Transfer Watch

The latest transfer gossip

Santa Cruz expects City bid

BLACKBURN forward Roque Santa Cruz claims Manchester City are set to bid for him but denied any official offer had been made yet.

The Paraguayan forward commented to a local radio station that negotiations had not started but said he expected to join City in the current transfer window. "Rumours are growing every day. It seems that the circumstances needed for me to be transferred are going in a good direction, but everything is a rumour until now," said the 27-year-old.

"It is forbidden (in England) to talk with the clubs directly so I do not know a lot about it. I know that they are going to make a proposal, but I do not know the terms," he added.

However, the former Olimpia and Bayern Munich striker, who is recovering from a muscle tear in the shin, confirmed that he would be happy to remain at Ewood Park.

"Now it is a matter of time. We will see. The important thing, at the end, is that Blackburn and I are happy. There is a long way ahead until the market closes and I am fully committed with Blackburn and I will continue working with joy here," he said.

Nolan completes Preston move

PRESTON have completed the permanent signing of Eddie Nolan on a three-and-a-half-year contract from Blackburn for an incentive-based six-figure fee.

The Republic of Ireland under-21 captain (20) who initially joined North End on loan in October, is eligible for today's FA Cup tie with Liverpool. Nolan began his career with Blackburn in July 2006, but played just once. After loan spells with Stockport and Hartlepool, he has made three appearances since arriving at Deepdale.

Fulham say Bullard is staying

FULHAM manager Roy Hodgson has no intention of selling Jimmy Bullard or Brede Hangeland during the January transfer window - but admits every player has his price. Bullard's current contract expires in 18 months' time and speculation is rife that he will move on if a new deal cannot be agreed before the end of the month.

Routledge signs for QPR

QPR have confirmed the signing of winger Wayne Routledge from Premier League side Aston Villa for an undisclosed fee. Routledge, who has agreed a three-and-a-half-year deal, rejected a permanent move to Championship rivals Cardiff where he had enjoyed a successful loan spell. The 23-year-old, who has been capped at England Under-21 level, has played for Crystal Palace, Tottenham, Portsmouth and Fulham.

Routledge told the club's official website: "I'm thrilled to be here. The manager has a great vision about where he wants to take the club and he sees me playing a big part in that."

Southgate warns off Tottenham

MIDDLESBROUGH boss Gareth Southgate has spoken out over the manner of Tottenham's interest in Stewart Downing and has held talks with the England winger to persuade him to stay at the Riverside Stadium.

Southgate does not want to sell the 24-year-old to Spurs, with manager Harry Redknapp prioritising a left-sided midfielder and striker during the transfer window.

"Spurs have expressed an interest in Stewart but we're not interested in selling him," Southgate said. "We think we need to keep hold of our best players. If Tottenham are really interested then they have not shown that in the way they have approached it, so there's nothing doing there."