Vardy: Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has admitted he expects Jamie Vardy to stay at English champions Leicester. The Frenchman appears ready for defeat in his chase for the England striker after the Gunners triggered his £20 million release clause. In an interview with Chinese TV, Wenger said: “Jamie Vardy is, at the moment, at Leicester and from what I know, he will stay at Leicester.”

Cabaye: France international Yohan Cabaye has no regrets about his decision to leave Paris St Germain for Crystal Palace despite a disappointing second half of the Premier League season. The Eagles played in the FA Cup final, losing to Manchester United after extra-time, but their form dipped in the league as a result, winning just two games in 2016. “Despite the poor half of the season, we had an excellent first half and on December 19 we were fifth,” the 30-year-old told L’Equipe. “I have never regretted my career choice.”

Lazio: Lazio are reportedly on the verge of signing Benfica defender Jardel for €6.5m plus bonuses. The 30-year-old Brazilian only recently extended his contract to June 2020. According to Il Messaggero, Lazio have offered €6.5m plus €1m in performance-related bonuses to meet Benfica’s €7.5m asking price.

Pirlo: Mike Piazza’s new club Reggiana are trying to lure Andrea Pirlo back from New York City FC. La Gazzetta dello Sport reported that Pirlo is the top target for the Lega Pro side. Baseball legend Piazza acquired the club this month and was in Reggio-Emilia on Saturday to present his project to the town amid a boisterous reception.

Sahin: Fiorentina and Galatasaray are leading the hunt for €6.5m-rated Borussia Dortmund midfielder Nuri Sahin. According to reports, the Viola see Sahin as the ideal replacement for Milan Badelj should the Croatian leave this summer. Sahin’s contract with Borussia Dortmund runs out in June 2018.