Wolves have accepted they will have to sell Robbie Keane, paving the way for the Republic of Ireland striker to join Middlesbrough for around £7 million.
"It is inevitable that sooner or later we will have to let him go," said their managing director John Richards, "and if a serious bid comes in we may be in a position where it cannot be refused." Gerard Houllier has taken his spending in seven months of solo control at Liverpool to almost £17 million by finally completing the signing of Dutch star Sander Westerveld for a British record fee for a goalkeeper of £4 million.
The Liverpool manager aims to have Czech star Vladimir Smicer signed from Lens for £4 million and West Ham's Marc Vivien Foe for £5 million before the end of the month.
Meanwhile, Manchester United claim they can only take part in next year's World Team Championship with the help of the game's governing bodies.
The tournament, which will be held between January 3rd and 14th, clashes with the FA Cup third round, Worthington Cup semi-finals and two Premiership matches.
Leeds have finally clinched the signing of full back Danny Mills after agreeing to Charlton's £4 million valuation.
Leeds have also been linked with Norwegian under-21 striker Rune Lange.
Newcastle boss Ruud Gullit yesterday clinched the signing of Paris St Germain centre back Alain Goma for £4.75 million in a five-year deal.
