Nicolas Anelka says he wants to leave Fenerbahce and join Newcastle (Star).

Juventus striker Alessandro del Piero, who is due to make a decision over his future in the summer, says he could not play for another Italian club but would be interested in playing in England (Star).

Spain captain Raul, who ruptured knee ligaments in November, has reportedly told national team coach Luis Aragones that he will be fit for the World Cup (Telegraph).

Middlesbrough chairman Steve Gibson has told Steve McClaren he must sell before he buys any new players, but Stewart Downing will not be leaving the club (Express).

Sir Alex Ferguson could be in hot water after an alleged rant at referee Steve Bennett at half-time during Manchester United's 3-1 derby loss to Manchester City (Various).

Julio Arca has warned he may be forced to leave Sunderland if they are relegated from the Premiership (Times).

Manchester United's hopes of taking Olivier Dacourt on loan from Roma for the rest of the season were ended by his wage demands (Mail).

Luton boss Mike Newell has admitted he has no concrete evidence to back up his bung allegations, "just what is in my head". (Mail).

Celtic striker John Hartson could be heading back to an English club in the summer to be closer to his family, who have moved back to Wales. The Bhoys are interested in Wolves' Kenny Miller as a possible replacement (Mirror).

Norwich will spend the weekend considering West Ham's �7m offer for Dean Ashton, and could move to Liverpool's Neil Mellor if they decide to let Ashton go (Mirror).

Former West Ham striker Tony Cottee is lining up a �100m-plus takeover bid of his old club (Sunday People).

Fulham boss Chris Coleman admits "words were said" in the tunnel between him and former Fulham player Lee Clark following Newcastle's 1-0 defeat at Craven Cottage (News of the World).

Sheffield United are ready to offer �1.75m for Burnley striker Ade Akinbiyi after having a �1.5m offer turned down (News of the World).

Swindon striker Christian Roberts says seeing pictures of the dying George Best inspired him to seek help with a drink problem (News of the World).