jeter leaving the New York Yankees and moving to the Boston Red Sox."

Becks' next mega-money promotional tour, which has enraged United boss Alex Ferguson, starts in Tokyo next Wednesday.

He will help advertise his highly secretive, and lucrative, contract with Tokyo Beauty Centres. Then come two days in Kuala Lumpur, two in Bangkok and a visit to Vietnam.

While Fergie may find such a trip too much, it is Beckham's huge marketing power in Asia which makes him so irresistible to the likes of Real Madrid.

Yet England pal Michael Owen is convinced Becks will learn nothing playing abroad that he cannot be taught in the Premiership.

Owen, 23, fresh from scoring the two goals in his 50th England appearance that secured the vital 2-1 Euro qualifier win over Slovakia, insisted: "The foreign leagues possess a lot of quality. But they are not as fast and frenetic as the Premiership.

"We've a lot of fantastic teams in our country. Things have developed so much here in the past 10 years.

"There has been an influx of foreign players and managers from whom we have learned an awful lot.

"Yet moving abroad wouldn't affect David's England career. The manager picks his best 11 and that's that."

Old Trafford and England pal Phil Neville said: "David is a good friend and great player and will be missed. But until he's told he is no longer a Manchester United player, I'm not convinced he'll go."

sumber: http://www.thesun.co.uk/article/0,,2002390000-2003270848,00.html

[Rupert G]

Jordi backing old pal

DAVID BECKHAM'S proposed Barcelona switch has the Cruyff seal of approval.

Nou Camp hero Johan Cruyff is backing Joan Laporta's presidential campaign.

The Dutch legend will offer to sit down with £24million target Beckham and persuade him to move to the Catalan club if Laporta wins Sunday's election.

While Cruyff snr, 56, prefers to stays out of the limelight during the election circus, his son Jordi has revealed the family's admiration for England's captain.

Jordi, a former team-mate at Manchester United, said: "David Beckham is the best possible investment Barcelona could make in the world of football.

"Barcelona desperately need two world-class players, not only to win games and trophies, but to give pride and self-belief back to the fans and I think Beckham has to be one of them.

"David is perfect on every level for this club - sporting, marketing, economically and in the social relations between the team and its supporters."

Jordi, who played at Barcelona during his dad's eight-year spell in charge in the 80s and 90s, added: "David brings you a guarantee that he will either make or score at least 25 per cent of your goals every season.

"He crosses brilliantly, he scores from open play and he is almost infallible from direct free-kicks.

"What is more, he has changed as a player since Sven Goran Eriksson took over as England manager. It's clear he is a genuine leader of the team but people sometimes don't notice his excellent work-rate."

Jordi, 29, insists Beckham's marketing potential will recoup the cash Barca fork out for him.

Alaves winger Jordi, who managed just 26 starts in four years at Old Trafford, said: "An investment in Beckham will always be returned to you in a few years because he sells more merchandising than most teams do put together.

"David is capable of making the club competitive again at a world level.

"And when the name of Barca becomes talked about across the world again, everything they have invested in buying him will be paid back and people will then start to realise his signing was an act of genius."

sumber: http://www.thesun.co.uk/article/0,,2002390000-2003270880,00.html

[Man_United]

Assalamualaikum ..

Barcelona have 'first option' to sign David Beckham, according to presidential candidate Joan Laporta.

Laporta, who hopes to succeed Joan Gaspart as Barca president on Sunday, is unconcerned about the threat posed by arch-rivals Real Madrid.

He claimed that, by FIFA rules, Manchester United will deal with the Catalan club first - meaning Beckham can only go to Real if he rejects Barcelona and then the Castillian outfit put an offer in.

`I am calm knowing that I have done things correctly as laid out in FIFA directives, the agreement is ours and if Madrid want Beckham then they will have to pass by us,' he stated.

`We have a lot of possibilities - despite what has been said by his representatives which is fine as they are looking for the best for the player.

`Barcelona can enchant any player, we have a fantastic city and at times these situations they depend on the cities and so I think it would be good if all the Catalans try and help Beckham to come here.'

He added: `Here Beckham would not have to fight to take the free-kicks and his family would live very well, we have to try to get this player at Barca next season.'

Laporta's public pursuit of the England captain has given him the lead in the presidential battle.

In the latest survey, Laporta has edged into a 29.5% to 28.3% lead over long-time favourite Lluis Bassat but crucially there remains 21.5% of the voters who are uncertain.

