Transfer talk (Wednesday, 1 July)

They shoot...

Benzema 'nearly' at United

The Lyons midfielder Miralem Pjanic claims his team-mate Karim Benzema is close to completing a £38m move to Manchester United. Pjanic told journalists in his native Bosnia: "Benzema is nearly gone to Old Trafford. The English club are willing to pay €45m [£38m] for him and it is just a question of the day when he will move to England."

Clubs battle for Mbia

Rennes midfielder Stephane Mbia is on the move according to agent Ralph Isenegger. "We are in talks. It is a draw between Marseilles and Everton so far."

They score...

Valencia signs for £17m

Manchester United last night confirmed the signing of the right-sided midfield player Antonio Valencia from Wigan Athletic for £17m. "Antonio is a player we have admired for some time now," Sir Alex Ferguson said.

Doyle signs for Wolves

Kevin Doyle has joined Wolves from Reading for around £6.5m. The Republic of Ireland international has signed a four-year deal at Molineux.

Di Matteo takes over at Albion

Roberto Di Matteo has been appointed as Tony Mowbray's successor at West Brom. Preston manager Alan Irvine rejected an approach from the Baggies this week.

Burnley bag £3m Fletcher

Burnley have broken their transfer record to sign 22-year-old Hibernian striker Steven Fletcher for £3m.

Mears joins Burnley

Right-back Tyrone Mears has completed his £500,000 move to the Clarets from Derby County.

N'Zonzi heads to Rovers

Blackburn have secured the signing of French midfielder Steven N'Zonzi from Amiens SC on a four-year deal.

They miss...

Saints need quick solution

Matt Le Tissier's Southampton takeover has, "with great regret and frustration", fallen through, plunging the League One club's future into doubt.