Arsenal may get Marchetti or Schwarzer ‘this week’

Rumours continue to link Arsenal with just about every goalkeeper in Europe and this time it's Cagliari shotstopper Federico Marchetti being mentioned as a possible Gunner. According to Italy's Data Sport, Arsenal are in "pole position" to sign Marchetti from the Serie A outfit, and a deal could well be reached this weekend when Arsenal compete in the Emirates Cup against Celtic, AC Milan and French club Lyon.

The Gunners and Marchetti were first talked of as a combination last month during the World Cup, a tournament in which the Italian played an unexpected part following Gianluigi Buffon's injury early on in the pool stage. Marchetti stepped in as the veteran's replacement but then conceded four goals as Italy failed to make the cut for the last 16.

But the Gunners interest in Fulham veteran Mark Schwarzer could be rekindled if Manuel Almunia decides to return to his old club Osasuna. The Spaniard knows that he is no longer Arsenal's number one in the eyes of Arsene Wenger and is reportedly interested in a return to his homeland. According to the Mail, his departure would prompt another bid for 37-year-old Australian Schwarzer, who has been linked with a player-coach role at the Emirates.

Another player whose future doesn't seem to lie in England is Javier Mascherano. The Argentine midfielder, who captained his country during last month's World Cup, has met the Liverpool's manager Roy Hodgson and told him he wants to leave. According to the Sun, the 26-year-old Mascherano turned up at Liverpool's training ground yesterday, accompanied by his representatives, to break the news that he intends to link up with former Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez at Inter Milan. The Reds are said to be willing to release the Argentine - provided Inter play about £30m for him – because they could use the money to dip into the transfer market as they seek to re-establish their reputation.

Talking of reputations, the Daily Mirror says that Inter's troublesome teenager striker Mario Balotelli is definitely on his way to Manchester City. The 19-year-old has been linked with Chelsea and Manchester United this summer but the Sky Blues have won the race for his signature and boss Roberto Mancini is said to be delighted. What clinched the deal, according to the Mirror, is the fact that Balotelli played under Mancini when the latter was in charge at the San Siro. That was in 2007 and ever since Mancini left Inter the youngster has struggled to make the same impact and has instead gained a reputation for surly behaviour. But Mancini has no doubt City will be the making of Balotelli. "I was the first to believe in him and I'm convinced about what he can do," he said. "Mario has two qualities that suit us: his talent and his age. And I want people like him who are able to build a cycle of success at Manchester City."

The signing takes City's summer spending spree to over £100m and there is still a strong possibility that figure will rise if the club manage to prise Fernando Torres from Liverpool, though they face stiff competition from Chelsea for the Spanish striker.

It appears that Manchester United and Tottenham have lost out in their bold bid to sign Brazil striker Luis Fabiano from Sevilla. Both Premier League outfits have been chasing the 29-year-old, who blew hot and cold during the recent World Cup, and at one stage Fabiano seemed to be encouraging United in their pursuit. But in an interview with the Spanish club's radio station, the Brazilian has pledged his future to Sevilla. "During my time at the World Cup I was very calm because I knew that I was going to stay at Sevilla," explained Fabiano. "Much was said but nothing true. I couldn't talk because I was with the Brazil team but I have a year left on my contract with Sevilla and I am very happy. I really want to defend once again the Sevilla badge and I would love to help lift a trophy."

One player who might well make the move from Spain to England is Real Madrid legend Raul. The 33-year-old striker, who is Real's record goalscorer, ended his 16-year association with the Spanish giants on Monday, breaking down in tears as he  said goodbye to staff and fans. "I would like to tell the fans that in every run, every tackle, I've always given everything. I've always given 100 per cent for this club," said Raul before being asked if he was definitely bound for Germany and a two-year deal with Schalke of the Bundesliga . "Schalke is interested in me and I have had very deep discussions with them,'' he said, adding: "In a few days I will know whether I'll be going to the Bundesliga, but there are other teams that are also interested. What is clear is that my future lies in Germany or England." ·