Football news

Antonio Matarrese, the chief of Italy's Lega Calcio, is adamant that the 2007-2008 Serie A campaign will kick off on August 26.

The Italian football federation (FIGC) had requested that the start of the domestic competition be brought forward to August 19, to help the Italian national team prepare for crucial Euro 2008 qualifiers against France and Ukraine.

The Lega had made it clear they would not approve such an early kick-off, as the transfer market is still wide open at that time and many supporters would still be away on holiday.

"Now that we know they (FIGC assembly) are available I will send an official letter with the Serie A kick-off date, which is scheduled for August 26," Matarrese was quoted as saying.

Torino sign Ascoli duo

Torino have completed the signings of Paolo Zanetti and Sasa Bjelanovic from relegated Ascoli.

The Granata have been one of the most active clubs in the transfer market and have now announced the arrival of two more men to strengthen their squad for next season.

The acquisition of the 24-year-old Zanetti will increase speculation that Simone Barone is close to leaving Turin.

Striker Bjelanovic, 28, joins Torino after spending the last two seasons at Ascoli. Torino have already secured the services of Eugenio Corini, Vincenzo Grella and Nicola Ventola.

Fulham on Kamara's trail

Fulham are increasing their efforts to sign West Brom's Diomansy Kamara.

An initial bid for Kamara was turned down by West Brom earlier this month but Fulham manager Lawrie Sanchez is refusing to give up on the striker.

The Londoners are thought to be willing to offer £3 million plus Heidar Helgusson to secure Kamara's signature.

Mikel banned by Nigerian FA

The Nigeria FA has indefinitely suspended Jon Obi Mikel from all national teams.

The Chelsea midfielder ruled himself out of the Nations Cup qualifier against Uganda three weeks ago citing injury.

Chelsea sent a letter on behalf of the player confirming he was undergoing treatment in London but NFA spokesman Ademola Olajire said: "Mikel's gross act of indiscipline and lack of commitment towards national call-ups is totally unacceptable."

As well as missing games for the senior side Mikel, 20, has also turned down recent calls to play for the country's under-23 side.

Roma reject 'Pool's Mancini bid

Roma have reportedly dismissed an offer from Liverpool for Brazilian winger Amantino Mancini.

Rafael Benitez is looking to strengthen his squad in a bid to mount a strong challenge for the Premiership title next season and Mancini is thought to be one of his prime targets.

According to reports in Italy, Liverpool made a £13m offer for the Brazilian but Roma are determined to hold on to Mancini who is considered a key player by coach Luciano Spalletti.

Zanetti wants Tevez to join Inter

Inter captain Javier Zanetti is all in favour of West Ham striker Carlos Tevez joining him at the club next season.

Tevez has been strongly linked with a move to Inter after the Nerazzurri failed to land Cagliari forward David Suazo.

Zanetti believes his 23-year-old Argentina team-mate would be a welcome addition to the Italian champions' squad.

"It would be a great signing for us because he is a player that never gives up," he said.

"He would be ideal for Inter, he has great talent and we really hope he will join us."

Reds' starlet loaned to Bolton

Bolton have struck a deal for Liverpool midfielder Danny Guthrie.

The 20-year-old is set to spend the whole of next season on loan at the Reebok Stadium.

Guthrie, who made his first-team debut last season, is highly regarded at Anfield. The talented midfielder spent the final two months of last season on loan at Southampton, helping them reach the play-off semi-finals.

Southampton wanted to keep Guthrie at St Mary's, but Bolton have stepped in to lure him to the Reebok.

Puyol suffers knee ligament injury

Barcelona captain Carles Puyol is likely to miss the start of next season after tearing a ligament in his left knee during a post-season friendly against Mamelodi Sundowns in South Africa on Wednesday.

The 28-year-old defender would undergo immediate surgery to repair the torn ligament. Recovery time is expected to be about three months meaning the player is likely to miss the club's opening league matches.

Napoli lead race for Bianchi

Newly-promoted Serie A club Napoli are on the verge of signing Reggina striker Rolando Bianchi, according to reports in the Italian press.

The 24-year-old impressed with his performances last season and scored 18 goals in the Serie A to become one of the most coveted players in this summer's transfer market.

Il Corriere dello Sport reported that Napoli have reached an agreement with Reggina who are willing to let the player leave the Stadio Granillo for a fee of £7m.