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A week until training restarts | FCBarcelona
There is just a week to go before the typical images of the start of the season are back: the medical tests before the players start training. Next Monday the players are due back to begin preparations for the 2011/2012 preseason. It is hard to believe, but it is six weeks since the players posed for pictures with the trophies they had won and set off on their respective summer holidays.
Lazio keeping tabs on Barcelona duo Ibrahim Afellay & Gabriel Milito - report | Goal
Lazio are considering making a move for Barcelona duo Ibrahim Afellay and Gabriel Milito as they attempt to bolster their squad ahead of the 2011-12 campaign, Sport reports. Club president Claudio Lotito hasn't completed his business in the close season, however, and has now allegedly set his sights on the Barcelona duo.
Lionel Messi & Sergio Aguero-inspired Argentina finally wake up as Batista mirrors Maradona model | Goal
One player who especially revelled in his altered role was Messi, back pulling the strings at No.10 just behind three forwards who constantly switched positions, moved at will across the pitch and were always available. 'La Pulga' was involved in all three goals, and although he could not add his name to the scoresheet, he provided two delightful final passes.
Tottenham sign Barcelona youngster Ceballos | UEFA
Tottenham Hotspur FC have completed their second signing of the summer by completing the signing of Cristian Ceballos from FC Barcelona. The 18-year-old, who can operate as an attacking midfielder or a forward, decided to join Harry Redknapp's side after parting company with the European club champions following seven years at the club.
Real Madrid leave for pre-season tour of the United States | Goal
Real Madrid have left for their pre-season tour of the United States as they fly out to Los Angeles. The club's official website confirms most of the squad arrived for medicals on Monday morning at their Valdebebas headquarters in Madrid.
Mourinho: Real need one more attacker | ESPN
"We decided to improve and balance the squad without ever losing the dimension of creating a team for the future," Mourinho said in an interview on Real's website. "We have signed players whom we felt were important to complete a squad that was already very strong.
Villarreal secure Zapata signing | Eurosport
Zapata claimed earlier in the summer that he was close to joining Liverpool but has now shunned a move to Anfield. The Colombia international is currently at the Copa America but his club have confirmed a deal has been reached with Villarreal.
Isco Malaga's latest big signing | Eurosport
Spain U20 international Isco has become Malaga's latest big-money summer signing after joining from Valencia for around €6 million. The striker was born just outside Malaga but came through the youth system at Valencia, making his debut last season.
Osasuna sign Balde from Atletico | Sky Sports
Osasuna have seen off interest from Aston Villa to complete the signing of Atletico Madrid's Ibrahima Balde. The 20-year-old was loaned out to Numancia last term where he benefitted from first-team football, but has now joined Osasuna on a three-year deal.
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