Sporting briefs

Coloccini: Newcastle United defender Fabricio Coloccini’s potential departure to San Lorenzo is looking increasingly unlikely as the Argentine club’s attempt to sign the 31-year-old is on the brink of collapse. Initially the club had hoped to take Coloccini on a free transfer due to the player’s desire to return home for personal reasons. However, Newcastle are adamant that they must receive a fee – something San Lorenzo have struggled to muster due to the lack of money in the country’s domestic game.

Seedorf: Dutchman Clarence Seedorf scored his first goal of the Brazilian championship in a 2-0 win for Botafogo at Ponte Preta. Seedorf, 37, gave Botafogo an early lead with a shot on the turn from near the penalty spot against opponents who were playing under interim coach Ze Sergio after Guto Ferreira was sacked on Thursday. Antonio Carlos headed the second before half-time of Saturday evening’s game to leave Botafogo with 10 points from five games, two ahead of Cruzeiro, Coritiba and Bahia.

Italy: Italy’s preparations for the Confederations Cup have been hit by the news that the Rio de Janeiro stadium, where the Azzurri are scheduled to hold their training sessions, is still closed due to structural problems. Cesare Prandelli’s squad arrive in Brazil this morning but the Joao Havelange Stadium is still undergoing roof repairs.

Gilardino: Inter have reportedly offered Ezequiel Schelotto to Genoa in exchange for Alberto Gilardino. The striker spent last season on loan at Bologna but discussions with Genoa have so far failed to lead to an agreement. This has alerted Inter who are seeking a reliable forward to replace the injured Diego Milito.

Levante: Levante have appointed Joaquin Caparros as their new coach on a one-year-deal. The 57-year-old takes the reins from Juan Ignacio Martinez, who was told last week he would not be offered a new contract.

Prima Divisione: Promotion play-offs (first legs) – Carpi vs Lecce 1-0; Pisa vs Latina 0-0. Second legs: June 16.