Ruud van Nistelrooy is the subject of much transfer speculation today and could be leaving Manchetser United during the summer. (The Mirror, The Sun, The Star, The Express, The Mail all report).

The Dutch striker has been linked with both Real Madrid and Barcelona in a £30m move from Old Trafford.

It is claimed that his representative, Roger Linse, has had talks with senior officials from both clubs with a view to securing a move for the 26-year-old.

However United have reiterated their stance that Ruud van Nistelrooy is will still be at Old trafford come the start of the 2004/05 season.

"Ruud is not for sale," said a United spokesman.

"We have said this consistently, so I don't know what more we can do. He signed a new contract in January and has said himself over the last few days that he wants to stay with the club."

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Arsenal have completed the £3m transfer of Dutch winger Robin van Persie. (The Sun, The Mirror, The Express, The Mail, The Star).

The 20-year-old will join the club when the transfer window reopens on 17 May and will sign a four year deal.

Feyenoord coach Bert van Marwyk said: "He's a huge talent and it is a real disappointment that he is leaving the club. Arsenal are buying a very special young player."

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Both Arsene Wenger and Sir Alex Ferguson are tipping France to win the European Championship in Portugal. (The Mirror, The Sun)

The pair are complimentary of England's chances but feel that France will be the team to watch this summer.

Wenger said: "I feel England are the up-and-coming side and they are where France was a few years ago."

Ferguson said: "France will win the tournament because they have got the best strikers to choose from."

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Fulham manager Chris Coleman will sign a new deal in the next 24 hours (The Express).

The 33-year-old has had a very successful first season with the club and has been in negotiations with the owner Mohamed Al Fayed for some months now.

Coleman said: "I am very much looking forward to signing a new deal."

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Mario Melchiot could be moving to Newcastle this summer (The Express). The Dutchman is rumoured to be leaving the club on a free transfer at the end of the season and the Newcastle manager, Sir Bobby Robson, is said to be a huge admirer or the full back.

The club have been in touch with the player's agent as they are looking for cover Aaron Hughes.