Keeping Mourinho happy may be the key to Man Utd success

The Portuguese boss has instigated a revolution at Old Trafford, and the ability to deliver for Mourinho might be a huge factor in United's bid to get back to winning ways

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For Manchester United and Jose Mourinho, Sunday could hardly have gone any better. United won the new manager’s first competitive fixture, Zlatan Ibrahimovic scored the winner on his debut, and Paul Pogba was given permission to undergo a medical at Carrington.
Everything about the day capped a supremely impressive summer, and while the 2-1 Community Shield win over Leicester City will soon be forgotten if they do not deliver in the Premier League this term, the early indications suggest that Mourinho is just the man United have been needing in recent years.
While much has been said and written over the past few months about Mourinho having to get the best out of United, one of the key factors in the next few years will be the ability of the club to also get the best out of the manager himself. One game in, things are looking good.
Mourinho arrived at Old Trafford telling the wheelers and dealers that he needed them to address four priorities in the market: a central defender, a powerful midfielder, an attacking midfielder and a striker. After Eric Bailly, Ibrahimovic and Henrikh Mkhitaryan, Pogba completes a convincing response to the manager’s request.
With the boardroom’s job done for the summer, aside from any secondary moves which become imperative in response to outgoings, the onus is on Mourinho to keep his end of the bargain. The 53-year-old has got what he asked for – both in terms of England’s biggest job and the ideal shopping list to boot – and on Sunday he appeared to be a very satisfied man indeed.
Having won the game at Wembley he was in a position to be gracious about predecessor Louis van Gaal. “First of all, if you will allow me I want to dedicate the victory to Louis van Gaal because without him we wouldn’t be here celebrating,” he said at the beginning of his post-match press conference. “He won the FA Cup to allow us to be here today. So I dedicate it to him.”



He had also seen his tactics work almost to a tee during the game itself. United were still not particularly slick at times – that will take time, as he has stressed more than once – but they showed signs that they are ready for a different approach.
Jesse Lingard’s driving run in the first half saw him beat four men before slotting past Kasper Schmeichel to give United the lead, and it immediately sprung to mind that such ambition on the ball had been in short supply in the last couple of years under Van Gaal. Marcus Rashford also had an impact in running at the Leicester backline, while Ibrahimovic’s winning goal came from a perfect first-time cross by Antonio Valencia.
Even Mourinho himself questioned whether the Ecuadorian would have trusted his instinct to whip the ball in under Van Gaal. “There are some changes that take time, and maybe last year Valencia doesn’t take that cross and he instead checks back,” the manager pondered. “So we are making changes.”


That it was the signing most inextricably linked with Mourinho himself who was on the end of it would have given the boss no end of satisfaction too, but if anything it was the ability to finally open up on Pogba which put the spring in Mourinho’s step after the match.
“I think United is the perfect club to bring him to the level he wants to be, and the Premier League is the perfect habitat,” he said, and the same might well be said of Mourinho himself.
With a board, led by executive vice-chair Ed Woodward, willing to back his every move in the search for success, a playing staff with a point to prove and new players to match his ambition, United are providing Mourinho with the perfect platform. The early signs are that this could be a marriage made in heaven.

While he was a qualified success at both Real Madrid and Chelsea, the last time Mourinho was given unequivocal backing was at Inter. There he delivered a treble and left a legend. He is only two months, and one game, into his Old Trafford reign but if United keep delivering for Mourinho then there is every chance Mourinho will keep delivering for United.

Terry hands Chelsea boss Conte injury scare ahead of opener

John Terry could be a doubt for Chelsea’s season opener against West Ham after being forced off in the victory against Werder Bremen.
Chelsea beat the Bundesliga outfit 4-2 in Germany but were dealt a blow when Terry had to be substituted late in the second half after suffering a blow to his head.
The captain now faces a race to prove his fitness ahead of the Blues’ opening Premier League fixture against West Ham at Stamford Bridge next Monday.
Last week new manager Antonio Conte had spoken of the importance of Terry’s experience and leadership ahead of the new campaign.
“John has always played for this club,” he told the Daily Mail. “I think he is in the history of this club. And it’s important for me that he can explain what it means to play for this club, what it means to wear this shirt, this badge. I think it’s important in the dressing room.
“I have spoken with him. In the future it’s important to have this relationship because he is the captain of our team and it’s important also to transfer sometimes message.
“I think to have a good relationship is very important with John and the other players, always with great education and respect.
“In every team there are some players with great experience. And I think this experience counts during the season. If you play but also if you don’t play, it’s important.
“The experience helps transfer the right concept to the team. And I must say John is a good example during the training session. He has the right attitude and the right behaviour, though I must say all the players have a good attitude in the training session.”

Liverpool boss Klopp in the dark over Sturridge fitness

Jurgen Klopp admits he has “no idea” whether Daniel Sturridge will be fit for Liverpool’s Premier League opener against Arsenal.
Sturridge enjoyed a promising end to the season before representing England at Euro 2016 and was set to start the campaign as Liverpool’s first-choice striker.
However, the 26-year-old missed the Reds’ friendlies against Barcelona and Mainz in what the club described as “precautionary” decision.
Asked to give a one word answer on Sturridge’s availability, Klopp replied: “No idea. That’s a two word answer!
“I’m always ready,” he added, with the season-opener against Arsenal coming on Sunday. “We played some games that were very good, others that were less good.
“Barcelona was really good and then we had Mainz, and that is what you need. You have to work and that is all. That is what we are doing.
“We will be ready for the first game next week, for sure. But if Arsenal was the best game of the season for us, there would be something wrong with the season.
“We still have to go on. This is only the first game. We cannot decide the whole season in one game. But we need to be as good as possible. And that is what we will be, 100 per cent.
“But I am not in the mood to say this is our final shape.”

