Liverpool want Spanish duo to replace Steven Gerrard – Friday’s Rumour Round-up
Liverpool will look to sign Spanish duo Isco and Ander Herrera as long-term replacements for Steven Gerrard once he decides to hang up his boots. The Reds skipper has given no indication that he is contemplating retirement just yet but it’s understood that manager Brendan Rodgers is keen to have someone in place to fill the void left by the 32-year-old and has already sounded out the aforementioned pair as potential suitors. It’s believed Malaga’s attacking midfielder Isco is Rodgers’ preferred choice despite a number of Europe’s elite clubs monitoring the talented 20-year-old’s progress ahead of the January transfer window. The Northern Irishman is also keeping a close eye on Athletic Bilbao star Herrera after he played a central role in the clubs run to the Europa League final last season. Metro
Roma haven’t given up Santon hope – Italian giants Roma will resurrect their interest in Newcastle full back Davide Santon in January after failing to prise him away from St James’ Park in the summer. Director of football Walter Sabatini is thought to be a huge admirer of the 21-year-old who joined the Magpies from Inter Milan last year. Santon initially struggled to break into Alan Pardew’s starting eleven but has nailed down the left back spot this season and has been an ever-present for the North East outfit. And despite expressing his wish to remain on Tyneside it hasn’t deterred Roma and they will test Pardew’s resolve to keep the Italy international in the New Year. talkSPORT
Free agent McFadden wants Sunderland deal – James McFadden is hoping to win a contract at Sunderland after it emerged Martin O’Neill is set to offer him the chance to resurrect his career on Wearside. The Scotland international has been without a club since leaving Everton in the summer but hopes to hopes to a secure a short-term deal after turning down moves to SPL sides Aberdeen and Motherwell. O’Neill is still hunting for senior back-up for £12 million signing Steven Fletcher and 29-year-old would offer Premier League experience after spells with the Toffees and Birmingham City in recent years. McFadden’s arrival could also allow the Northern Irishman to send teenage forward Connor Wickham out on loan. Daily Mail
Wigan eyeing up Palace starlet – Wigan boss Roberto Martinez is still hoping to sign Crystal Palace youngster Wilfried Zaha to replace Victor Moses. Martinez was unsuccessful with a £3 million bid for the England under-21 international during the summer with Palace valuing him at double that amount. It’s unlikely that the Latics chief will have the finances to match Zaha’s price tag meaning he could turn to Honduras midfielder Roger Espinozo, whose contract with Major League Soccer side Kansas City expires at the end of this year. Daily Mirror
