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Spain are still the best - Marcelo
Brazil defender Marcelo says Spain are still the best national side in the world as they bid to retain their World Cup crown.
The Selecao beat Vicente del Bosque's men 3-0 in the final of the Confederations Cup last summer, with many onlookers pointing to that result as the start of a power shift in the international game.
Spain defended their European Championship crown in 2012 having lifted the World Cup two years previously and Marcelo says they remain the standard bearers on the international stage.
He told reporters: "I think Spain are the best team in the world right now. I don't think that has changed because we won the Confederations Cup. They respected us before and they still do now."
Marcelo was left out of Brazil's World Cup 2010 squad and as a result is refusing to take his place in the starting line-up for granted under Luis Felipe Scolari this time around.
He added: "I certainly don't think of myself as the owner of the No.6 shirt.
"I've been working since I was 17, when I started playing for Fluminense, which helped me a lot, I grew a lot there and even more at Real Madrid.
"In my head I always had the idea of giving my best and playing for the Selecao. Unfortunately I didn't make it to 2010, but my hopes were never dead and today, thanks to God, I have the chance of being in a World Cup."
The 26-year-old enjoyed a morale-boosting end to his club season with Madrid after scoring in extra-time in the final of the Champions League after coming on as a second half substitute in the 4-1 win.
Brazil defender Marcelo says Spain are still the best national side in the world as they bid to retain their World Cup crown.
The Selecao beat Vicente del Bosque's men 3-0 in the final of the Confederations Cup last summer, with many onlookers pointing to that result as the start of a power shift in the international game.
Spain defended their European Championship crown in 2012 having lifted the World Cup two years previously and Marcelo says they remain the standard bearers on the international stage.
He told reporters: "I think Spain are the best team in the world right now. I don't think that has changed because we won the Confederations Cup. They respected us before and they still do now."
Marcelo was left out of Brazil's World Cup 2010 squad and as a result is refusing to take his place in the starting line-up for granted under Luis Felipe Scolari this time around.
He added: "I certainly don't think of myself as the owner of the No.6 shirt.
"I've been working since I was 17, when I started playing for Fluminense, which helped me a lot, I grew a lot there and even more at Real Madrid.
"In my head I always had the idea of giving my best and playing for the Selecao. Unfortunately I didn't make it to 2010, but my hopes were never dead and today, thanks to God, I have the chance of being in a World Cup."
The 26-year-old enjoyed a morale-boosting end to his club season with Madrid after scoring in extra-time in the final of the Champions League after coming on as a second half substitute in the 4-1 win.
Ronaldo hit by thigh problem
Cristiano Ronaldo has been hit by a thigh problem as Portugal continue their preparations for this summer's World Cup in Brazil.
The 29-year-old overcame a hamstring complaint to play in Real Madrid's Champions League final victory over Atletico Madrid, but linked up with his international team-mates on Thursday carrying a fresh injury.
The forward was one of five players named on Portugal's official website that were forced to remain on the sidelines - four of whom were nursing thigh injuries.
A brief statement said Ronaldo was suffering from "myalgia (pain) in the posterior region of his left thigh" and underwent specific rehabilitation work at the team hotel.
He was joined there by Raul Meireles, Hugo Almeida, Rubon Amorim and Joao Moutinho, as Portugal prepare for their latest pre-World Cup friendly against Greece on Saturday.
None of these players are believed to be serious doubts for the tournament, though there will be concerns over Ronaldo given the Seleccao's reliance on the forward during qualification.
The reigning Ballon d'Or winner scored a hat-trick in the second-leg of their World Cup play-off with Sweden to almost single-handedly fire Paulo Bento's men to Brazil.
Portugal will need him at his brilliant best if they are to advance from a tough group containing Germany, USA and Ghana.
Their World Cup campaign kicks off with a clash against Germany on June 16.
No contact from Manchester United or Fiorentina, claims Clasie agent
Reported Manchester United target Jordy Clasie has had no contact from any club over a potential move, claims the Feyenoord midfielder's agent.
The 22-year-old has been linked with Old Trafford after his national coach, Louis van Gaal, was appointed as David Moyes's permanent successor earlier in May.
Fiorentina have also been credited with an interest in the youngster but his representative, Wessel Weezenberg, says that no transfer plans are expected until after Netherlands' World Cup campaign is over.
"There has been no contact recently with the Viola or with the Red Devils or with other clubs," he told Calciomercato.
"[Clasie] is focused exclusively on the national team. The opportunity to train daily with a great coach like Van Gaal is very important for him.
"Jordy's future will probably be decided after the World Cup."
A product of the Feyenoord youth system, Clasie – a gifted passing midfielder – has made over 100 appearances in all competitions for the Rotterdam club.
Reported Manchester United target Jordy Clasie has had no contact from any club over a potential move, claims the Feyenoord midfielder's agent.
The 22-year-old has been linked with Old Trafford after his national coach, Louis van Gaal, was appointed as David Moyes's permanent successor earlier in May.
