Transfer rumours

Three days to go until the transfer window closes, and still some issues to sort out. Michael Owen was left out of Real Madrid's squad yesterday, a clear message that he has to go, and as reported last week Liverpool may be his final destination. If they have time, Madrid may use the money to buy a defender, but in the meantime they have signed up Brazilian right back Cicinho for next January. Two or three clubs are desperate for strikers, including Deportivo, Mallorca, Racing and Zaragoza, and the unsettled Di Vaio may be the answer at the Riazor now that Luque has gone. Recreativo's Uche is being followed by several clubs, including Betis, who are keen to add to their squad now they have qualified for the Champions League. Villarreal have already made their move, snapping up Uruguay's keeper Viera after the inexperienced Barbosa raised some doubts in the qualifying tie against Everton. Who won't be moving on this season is Atlético Madrid's Fernando Torres, despite a massive €36 million bid from Abramovich's MSI group. A move to Chelsea could be on next season though if Atlético fail to qualify for Europe. (29.08.05)