Manchester City boss Mark Hughes appears determined to sign former striker Roque Santa Cruz according to a report in the News of the World.

Hughes signed the Paraguayan international from Bayern Munich last season in a deal that was widely considered to be the coup of the season after the striker hit 19 goals in his first season in the Premier League.

The striker’s excellent form has led to speculation that a host of top clubs are now interested in signing the striker, including champions Manchester United.

Whilst a number of Premier League clubs have been linked with a move for Santa Cruz, the News of the World claims that Mark Hughes is desperate to sign the man he originally brought to the Premier League.

The paper claims that Manchester City will offer Blackburn a massive £12 million for the striker although it also suggests that Rovers will accept nothing less than £15 million for Santa Cruz.

After missing out on Ronaldinho, City may well have the funds to spend big on a striker. They have already signed Jo from CSKA Moscow, who has become the club’s record signing and have plenty of other options in attack with Bojinov, Benjani and Vassell all at the club.

As for Santa Cruz, he picked up an injury yesterday in the club’s pre-season match against Championship side Wolves. Despite scoring in Blackburn’s 4-2 defeat, he was taken off although the injury isn’t thought to be serious and he should be fit for the start of the season.

Ref From Gill Clark - goal.com

Liverpool’s Yossi Benayoun is being linked with a return to former club West Ham, according to a report in the Echo.

The Israeli joined Liverpool from West Ham last year in a deal thought to be worth £5 million but has struggled to become a regular at Anfield.

Benayoun managed only 15 Premier League starts and 4 goals in his first season at Anfield which has led to speculation he may be surplus to requirements at the club.

The former West Ham man was a popular figure at Upton Park and a return would certainly be warmly welcomed by the fans who have fond memories of his time in East London.

Benayoun managed 8 goals in 63 appearances for West Ham and helped carry them to an FA Cup final with Liverpool which they eventually lost on penalties. However, the Israeli’s flair and creativity were as important as his goals and ensured he is still highly thought of by the Hammers.

The Echo reports that West Ham have contacted Liverpool to discuss the possibility of a move for Benayoun as they hope to be reunited with their former player.

Rafael Benitez has been widely quoted this week as saying he needs to sell players in order to finance more moves and it is possible Benayoun could potentially be sold as Liverpool look to strength their squad further.

Peter Crouch, John Arne Riise and Harry Kewell have already left Anfield this summer whilst Cavalieri, Degen, Dossena and Robbie Keane have all arrived. Liverpool are also still thought to be chasing Gareth Barry, although any further signings may be impossible until further funds are raised.

Ref From Gill Clark - goal.com

Brazilian fullback Rafinha is once again being linked with a possible transfer to Premier League side Liverpool.

He has long been linked with a move to the Merseyside giants with Reds boss Rafa Benitez a confirmed admirer of the Schalke right back.

With Alvaro Arbeloa being linked with a move back to Spain following a mystery £6 million bid, money could well be available for the purchase of Rafinha.

The Brazilian is also in dispute with his club at the moment over the Olympics, and his future at the Bundesliga club is far for certain.

He was called up by coach Carlos Dunga for the summer’s Olympic tournament, but was told by Schalke he couldn’t go.  However, Rafinha has gone against the club’s wishes and travelled regardless.

Any parting of the ways at the Veltins Arena will surely awake the interest of Liverpool amongst others.

Ref From Mathew Burt - goal.com