Spurs in talks for Lass Diarra; Casemiro set for Real return

Spurs in talks for Lass Diarra

Tottenham Hotspur have stepped up their interest in French midfielder Lassana Diarra, according to L’Equipe.

Spurs need cover on the right flank following Kyle Walker’s injury and Mauricio Pochettino appears ready to take the gamble with the former Arsenal footballer.

Diarra is considered a very good option for the centre of the park, while he was used as a right-sided defender quite a few times in the past.

According to L’Equipe, Spurs are in advanced talks with the midfielder’s representatives, and they are expected to reach an agreement in the coming days.

Diarra, who is a free agent, is believed to be demanding a hefty salary, but Tottenham are ready to offer him an enticing contract that would include signing on fee and performance related bonuses.

Marseille were recently credited with an interest in the 29-year-old, who had missed out on a summer switch to QPR.

Casemiro set for Real return

Real Madrid are seriously considering the possibility of recalling Brazilian midfielder Casemiro from FC Porto in January, O Jogo can reveal.

The talented footballer joined the Dragons on a season-long loan with an option to buy back in July, and he has since impressed at Estadio do Dragao.

However, while Porto hope to turn his loan deal into permanent move at the end of the season, they could easily stay without the 22-year-old in the winter.

Namely, Real Madrid have the option to recall Casemiro in January for a set amount and los Blancos will probably trigger the clause in case Sami Khedira leaves the club.

The Germany international will be out of contract in the summer and he could be sold in the upcoming transfer window.

Casemiro made seven league appearances this term while starting all four Champions League fixtures, and he in turn returned to the international fold following a two-year absence.

Monaco eyeing Ghana starlet

Portuguese daily newspaper Record has learned that French giants Monaco are keeping close tabs on Vitoria Guimaraes midfielder Bernard.

The French club recently turned their attention towards signing young and talented footballers, and the 20-year-old starlet is the latest player on their radar.

Having been impressed with the youngster’s performances in Portuguese Primeira Liga, the Principality club are reportedly readying a January bid for his services.

Bernard started his professional career at Vitoria Guimaraes and he went on to score 8 goals in 26 matches for the reserve side last season.

The attacking midfielder did well to nail down a regular starting berth this term and he has been in stunning form, netting 4 times in 8 league appearances.

Bernard scored the only goal for his side in a 1-1 draw with giants FC Porto, converting a second-half penalty to earn his club one point.

For more news about football transfers and rumours, visit our Transfer News section. To view all football transfers for 2014/15 season, visit our Soccer Transfers section.