World Football Gossip Roundup: Giroud, Mandzukic, Bendtner, Debuchy, Llorente
By (World Football Lead Writer) on June 19, 2012
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It happens every time.
Every few years, when a major international tournament—say, the World Cup, or Euro 2012—dominates the headlines for a summer, several new stars are made.
This summer is no exception.
As Euro 2012 nears the end of its group stage, several of its biggest stars are being linked with moves to new clubs.
Read on for all the details.
Arsenal Agree to Giroud Deal?
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Goal.com's Wayne Veysey reports that Arsenal have reached an agreement with Montpellier to sign Olivier Giroud.
The report cites "sources" that claim a "breakthrough in negotiations." Arsenal would reportedly pay Giroud's buyout clause, which is between €12-16 million.
Giroud, a 25-year-old French international striker, would be introduced as an Arsenal player once Les Bleus complete their Euro 2012 campaign.
In other Arsenal news, Manchester City will not pay more than £15 million for Gunners striker Robin van Persie, according to Goal.com.
Everton Want Mandzukic?
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Croatia striker Mario Mandzukic drew strong reviews for his three-goal performance at Euro 2012.
After falling out with his manager at VfL Wolfsburg, Mandzukic is reportedly looking for a new team this summer.
Everton boss David Moyes is ready to offer £7 million, according to talkSPORT. If signed, Mandzukic would partner with fellow Croatian Nikica Jelavic in Everton's attack.
Benfica Want Bendtner?
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Another star of Euro 2012 so far is Denmark striker Nicklas Bendtner, who scored twice in the group stage. Now, according to talkSPORT, Bendtner is wanted by Benfica.
Turkish club Galatasaray are also said to be interested.
Lille Reject Debuchy Bid
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Yet another star of Euro 2012 is French full-back Mathieu Debuchy, who currently plays for Lille.
Newcastle have reportedly lodged a £4 million bid, which Lille rejected (per ESPNSoccernet).
Lille manager Rudi Garcia laughed off the bid, saying: "I do believe that Newcastle have faxed an offer of £4m—but they must have the wrong player."
£30 Million for Llorente?
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Spanish striker Fernando Llorente has yet to make an impact on Euro 2012, but he could make an impact in the transfer market this summer.
Athletic Bilbao have reportedly set a £30 million price tag on Llorente, according to The Sun.
Manchester City are thought to be interested in the 27-year-old.
Spurs Contact AVB?
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Former Chelsea manager Andre Villas-Boas has been contacted regarding the vacant Tottenham Hotspur job, according to the BBC.
Villas-Boas, 34, was sacked by Chelsea in March. Tottenham fired Harry Redknapp last week.
France coach Laurent Blanc is also thought to be a candidate.
Trapattoni's Job Safe?
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Republic of Ireland forward Robbie Keane has backed under-fire manager Giovanni Trapattoni after a dismal showing at Euro 2012 (per the Daily Telegraph).
Ireland lost all three matches in the group stage and scored only once. Keane, who twice served as captain during the tournament, was asked whether Trapattoni could lose his job.
"No chance," Keane responded.
Trapattoni, 73, was the oldest manager in European Championship history.
Pressure on England?
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All the pressure is on England, according to Ukraine manager Oleh Blokhin (via The Independent).
England and Ukraine play a decisive match in both teams' Group D finale Tuesday, and the Ukraine boss is clearly ready with the pre-match head games.
"They are one of the favourites and are expected to play in the final," said Blokhin. "Nobody expects that we will fly to the moon."
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