Man Utd are ‘the perfect club’ for Pogba – Mourinho

Jose Mourinho says Manchester United offer Paul Pogba an opportunity that he would not get at Barcelona or Real Madrid.
The 23-year-old midfielder, who was allowed to leave United for just £800,000 in 2012, is expected to arrive in Manchester on a private jet from Nice this morning to complete his return to Old Trafford from Juventus for a reported fee of around 110million euros (£93.2million) on Tuesday after the clubs revealed an agreement had been reached.
And Mourinho, who did not confirm the fee, believes prices may rise further.
“Football is crazy and the market has become crazy,” said the Portuguese, speaking after his side’s 2-1 victory over Leicester at Wembley in the Community Shield.
“What you think this season is crazy, you realise three years later it’s not crazy any more.
“There are players who cost £10million who are super expensive because they’re players (who are worth) £500,000 or £1million. What is expensive and not expensive in football I don’t know any more. I just know he is a big player.”
He added: “I don’t think Real were upset when they broke the record with Gareth Bale or Cristiano (Ronaldo). I don’t think it’s a reason to be sad – it’s a reason to be proud.”
Mourinho reckons United can help Pogba become one of the world’s best players because he will not have to compete with Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo.
“United is the perfect club to bring him to the level he wants to be,” he said. “The Premier League is the perfect habitat for that. If you want to be the best player in the world, if you go to Barcelona or Real Madrid you are in trouble because I don’t think the other two big guys will let you.
“Here he is in the most seen, worldwide, championship which is absolutely incredible, with a team which wants to bring Manchester United to the top again. We have everything to give him and we know the reasons why he wants to come to us.
“Money he would get at any big club. He comes because he knows the club, knows the city, many of the players and wants to be an important part of the project. Hopefully everything goes well.”

Pogba is set to become the final piece in Mourinho’s jigsaw follow the summer signings of Eric Bailly, Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Henrikh Mkhitaryan, and the former Chelsea boss acknowledges it has been a good transfer window for his new club as they aim to regain the Premier League title they last won in 2013.
He said: “It’s a good market for us. Bailly, Pogba, Mkhitaryan, Ibra. One defender, one midfielder, one creative, one striker. The squad is good. We need to work a lot, we need more work. I am happy for the next few weeks we have just the match on the weekend.”
Goals from Jesse Lingard and Ibrahimovic earned Mourinho his first silverware as United boss on Sunday, leading him to joke Pogba will have a tough challenge to force his way into his line-up.
He told BT Sport: “It’s amazing that such a good player is with us and finally we have him and he comes to a winning side, a side that won the last two matches, the FA Cup final and the Community Shield, so he has to work hard to come to the team.”

Sweden U23 0-1 Nigeria U23: Sadiq Umar heads Eagles into knock out stage

The AS Roma striker made the difference in a game that saw the African champions dominate possession but unable to score more as they reached the quarter finals

Nigeria defeated Sweden 1-0 at the Arena Amazonia in Manaus on Sunday to reach the quarter finals of the 2016 Olympic Games.
Samson Siasia's men dominated the game but could only convert one of their numerous chances via a first half header from Sadiq Umar.
The Nigerians, who looked to have fully recovered from the flight troubles that trailed their first game against Japan, were unchanged against a Swedish side that drew its first game against Colombia.
While both qualified for the Olympics as continental champions, it was the African U23 champions that showed greater intent in attack as they pushed forward in search of goals early while the European U21 champions were content to soak up the pressure.
Goalkeeper Andreas Linde was the busier on the night as Oghenekaro Etebo forced him to make a double save following a miss by Simon Tibbling at the other end.
Etebo continued to trouble the young Blagult backline with the support of front men Imoh Ezekiel and the lanky Sadiq.
It would take 39 minutes for Nigeria to finally break the deadlock when Sadiq got onto the end of a pinpoint cross into the Swedish area by full back Stanley Amuzie. The AS Roma forward was right on target as he nodded his side ahead in a half where they shaved possession by 68 percent.

The Nigerians coasted in the second half but they could not convert their chances with Etebo, scorer of four goals against Japan, left frustrated with his inability to beat Linde.
A late rally from the Swedes led by Joakim Nilsson met a sturdy Nigeria central defence marshaled by William Ekong and Muenfuh Sincere.
Nigeria’s all round play was much better than against Japan as Mikel John Obi, Azubuike Okechukwu and Usman Muhammed kept the opponents in check. Mikel’s turns and swift runs gave the attack the extra man as the Chelsea star continued to influence proceedings until he was subbed off late on.
With six points from the first two group matches, Nigeria have qualified for the quarter finals ahead of their final game against Colombia. Sweden will take on Japan in the last game for a chance to reach the knock out stage.
Only the top two teams will reach the quarters

Chelsea’s Lukaku blow; Arsenal & Liverpool battle

Everton will refuse to sell Romelu Lukaku to Everton, while Arsenal and Liverpool are among a number of clubs interested in a Charlton prodigy, according to today’s papers.

EVERTON STAND THEIR GROUND ON LUKAKU

Chelsea are set to miss out on re-signing former striker Romelu Lukaku as Everton remain adamant they will not sell their prized asset.
The Londoners have chased Lukaku all summer, with reports last week suggesting a £65million bid had been made.
However Everton, who signed the Belgian for £28million in 2014, refuse to budge in their stance that 23-year-old will stay at Goodison Park.
And according to the Daily Express, the Toffees will now open talks over a new long-term deal for the former Anderlecht hitman.
Lukaku still has three years left to run on his current contract but Everton will offer much-improved terms in order to reflect his status at the club.

AND THE REST

– Liverpool, Arsenal, Tottenham and Southampton are all competing to sign Charlton’s England Under-19 international Ademola Lookman (Daily Mirror)
– Christian Benteke’s agent has confirmed “several teams” are interested in the striker but Liverpool are yet to receive a formal bid (The Guardian)
– Swansea are set to splash a club-record £15million to land Atletico Madrid striker Borja Baston (The Sun)
– Roberto Mancini is set to leave his post at Inter Milan with Frank de Boer the favourite to replace the former Manchester City boss (Daily Mirror)
– West Ham will complete the £20million signing of Swansea forward Andre Ayew this week and are also closing in on Olympiakos left-back Arthur Masuaku (The Guardian)
– Tottenham defender Dominic Ball, 21, has emerged as a loan target for Championship duo Leeds United and QPR (Daily Mirror)

Alex Iwobi’s father refutes mischievous report of "deliberate" food poisoning in Nigeria camp

The Arsenal midfielder suffered food poisoning ahead of his maiden outing for the Super Eagles in Kaduna in March, but it was not premeditated says his dad