As the election campaigning enters its final stages, of the 410 members questioned less than 15% in total voted for the other four candidates Jaume Llaurado, Josep Martinez-Rovira, Jordi Majo and Josep Maria Minguella.

Laporta denied as insignificant comments made by rival Martinez-Rovira who said that Beckham has a house in Madrid and is looking for a school for his children.

`He can look for a house, a school and whatever he wants but the agreement between the clubs is blocked because Manchester has given us first option,' he said. `Madrid does not have a deal with Beckham.'

[Man_United]

Assalamualaikum ..

Real Madrid are set to begin official talks with David Beckham's representatives, the SFX group, on June 23, according to reports.

The Spanish season ends on June 22 and Real will then be ready to begin serious negotiations to lure Beckham away from Old Trafford.

The England captain is continuing his jet set summer holiday with a commercial tour of the Far East - taking in Malaysia, Vietnam and Japan - and will return to Europe for a personal meeting with Madrid on June 27.

Barcelona presidential candidate Joan Laporta has insisted he will fight Real for the 28-year-old but Madrid's sporting director Jorge Valdano is confident he can clinch the deal, which is expected to net Manchester United around £25m, after the elections are completed on Sunday.

Beckham's advisors have insisted that the midfielder has no interest in meeting Barcelona, who have failed to qualify for next season's Champions League and are still two points off qualifying for the UEFA Cup.

European Champions AC Milan have withdrawn from the Beckham auction but Valdano believes DB07 could fill the one void in the Spanish giants commercial profile.

'There are icons in football and Beckham is one of them,' Valdano said.

'We have a lot of 'south' in our side; we have Ronaldo, Zidane with his Arab blood, Argentinians, Spanish and in general a lot of representation from the Latin world.

'Beckham is the north. I think that at the moment, he is a compliment to the other ingredients that would be especially attractive - especially to the media,' he said.

[Man_United]

Assalamualaikum ..

Fabien Barthez has vowed to stay at Manchester United.

The French international goalkeeper was dropped for the last three games of the season after making errors in both legs of the Champions League defeat to Real Madrid.

But the former Monaco star said life at Old Trafford is proceeding 'perfectly' at Old Trafford, despite being omitted for Roy Carroll.

And though Paul Robinson, Brad Friedel, Antti Niemi and Sebastian Frey have been linked with moves to Manchester United, Barthez has vowed to stay put.

'Everything is going perfectly well for me,' he told L'Equipe.

'I've always felt fine with Manchester. Therefore, I'm staying there. There is no problem.'

The 31-year-old World Cup winner cost £7.8 million three years ago.

[Rupert G]

Salam.

Terima kasih Man kerana "kaber" aku & Maya masa kita tak ada dengan berita terkini...teruskanlah...:D

[Man_United]

Assalamualaikum ..

Sama² , Insya Allah aku akan terus letakkan berita ..
terkini serta cerita² tentang Team Manchester United .. :D

***************************************************

Manchester United defender Mikael Silvestre expects the club will be able to offset the potential loss of David Beckham with their recruitment this summer.

The England captain looks likely to leave the Premiership champions during the close season with Ronaldinho reportedly their number one target.

France international Silvestre shurugged off the impact of Beckham's expected departure and said he was confident that the Old Trafford squad would remain strong.

He told The Sun: 'It won't change the balance of the team very much.

'Ronaldinho and Beckham do not play in the same position.

'I have not got a clue about Beckham's transfer but what I can say is United have always been very wise in their recruiting from one season to the next.

'There are only one or two players signed and the signings are carefully made.

[Rupert G]

Madrid made for David

WHILE Alex Ferguson has grown sick of David Beckham's pop-star lifestyle, Steve McManaman knows a club where the England skipper would fit in just fine.

Because at Real Madrid, where Macca has spent the last four years, he knows every player is treated like a movie idol.

McManaman believes Becks has never shared his own ambition to play abroad but the ex-Liverpool winger admits he is not surprised Manchester United have agreed to sell their most glamorous asset.

For when you have spent any length of time at Real, you know that every player has his price - Zinedine Zidane at £47million, Luis Figo at £37m and Ronaldo, a mere snip at £20m.

And if Beckham becomes Real's latest capture, his status as a front-page celeb would be matched by all of his new team-mates.

Just spend an hour in the car park of Real's training ground and you will see as many megastars as a night at the Oscars.

