Transfer News

Gourcuff wants Arsenal move.

Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas has told L'Equipe that Yoann Gourcuff would be prepared to accept a pay cut in order to seal a switch to Arsenal.

The France international has long been linked with a switch to Emirates Stadium, and talk of transfer this summer has resurfaced.
Lyon would be prepared to part with Gourcuff's salary if a suitable offer is tabled, and the 27-year-old would prefer a deal to be done to take him to the Premier League.
Aulas insists no loan agreement will be sanctioned with another French club - amid talk of interest from Lorient - meaning the ball is now back in Arsenal's court as the countdown to deadline day continues.
He told L'Equipe on Gourcuff, who netted once and provided two assists as Lyon started the new season with a 4-0 mauling of Nice on Saturday: "Can you see us paying part of his salary for him to play against us with another French club? We've never considered that and it would be even more stupid now than it was a fortnight ago.
"All that I know, if I understood correctly, is that he was ready to lower his salary to go to Arsenal, but that's not the same thing.
"I spoke to his lawyer two weeks ago and he asked for the power of attorney to negotiate a transfer. I said no, but I would be keen to offer a non-exclusive power of attorney to see what happens."

West Ham seal Downing switch.

West Ham have completed the signing of winger Stewart Downing from Liverpool.

The 29-year-old has joined Sam Allardyce's side on a four-year contract for an undisclosed fee thought to be in the region of £5m.
Downing, who has won 34 caps for England, follows striker Andy Carroll in making the summer switch from Anfield to Upton Park and is looking forward a new chapter in his career.
"I'm very excited. It's a great opportunity for me being here, it's a great club and I'm really excited to get going," Downing told the club's website.
"I'm ready and I'm fit for the first game against Cardiff City. I've played a decent few games for Liverpool in pre-season, so there will be no problems on that front.
"It's all happened quickly, but I'm really excited and hoping to play a part on Saturday."
Downing began his career with Middlesbrough, making his debut as a 17-year-old in 2002.
He joined Aston Villa following Boro's relegation from the Premier League in 2009 and was voted their Player of the Season for 2010-2011.