Fiorentina have also been credited with an interest in the youngster but his representative, Wessel Weezenberg, says that no transfer plans are expected until after Netherlands' World Cup campaign is over.
"There has been no contact recently with the Viola or with the Red Devils or with other clubs," he told Calciomercato.
"[Clasie] is focused exclusively on the national team. The opportunity to train daily with a great coach like Van Gaal is very important for him.
"Jordy's future will probably be decided after the World Cup."
A product of the Feyenoord youth system, Clasie – a gifted passing midfielder – has made over 100 appearances in all competitions for the Rotterdam club.
'I will leave Arsenal for sure', confirms Sagna
Arsenal right-back Bacary Sagna has confirmed he will leave the club "for sure" at the end of his contract this summer.
As revealed by Goal, the Frenchman had already told the club on May 12 that he would exit the Emirates Stadium and he has since opened formal talks with Manchester City.
Goal understands the Gunners are considering both Atletico Madrid full-back Juanfran and Toulouse's Serge Aurier as possible new additions to compete with Carl Jenkinson for Sagna's place.
"It's no longer a secret, I will leave Arsenal for sure," Sagna told L'Equipe.
"They tried to make an effort but the discussions have not gone in the direction I wished it.
"There are a lot of calls, a lot of speculation. Frankly, it gives headaches. I'll sort it all out before the start of the World Cup."
The full-back was officially approached by City the day after he helped Arsenal end their nine-year trophy drought by winning the FA Cup final.
Sagna spent seven years in north London, having joined from Auxerre in 2007.
Arsenal right-back Bacary Sagna has confirmed he will leave the club "for sure" at the end of his contract this summer.
As revealed by Goal, the Frenchman had already told the club on May 12 that he would exit the Emirates Stadium and he has since opened formal talks with Manchester City.
Goal understands the Gunners are considering both Atletico Madrid full-back Juanfran and Toulouse's Serge Aurier as possible new additions to compete with Carl Jenkinson for Sagna's place.
"It's no longer a secret, I will leave Arsenal for sure," Sagna told L'Equipe.
"They tried to make an effort but the discussions have not gone in the direction I wished it.
"There are a lot of calls, a lot of speculation. Frankly, it gives headaches. I'll sort it all out before the start of the World Cup."
The full-back was officially approached by City the day after he helped Arsenal end their nine-year trophy drought by winning the FA Cup final.
Sagna spent seven years in north London, having joined from Auxerre in 2007.
Mignolet plays down Belgium's World Cup hopes
Belgium goalkeeper Simon Mignolet has played down his side's chances of winning the World Cup, claiming his team-mates are focused purely on advancing from Group H.
Marc Wilmot's men have been drawn alongside Russia, South Korea and Algeria and have been tipped as potential winners of the competition following the emergence of a star-studded squad.
The likes of captain Vincent Kompany and forwards Eden Hazard and Romelu Lukaku form the spine of the side, but Mignolet, who is set to be understudy to Thibaut Courtois, told FIFA.com he is remaining cautious.
"The first objective was to qualify," the 26-year-old, who has earned 15 international caps since making his debut against Austria in 2011, told reporters.
"It's been a long time since that happened and we're delighted to be making the trip to Brazil.
"Our next goal is to make the second round. After that, we'll just have to wait and see."
Mignolet, who narrowly missed out on the Premier League title with Liverpool this season, added: "On a personal note, it's a childhood dream come true to be taking part in an event like this."
Belgium continue preparations for the World Cup with friendlies against Sweden and Tunisia before facing Algeria in their opening group game on June 17.
Belgium goalkeeper Simon Mignolet has played down his side's chances of winning the World Cup, claiming his team-mates are focused purely on advancing from Group H.
Marc Wilmot's men have been drawn alongside Russia, South Korea and Algeria and have been tipped as potential winners of the competition following the emergence of a star-studded squad.
The likes of captain Vincent Kompany and forwards Eden Hazard and Romelu Lukaku form the spine of the side, but Mignolet, who is set to be understudy to Thibaut Courtois, told FIFA.com he is remaining cautious.
"The first objective was to qualify," the 26-year-old, who has earned 15 international caps since making his debut against Austria in 2011, told reporters.
"It's been a long time since that happened and we're delighted to be making the trip to Brazil.
"Our next goal is to make the second round. After that, we'll just have to wait and see."
Mignolet, who narrowly missed out on the Premier League title with Liverpool this season, added: "On a personal note, it's a childhood dream come true to be taking part in an event like this."
Belgium continue preparations for the World Cup with friendlies against Sweden and Tunisia before facing Algeria in their opening group game on June 17.
Germany boosted by Neuer return
Manuel Neuer has handed Germany a boost after returning to training on Thursday.
The Bayern Munich keeper hurt his right shoulder in his side's 2-0 DFB Pokal final win over Borussia Dortmund on May 17 and there were concerns he could be a doubt ahead of the World Cup.