The father of Nigeria forward Alex Iwobi, Chuka, has refuted a recent online report in the Nigerian media that claimed his son was “intentionally poisoned” ahead of making his competitive debut for the Super Eagles in March.
Iwobi showed up at the Kaduna camp of the Eagles with pressure from England where there was faint hope of still bringing him back to the Three Lions.
That hope of a U-turn was fueled when the 20-year-old landed in hospital after eating something that troubled his stomach.
This weekend, it was reported that Iwobi told Usman Sale, a Nigerian player on the Viking FK team during jersey exchange following their pre-season friendly against Arsenal, that he thought he was “deliberately” poisoned.
“I exchanged jerseys with Iwobi after the game, we discussed about life and Nigeria,” Sale was quoted by allnigeriasoccer.com.
“He said some people deliberately tampered with his food while he was in Nigeria for the Egypt game, and he was rushed to the hospital.”
However, Iwobi’s father has come out in defence of his son, calling the story mischievous. Chuka claimed that his son could not have made such a statement.
“Alex made it clear to me that he did not say anything about his food being poisoned to the Nigerian Viking player,” Chuka Iwobi said in a statement released by the Nigeria Football Federation that was made available to Sportmasta.
“To quote Alex – ‘We only swapped jersey took pictures [and] he said he is Nigerian, we didn't talk anything about food.’
“I was in Nigeria at the time when Alex had the stomach upset and Alex told me in Nigeria that he reacted to something he ate and he made no allegation of foul play.
“This is total mischief making and I do not know the source,” said the father.
After being released from hospital, Alex went on to make his competitive Nigeria debut against Egypt in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier, thereby sealing his international future with the Super Eagles.
He was expected to be part of the Nigeria U23 team to the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro but was not released by the club.
“Alex loves Nigeria and as you are aware would have been at the Olympics if Arsenal released him,” Chuka Iwobi said.
“Arsenal will release him during the international break for the World Cup qualifiers (if he is invited).”
Iwobi has been a key part of the Arsenal pre-season where he scored twice in the 8-0 defeat of Viking during their tour of Scandinavia.

He is expected to play against Manchester City in a friendly in Gothenburg on Sunday evening.

Conte hints that Miazga could leave Chelsea on loan

The American defender could move away from Stamford Bridge to get more game time as the Blues chase reinforcements at the back

Matt Miazga could be heading for a loan move away from Chelsea, with Antonio Conte stressing the importance of playing time for a footballer of his age.
The 20-year-old centre back has struggled to make an impact so far at Chelsea and has only played one minute in pre-season under his new manager despite joining the entire tour of Austria and the USA.
Antonio Conte had an open training session in Minneapolis ahead of the International Champions Cup match with AC Milan and hinted at a temporary move away from Stamford Bridge.
"I think in this moment it is good if he plays to improve, to go and get experience to improve," Conte said. "You can improve only if you play. You play every game or a lot of games during the season. But he is a good guy and I am very happy about him.
"Miazga is a young player, he has a good technique and I think that he is working very well under the physical aspect, but the tactical aspect he can improve a lot and I think that he is improving with the work."
Michael Hector has returned from his loan spell at Reading and climbed above Miazga in the pecking order at Chelsea, with John Terry, Gary Cahill, Kurt Zouma and Branislav Ivanovic all competing in his position.
Miazga has been involved in a lot media activity during the tour, with his club likely waiting until after the ICC has finished before finding him a loan move. 

Chelsea are in pursuit of defensive reinforcements, with Napoli's Kalidou Koulibaly at the top of Conte's shortlist ahead of the new season.

‘Decisive’ Man United beat arch-rivals to sign me – Vidic

Former Manchester United great Nemanja Vidic has revealed he was close to joining bitter rivals Liverpool before moving to Old Trafford.
The Serbian was Anfield-bound in 2006 until Sir Alex Ferguson stepped in to swing the deal in the Red Devils’ favour.
Yes [I nearly joined Liverpool]. Rafa Benitez called me and I nearly went there,” Vidic told FourFourTwo.
“I was interested in going but my English wasn’t good and I was struggling to communicate.
“Then Manchester United came. Fergie called me at my apartment and said: ‘I watched you play for Serbia against France – I want you here.’ United were decisive. Everything was done very quickly, within two days.”
Vidic also revealed ambitions of being a manager, but wants to learn his trade before taking his first full step.
“I would like to be a manager, but only if I had the opportunity first to be a coach and learn from someone for maybe one or two years,” he added.
“I would take the experiences I had of the managers I’ve worked under.
“Nemanja the manager won’t be the same Nemanja that you saw on the pitch. They are two completely different roles.”

Kante to make Chelsea debut against AC Milan

The France international looks set to play a part in the Blues's pre-season after joining the club's tour of America on Friday

Antonio Conte has revealed that Chelsea's newest signing N'Golo Kante will play at least 30 minutes against AC Milan in the International Champions Cup.
Kante has recently signed for Chelsea in a £32m deal from Premier League champions Leicester City but has yet to make an appearance for his new club after competing in the Euro 2016 final and then taking a holiday.
Conte revealed the team news after a training session at the brand new US Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, in which Kante was involved in the training match and played alongside Nemanja Matic.
"Kante is in good shape. I found him in very good condition - now he is working on tactical aspects. But he is in good shape, he can certainly play one half or 30 minutes. He is ready."

The 25-year-old is Chelsea's second signing of the summer after they secured Michy Batshuayi for £33m from Marseille at the start of July.
Diego Costa looks likely to start after sitting out the last two pre-season games with complaints of a back problem and speculation linking him with a move to his old club Atletico Madrid, as Conte has insisted that his striker is happy. 
“Diego is Chelsea’s player, and that is the most important thing. He is very happy to stay with us," he added. “Diego has recovered from his injury and now he is available. I will decide the formation and the starting 11 later. But he is available and I am happy I can count on him.”
Branislav Ivanovic looks set to be part of the squad against AC Milan after recovering from a knock he received in Chelsea's final pre-season game in Austria against Wolfsberger.
Kurt Zouma played in a training match but won't play any part in competitive matches, with the former Juventus boss keen to manage the defender's fitness as he recovers from an anterior cruciate ligament tear.
"Zouma is improving a lot and this is good news. But we know that his injury was very bad and for this reason we must respect the time it takes. It’s important Zouma takes his time to be sure that when he goes into the team he stays there.
"But for me it’s important to see he’s improving and I’m very happy for the guy because his injury was very bad."

Balotelli move collapses; Toon to take Real duo

Newcastle could sign two Real Madrid players on loan as part of a deal for Moussa Sissoko, while Mario Balotelli has seen another chance of leaving Liverpool slammed shut, according to Wednesday’s papers.

