Arsenal close in on Giroud

Montpellier have confirmed that the sale of Olivier Giroud to Arsenal is progressing. Club vice-president Laurent Nicollin said talks with the Gunners over the France international striker were ‘going serenely’ as both clubs look to reach an agreement over a final transfer fee. The London side reached an agreement with the French champions, with a fee of 12.8 million pounds having been settled on after… Read more

Podolski expects better from Germany

Germany forward Lukas Podolski says he is certain his team will improve after their 5-3 loss to Switzerland on Saturday. Podolski, who will play for Arsenal next season, has promised better displays from Joachim Loew’s side. The defeat to the Swiss raised many eyebrows, with the Germans one of the favourites to win Euro 2012, but Podolski said the return of eight Bayern Munich players… Read more

Hazard set for Chelsea move

Star Lille attacker Eden Hazard has ended speculation surrounding his future, announcing he is set to join Chelsea. The Belgium international has attracted the interest of several clubs, including English Premier League champions Manchester City and rivals United. But Hazard, 21, revealed on Twitter on Monday he was set to join the Stamford Bridge club from the start of next season. “I’m signing for the… Read more

Klopp joy at record-breaking Dortmund

Borussia Dortmund coach Juergen Klopp hailed his team for their record-breaking Bundesliga title triumph this season. Saturday’s 4-0 victory over Freiburg means the German champions end their campaign on 81 points, the highest-ever tally set by a club in the German top- flight. Leading those rejoicing in Dortmund’s excellent campaign, Klopp commended his team for making their successes look easy on the football pitch. “We… Read more

Mourinho respects Guardiola decision

Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho has sent his best wishes to departing Barcelona counterpart Pep Guardiola. Citing mental fatigue from his four-year spell in the Barcelona dugout, Guardiola revealed last week that he will step down from his position at the end of the season. Assistant Tito Vilanova will replace the former Spain international as head coach of the Catalan giants. “I don’t have to… Read more