Team manager Oliver Bierhoff said on Wednesday that Germany would be adopting a cautious approach to his reintroduction, but Bayern have now confirmed that he has resumed preparations for Brazil.The 28-year-old took part in a running session with his team-mates, but is not likely to be in contention for Sunday's friendly against Cameroon.
Neuer's club team-mate Philipp Lahm also returned to training this week following a foot injury, while Bastian Schweinsteiger stepped up his comeback from a tendon problem.Germany have been drawn in Group G for the World Cup alongside Portugal, Ghana and United States.
Joachim Low's side face Ghana in their Group G opener at Estadio Castelao in Fortaleza on June 21.
Manuel Neuer has handed Germany a boost after returning to training on Thursday.
The Bayern Munich keeper hurt his right shoulder in his side's 2-0 DFB Pokal final win over Borussia Dortmund on May 17 and there were concerns he could be a doubt ahead of the World Cup.
Team manager Oliver Bierhoff said on Wednesday that Germany would be adopting a cautious approach to his reintroduction, but Bayern have now confirmed that he has resumed preparations for Brazil.The 28-year-old took part in a running session with his team-mates, but is not likely to be in contention for Sunday's friendly against Cameroon.
Neuer's club team-mate Philipp Lahm also returned to training this week following a foot injury, while Bastian Schweinsteiger stepped up his comeback from a tendon problem.Germany have been drawn in Group G for the World Cup alongside Portugal, Ghana and United States.
Joachim Low's side face Ghana in their Group G opener at Estadio Castelao in Fortaleza on June 21.
Neymar is better since Barcelona move, says Brazil coach
Brazil fitness coach Paulo Paixao has expressed his delight at the continued development of striker Neymar since his move from Santos to Barcelona in 2013.
The Barcelona man arrived at the Selecao’s Granja Comary training centre this week showing a 3kg increase in muscle mass, achieved in less than one year since the 2013 Confederations Cup.
And Paixao is confident the 22-year-old has made a full recovery from a foot injury suffered while on club duty in Spain.
“Neymar continues to give us confidence,” said Paixao.
“He has not only improved physically, but also in terms of in experience by playing with Barcelona.
“Today he measures up against other players who are in Europe and has experienced a different type of marking, which gives us a lot of confidence that he can do even more at the World Cup."
Neymar underwent throat surgery following the Confederations Cup, which team doctor Jose Luiz Runco says has been crucial to a weight gain that has seen him weigh in at 67kg this week.
The forward had previously complained that the issue had long caused him discomfort.
“He gained weight because he had throat surgery, which cured an infection,” said Runco, adding that the player had now fully recovered from a minor foot injury.
“We have a very good relationship with almost all the clubs that have players called by the national team and they have shown us great courtesy.
“Both the initial and the final image of his foot were positive. He is fully recovered.”
Brazil fitness coach Paulo Paixao has expressed his delight at the continued development of striker Neymar since his move from Santos to Barcelona in 2013.
The Barcelona man arrived at the Selecao’s Granja Comary training centre this week showing a 3kg increase in muscle mass, achieved in less than one year since the 2013 Confederations Cup.
And Paixao is confident the 22-year-old has made a full recovery from a foot injury suffered while on club duty in Spain.
“Neymar continues to give us confidence,” said Paixao.
“He has not only improved physically, but also in terms of in experience by playing with Barcelona.
“Today he measures up against other players who are in Europe and has experienced a different type of marking, which gives us a lot of confidence that he can do even more at the World Cup."
Neymar underwent throat surgery following the Confederations Cup, which team doctor Jose Luiz Runco says has been crucial to a weight gain that has seen him weigh in at 67kg this week.
The forward had previously complained that the issue had long caused him discomfort.
“He gained weight because he had throat surgery, which cured an infection,” said Runco, adding that the player had now fully recovered from a minor foot injury.
“We have a very good relationship with almost all the clubs that have players called by the national team and they have shown us great courtesy.
“Both the initial and the final image of his foot were positive. He is fully recovered.”
Paris Saint-Germain talk taken 'out of context', insists Yaya Toure
Manchester City midfielder Yaya Toure insists that he was "taken out of context" when he spoke glowingly about the idea of joining Paris Saint-Germain.
The Ivorian had said that it would be "an honour" to play for the French champions, while his future at the Etihad Stadium is in serious doubt after his agent claimed that there was a "big possibility" of him leaving.
Toure earlier declared that he will clarify his future after the World Cup but moved to quell the reaction to his comments on Laurent Blanc's side.
"The media took what I said out of context," he told RFI.
"For the moment, there's nothing planned. Too many things have been said, that annoyed me.
"I want to take advantage of this opportunity to put things into context. It's very important. I simply said that it was nice to be a player who is quite coveted and it was an honour to play for PSG."
Toure was unwilling to pledge his future to City, however, simply stating: "My goal is the World Cup. The country awaits us."
Manchester City midfielder Yaya Toure insists that he was "taken out of context" when he spoke glowingly about the idea of joining Paris Saint-Germain.
