Arsenal are apparently close to signing French uder 21 international goalkeeper Nicolas PENNETEAU from French club Bastia. Possibly a £2.5m fee for the player who was watched in favourable light in the 0 - 0 match with Monaco at the week-end, by former "Double winner" and goalkeeping coach Bob Wilson. Bastia are apparently hoping to put the deal "on ice" until the end of their season, but as usual "money talks". Watch this space. Graham Barrett, the Irish reserve and youth player looks set to join Preston North End for around £200,000.
In connection with the above, Graham Barrett has now asked for the week-end to "think about it". Obviously it's a question of drop down for first team football, versus "will I ever make the first team"? Freddie Ljunbergs' recovery from injury has taken a little set back, and it would appear that Freddie will be out for about another 2 weeks.
It looks very much like the UPSON deal to Birmingham City is now back on for £3m. Likely to go through in the next day or two, and also Steven Sidewell, described as a "promising" midfielder heading to Reading for an "undisclosed fee", which I am informed of as being around £200,000. JEFF.
MARCOS, the Brazilian World Cup goalkeeper would appear to be joining the Gunners for the start of the 2003-2004 season. With his club, Palmeiras being relegated, a bigger position would suit him. Also CISSE, the Auxerre leading scorer in the French League last season is also keen to join the Premiership. Arsenal are his "natural choice". Let's just wait and see on that.
I have heard rumours that Upson is on his way to Leeds should they decide to continue their housecleaning and sell Woodgate to Newcastle....
First I have heard of the Upson/Leeds connection, although I think that would be better than Birmingham (just!) (LOL). The Woodgate to Newcastle deal has been circulating a little while, so, who knows it might all come off. It appears that Upson is "stalling" a little over Birmingham so maybe he is hoping that some bigger will come in at the last minute. Just have to wait and see!