BY DAN KARELL
Frank Lampard’s club search for next season may have gotten a bit easier.
After reports that he would leave on a Bosman transfer this summer, Juventus midfielder Andrea Pirlo has extended an open hand to Lampard to join him next season in Italy.
Lampard has recently been linked with a move to the Italian capital, with the club Lazio mentioned specifically, though those links have been shot down by Lampard’s agent.
Chelsea fans have protested the decision from owner Roman Abramovich at recent matches, chanting “sign him up”, referring to Lampard’s expiring contract.
Here are some more stories to start your Thursday:
RONALDO ASKS FANS TO END JEERS TOWARDS MOURINHO
On the heels of a masterful performance in the Copa Del Rey on Wednesday night, Hat-trick hero Cristiano Ronaldo has asked for whistles aimed at manager Jose Mourinho from the supporters in the stands to come to an end.
Real Madrid’s recent results in the past month, which include losses to Celta Vigo and Malaga, as well as fan favorite Iker Casillias being demoted to backup goalkeeper, have caused a lot of derision aimed at Mourinho.
However, Madrid have won their last two matches, and Ronaldo has asked for the fans to get behind the team once more as they compete for titles in La Liga, Champions League, and Copa Del Rey.
SNEIJDER BID ACCEPTED BY INTER MILAN
In a quickly moving deal, Inter Milan today has announced that they have accepted a bid of €10 million for midfielder Wesley Sneijder from Galatasaray S.K. in Turkey.
The Holland international was long rumored for a move to England, but now all that separates Sneijder from leaving Inter is agreeing personal terms with Galatasaray.
Sneijder has not played for Inter since September 25, due to a contract dispute with the club.
LIVERPOOL BOSS RODGERS SETS HEART ON DEVELOPING LOCAL YOUTH
Brendan Rodgers has declared that it is vital for the club to develop top talent from the Liverpool youth academy.
With Raheem Sterling graduating to the first team this season, and the likes of Jamie Carragher and Steven Gerrard towards the end of their careers, Rodgers has insisted that the club must develop better.
In what could be construed as a shot towards former Liverpool manager and current Chelsea boss Rafa Benitez, Rodgers declared that it was “sexy” to look at Spain for players, but that it was his priority to look nearby for the best talent instead of ignoring it.
QUICK KICKS
David Beckham is reportedly looking to base his family out of London, regardless of where he plays this season. (REPORT)
Rennes in Ligue 1 are content to let their young midfielder Yann M’Vila leave this month. (REPORT)
Udinese defender Danilo has been sentenced to prison for a racist act during a match in his native Brazil two years ago. (REPORT)
Klaas-Jan Huntelaar’s new contact with Schalke 04 has a €15 million release clause, jump starting transfer rumors (REPORT)
What do you think of these reports? Do you think a midfield with both Pirlo and Lampard can be successful? What does Rodgers’ statement mean for Liverpool’s transfer policy? Do you see Mourinho sticking it out in Madrid until the end of the season?
Please share your thoughts below.