Zenit set to pounce on Moutinho; Fenerbahce confirm Meireles talks

Zenit set to pounce on Moutinho

Zenit are readying a fresh offer from Porto star Joao Moutinho, Portuguese newspaper A Bola has revealed.

The Portuguese midfielder is one of the most south-after players in Europe and he was on the verge of joining Tottenham on transfer deadline day in England.

However, Spurs failed to wrap up the deal before the transfer deadline and fail to add the Portuguese to the captures of Hugo Lloris and Clint Dempsey.

A Bola understands that Zenit plan to take advantage of the situation and are ready to meet Porto’s €25 million asking price.

Russian clubs have until Thursday to sign new players and Zenit chiefs believe they can close the deal before the deadline.

The Portuguese newspaper states that the Russian giants would even be prepared to offer around €30 million if needed to sign the highly rated midfielder.

Nevertheless, the relations between the two clubs have been downgraded of late following Zenit’s bid for star forward Hulk.

Namely, Porto claimed the Russians had offered €50 million for the Brazilian, whereas Zenit insisted that they had only gone as far as €30 million.

Fenerbahce confirm Meireles talks

Turkish Super Lig side Fenerbahce have confirmed they are in talks with Chelsea over the signing of midfielder Raul Meireles.

Even if the transfer window in most of the European countries closed on Friday, Turkish clubs still have a couple of days left to sign new players.

Fenerbahce have now confirmed to Turkish stock market they have opened negotiations to sign Portuguese midfielder Raul Meireles.

“We have started discussions to transfer Chelsea Football Club player Raul Meireles to our club,” the statement read.

Raul Meireles’ deal at Stamford Bridge does not expire for another three years, but the player hopes to leave the club after losing his place in the side.

Despite establishing himself as an important player at Stamford Bridge following his arrival from Liverpool, the 29-year-old has started just one of first five games this season.

With Frank Lampard, Ramires and John Obi Mikel all in front of him in the pecking order, Meireles is likely to accept the offer from Fenerbahce.

Celtic sign Tunisian starlet

Scottish giants Glasgow Celtic have confirmed the capture of Deportivo La Coruna striker Lassad Nououi.

The Bhoys announced on their official website that the Tunisian would sign a two-year deal subject to international clearance.

Lassad has been a free agent since his contract with Deportivo La Coruna expired last June.

The 26-year-old was on the verge of joining La Liga side Levante, who even claimed the player had signed a contract with them, but ultimately decided to accept an offer from Celtic.

“I’m absolutely delighted to sign for Celtic.” Lassad said to club’s official website.

“Celtic is a huge club with a magnificent history and a fantastic support. I know all about the wonderful atmosphere at Celtic Park and I can’t wait to play there.”

The experienced forward began his career at Ajaccio and also went on to play for Chateauroux before joining Deportivo La Coruna in January 2008.

Nououi has since developed into a key player at Riazor, scoring 24 goals in 99 appearances for the Spanish giants.

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