Cabral is relishing the prospect of testing himself at Sunderland after winning everything he could in Switzerland.

The 24-year-old claimed five league titles and three Swiss Cups during his time with former club Basle. However, he believes England’s top flight represents a whole new test and he is keen to take on the challenge.

He said: “This is a new challenge for me and I am looking forward to it. Playing in Basle, we won everything.

“Now I have a new challenge in England and, for me, it is the best league.”

Higuain close to joining Arsenal

Reports in Argentina claim Gonzalo Higuain’s father – and agent – Jorge has been given permission by Real Madrid to open talks with Arsenal.

Arsenal are thought to have been locked in talks with Real for weeks about a deal for the Argentina international striker and sources claim that the two clubs have now agreed a deal.

Real Madrid wanted €25m for the 25-year-old, with Arsenal’s opening offer believed to be €20m, but it appears a compromise has now been reached.

Higuain senior was quoted as saying: “We have been given permission by Real Madrid to negotiate with Arsenal. I will luckily be able to see my son in the Premier League soon.”

Saints still keen on Wanyama

Southampton manager Mauricio Pochettino has not given up on bringing Celtic’s Victor Wanyama, 22, to St Mary’s.

Liverpool, Arsenal, Everton and Cardiff have all been linked with the Celtic midfielder, but it is Southampton that were given permission to speak to him.

Wanyama has so far failed to agree terms with Saints, leading to suggestions of issues with his representatives. Pochettino has not yet given up on the deal, though.

“It could happen,” the Argentinian said of Wanyama.

“We have certain positions that we want to reinforce. I’m confident that our goals will be met.”

Belfodil joins Inter

Inter have signed French striker Ishak Belfodil on a five-year contract in a co-ownership agreement with Serie A rivals Parma.

The 21-year-old scored eight goals in 33 appearances for Parma after leaving Lyon last summer, and negotiations over a move to San Siro began shortly after the 2012-13 season drew to a close.

Belfodil’s arrival in Milan follows the permanent transfer of 30-year-old striker Antonio Cassano to Parma, although neither club emphasised the existence of a player-exchange deal.

The Algeria-born forward told his new club's official website: “Inter is a great club. I’m very happy to be here and I hope to do well here. A big hello to all the Nerazzurri fans!”

Veteran Ambrosini joins Fiorentina

Fiorentina have signed former Italy midfielder Massimo Ambrosini to a one-year deal following his release by Milan.

The 35-year-old’s 18-year career at San Siro came to an end last month when it was decided not to extend the veteran enforcer’s contract, and Fioren-tina were quickest to move for Ambrosini despite reported interest from Premier League club West Ham United.

Ambrosini won four Serie A titles, two Champions League trophies, one European Super Cup, one Club World Cup, one Coppa Italia and two Italian Super Cups during his time in Milan.

He also made 35 appearances for the Italian national team.

Benito Floro set to coach Canada

Former Real Madrid manager Benito Floro is expected to be named as Canada national team coach, according to local media reports.

The 61-year-old Floro, who was in charge at Spain’s Real Madrid from 1992 to 1994, is set to be presented as national team coach by the Canadian Soccer Association at a news conference in Toronto this weekend.

Canada Soccer declined to comment on the reports.

Canada have been without a full-time coach since Stephen Hart stepped down last October after an 8-1 loss to Honduras that ended hopes of qualifying for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

Anelka joins West Bromwich

Former France striker Nicolas Anelka has joined West Bromwich Albion after passing a medical.

A statement on the club website said the 34-year-old had signed a one-year contract with a further year’s option in the club’s favour.

Anelka, who has played for Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester City, Bolton Wanderers and Chelsea in the Premier League, was a free agent after ending his loan spell with Juventus at the end of last season.

His move to West Brom reunites him with Steve Clarke, the Albion manager who was part of the backroom coaching staff when Anelka joined Chelsea in 2008.

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