Football news

Rangers are no longer interested in Nigeria defender Danny Shittu who is on the books of Watford. The 27-year-old was in talks with the Ibrox club after Watford accepted a bid thought to be around £1.5m.

But personal terms could not be agreed and Rangers will now look elsewhere for defensive reinforcements.

"We have not managed to reach an agreement on that one so it looks as though we are finished there now," Rangers manager Walter Smith said.

Various other clubs, including Celtic, have also been linked with a move for centre-half Shittu.

Portugal physio to care for Ronaldo

In three weeks' time Cristiano Ronaldo will return to Old Trafford to continue his recovery from an ankle operation, the Portugal national team physio said.

Antonio Gaspar told reporters Ronaldo will not return to action before October after he underwent surgery on his right ankle last week.

Gaspar announced the Manchester United winger will remain under his care for three weeks before United's doctors carry out another examination.

"We are going to use everything that is possible to us to help him recover as quickly as possible," Gaspar said.

"But Ronaldo will not be in an optimum state for the competition until 12 weeks are up."

Mutu tempted by move to Roma

Adrian Mutu looks interested in leaving Fiorentina this summer and move to Roma who are looking to bolster their attacking department in the transfer season.

Mutu is still weighing his options but Romania team-mate Christian Chivu, who played for Roma before joining Inter, believes Mutu is tempted by Roma.

Chivu said: "He has been asking me about things and he would be a superb signing for a team that are already very strong contenders."

Roma are waiting for the outcome of a meeting between Mutu and Fiorentina to discuss a contract extension. Fiorentina have indicated that they won't break their self-imposed salary cap to appease Mutu.

'Arshavin perfect for Arsenal'

So far, Arsenal have not made an official bid for playmaker Andrei Arshavin but their style of attacking play matches the qualities that the Zenit SP playmaker is seeking.

Arshavin's agent, Dennis Lachter, said his player's experience would complement the club's young guns and would relish working under the meticulous Arsene Wenger.

Lachter said: "The stable situation at the club and the influence of Mr Wenger in English football is huge. I think this is an advantage.

"If Arsenal go for Arshavin it could be really good for both parties. Arsenal are young and Arshavin is 27. He is perfect for them."

Barcelona have already had a £12 million bid for the player rejected.

Dida wants place in Milan goal back

Goalkeeper Nelson Dida wants to win back his place at Milan after a rather poor season by the Brazilian's own standards.

"I feel in good shape. I am happy, relaxed and above all finally recovered from my back problem," he told reporters.

Dida lost his place in the side midway through last season following a series of dismal performances. Now, he'll have to fight for his spot with both Zeljko Kalac and the returning Christian Abbiati.

"I have never been guaranteed first choice at the start of a season. I am starting out this campaign in order to win back my place and everyone's faith in my abilities. Then it'll be down to the coach to decide."

Sampdoria keen to sign Sheva on loan

Andriy Shevchenko, 31, could be heading back to Italy if Sampdoria can agree on the Chelsea striker's wages for a season-long loan. Reports have linked Samp with a bid to sign the Ukraine striker who cost Chelsea £30 million two years ago.

Milan, Sheva's former club, have expressed an interest in signing the striker on loan, but Sampdoria are also keen.

According to general manager Beppe Marotta, the major issue is the size of Shevchenko's wage demands.

"We have a way to resolve our problems up front with a player able to stir up the crowd as well as put the ball in the back of the net," Marotta said.

"Sheva would be happy to join us, but there are problems around his wages... but never say never."

Winterburn gets Rovers job

Nigel Winterburn, the former Arsenal wing-back, is to join Blackburn Rovers to form part of manager Paul Ince's technical team. He will work as a defensive coach.

Winterburn, 44, will join Blackburn for their pre-season training camp in Germany, starting tomorrow. After retiring in 2003, Winterburn has been working in the media.

Winterburn's most successful years were spent at Highbury and he was part of the Arsenal back four that claimed league titles in 1989, 1991 and 1998 and a host of cup successes.

His last club as a player was West Ham in 2003.