The Ivorian had said that it would be "an honour" to play for the French champions, while his future at the Etihad Stadium is in serious doubt after his agent claimed that there was a "big possibility" of him leaving.
Toure earlier declared that he will clarify his future after the World Cup but moved to quell the reaction to his comments on Laurent Blanc's side.
"The media took what I said out of context," he told RFI.
"For the moment, there's nothing planned. Too many things have been said, that annoyed me.
"I want to take advantage of this opportunity to put things into context. It's very important. I simply said that it was nice to be a player who is quite coveted and it was an honour to play for PSG."
Toure was unwilling to pledge his future to City, however, simply stating: "My goal is the World Cup. The country awaits us."
Ramsey: Heavy away defeats Arsenal's downfall
Arsenal star Aaron Ramsey has highlighted his side's defensive frailties away from home as the main reason they failed to win the Premier League last season.
Arsene Wenger's men got off to a fine start as they went in search of their first top-flight title since 2004, and were league leaders for more than 100 days.
They fell away in the second half of the season, however, suffering heavy defeats at Manchester City, Liverpool and Chelsea, and Ramsey acknowledged that these results had been disastrous.
"We got off to a really good start, that's something we had been lacking over the last few years," he told the club's official website.
"We came out of the blocks firing and were top of the league for long periods of the season.
"Everyone was really excited and looking forward to it, thinking that we've got a great opportunity. Unfortunately it wasn't to be.
"I think the results away from home against the so-called bigger teams have been damaging and that's what's cost us in the end.
"In all of those games we conceded early on and going to these places is difficult, never mind going a goal down. I think it's important just to stay in the game and frustrate them.
"With the quality we have, we always know we can create opportunities. The main thing is just to stay in the game in the first half and it will open up a lot more in the second half - and hopefully we can take full advantage."
Arsenal star Aaron Ramsey has highlighted his side's defensive frailties away from home as the main reason they failed to win the Premier League last season.
Arsene Wenger's men got off to a fine start as they went in search of their first top-flight title since 2004, and were league leaders for more than 100 days.
They fell away in the second half of the season, however, suffering heavy defeats at Manchester City, Liverpool and Chelsea, and Ramsey acknowledged that these results had been disastrous.
"We got off to a really good start, that's something we had been lacking over the last few years," he told the club's official website.
"We came out of the blocks firing and were top of the league for long periods of the season.
"Everyone was really excited and looking forward to it, thinking that we've got a great opportunity. Unfortunately it wasn't to be.
"I think the results away from home against the so-called bigger teams have been damaging and that's what's cost us in the end.
"In all of those games we conceded early on and going to these places is difficult, never mind going a goal down. I think it's important just to stay in the game and frustrate them.
"With the quality we have, we always know we can create opportunities. The main thing is just to stay in the game in the first half and it will open up a lot more in the second half - and hopefully we can take full advantage."
Del Bosque 'not sure' on Costa fitness
Spain star Diego Costa could miss the World Cup after national team coach Vicente del Bosque admitted he was uncertain over the striker's fitness.
The Atletico Madrid forward tore his hamstring in his side's Champions League final defeat to Real Madrid, which has resulted in Del Bosque delaying finalising his 23-man squad - and he may even wait until the Fifa deadline on June 2.
But, despite being optimistic earlier in the week, Del Bosque has questioned whether the 25-year-old will be fit for the reigning world and European champions.
"I'm not sure Costa will make it," Del Bosque told reporters.
The 63-year-old added that there was still time for the Brazil-born star to recover, but that he wants him to be fully fit if he is to make the final cut."We've still got time but now it's in the hands of the doctors and the medical team. We have to be cautious," he said.
Costa was the subject of much controversy when he opted to play for Spain rather than Brazil, back in March.
He made two friendly appearances for the Selecao in 2013 before making his international debut for Del Bosque's men against Italy.
Even if Costa misses out, Spain have plenty of attacking talent, with Fernando Torres, David Villa, Fernando Llorente and Alvaro Negredo among their other striking options.
Spain star Diego Costa could miss the World Cup after national team coach Vicente del Bosque admitted he was uncertain over the striker's fitness.
The Atletico Madrid forward tore his hamstring in his side's Champions League final defeat to Real Madrid, which has resulted in Del Bosque delaying finalising his 23-man squad - and he may even wait until the Fifa deadline on June 2.
But, despite being optimistic earlier in the week, Del Bosque has questioned whether the 25-year-old will be fit for the reigning world and European champions.
"I'm not sure Costa will make it," Del Bosque told reporters.
The 63-year-old added that there was still time for the Brazil-born star to recover, but that he wants him to be fully fit if he is to make the final cut."We've still got time but now it's in the hands of the doctors and the medical team. We have to be cautious," he said.
Costa was the subject of much controversy when he opted to play for Spain rather than Brazil, back in March.
He made two friendly appearances for the Selecao in 2013 before making his international debut for Del Bosque's men against Italy.
Even if Costa misses out, Spain have plenty of attacking talent, with Fernando Torres, David Villa, Fernando Llorente and Alvaro Negredo among their other striking options.