REAL MADRID OFFER NEWCASTLE DUO AS PART OF SISSOKO DEAL

Real Madrid may offer Newcastle two young players – probably Mariano Diaz, 23, and Marcos Llorente, 21 – on season-long loans as part of a deal for France midfielder Moussa Sissoko, 26.
It was first reported on Tuesday morning that Real had emerged as favourites to land the French midfielder, who had previously been linked with Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea, Crystal Palace, PSG and Borussia Dortmund.
But it’s claimed the £35m-rated midfielder has now set his heart on a move to Spain and Real will try to grease the wheels – and reduce Newcastle’s asking price – by offering them two players, according to reports in The Guardian.
Under Mike Ashley’s ownership, Newcastle have resisted loan moves and part exchanges but having started last season in charge of Real Madrid, Rafael Benitez may be keen to add two youthful talents he knows well to his squad.
While Mariano, a powerful 23-year-old striker who scored against Chelsea in a pre-season tournament last week, could fill a vacancy in attack, Llorente is a 21-year-old former Spain youth playmaker. Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane is said to have particularly high hopes for Mariano, who scored 30 goals in 40 B team appearances last season, but feels he needs to go out on loan to gain experience.

PESCARA END BALOTELLI PURSUIT

Italian club Pescara have ended their pursuit of Liverpool misfit Mario Balotelli.
The 25-year-old striker is expected to leave Merseyside this summer after being told by manager Jurgen Klopp he has no future at Anfield.
Balotelli spent last season on loan at AC Milan but scored just once in 20 Serie A appearances during a forgettable, injury-hampered, spell.
However another trip to Italy had been suggested, with newly-promoted Serie A side Pescara, Sampdoria and Inter Milan all linked with a move for Balotelli this summer, as well as Turkish club Besiktas.
However Pescara’s club president Daniele Sebastiani has now insisted the forward is no longer among their targets.
He told Sport Mediaset: “I know that his is the name that would get the most attention but Mario is a great player and I think that the last thing he would do would be to come and play at Pescara or Crotone.
“We don’t need to buy figurines just to make somebody happy. We’re working behind the scenes on finding players with the right profile for Pescara.
“We’re running our own transfer market and if we want to do anything, we need to be patient.”

AND THE REST

Diafra Sakho is primed to complete a £15m move from West Ham United to West Bromwich Albion that will finally allow Saido Berahino to depart The Hawthorns. Berahino, who has wanted to leave West Brom since the summer of last year, is expected to join Stoke City or Crystal Palace (The Guardian)
Chelsea are willing to offer Loic Remy plus £65m for Romelu Lukaku (Daily Mail)
Pep Guardiola has not given up on signing Barcelona keeper Marc Andre ter Stegen after the German keeper called for clear the air talks at the Camp Nou (Daily Mail)
Baba Rahman claims he left Chelsea on loan after being told he was too attack-minded by new manager Antonio Conte (Daily Mail)
Manchester United defender Matteo Darmian is relishing competition for places at the club and has no intention of leaving this summer despite reports linking him (Daily Mail)
Stoke would consider losing one of Joselu, 26, Mame Diouf, 28, or Peter Crouch, 35, if West Bromwich Albion want a player exchange for Saido Berahino, 22. (Stoke Sentinel)
Jurgen Klopp has reassessed his transfer plans and is prepared to go back into the market to solve the problems with Liverpool’s defence (Daily Mail)
Leeds United have rejected a transfer request from highly-rated left back Charlie Taylor, who is wanted by Middlesbrough, Burnley and West Bromwich Albion (Daily Mail)
Aston Villa midfielder Carlos Sanchez is attracting interest from Fiorentina (Daily Mail)
Brighton and Hove Albion have agreed a club-record fee with Tottenham Hotspur for Alex Pritchard (Daily Mail)
Chelsea midfielder Jordan Houghton is joining Doncaster Rovers on loan (Daily Mail)
Manchester City are fighting to keep highly-rated teenager Tosin Adarabioyo amid lingering fears over his contractual situation (Daily Mail)
Manchester City are confident of tying up a deal to sign Palmeiras forward Gabriel Jesus (Daily Mail)
Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola will step up his attempts to reach a compromise over £50m-rated Everton defender John Stones, who he rates as his No.1 target (Daily Mirror)
Diego Costa has been urged to quit Chelsea for Atletico Madrid – by former team-mate Filipe Luis (Daily Mirror)
Swansea are confident of sealing a deal for Spain international Fernando Llorente (Daily Mirror)
Mark Hughes wants to step up his bid to sign Robin van Persie from Fenerbahce this week (Daily Mirror)
Sunderland boss David Moyes is targeting a £5m move for Croatia international defender Domagoj Vida (Daily Mirror)
Southampton are primed to make a £6m move for Anderlecht midfielder Steven Defour (The Sun)
West Ham will consider a £7m move for Mario Gomez (The Sun)
Hull City have not given up in their pursuit of Chris Coleman and are hopeful that the Football Association of Wales will allow them to speak to their manager on the basis that he would be interested in the job (Daily Telegraph)
Celtic’s Scott Allan will travel to Rotherham tomorrow to put pen to paper on a season long loan deal (Daily Record)
Arsenal and Liverpool both look like missing out on Jese Rodriguez after Real Madrid agreed a £21m fee with Paris Saint-Germain (Daily Express)

Milan interested in signing Cuadrado from Chelsea

Chelsea manager Antonio Conte faces a battle to keep hold of the winger, who returned from an impressive loan spell with his old club Juventus

AC Milan remain interested in signing Juan Cuadrado next season despite Antonio Conte being adamant that he wants him to stay at Chelsea, Sportmasta understands.
The former Fiorentina winger is well known in Italy and had a successful loan spell at Juventus last season, but he is in contention to start against AC Milan in his club's International Champions Cup match Wednesday.
The 28-year-old faces stiff competition for places in his position at Chelsea, having to compete with Willian, who won Player of the Year, Pedro and Eden Hazard, with Conte acknowledging that he is a player who is drawing interest.
"Juan Cuadrado is a Chelsea player as I said with Diego Costa," Conte said. "He has worked very hard and is training very hard with us. Everyone knows what I think about him and everyone knows that good players have a lot interest in a transfer window."
"Now he is a Chelsea player and happy. If you will ask me what could happen in future I couldn’t answer about Juan Cuadrado nor other players."
Conte has long been an admirer of the Colombia international since his spell as the manager of Juventus but lost out on signing him to Chelsea due to his old club's poor relationship with Fiorentina.
Milan face competition from Cuadrado's old club Juventus, who wanted to make their loan permanent last season after their domestic double-winning season, before Conte blocked the deal.

Rossoneri head coach Vincenzo Montella refused to be drawn on whether he was interested in bringing Cuadrado to the San Siro. When questioned, he said: "He is a Chelsea player — you will have to ask him."

Revealed: The Premier League’s best newcomers XI

There will be plenty of new faces in the Premier League and WhoScored.com have picked out those who are ready to hit the ground running.
As the season edges closer, teams are working tirelessly to push transfer deals over the line. While Premier League experience is a plus, a number of sides are tapping into the European market to bolster their squad. Here, Sportmasta looks at the best Premier League newcomers this summer of those to make 20 or more appearances across Europe’s top five leagues and the Eredivisie last season.

