Transfer news

The Ronaldo saga is over. Or is it? With another eight days to go until the transfer deadline closes, the story could still take another twist. Right now though it appears that there was too big a difference between the asking and offered prices, so the deal is officially off.

Atlético Madrid have finally got rid of the last four transfer listed players on their books, and are now free to sign Jorge from Las Palmas. All four go on loan, Colsa to Valladolid, Juan Carlos to Getafe and Sergio Sánchez and Amaya to Espanyol, who have rescinded thir contract with new keeper Manninger only weeks after he signed for two years from Arsenal. The Spanish club say he was not up to scatch in pre-season matches and they have not yet received his transfer papers. Arsenal say they have not received payment and do not want him back. This one could end up in court.

Elsewhere the market is moving as the deadline approaches. Betis have signed Real Madrid's Fernando from under the noses of Celta, who have finally agreed terms with Zaragoza's José Ignacio. Osasuna have taken on Paqui and Pablo García, and have let David Cano go to Oviedo. Others could follow this week, with Luque's move to Deportivo and Barça's attempt to sign Hasselbaink heading the list. (24.08.02)