Costa World Cup 1ka wenakota 100% recover unoth hodai.Godak hopes thiyagena hitiye Costa gana
Torres: I watched Liverpool highlights to help spark Chelsea form
Chelsea striker Fernando Torres has revealed he watched videos of his goalscoring heroics at Liverpool to try and shake himself out of his career slump.The 30-year-old Spaniard has made 110 Premier League appearances for the Blues, scoring just 20 goals - having produced more than that in his first season at Liverpool before tallying 65 goals in 102 appearances in the Reds.
In his time at Chelsea, though, Torres has been brought on as a substitute on 38 occasions, while he only started on the bench in his stint at Anfield 11 times.
Torres said changing coaches had not helped his personal fortunes, with the Spaniard under his fifth boss at Stamford Bridge, after playing for Carlo Ancelotti, Andre Villas-Boas, Roberto Di Matteo, Rafa Benitez and current incumbent Jose Mourinho.
"I started to get to know the bench. I reassured myself by saying things would soon change," he told French magazine So Foot."Villas-Boas arrived, then Di Matteo but it was always the same: one day I played, the next not.
"When you play, you do not ask yourself how it feels to be on the bench. You have to live it to understand how difficult it is to be there without being there."To enter a match knowing you do not have the confidence of the coach. To play when you simply don't have the habit of playing.
"Me, I felt bizarre, I had the feeling of getting tired quicker, of being heavier. I had no gas. You have to fight against a lot of things to get off the bench, sometimes even against yourself."
Torres said he missed his time at Liverpool so much so that he watched old replays of himself in a red shirt."Today, I am a different player but I am not going to lie to you: the player that I was, the one who started all the matches with a guaranteed place, I really miss sometimes," he said.
"At one point, I even sat myself down to watch videos of my goals: I wanted to understand what I was doing before when I was scoring.
"I concluded that the only thing that had changed was the colour of the shirt. Everything is a question of adaptation to the playing style of a team. There are the styles which suit me well and others less - that is all."
Chelsea striker Fernando Torres has revealed he watched videos of his goalscoring heroics at Liverpool to try and shake himself out of his career slump.The 30-year-old Spaniard has made 110 Premier League appearances for the Blues, scoring just 20 goals - having produced more than that in his first season at Liverpool before tallying 65 goals in 102 appearances in the Reds.
In his time at Chelsea, though, Torres has been brought on as a substitute on 38 occasions, while he only started on the bench in his stint at Anfield 11 times.
Torres said changing coaches had not helped his personal fortunes, with the Spaniard under his fifth boss at Stamford Bridge, after playing for Carlo Ancelotti, Andre Villas-Boas, Roberto Di Matteo, Rafa Benitez and current incumbent Jose Mourinho.
"I started to get to know the bench. I reassured myself by saying things would soon change," he told French magazine So Foot."Villas-Boas arrived, then Di Matteo but it was always the same: one day I played, the next not.
"When you play, you do not ask yourself how it feels to be on the bench. You have to live it to understand how difficult it is to be there without being there."To enter a match knowing you do not have the confidence of the coach. To play when you simply don't have the habit of playing.
"Me, I felt bizarre, I had the feeling of getting tired quicker, of being heavier. I had no gas. You have to fight against a lot of things to get off the bench, sometimes even against yourself."
Torres said he missed his time at Liverpool so much so that he watched old replays of himself in a red shirt."Today, I am a different player but I am not going to lie to you: the player that I was, the one who started all the matches with a guaranteed place, I really miss sometimes," he said.
"At one point, I even sat myself down to watch videos of my goals: I wanted to understand what I was doing before when I was scoring.
"I concluded that the only thing that had changed was the colour of the shirt. Everything is a question of adaptation to the playing style of a team. There are the styles which suit me well and others less - that is all."
Barcelona closing in on €9 million Claudio Bravo
Barcelona are closing in on the signing of Real Sociedad goalkeeper Claudio Bravo for an initial transfer fee of €9 million, potentially rising to €12m.
The Catalans have already secured the services of Germany international Marc-Andre ter Stegen from Borussia Monchengladbach as they prepare for life after Victor Valdes and Jose Pinto, who will both leave the club this summer, but they are keen to sign an additional shot-stopper.
Sporting director Andoni Zubizarreta sees the 31-year-old Bravo as a valuable addition and has already held opening talks with the Chile international over a summer move.
The former Colo Colo star is keen to make the step to a bigger club and Sociedad are ready to let go of their goalkeeper for the right price.
Bravo has a €30m buy-out clause, but Barcelona are confident of getting their man for an initial fee of €9m - potentially rising to €12m - following Sociedad's promise to their goalkeeper that they will cooperate if a big club comes in.
The Chilean joined Sociedad from Colo Colo in the summer of 2006 and has since made over 200 official appearances for the Basque side.
His current contract with Real runs until the summer of 2017.
Barcelona are closing in on the signing of Real Sociedad goalkeeper Claudio Bravo for an initial transfer fee of €9 million, potentially rising to €12m.
