
| Posted: Monday November 20, 2006 9:55AM; Updated: Monday November 20, 2006 3:23PM
United States Soccer Federation president Sunil Gulati denied making comments that said former Argentina coach Jose Pekerman was about to be hired as manager of the U.S. men. Kansas City forward Josh Wolff has completed his visit to 1860 Munich, and will now await a contract offer from the impressed 2.Bundesliga promotion hopefuls. Los Angeles midfielder Kyle Martino has concluded a strong trial with Eredivisie side NEC Nijmegen, but the team are not interested in talking deal at this time. Chelsea has been linked with an audacious January move for Lyon and France star Florent Malouda. With Dutch international Arjen Robben threatening to quit Stamford Bridge if he does not get more game time, Blues boss Jose Mourinho is scouting potential replacements, and Malouda is sure to be near the top of his list. Reports suggest Manchester United could allow striker Alan Smith to join Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich on loan. Smith is struggling for first team football at Old Trafford after a long spell out with a broken leg, and United boss Alex Ferguson feels he should go out on loan to improve his fitness and match sharpness. Roy Keane admits he inquired about taking former Manchester United teammate Alan Smith to Sunderland. Smith was given permission by Alex Ferguson to discuss a loan move away from United to boost his match fitness. Birmingham City is keen to sign on permanent deals the three Arsenal loanees who have made such an impact at St. Andrews this season. The Blues will attempt to sign Sebastian Larsson, Nicklas Bendtner and Fabrice Muamba. Juventus striker David Trezeguet believes that seven years with the Old Lady might be too many and has not yet discussed a renewal with the Bianconeri. He is unsure whether to remain at the club or move somewhere else, with the various Manchester United, Lyon and Milan all interested in acquiring him. West Ham is reportedly set to take advantage of a clause in the contracts of Argentine internationals Carlos Tevez and Javier Mascherano and part ways with the duo in January. Toulouse striker Johan Elmander is being watched by La Liga leaders Barcelona, while Gothenburg want another Sweden forward, Tobias Hysen. Getafe is to take Zimbabwean striker Joseph Ngwenya on a two-week trial, after he was recommended to coach Bernd Schuster by compatriot Juergen Klinsmann. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||