United Striker Crisis
Manchester United will intensify their search for a new striker after Louis Saha was ruled out for up to six months following a knee operation. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is also recovering from surgery and Alan Smith's United future is uncertain - so the only recognised striker certain to start the season is Wayne Rooney. Sir Alex Ferguson was already looking for an extra player to bolster his front line, but the injury to Saha will see the United manager intensify his search for a new forward. Among the players that Ferguson is chasing is Italy striker Fabio Quagliarella. The Sampdoria centre-forward, 23, has made a big impact in Serie A this season and earned himself a call-up to the full national squad. United's Europe scout Martin Ferguson went to watch Quagliarella in his recent game against Palermo, and Sampdoria could sell for around £8million.
David McDonnell, Daily Mirror

Various tabloids play down fears over Saha's injury absence, claiming that - according to the striker's agents - he will actually be fit for the start of the new season.

The Daily Mail claim that alleged United target David Villa will stay with Valencia, but puts forward Tottenham striker Jermain Defoe as a more viable target. Spurs will supposedly welcome offers in the region of £12million if the 24-year-old doesn't extend his current contract.

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho fires the first psychological broadside of the new season, insisting that he is not worried about United's summer spending.

Premier League chief Dave Richards tells The Sun he cannot wait to watch Sir Alex Ferguson and Sunderland boss Roy Keane lock managerial horns next season.