The Catalans have already secured the services of Germany international Marc-Andre ter Stegen from Borussia Monchengladbach as they prepare for life after Victor Valdes and Jose Pinto, who will both leave the club this summer, but they are keen to sign an additional shot-stopper.
Sporting director Andoni Zubizarreta sees the 31-year-old Bravo as a valuable addition and has already held opening talks with the Chile international over a summer move.
The former Colo Colo star is keen to make the step to a bigger club and Sociedad are ready to let go of their goalkeeper for the right price.
Bravo has a €30m buy-out clause, but Barcelona are confident of getting their man for an initial fee of €9m - potentially rising to €12m - following Sociedad's promise to their goalkeeper that they will cooperate if a big club comes in.
The Chilean joined Sociedad from Colo Colo in the summer of 2006 and has since made over 200 official appearances for the Basque side.
His current contract with Real runs until the summer of 2017.
Di Maria: Real Madrid's season was a perfect 10
Angel di Maria believes Real Madrid's 2013-14 campaign was a perfect 10 following their successful Champions League and Copa del Rey campaigns even if they had to settle for third place in La Liga.
The Santiago Bernabeu side beat Atletico Madrid 4-1 after extra time in the Champions League final, while recording a 2-1 win over Barcelona in the domestic cup final.
"The team deserves a perfect 10. We have enjoyed a spectacular season. We gave everything out there on the pitch," Di Maria was quoted as saying by Marca.
"We missed out on La Liga, but I think that's partially because our focus was on the Champions League final. I don't know how my team-mates feels about it, but I think we neglected La Liga a bit.
"We won two major trophies in the end, though. It has been a good year. When you look back at this season and analyse it, we won the Copa and the Champions League, so it's been a great year."
Di Maria plays alongside Cristiano Ronaldo at Real Madrid, while teaming up with Lionel Messi at Argentina and he feels privileged to work with two of the best players in the world.
"It is a privilege for me to play with them. One can only feel fortunate. I get along very well with both of them.
"Cristiano has a lot of power and strength, while he also possesses a superb long-range strike. He's been scoring a lot of goals for ages.
"Leo is very quick and great in the one-on-one and even against three or four opponents."
Angel di Maria believes Real Madrid's 2013-14 campaign was a perfect 10 following their successful Champions League and Copa del Rey campaigns even if they had to settle for third place in La Liga.
The Santiago Bernabeu side beat Atletico Madrid 4-1 after extra time in the Champions League final, while recording a 2-1 win over Barcelona in the domestic cup final.
"The team deserves a perfect 10. We have enjoyed a spectacular season. We gave everything out there on the pitch," Di Maria was quoted as saying by Marca.
"We missed out on La Liga, but I think that's partially because our focus was on the Champions League final. I don't know how my team-mates feels about it, but I think we neglected La Liga a bit.
"We won two major trophies in the end, though. It has been a good year. When you look back at this season and analyse it, we won the Copa and the Champions League, so it's been a great year."
Di Maria plays alongside Cristiano Ronaldo at Real Madrid, while teaming up with Lionel Messi at Argentina and he feels privileged to work with two of the best players in the world.
"It is a privilege for me to play with them. One can only feel fortunate. I get along very well with both of them.
"Cristiano has a lot of power and strength, while he also possesses a superb long-range strike. He's been scoring a lot of goals for ages.
"Leo is very quick and great in the one-on-one and even against three or four opponents."
Rodgers eyes permanent deals as Liverpool look to avoid loan market
Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers is determined to secure permanent signings rather than be reliant on the loan market ahead of the new season.The Northern Irishman has brought in the likes of Nuri Sahin, Aly Cissokho and Victor Moses on temporary deals since arriving at Anfield.
However, as the club look to go one better than last season's second-placed finish in the Premier League - and with the Champions League to contend with - the Rodgers is eyeing more long-term additions to his squad."I would hope we don't have to go for loans this summer," the Reds boss told the Liverpool Echo.
"But it's always about the availability of players. If you are not satisfied with the squad and you feel you can improve it then you have to look at every option.
"In these first couple of years I've been here we have had to do that as we've had a thin squad.
"The players we wanted we couldn't get but we're hopeful that this summer will be different. We turn the page and it's another chapter in terms of where we are going.
"Hopefully that will mean it will be more permanent players than loan players but I can never rule it out completely.
"There could be a situation where a player becomes available, we can get him and he can add to what we're doing."
Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers is determined to secure permanent signings rather than be reliant on the loan market ahead of the new season.The Northern Irishman has brought in the likes of Nuri Sahin, Aly Cissokho and Victor Moses on temporary deals since arriving at Anfield.
However, as the club look to go one better than last season's second-placed finish in the Premier League - and with the Champions League to contend with - the Rodgers is eyeing more long-term additions to his squad."I would hope we don't have to go for loans this summer," the Reds boss told the Liverpool Echo.
"But it's always about the availability of players. If you are not satisfied with the squad and you feel you can improve it then you have to look at every option.