And McManaman said: "If the results are going well, the players are treated like film stars.

"The Real players are the most famous people here. The likes of Raul are more famous than pop stars or movie stars.

"In England, Becks is seen as the main man away from the pitch but at United, as a football club, he's certainly not THE main man. He's just one of them and in that sense it would be the same here.

"I'm not surprised United have agreed to sell him because every footballer has his price now."

McManaman is unconvinced by the election gambit of Barcelona presidential candidate Joan Laporta, who has agreed a £24m price with United for Beckham's services.

Even if Laporta is crowned king of the Nou Camp tomorrow night, Macca believes the United ace is unlikely to sign for a club which will not be playing Champions League football next term and Real are waiting in the wings.
But Macca feels Becks wanted to spend the rest of his career at Old Trafford until boss Fergie became insistent on selling him.

McManaman said: "We all know Laporta wants Becks but he's not even certain to win the Barcelona presidency.

"Becks might not want to go to Barcelona because they are not in the Champions League, he might not even want to leave United.

"He's got two young kids and one of them must be about to start school, they've got wonderful houses in England, it's each to their own.

"I didn't have children and came here with my then-girlfriend, so it was perfect to settle in. Certain people want to play abroad, for others it doesn't cross their minds.

"Becks' dad has said David didn't ever want to leave United and until recent circumstances, I don't think there was ever any question in his mind that he was going to move."

Real are still fighting leaders Real Sociedad for the Primera Liga title with two games to go - but the summer transfer frenzy has already engulfed the Spanish capital. McManaman said: "Other European leagues finish and players become available at this time of year.

"Real Madrid haven't put out any statement, yet we're still linked with every top player.

"The speculation about Becks has been going on for three bloody months now but David might want to stay for the next two years of his contract."

Macca is now on the fringes of the first team. He scored in the 2000 European Cup final against Valencia and has enjoyed the richest spell of his career here - in terms of silverware and his £80,000-a-week wages. But, with Real threatened by a trophyless season, he insists the pressure for success would be nothing new to Becks.

McManaman added: "If you play for the biggest teams, you are expected to win trophies every year and in that respect nothing differs.

"If big-money signings don't produce the goods there is always going to be pressure. It would be the same wherever David went.

"But I've won the major honours and scored in the most important games here so this has been the most important and successful time for me - even though I had 10 fantastic years at Liverpool."

sumber: http://www.thesun.co.uk/article/0,,2002390000-2003271747,00.html

[Rupert G]

United to blame

THE MAN who discovered David Beckham has attacked Manchester United for their handling of the England skipper's transfer debacle.

Stuart Underwood recruited Becks for Ridgeway Rovers Under-8 team in Walthamstow and is still in touch with the Beckham family.

And he said: "David won't be messed around, he's got a mind of his own. He's very close to his family and will talk it over with them but I think they're upset at what's happened.

"David's been at United since he was 14 and I think they have a lot to answer for, whatever problems there might have been.

"From my perspective, he's a role model, an icon. He's never brought United into disrepute and it's disappointing this has happened."

sumber: http://www.thesun.co.uk/article/0,,2002390000-2003271747,00.html

[Rupert G]

Ban on Becks shirt

SHIRTY Real Madrid chiefs are so paranoid about their bid to sign David Beckham that they have BANNED fans from having his name printed on their famous white kit.

The manager of the official club shop insisted Beckham was 'the forbidden name' when SunSport photographer Nicky Hayes asked for it on the back of a Real shirt, together with the player's trademark No7.

Spanish giants Real hope to beat off competition from arch-rivals Barcelona and European Cup winners AC Milan to land the Manchester United and England star this summer.

But the club's bid to keep their plans secret took a bizarre twist yesterday when Hayes tried to show our army of readers what Beckham's name would look like on a Real shirt.

Miguel Angel Castello, boss of the shop next to Real's Bernabeu stadium, insisted: "You can have a No7 but Beckham is the forbidden name."

Our resourceful snapper claimed 'But my name is Nicky Beckham, so surely you can't deny me'.

But Castello replied: "I'm sorry Mr Beckham, that is unfortunate."

Castello was told to uphold the ban by Real's directors, who are waiting until the end of the Spanish Primera Liga season in eight days before they launch their bid for Becks.

Hayes got around the barmy ban by penning Beckham's name on the shirt with a black marker, allowing some of Madrid's female fans to pose with it.

