Sporting Digest: Football

Crewe Alexandra have signed Danny Hay, the Australian defender, and given Andy Lovelock, the former Coventry winger a one-year contract.

Gabriel Batistuta, the Argentinian striker, has extended his contract with Fiorentina, the Italian Serie A side, until 2003.

Coventry may be unable to sign Robert Jarni, the Croatian World Cup player, from Real Betis in time for the Premiership kick-off, but could sign him for free under the Bosman ruling in the new year.

Clive Mendonca, the Charlton forward, has signed a three-year deal with the club.

Southampton are giving a trial to Arthur Gnohere, the France Under-21 international central defender.

Port Vale have signed Peter Beadle, the Bristol Rovers forward, for pounds 300,000.

Keith Humphreys has become the chairman of Stoke City.

Wolves have sold their 20-year-old striker, Jason Roberts, to Bristol Rovers for pounds 250,000.