"In these first couple of years I've been here we have had to do that as we've had a thin squad.
"The players we wanted we couldn't get but we're hopeful that this summer will be different. We turn the page and it's another chapter in terms of where we are going.
"Hopefully that will mean it will be more permanent players than loan players but I can never rule it out completely.
"There could be a situation where a player becomes available, we can get him and he can add to what we're doing."
Khedira: I will be ready for Germany's World Cup opener
Sami Khedira has vowed to be fully fit for Germany's World Cup opener against Portugal on June 16.
The 27-year-old recently returned to match action after a lengthy spell on the sidelines due to a knee injury and played 59 minutes in his club's 4-1 Champions League final win over Atletico Madrid.
"I am fit, but there are still a few things that I have to work on," Khedira said at a press conference. I will have to take things one step at a time, though.
"My objective was to make the World Cup and things have been going very well. I think that I will be in peak condition again by June 16.
"You should always listen to your body, but I'm not holding back in training. I am doing additional exercises next to squad training to be prepared as well as possible.
"It was a long and hard road to get back. I worked very hard to make the World Cup."
The midfielder then went on to discuss Manuel Neuer's fitness and made it clear Germany are confident the Bayern Munich goalkeeper will also be ready for the game against Portugal.
"We are all convinced Neuer will be top fit in time for the World Cup," the defensive midfielder stated. "He is absolutely determined to make it.
"He is an amazing goalkeeper and was voted best of the world for a good reason. He will be at his best when we meet Portugal."
Germany also meet Ghana and USA in the group stages this summer.
Sami Khedira has vowed to be fully fit for Germany's World Cup opener against Portugal on June 16.
The 27-year-old recently returned to match action after a lengthy spell on the sidelines due to a knee injury and played 59 minutes in his club's 4-1 Champions League final win over Atletico Madrid.
"I am fit, but there are still a few things that I have to work on," Khedira said at a press conference. I will have to take things one step at a time, though.
"My objective was to make the World Cup and things have been going very well. I think that I will be in peak condition again by June 16.
"You should always listen to your body, but I'm not holding back in training. I am doing additional exercises next to squad training to be prepared as well as possible.
"It was a long and hard road to get back. I worked very hard to make the World Cup."
The midfielder then went on to discuss Manuel Neuer's fitness and made it clear Germany are confident the Bayern Munich goalkeeper will also be ready for the game against Portugal.
"We are all convinced Neuer will be top fit in time for the World Cup," the defensive midfielder stated. "He is absolutely determined to make it.
"He is an amazing goalkeeper and was voted best of the world for a good reason. He will be at his best when we meet Portugal."
Germany also meet Ghana and USA in the group stages this summer.
Scholes: England should play like Liverpool
Paul Scholes believes England should adopt an approach similar to that of Liverpool, and go on the offensive at the World Cup.Brendan Rodgers' side lit up the Premier League last season with their attacking displays, scoring 101 goals with a breathtaking brand of football.
Their performances have been rewarded with five call-ups to Roy Hodgson's squad for the finals in Brazil, with Glen Johnson, Steven Gerrard, Jordan Henderson, Raheem Sterling and Daniel Sturridge all included in the party of 23.
And Scholes, who played 66 times for England, scoring 14 goals, urged Hodgson to copy Liverpool's expansive style of play when the World Cup campaign gets underway in just over two weeks' time.
"It would be refreshing for England to adopt Liverpool’s attacking mentality in Brazil," he wrote in a blog for Paddy Power. "Really go for it. That means certainly four, and possibly five, Liverpool players in the England starting XI against Italy on June 14.
"South Africa in 2010 was so negative with boring draws. Nothing seemed to happen. England fans, and myself as an England fan, would rather three-all games than dull, nil-nil draws."I'd love to see Roy be brave enough to play like Liverpool [or Man United teams of the past].
"The reports I'm hearing now from the international set-up are very positive and while I still doubt Roy Hodgson will start with such an attacking Liverpool-style approach, I'd love to see it.
"Much has been said already about the Luis Suarez and Daniel Sturridge partnership for the club, but Steven Gerrard, Sturridge and Raheem Sterling can offer a huge goal threat playing together for England."
Paul Scholes believes England should adopt an approach similar to that of Liverpool, and go on the offensive at the World Cup.Brendan Rodgers' side lit up the Premier League last season with their attacking displays, scoring 101 goals with a breathtaking brand of football.
Their performances have been rewarded with five call-ups to Roy Hodgson's squad for the finals in Brazil, with Glen Johnson, Steven Gerrard, Jordan Henderson, Raheem Sterling and Daniel Sturridge all included in the party of 23.
And Scholes, who played 66 times for England, scoring 14 goals, urged Hodgson to copy Liverpool's expansive style of play when the World Cup campaign gets underway in just over two weeks' time.
"It would be refreshing for England to adopt Liverpool’s attacking mentality in Brazil," he wrote in a blog for Paddy Power. "Really go for it. That means certainly four, and possibly five, Liverpool players in the England starting XI against Italy on June 14.