Ron-Robert Zieler 6.87

Despite his best efforts, Ron-Robert Zieler was unable to keep Hannover 96 in the Bundesliga last season. The former Manchester United trainee failed to register a Premier League appearance prior to his departure from Old Trafford in 2010.
Now back in England with champions Leicester, the 27-year-old could once again struggle for game time, what with Kasper Schmeichel established as Claudio Ranieri’s number one for the Foxes.
Nevertheless, Leicester have snared themselves an experienced shotstopper, who ranked second for saves (148) and third for crosses claimed (36) in Germany’s top tier last term.

Antonio Barragan (6.56)

There are few full-back newbies welcomed to the Premier League so far this summer, with options in the position thin on the ground (more on that later). Antonio Barragan moved to Liverpool a little over 10 years ago, but, like Zieler, failed to register a Premier League appearance before moving on to pastures new.
However, he is now back in England under Aitor Karanka with the returning Middlesbrough. Despite a somewhat dismal campaign for Valencia, Barragan in an experienced full-back, who averaged a respectable 2.3 interceptions per league game in Spain last season.

Eric Bailly (6.92)

The first big money signing at Old Trafford this summer, Eric Bailly comes in to strengthen a defence that conceded the joint-fewest goals (35) in the Premier League last season.
The 22-year-old is an imposing figure at the heart of the defence having been dribbled past just six times in 25 league appearances last season.
Furthermore, Bailly is a commendable performer when bringing the ball out from defence. Of players to attempt 15 of more dribbles in La Liga last term, the Ivorian had the best success rate (93.8%), reinforcing his statistically calculated WhoScored.com strength of ‘dribbling’. Still far from the finished product, Jose Mourinho has the managerial capability to help this diamond in the rough gleam.

Joel Matip (7.32)

Schalke have endured a period of stagnation since their DFB-Pokal win in 2011. The departure of Joel Matip to Liverpool will unlikely help their cause in the coming campaign, with the Cameroonian a mainstay in the Schalke XI last term.
Having agreed to move to Anfield in January, Matip is a player Jurgen Klopp will have been familiar with during their respective stints in Germany.
The 24-year-old’s reading of the game is a stand out trait, with he making the second most interceptions (106) in the Bundesliga last season.
Having placed top for shots blocked (33), the Reds faithful will undoubtedly take to Matip quickly, with he expected to become a regular feature for Liverpool this coming campaign.

Jeremy Pied (7.30)

Jeremy Pied followed Claude Puel to Southampton from Nice, with his arrival confirmed late on Monday night. While a right-back by trade, the fact that there have been no left-back signings from abroad this summer – coupled with Pied’s seven starts on this side of defence in Ligue 1 last season – means he comes into the Premier League newcomers XI at left-back. Joining as a free agent, the 27-year-old was a consistent performer in France’s top tier last term, making the third most tackles and interceptions combined (221).
Indeed, he will provide solid competition for Cedric Soares and Ryan Bertrand at right and left-back, respectively.

Henrikh Mkhitaryan (7.90)

With a host of teams tracking Henrikh Mkhitaryan this summer, United won the race to sign the Armenian last month. Mkhitaryan enjoyed a hugely successful season for Borussia Dortmund with his WhoScored.com rating (7.90) better than any other player.
The 27-year-old registered the most assists (15), created the most clear-cut chances (27) and won the most WhoScored.com man of the match awards (11) in the Bundesliga last season.
He will provide the creative spark United lacked last season, with his inventive qualities expected to boost the club’s chances of domestic dominance once more.

Ilkay Gundogan (7.43)

Ilkay Gundogan misses the start of the season after sustaining a dislocated kneecap earlier in the year, but Manchester City fans are hoping he can rediscover his best form when he does return to full fitness.
The Germany international provides energy and drive from deep in midfield, with his dribble success rate (68.4%) the third best of Bundesliga players to attempt 50 or more dribbles last season.
City boss Pep Guardiola is a big fan of Gundogan and needs the midfielder to return to top form following his recovery if both player and manager are to enjoy success in their debut campaign in England.

Granit Xhaka (7.35)

The Bundesliga has become a happy hunting ground for Premier League teams this summer, with Granit Xhaka the first to make the move from Germany to England once the season had ended.
The Switzerland international enjoyed a commendable Euro 2016, which will have appealed to Arsenal fans. One of the finest distributors of the ball in Germany last season, Xhaka ranked second for passes per game (82.7) and first for outfield players for accurate long balls per game (7.4).
His capture hints towards a return to a more direct Arsenal side, though the 23-year-old needs to curb his ill-discipline following his move to the Emirates – he was one of four players to receive three red cards in Europe’s top five leagues last season.

Nolito (7.44)

The second summer signing through the City door this summer, Nolito enjoyed a fine final campaign for Celta Vigo before securing his switch to the Sky Blues. Second for accurate through balls (14) and WhoScored.com man of the match awards (9) in La Liga last season, Guardiola has at his disposal a player who is he familiar with having allowed the Spain international to move on to pastures new during their time together at Barcelona. Now an established star, Guardiola can call on a more refined Nolito to fulfill the necessary duties on the flank, with the 29-year-old best suited at cutting onto his right foot from the left wing. Indeed, of the 12 league goals he scored last season, 10 were with his right foot.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic (8.29)

Arguably the Premier League’s biggest import during the off-season, a number of English football fans have been hoping to see Zlatan Ibrahimovic ply his trade on these shores and their wish has since been granted.
Only Luis Suarez (40) netted more goals than Ibrahimovic (38) in Europe’s top five leagues last season and it took just four minutes for the charismatic Swede to net on his first appearance for United. Ibrahimovic has a soft spot for new manager Jose Mourinho, with whom he worked with at Inter.
While together in Italy, Mourinho brought out the best in the 34-year-old, who gained the third best WhoScored.com rating (8.29) in Europe’s top five leagues last season.

Vincent Janssen (7.52)

Confirmation of Vincent Janssen’s arrival saw the Dutchman become the first striker Tottenham have signed since Roberto Soldado’s forgettable switch in 2013. Spurs fans are hopeful the youngster’s impact can be far greater than the experienced Spaniard.
The path from Eredivisie to Premier League is a well-trodden one and there are perhaps concerns over how Janssen fares in England given the limited success that comes with swapping Dutch football for English.
The 22-year-old scored more goals (27) than any other player in the Dutch top tier of football last season and, importantly, he adds competition and backup to Harry Kane for a regular starting spot at White Hart Lane.

