The Screamer... It's the talk of football

United expect to be turned down, as Anderson has yet to make his international debut, but will appeal.

New Portuguese winger Nani passed his medical yesterday.

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Wigan target Hyypia

Wigan manager Chris Hutchings has targeted former Chelsea full back Mario Melchiot and Liverpool centre half Sami Hyypia.

Melchiot, 30, is a free agent after being released by French side Rennes and hopes to return to the Premiership. Liverpool, however, are reluctant to release Hyypia unless they can find a defender of similar experience to replace the 33-year-old at a reasonable price.

Leeds face tax fight

Leeds United are facing the wrath of the taxman over an unpaid £7million bill that could have huge repercussions for the rest of football in England.

Chairman Ken Bates's success in buying the club back out of administration on Monday will give the Inland Revenue £70,000 under the terms of the agreement accepted by creditors.

Revenue chiefs are considering a legal challenge that would delay even further Leeds's preparation for next season.

Tax officials favour a return to preferential creditor status, and key Government figures agree that footballers, who are currently paid in full, should not benefit at taxpayers' expense.

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Pires urges Henry to follow

Robert Pires has urged Thierry Henry to join him in Spain by moving to Barcelona.

The Villarreal winger, who last summer ended a six-year spell with Arsenal, said: "I think Thierry would be very happy at Barca. Arsenal, their manager and their fans are all very good but it would be best for him to make the change."

Malouda eager for switch to Liverpool

Rafa Benitez's transfer frustrations finally showed signs of easing yesterday when Florent Malouda indicated he was ready to join Liverpool.

The £8million-rated Lyon midfielder looks bound for Anfield in the next week after the French club agreed a similar fee with Benfica for former Liverpool target Simao Sabrosa to replace him.

Malouda, 27, said: "There has been contact with Liverpool although I don't know as yet if they have shown their interest directly to Lyon.

"People make their decisions based on the different leagues in different countries, but I would rather basemine on the club involved. And why not Liverpool? They are a great club."

Benitez is also interested in Valencia's left-sided midfielder David Silva.