Barca linked to Mata, Torres; Zenit eyeing Eredivisie goal-machine

Barca linked to Mata, Torres

Catalan daily Sport has suggested that Barcelona are considering a move for Chelsea stars Juan Manuel Mata and Fernando Torres.

The two Spaniards, together with compatriot Cesar Azpilicueta, have seen little playing time since the arrival of Jose Mourinho and their long-term future at Stamford Bridge is clearly in doubt.

Barcelona officials are closely monitoring the situation and while they have no interest in the full-back, the Catalans are ready to offer Mata and Torres an escape route from London.

The Camp Nou outfit have been keeping close tabs on the two players for a while now and they finally seem ready to make their interest concrete.

While Torres would certainly give team’s front line a new dimension, Mata’s potential arrival would benefit both midfield and attack, and there are no doubts the Spain internationals would be a big asset for the Catalans.

Barcelona currently lead the chase in Spanish La Liga, having won first five fixtures, and they are 1/7 to continue the impressive run against Real Sociedad.

Zenit eyeing Eredivisie goal-machine

Zenit are weighing up a move for Heerenveen striker Alfred Finnbogason, reports Russian newspaper Izvestia.

It is no secret the Russian giants are keen on adding another striker to their ranks given that both Alexander Kerzhakov and Alexander Bukharov have been struggling this term.

According to Izvestia, Zenit have made Icelandic striker Alfred Finnbogason their number one target.

The Russian side are prepared to offer around €10 million for the highly rated footballer, although they could face stiff competition from other interested sides.

A number of teams from England, Germany and Italy are reportedly keeping close tabs on the 24-year-old.

Alfred Finnbogason has largely impressed since joining Heerenveen from Helsingborg, notching no less than 33 goals in 39 Eredivisie appearances, and everything suggests he will soon be leaving the Frisians for greener pastures.

Nene hints at European return

Brazilian forward Nene has admitted that he could return to Europe when his spell in Qatar comes to an end.

The experienced footballer left Paris Saint-Germain for Al Gharafa in January, but he has since been linked with a return to Europe.

Despite earlier suggesting that he planned to end his career in Brazil, the 32-year-old has revealed that he might embark on another European adventure.

“I still have a year and a half on my contract, then yes, a return to Europe is possible,” Nene explained to Canal +.

“Otherwise, a return to Brazil, my country, my children are there. Those two solutions are possible. But for now, I am in Qatar.”

Nene has left a big mark on French league football, having made a total of 132 Ligue 1 appearances playing for Monaco and Paris Saint-Germain, scoring no less than 55 goals.

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