Nigeria to debut new Nike jerseys at Olympics against Japan

The U23s will get new gear for their campaign at Rio 2016 after the Nigeria Football Federation announced the new kit on Tuesday

Nigeria U23 will wear a new set of jerseys at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, according to the Nigeria Football Federation.
The new home and away kits were announced by the NFF on Tuesday afternoon. The NFF signed a three-and-half -year contract with Nike in 2015 that will see the US-based sportwear giant provide products worth $3.75m.
The home kit is a solid green shirt, with white ribbing around the back of the modern crewneck collar featuring Nike’s Dri-FIT technology.
In keeping true to the national colours of Nigeria, the new away kit is white with a green stripe that runs the length of the sides of shirt and shorts, and a green stripe along the back of the collar.

Nike’s Dri-FIT technology draws sweat away from the body to the exterior of the shirts and shorts, where it quickly evaporates.  This allows players to perform at their best by remaining cooler, drier and more comfortable.
The laser-cut ventilation holes and mesh panels in the key areas of the kit are designed to improve performance by increasing air circulation and helping regulate players’ temperatures.
The shirt is crafted using mesh fabric that makes up the full front and back panels of the shirt, increasing airflow and facilitating enhanced movement.

Nigeria will play their first game against Japan on August 5 at 2am.

Bacca given deadline to decide on West Ham transfer – report

AC Milan have reportedly told Carlos Bacca to decide by the end of this week whether he wants to join West Ham in a £26million deal.
The Hammers agreed the fee with Milan a couple of weeks ago and the player’s representatives held talks with the club over a potential move.
With Bacca’s agent reportedly striking a three-year deal with the club, which would be worth £3.8million a year in wages, it was left to the player to decide if he wants to make the move.
But with the player admitting he harbours hopes of playing for a Champions League club only – and amid claims Arsenal were plotting a move – the player has kept West Ham – still his only viable option – hanging on.

AC Milan are more than happy to cash in on the Colombian, with the £26million sale needed to help fund Milan’s efforts to strengthen their squad in the transfer market.

And according to Italian newspaper Corriere Dello Sport, Milan have now told the hitman he must come to a conclusion on his future by Sunday.

Whilst the Hammers’ lack of Champions League football is holding back a deal, their possible Europa League inclusion could help their situation.

With Bacca waiting until after West Ham’s third qualifying round second leg tie on Thursday, the outcome of the tie may play a big role in Bacca’s decision.

Should West Ham overcome their 2-1 deficit against NK Domzale, it could help sway Bacca to east London with the lure of at least Europa League football at the Premier League club.

Arsenal and Liverpool alerted as Draxler confirms exit request

Reported Arsenal, Liverpool and Juventus target Julian Draxler has confirmed publicly for the first time that he wants to leave Wolfsburg.
The Germany international has been heavily linked with a move away from the club this summer, although Wolfsburg have suggested that the midfielder is happy to remain at a club he only joined 12 months ago from Schalke.
Draxler has denied that, telling Germany’s Bild newspaper that he asked to leave immediately after Euro 2016, and suggested he was unhappy with comments coming out of the club about his future.
“Before you go public like that, you really should speak with me first,” Draxler said.
“The situation with me is that I made it clear to (coach) Dieter Hecking after we were knocked out of Euro 2016 in the semi-final that I would like to leave Wolfsburg.
“The coach has known about this for three weeks.
“It’s very surprising that they have been talking about me to the media for weeks. I would have expected things to be different, for example for one of them to come to me and ask me how things are with me.”
Draxler turned down the chance to join Juventus last summer after being given assurances by the Wolves that he would be allowed to leave were a big club to come in for him.
“When I joined, I was assured – verbally – that I could leave the club whenever the opportunity arose,” Draxler said.
“Both Hecking and (sporting director) Klaus Allofs said this. It was clear that Wolfsburg had good prospects, but also that they were a springboard for me.
“It was always clear to everybody that I would like to join a top club in Europe, if I were to get the chance.”

Olympics: William Troost-Ekong arrives in Manaus

Team to arrive in Brazil for their campaign at Rio 2016

William Troost-Ekong has arrived in Manaus for the Olympic Games, hours ahead of the rest of the Nigeria U23 team, Goal can report.
The Haugesund defender got to Manaus on Tuesday afternoon and has lodged himself at the team’s hotel.
Troost-Ekong, a 22-year-old central defender with the Super Eagles, has been brought in as cover for the team after their poor outing at the Suwon Invitational Tournament in June.
He was allowed to return to Norway from Atlanta by coach Samson Siasia for a domestic game at the weekend before flying via Amsterdam to Sao Paulo and on to Manaus.
The player told Goal that it was a tiring trip but he was in a good mood ahead of the tournament.
Another player that would fly in separate from the squad is Umar Aminu who also was given special permission by the coach to leave camp early.
The remaining members of the squad will depart Atlanta on Tuesday via a chartered flight en route for Manaus.
Nigeria will play their first game against Japan in the wee hours of August 5 (2am) as they attempt to win Olympic gold 20 years after their illustrious seniors won the title in Atlanta.

Walcott changes his mind on role at Arsenal

Theo Walcott says he wants to reinvent himself as a right winger, where he started his Arsenal career in 2006.
The 27-year-old has made the awkward statement four years after claiming he wanted to be a striker and then echoing those thoughts again just 11 months ago.
Walcott has been used as a central striker by Arsene Wenger, but the French boss has preferred to go with Olivier Giroud or Alexis Sanchez. And now Walcott has made the uncomfortable admission that he is planning on making the right wing role his own again.
“I have been here 10 years,” Walcott told the Daily Mail. “There is always competition for places. It doesn’t matter what club you are at. I always believe that I can get back to where I want to be. I’m sure if I keep working hard then I will get there.
“I have told the manager that I want to be known for playing on the right again. I can play up front. I want to know where I want to play. The manager has said I can play up front. It depends on what game it is.
“I know I can do a job up front, as well as on the right. I want to make my position on the right – that’s where I know where I am now.”
Whether his desire to play out wide again will be enough to resurrect his Gunners career is open to debate, but when you consider Arsenal’s apparent pursuit of  widemen Riyad Mahrez and Julian Draxler then the answer to that is most probably ‘no’.

