Sporting briefs...

Rangers: Rangers have signed Sweden defender Karl Svensson from IFK Gothenburg on a three-year deal, the Scottish Premier League club said. Svensson, who is in his country's squad for the World Cup in Germany, said: "I'm delighted to join a great club like Glasgow Rangers and this is the next step for me in my career."

Kallstrom: Sweden midfielder Kim Kallstrom is about to join Olympique Lyon from Ligue 1 rivals Stade Rennes, the French champions said. Kallstrom, a member of Sweden's World Cup squad, was expected to sign a contract after passing a medical yesterday, Lyon said.

In Bulgaria: Relegation-threatened Bulgarian premier league club Naftex Bourgas and third division city rivals Chernomorets 919 said they intend to merge. The Bourgas-based clubs will be known as Chernomorets Bourgas next season and play at Naftex's 18,000-capacity ground in a residential district of Lazur.

Houghton: England's Bob Houghton is set to be appointed India coach ahead of former Ireland boss Brian Kerr, a senior soccer official said yesterday. He added that a formal announcement would be made soon after terms for a three-year contract were agreed on by both sides.

Villarreal: Villarreal have bought Real Zaragoza midfielder Cani out of his contract and signed him on a five-year deal. They are reported to have paid around 11 million euros ($14 million).

Johnson: Everton have reached agreement with Crystal Palace for the possible transfer of striker Andrew Johnson. They have finalised a deal which could see 25-year-old Johnson, considered the best English striker outside the Premier League, become Everton's record signing. Everton joined Wigan and Bolton in making a bid of £8.5 million for the forward. Johnson is thought to favour a move to Everton and will now formally open talks about personal terms.