Football: Newsome close to pounds 1.5m Forest move

RON ATKINSON is trying to sign John Newsome from his old club, Sheffield Wednesday, to shore up the Nottingham Forest defence.

Atkinson hopes to agree a pounds 1.5m fee later this week for Newsome, who is out of Danny Wilson's side and is thought to be available at the right price.

The Forest manager had already made his move for Newsome before the eight- goal annihilation at the hands of Manchester United on Saturday. Wednesday were originally looking for around pounds 2m for the former Leeds centre-half, but may release him for less.

Atkinson could have to sell to buy and there may yet be a deal for the controversial striker Pierre van Hooijdonk to leave. Leeds United remain interested in the Dutchman.

Arsenal could be ready to follow up a pounds 5m bid made in December for Real Mallorca's striker Daniel Garcia Lara - known as Dani, according to reports in Spain. The Spanish First Division side told Arsenal that they would consider a move at the end of the season for the Catalan player, but officials from the Gunners attended Mallorca's match with Salamanca last week with a view to discussing a loan deal.

The Football Association will await police reports before deciding whether to take any action following trouble at Saturday's Second Division match between Manchester City and Millwall.

Eight Millwall supporters and three City fans were arrested following trouble during and after the match at Maine Road, which City won 3-0. A Greater Manchester Police spokesman confirmed today that nine officers were injured.

Last September's meeting between the two sides at the New Den was also marred by problems on and off the pitch after a brawl between several players.