Benitez: Rafa Benitez is in talks with Serie A side Sampdoria to become their new manager, club owner Riccardo Garrone revealed. Samp are looking to replace coach Giuseppe Iachini this summer and the former Inter tactician is the number one candidate to take his place. “There have been contacts with Benitez. But it’s a work in progress,” Garrone said.

Flamini: Midfielder Mathieu Flamini will remain at Milan for another season. The Frenchman was expected to leave the San Siro outfit this summer with his contract running out next month, but the 28-year-old yesterday put pen to paper on a new one-year deal with the Rossoneri.

Saints wait: St Johnstone might have to wait 10 days before discovering their Europa League opponents after being drawn against a Turkish side in the second qualifying round. The Saints were paired with Eskisehirspor but their opponents’ place is dependent on Besiktas losing their CAS appeal against expulsion by UEFA. That case is not due to be heard until July 5.

Jailed: Watford striker Troy Deeney has been jailed for 10 months for taking part in a savage attack on a group of students outside a nightclub. Deeney was caught on CCTV as he kicked one of the victims in the head during a night out. The 23-year-old was arrested shortly after the fracas.

Wigan: Wigan will not begin their recruitment drive until after the conclusion of the Euros, according to chairman Dave Whelan. Latics manager Roberto Martinez has been out in Poland doing some work as a TV analyst while also looking at players. Whelan said: “Roberto is watching plenty of players. We have scouts over there as well so we are having a good look at the players on offer.”

Veloso: Genoa have revealed Miguel Veloso could leave the club this summer to join Dynamo Kiev. The 26-year-old midfielder, who is currently on international duty with Portugal at the European Championship, has been strongly linked with a move away from Genoa. He joined Genoa from Sporting Lisbon in 2010.