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Transfer news and speculation, 20 June

Glenn Moore
Friday 20 June 2008 00:00 BST
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(GETTY IMAGES)

Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso last night insisted he had no wish to leave Anfield despite being linked with a move to Juventus.

The midfielder is up for sale as manager Rafael Benitez seeks to raise money to fund the acquisition of Gareth Barry but the Spain international said, "I signed a contract last summer and have four more years left with Liverpool. My plans are to start next season with Liverpool, unless there is a change. But it is something I am detached from. I am just focusing on the European Championships. I haven't spoken with Rafa because he knows I am focused and thinking about the Euros."

Real ready to wait for Ronaldo

Real Madrid are willing to play the waiting game in their pursuit of Cristiano Ronaldo. Yesterday, Real's general director Miguel Angel Arroyo said: "We are waiting for Ronaldo to say something, and as soon as he says he wants to play for Real Madrid, there will be conversations between the two clubs."

The player yesterday won an apology and undisclosed damages from The Sun newspaper, which had wrongly accused him of being fined for using his mobile phone during training sessions at United.

McCourt set to hold Celtic talks

West Bromwich Albion have paved the way for Scottish Premier League champions Celtic to sign Pat McCourt after ending their interest in the Derry City winger. The Premier League newcomers agreed a fee with the Irish side last week, but the switch was put on hold when Celtic made their interest known. McCourt is expected to arrive in Glasgow for talks in the next couple of days.

Tigers want more of Fagan

Derby County have accepted a reported £750,000 offer from Hull for the striker Craig Fagan. The permanent deal for the 25-year-old, who was on an emergency loan with Hull from last March, is set to be finalised in the next few days. Fagan started 36 games for County but managed only two goals in 17 months at Pride Park.

West Bromwich look at Ameobi

Newcastle United Striker Shola Ameobi may stay in the Premier League. Promoted West Bromwich have expressed an interest in the 26-year-old, though they may have to come up with a package of up to £4m to secure him. Ameobi has rejected the chance to join Albion's fellow Premier League newcomers Stoke, where he spent part of last season on loan. Ipswich had agreed a deal before deciding to look elsewhere.

Yesterday's completed transfers:

Barry Roche (Chesterfield) to Morecambe; Free

Neil Wainwright (Darlington) to Morecambe; Free

Josh Gowling (Bournemouth) to Carlisle United; Free

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