Back in September 2012 Walcott, who missed out on a spot in England’s Euro 2016, said: “It is a case of having trust in me up front. I was signed as a striker and it is about time, I want to play up front. I have learnt my game on the wing. When you look at what I did last year I think I can do even more. Hopefully I will be given the opportunity. I am desperate for it.”
The former Southampton youngster, who has failed to score double figures in his last three seasons, reiterated those feelings just 11 months ago.
“I have always said to the manager that I can always play in a three-man forward line so it is a good option for him,” he said in September 2015.
“At the moment he believes I can do it up front and the more I play up front, the more the players will see the runs I make and what I do on the pitch as well.”
Wenger thought Walcott should have been part of England’s Euro 2016 squad and he confirmed the forward will not leave Arsenal in the summer.
“I think he should go. He has gone through a bad spell. He has had a difficult period but in the last month, he has come back very strong.
“He could be a positive surprise for England. He will be here next season,” said Wenger in May.

I'm definitely staying at Chelsea, insists Mikel Obi

The 29-year-old midfielder has been linked with a move from the Blues this summer, but he insists he will not be leaving Stamford Bridge amidst transfer speculations

Chelsea midfielder John Mikel Obi says he will 'definitely stay' at Stamford Bridge for the 2016-17 season.
The 29-year-old, who was the subject of transfer from Chelsea this summer following the arrival of new manager Antonio Conte, pledged his future to the London outfit despite the fact his contract at the club will run out in 2017.
"I am definitely staying at Chelsea and I will try to give my best to the club, like I have always done," Mikel told Evening Standard.
"I want to help the team fight for every point, win and trophies. I also want to help the team qualify for the CL again.
"For 10 years I have been going to the same training ground and locker room. It is an amazing club, with an amazing owner.
"I have a year left and then we will see what happens. If I play well this season, it will help me earn a new contract.
"I will give 120 per cent every time I’m on the pitch or come off the bench. I will always give my best.
"If Chelsea want to talk, we’ll talk. If I have to move on there will be plenty of clubs out there where I can continue.
"It will be but these things happen. You have to move on one day. My happy memories of Chelsea will never go away."
Mikel, who will miss the start of the new Premier League season, is hoping to make his first Olympic appearance at the 2016 Olympics men's football event after being selected as one of the Nigeria's two designated over-23 players.
"I explained to the club why I wanted to go [to the Olympics] and I thank them for their understanding," he said.
"The coach also gave me his blessing. He told me to make sure I do well and bring back the gold medal!
"Obviously, it is hard to be away because I want to impress the new coach. It's a risk I have taken but I stand by that.
"Chelsea are like a family to me. It is a place that has become a part of me," he concluded.

With two Premier League titles, the Champions League, the Europa League and four FA Cups with Chelsea and the Africa Cup of Nations title in his 75-cap Nigeria career, the midfielder would revel in making successful showing at the 2016 Olympics.

Real Madrid unveil new third kit in New York

The European champions' alternate strip for the 2016-17 campaign features a sleeve pattern designed around the route of their victory parades through Madrid

Real Madrid unveiled their new third kit for the 2016-17 season in New York City on Tuesday.
James Rodriguez, Marcelo, Lucas Vazquez, Keylor Navas and Alvaro Morata were in attendance to show off the black and purple shirt, which pays tribute to the 11th European title the club won last season.
The pattern on the sleeves is based on the route between the Santiago Bernabeu and the Plaza de Cibeles, which is usually taken by the team to celebrate the winning of a trophy.

Everton stand firm as Chelsea launch British record bid for Lukaku

Chelsea have made a British record £65million bid for Everton striker Romelu Lukaku, according to widespread reports on Wednesday.
However, Everton, who bought the Belgian striker from Chelsea in July 2014 for £28m, are determined to resist the offer in a bid to obtain their reported £75million asking price.
Sold by Jose Mourinho, Antonio Conte reportedly told Chelsea weeks ago that Lukaku was his No. 1 transfer target to lead the line, although the Italian refused to discuss his interest in the Belgian striker when questioned over the weekend.
Quite what that does for Diego Costa’s Chelsea future is unclear, with Michy Batshuayi already signed.
Almost every one of Wednesday’s papers has the story, but The Sun use an Everton ‘source’ to bring us their thoughts on the move: “The club have made a very generous offer – it breaks the British and club record – and is more than double what Everton paid for Romelu.
“Last summer the John Stones negotiations became a bit of a saga and Chelsea want to avoid that so pretty much have told Everton they want to get this all wrapped up by the weekend.”
Various other reports suggest Chelsea could try to appease Everton by also offering Loic Remy on top of the £65million bid, which would break the British transfer record which currently – assuming Paul Pogba’s move to Man Utd doesn’t go through first – stands at the £59.1million for Angel Di Maria.

Bayern Munich vs Real Madrid Preview

The Frenchman and the Italian worked together at Juventus and Real, but will now be adversaries as coaches of two of the continent's top teams - starting on Wednesday

Bayern Munich boss Carlo Ancelotti has wished Zinedine Zidane luck as coach of Real Madrid, but says he hopes his former colleague enjoys a little less fortune in European competition from now on.
Ancelotti coached Zidane at Juventus and the Frenchman was his assistant when Madrid claimed their 10th European Cup crown by beating Atletico in Lisbon in 2014.
After a spell at Real's youth team, Castilla, Zidane is now in the top job at Madrid and led Los Blancos to another Champions League trophy with victory over Atleti again - this time on penalties - at San Siro in May.
But Ancelotti, now installed as Pep Guardiola's successor at Bayern, hopes his team will become the force in Europe in 2016-17.
"Zidane was my player, my assistant and I wish him all the best in Spain and a little less in Europe," the Italian said on Tuesday.
And he added: "Zizou was a great player and he has charisma. And that's very important to work with the players. He had everything needed to coach Madrid."

Previously colleagues at Juve and Real, Ancelotti and Zidane will now be rivals as coaches of two of Europe's elite teams and the two men meet as Bayern and Madrid square up in the International Champions Cup in New York on Wednesday.
Bayern lost on penalties to AC Milan after a 3-3 draw with the Rossoneri in their first ICC clash, before thrashing Inter 4-1 on Saturday.
Jerome Boateng has linked up with the Bayern squad after returning early from his holidays following Euro 2016. Meanwhile, Holger Badstuber has been training alone and Arjen Robben is back in Germany recovering from injury.
Xabi Alonso is fit and will face his former club, but a number of players (including Arturo Vidal, Thomas Muller, Kingsley Coman, Manuel Neuer and Robert Lewandowski) are still on holiday.

