Luis Figo has told his Real Madrid team-mates: Patrick Vieira is off to the Bernabeu! (The Sun)

The Spaniards sent Figo’s agent Luis Vicente to London last week for talks aimed at sparking a move for the Arsenal midfielder.

And now Vicente has tipped off Figo, saying his mission is on the verge of being a success.

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Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson last night hailed the signings of Gary and Phil Neville on new long-term contracts as a significant coup for the club ahead of the new season.

The England pair will stay at Old Trafford until 2009 after penning improved deals.

Ferguson said: "Gary and Phil have that experience, like Roy Keane, Paul Scholes and Ryan Giggs.

"You need to get that right balance between youth and the older heads - it retains the consistency within the club." (Daily Mirror)

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Wayne Rooney is right to stall on a new contract at Everton and will join Manchester United in the next few weeks, says Goodison Park legend Gary Lineker.

Lineker, whose goals fired the Toffees to the title 18 years ago, said: "I can’t see any other option than for Rooney to leave his childhood club behind."

Commenting on Rooney’s likely destination, Lineker added: "United are probably the best option." (Daily Mirror)

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Patrick Kluivert does not expect to walk straight into the Newcastle side after signing on a free transfer from Barcelona.

Craig Bellamy, Shola Ameobi and Michael Chopra are all vying for the second striker’s berth alongside Alan Shearer and Kluivert said: "The manager has not guaranteed me a first-team place - you have to earn it.

"Sure, he has got his favourite XI but if there is somebody who plays better at that moment, he will make his choice." (Daily Express)

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Frank Lampard has agreed a new five-year contract with Chelsea, but admits to having one regret - that England team-mate Steven Gerrard is not joining him at Stamford Bridge.

Lampard admits he would love to be lining up alongside Gerrard, who seemed set to move to Chelsea before an 11th hour change of heart.

"I was pleased when I heard that Steven was coming, because he is a great player," said Lampard. "I would have loved to have played alongside him at Chelsea like I have for England." (Daily Express)