But Real's pretence continued at their Press conference where goalkeeper Iker Casillas insisted: "I don't believe the stories that we want to sign Beckham."

sumber: http://www.thesun.co.uk/article/0,,2002390000-2003271740,00.html

[Rupert G]

FABIEN BARTHEZ

FABIEN BARTHEZ has pledged his future to Manchester United.

And the French keeper, 31, denied he had fallen out with boss Alex Ferguson.

Barthez said: "I have three years left on my contract - and I intend to see them out.

"Everything is fine between the coach and myself."

sumber: http://www.thesun.co.uk/article/0,,2002390000-2003271740,00.html

[Rupert G]

Ron caught in crossfire

REAL MADRID are ready to use Ronaldinho as a bargaining tool to make sure they get David Beckham.

The Spanish giants are trying to hijack Ronaldinho's move to Old Trafford by offering £5million more for him.

They would then hold United to ransom with an offer to pull out of the Ronaldinho transfer - if they only do business with them over Becks.

To United's horror, Ronaldinho's agent has now shaken hands on a deal both with United and Real over the player's transfer as he tries to get a bidding war going.

But Real, who have bid £14m to United's £9m are using him more for their plot to land Beckham.

Ronaldinho's current club are Paris St Germain and their coach Luis Fernandez can see what is happening. Fernandez said: "These two players will form the longest story of the summer. Eventually I can see Beckham going to Real Madrid and Ronaldinho ending up at Manchester United."

Barca's presidential favourite Joan Laporta yesterday accused Real of making an illegal approach for Becks.

And he threatened to report them to FIFA if he found out they have tried to negotiate behind United's back.

Laporta said: "We have followed FIFA's rules. If a player has a current agreement with another club you have to speak to the club.

"Real Madrid is a big club and I hope they did not use any channel which is outside of the rules."

Meanwhile, Johan Cruyff yesterday threw his support behind David Beckham moving to Barcelona.

The former Barca boss said: "Everything that Joan Laporta has done about Beckham seems to me to have been really smart. He has put our club right at the front of the race."

sumber: http://www.thesun.co.uk/article/0,,2002390000-2003271741,00.html

[Rupert G]

Barca ready for crunch vote

David Beckham's future will become clearer as Barcelona prepare to vote for a new president at the club.
Members of the Spanish club vote on Sunday to decide their next president.

Joan Laporta has pledged to sign Beckham if he wins and has already had a bid accepted by Manchester United for the England captain.

If Laporta is victorious Beckham will have to decide whether to join the Catalan giants or hold out for a move elsewhere, with Real Madrid understood to be waiting in the wings.

Madrid are understood to have scheduled a meeting with Beckham's advisers on 23 June to discuss the possibility of the midfielder signing for them.

It seems unlikely that Beckham, who arrived back in Britain on Saturday after a holiday in the USA, will remain at United.

Laporta has been accused of misleading supporters over his agreement to bring Beckham to the Catalan club.

The accusations came in a live television debate - on Spanish network TV3 - the final opportunity for the six candidates to put their case before Sunday's election.

Before the debate began, Laporta was said to have taken the lead in the Barcelona presidential election for the first time.

You have to show the contract with Beckham or otherwise you must stop talking about it, because it is a trick

Long-term presidential candidate favourite Lluis Bassat went on the offensive saying he wanted to see proof of a deal with Beckham.


Bassat also claiming his would-be coach if elected, Ajax's Ronald Koeman, would prefer to bring in several players for the same money.

"I think that Koeman believes that even if Beckham is the best player for his position he would prefer to buy three or four good players," Bassat said.

Laporta responded by saying he had a deal with the Old Trafford club and not with the player.


Jaume Llaurado claimed that a deal between Beckham and Real Madrid had been agreed for some time while he repeated he had plans to bring in several star signings.

"On the 12 May Beckham has an agreement with Real Madrid," he said.

"I can bring in (Christian) Vieri, (Cristian) Chivu and a player from Real Madrid who will have the same impact as when Real Madrid bought (Luis) Figo."

So far Beckham has shown no interest in meeting Laporta or anyone else from Barca - but his agents are expected to sit down with representatives of Madrid on 23 June.

Laporta, a 40-year-old Spanish lawyer, began the race to succeed outgoing Nou Camp president Joan Gaspart as a rank outsider.

But his promise to sign Beckham for the under-achieving Catalan club has pushed Laporta close to favourite Lluis Bassat.

sumber: http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/m/man_utd/2981028.stm