Transfer talk (Thursday, 25 June)

They shoot...

Ribery wants Madrid move

"Franck Ribéry would prefer to play for Real Madrid than Barcelona," his agent, Alain Migliaccio, said yesterday. "The player has talked with Zinedine Zidane and he wants to play for Los Blancos for him."

Keane seeks Fortune

Ipswich manager Roy Keane is targeting former Manchester United team-mate Quinton Fortune. The South African midfielder is currently unattached.

They score...

Mears set for Burnley

Derby County right-back Tyrone Mears, who spent much of last season on loan at Marseilles, is on the brink of a return to the Premier League after the Rams agreed a fee with promoted Burnley.

Hreidarsson prolongs stay

Experienced Iceland international Herman Hreidarsson has signed a 12-month contract extension at Fratton Park. The 34-year-old cemented a first-team place at the end of last season, starting Portsmouth's final 17 games to help the club survive relegation.

Trio sign for Birmingham

Premier League newcomers Birmingham completed three signings yesterday. Goalkeeper Joe Hart has joined on a season-long loan from Manchester City, having slipped down the pecking order at Eastlands following the arrival of Shay Given and Stuart Taylor, Roger Johnson has joined from Cardiff City for £5m, and the Ecuadorian international Giovanny Espinoza, 32, has joined on a two-year deal from Barcelona Sporting Club.

They miss...

Aguero not for sale

President Enrique Cerezo says Atletico Madrid will do everything possible to hold onto Sergio Aguero. "I've spoken with Aguero's people," Cerezo said. "And I am convinced next year he'll be in the squad."

Madrid end Villa pursuit

A deal which seemed all but agreed appears to have fallen through, with Real Madrid sporting director Jorge Valdano claiming "the situation with [Valencia striker David] Villa is 100% finished."