Arsenal and Manchester United are to battle it out for Sporting Lisbon midfielder Miguel Veloso come the opening of the January transfer window. The Portuguese international was linked all summer with a move to the Premier League but for whatever reasons nothing ever materialised. (News of the World)

The 22-year old has caught the attentions of both Gunners boss Arsene Wenger and Manchester United man Sir Alex Ferguson over the past 18 months with his superb performances for Sporting. It is understood that either side will have to cough up at least £16 million if they want to secure the services of Veloso.

I would be delighted to see this promising holding midfielder move to England. He is a superb talent who I feel, under the right guidance will prove to be one of Europe’s best midfield players. I would be extremely surprised not to see any of Europe’s elite not make an approach for Veloso during January.

Chelsea are planning a January move for Aston Villa midfielder Gareth Barry. The England international has been linked with a move to Liverpool for months now, but following Barry’s admission a couple of weeks back that he will be staying at Villa for the rest of this season at least, Liverpool’s interest went cold. (The People)

With the summer transfer window firmly shut Chelsea will obviously have to wait til the New Year to make any attempt to sign the 27-year old and I am sure Villa boss Martin O’Neill will be keen to hold onto his man. Valued at £18 million, Barry previously admitted he would be interested in a move to a Champions League side and obviously Chelsea could offer him that.

It will be very interesting to see how this one develops. Obviously if Chelsea do make a move for Barry come January, I feel there will be several other sides also interested. The likes of long-term admirers Liverpool and indeed Arsenal who have also previously admitted an interest in signing Barry.

Sign Barry for just £6 million in this year’s “You the Manager” (left). A definite bargain.

Newcastle United owner Mike Ashley has today confirmed he wants to sell the club after angry protests from the club’s fans yesterday. Ashley has been under pressure to quit the club ever since the departure of Kevin Keegan last week, with many fans angry at the reasons for Keegan’s departure.

It is understood Keegan quit due to goings on behind the scenes at St James’ Park. It was claimed Dennis Wise (Sporting Director of Newcastle, appointed by Ashley earlier this year) was trying to offload the likes of Michael Owen, Alan Smith and Joey Barton on transfer deadline day behind Keegan’s back.

Yesterday saw thousands of the fans venting their fury with angry protests before and after the defeat to Hull City. I am personally happy to see Ashley has finally got the message. He is obviously not wanted their and I am sure many Magpies fans will be praying that whoever comes in now ill re-appoint Keegan.