Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is lining up a �10m swoop for Belgian giant Daniel van Buyten - if Rio Ferdinand is hit with an FA ban (The Sun).

Arsenal and Chelsea have joined the race for Barcelona's unhappy Dutch striker Patrick Kluivert, who snubbed Newcastle's advances this week (Daily Express).

Wolves boss Dave Jones is hoping to tempt Peter Schmeichel out of retirement - by using the keeper's former Manchester United team-mate Paul Ince as a middle man (The Sun).

Former Conservative minister David Mellor had set up a deal with a friend to take control of Chelsea - but was gazumped by Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich (Daily Express).

Liverpool boss Gerard Houllier has given a broad hint that Michael Owen is keen to commit his long-term future to the club (The Sun).

David Beckham and other England players are expected to escape Uefa disciplinary charges after the tunnel fracas against Turkey in Istanbul, but the FA could face a general charge of failing to control its players (Independent).

Wales striker Craig Bellamy is considering retiring from international football to safeguard his club career with Newcastle (Daily Telegraph).

Paulo Wanchope says he wants to extend his Manchester City contract, which runs out at the end of next season (Daily Star).