For Madrid, Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale are both unavailable, while Karim Benzema is stuggling to shake off a hip problem.
The Portuguese suffered a knee injury in the final of Euro 2016, with the Welshman still not back from his holidays after Wales made it to the last four in France.
Jese is on the verge of a move to Paris Saint-Germain and will not feature as Madrid step up their preparations for the UEFA Super Cup against Sevilla in Trondheim on August 9.
Zidane's men lost 3-1 to PSG in their first ICC fixture, before a 3-2 win over Chelsea on Saturday.
The transfer window has been quiet so far for Madrid, but Zidane said last week: "Anything could happen until the last day of the window."

Real kick off against Bayern on Wednesday night at 19:35 EDT (01:35 CET in the early hours of Thursday morning).

RUMOURS: Manchester City beat Barcelona in race for Gabriel Jesus

The 19-year-old Palmeiras forward is on the verge of completing a £28.6 million move to the Etihad Stadium after rejecting the Spanish champions' offer

Manchester City have won the race to sign Brazil starlet Gabriel Jesus, according to The Sun.
Pep Guardiola’s side have had their £28.6 million offer accepted by Palmeiras and are now waiting for Brazil’s Olympic team to allow the player to travel to Manchester to complete the move.
Gabriel will join City in December if he secures a work permit.
Barcelona were also keen on Gabriel and had used Neymar to try to convince the 19-year-old forward to join them ahead of City.

'Barcelona & Borussia Dortmund in talks for Mario Gomez'

Besiktas remain hopeful that a deal for the 31-year-old could still be completed but the Turkish club now face competition from two of Europe's heavyweights

Barcelona and Borussia Dortmund are in talks over a move for Germany striker Mario Gomez.

The 31-year-old has a year remaining on his current deal with Fiorentina and spent last season on loan at Besiktas where he scored 28 goals in 41 appearances.

The striker has confirmed that he will not be making the move permanent due to the political situation in Turkey but Besiktas remain hopeful that a deal can be agreed for the Germany international, despite interest from both Barca and Dortmund.

“Our fans are feel hopeful about Mario Gomez returning,” Besiktas spokesman Metin Albayrak told Dogan News Agency.

“We're monitoring his situation closely but we know that he is in serious talks with Barcelona and Borussia Dortmund. Obviously he is difficult for us.“I spoke with Slaven Bilic on the phone this morning. He said that they're not interested with Mario Gomez.”

Register for your free Premier League betting guide

With the new campaign rapidly approaching, we're offering all readers the chance to get their hands on an online betting guide to the 2016/17 Premier League season absolutely free

A summer containing a European Championship can make the break between Premier League campaigns seem a short one and the first game of the new season is now just over two weeks away. Clubs are well underway with their pre-season friendlies around the world while working hard to bring in reinforcements to bolster their chances of success this term. A whole host of top class talent has arrived to test their skills in England as well as few familiar names looking for success on pastures new.

With hundreds of betting markets to choose from on the English top flight, it can be a confusing time for punters as they wade through the myriad of options available. There is help at hand for those seeking further guidance though. Anyone registering with Soccerway will be entitled to download a free online guide to the Premier League season when it is released before the big kick off.
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Moyes: ‘I was unfairly treated’ at Manchester United

David Moyes has pointed to the Louis van Gaal era at Manchester United and claimed he was “unfairly treated” at Old Trafford.
The Scot was sacked less than a season into a six-year contract after succeeding Sir Alex Ferguson at Old Trafford, with United finishing that 2013-14 campaign outside the European places in seventh.
He then struggled at Spanish side Real Sociedad as well – but saw United make only limited improvements under his successor Van Gaal, finishing fourth and then fifth before the Dutchman gave way to Jose Mourinho this summer.
Moyes maintains he was the right man for the job after Ferguson’s departure, having led Everton from the lower reaches of the Premier League into European contention.
“You don’t get offered those big jobs – Real Madrid, Barcelona, Manchester United – for no reason,” he told several national newspapers.
“I’ve said all along I was unfairly treated there. When you sign a six-year contract and you end up with 10 months … yeah, I believe I was.
“I didn’t win enough football matches but you must say there were mitigating circumstances. And I think you could say there are maybe things which have gone on since then that would actually justify that even more so.
“What my time at Manchester United gave me is an unbelievable idea of what it is at the top. I believe that’s where I can work and that’s where I should be working, and my level is that.”
The experience has not stopped him considering transfer moves for his former United players Marouane Fellaini – who also played under him at Everton – and Adnan Januzaj.
Moyes, appearing before the media for the first time since replacing England boss Sam Allardyce as Sunderland manager, said he was moving quickly to bring reinforcements to the Stadium of Light.

“If any of those good players want to join me I’d be happy to have them,” said Moyes when quizzed about the pair.
“They’re excellent players. We’re interested but I’m sure there’s a load of other clubs that are as well.
“We’ve got offers in for people already. We’re interested in lots of good players.
“But you have to have a realistic view. There’ll be some players we can attract just now and some players we can’t.”
Sunderland have yet to make a single addition to their first-team squad since narrowly avoiding relegation from the Premier League, with departures and injuries leaving them worryingly light on numbers with less than a fortnight to go before the start of the new season.
Moyes thinks that is partially down to the Football Association’s pursuit of Allardyce but vowed to bring with him the acumen he showed at Goodison Park.
His troubled 10-month spell at Old Trafford was scarcely mentioned as the Scot repeatedly drew comparisons with his successful stint on Merseyside.
“The FA had been talking to Sam for three or four weeks. I don’t know if you can really do much business in that period,” he said.
“We’ll get signings in. If you look at the transfers we had at Everton I think we had the best transfer record of any club anywhere in the Premier League. I hope to somehow replicate that in my time at Sunderland.
“Can I do that right away? No. It’s not as easy now as it was before. You’re not going to change it in one transfer window.
“What we want to try and do is get the right players at the right price, like we did in the early days (at Everton). Players who we think can go the journey with us.”
Moyes arrived at the Academy of Light armed with a list of his achievements – a bid, perhaps, to re-establish his credentials.
“I think I’ve got the fourth best winning record in the Premier League of all managers,” he said, referring to number of victories rather than ratio.
“That’s what I want to bring to Sunderland. I need players and I need teams that give me an opportunity to do that.
“The job is to win the games. At the start we may have to win a few ugly but as we go along I hope it will become more exciting.
“This has got to be a building job. Hopefully I’m here for four years and I’ll try and bring a level of stability to the club.
“This reminds me a little bit of Everton when I took over. Everton had been in the bottom six, I think, four out of the five years before I came in.
“In my last eight years I never finished outside the top eight.
“Hopefully we can do a bit of an Everton.”