"South Africa in 2010 was so negative with boring draws. Nothing seemed to happen. England fans, and myself as an England fan, would rather three-all games than dull, nil-nil draws."I'd love to see Roy be brave enough to play like Liverpool [or Man United teams of the past].
"The reports I'm hearing now from the international set-up are very positive and while I still doubt Roy Hodgson will start with such an attacking Liverpool-style approach, I'd love to see it.
"Much has been said already about the Luis Suarez and Daniel Sturridge partnership for the club, but Steven Gerrard, Sturridge and Raheem Sterling can offer a huge goal threat playing together for England."
Chelsea target Lavezzi as they prepare to listen to Oscar offers
Chelsea have made a renewed attempt to capture Ezequiel Lavezzi from Paris Saint-Germain as they prepare to listen to offers for Oscar, Goal understands.
The Londoners made an enquiry for Argentine attacking midfielder Lavezzi ahead of their Champions League quarter-final clash with the French champions.
Further discussions about Lavezzi were conducted between the two clubs during the negotiations over the transfer of David Luiz, who clinched a £40 million move to PSG last week.
Doubts, meanwhile, have now emerged about the Stamford Bridge future of Oscar, who is expected to play in the No.10 role for hosts Brazil at this summer's World Cup.
Oscar was a key figure for Chelsea in the first half of last season but featured less frequently in the final months of the campaign, prompting questions as to why the playmaker suffered such a dramatic dip in form.
Jose Mourinho has been critical of the consistency of the 23-year-old and suggested that the World Cup in his homeland might have been a distraction that affected his performances.
Juventus and PSG are both monitoring Oscar's situation and Chelsea, who value the midfielder at the £40m mark, could be willing to sell if they can make a big profit on him.
There could be considerable turnover in the Chelsea squad this summer as Mourinho attempts to inject more pace and power into the team ahead of a more concerted Premier League and Champions League challenge next season.
As revealed by Goal, Chelsea have made Juve's Paul Pogba a top target as they prioritise a central midfield partner for January signing Nemanja Matic.
Chelsea face a battle to convince Juve to sell even though they are willing to pay £40m-plus to land the French international two years after he left Manchester United on a free transfer.
Further up the field, Lavezzi's dribbling and powerful running in the wide forward positions also appeals strongly to Mourinho. The Argentine was targeted by Arsenal in January but opted to stay in Paris.
Chelsea want to take Lavezzi to London in a separate deal to the Luiz transfer but the French club are keen to extend his contract, which still has two years to run.
The chances of the Blues enticing the player, who turned 29 earlier this month, are likely to hinge on the contract offer he receives from PSG, with Lavezzi's camp looking for a pay rise taking him up to the £90,000-a-week mark.
PSG may be prepared to use Chelsea’s interest in Lavezzi as part of a big bid to sign one of Oscar or even Eden Hazard, who manager Laurent Blanc has admitted is his main attacking target of the summer.
Meanwhile, Chelsea are confident of finalising the £35m transfer of Diego Costa from Atletico Madrid. Goal revealed last month that the Londoners had agreed the terms of a deal for the striker and the transfer should be completed despite reports in Spain that the player is harbouring reservations about leaving the Liga champions.
Chelsea have made a renewed attempt to capture Ezequiel Lavezzi from Paris Saint-Germain as they prepare to listen to offers for Oscar, Goal understands.
The Londoners made an enquiry for Argentine attacking midfielder Lavezzi ahead of their Champions League quarter-final clash with the French champions.
Further discussions about Lavezzi were conducted between the two clubs during the negotiations over the transfer of David Luiz, who clinched a £40 million move to PSG last week.
Doubts, meanwhile, have now emerged about the Stamford Bridge future of Oscar, who is expected to play in the No.10 role for hosts Brazil at this summer's World Cup.
Oscar was a key figure for Chelsea in the first half of last season but featured less frequently in the final months of the campaign, prompting questions as to why the playmaker suffered such a dramatic dip in form.
Jose Mourinho has been critical of the consistency of the 23-year-old and suggested that the World Cup in his homeland might have been a distraction that affected his performances.
Juventus and PSG are both monitoring Oscar's situation and Chelsea, who value the midfielder at the £40m mark, could be willing to sell if they can make a big profit on him.
There could be considerable turnover in the Chelsea squad this summer as Mourinho attempts to inject more pace and power into the team ahead of a more concerted Premier League and Champions League challenge next season.
As revealed by Goal, Chelsea have made Juve's Paul Pogba a top target as they prioritise a central midfield partner for January signing Nemanja Matic.
Chelsea face a battle to convince Juve to sell even though they are willing to pay £40m-plus to land the French international two years after he left Manchester United on a free transfer.
Further up the field, Lavezzi's dribbling and powerful running in the wide forward positions also appeals strongly to Mourinho. The Argentine was targeted by Arsenal in January but opted to stay in Paris.
Chelsea want to take Lavezzi to London in a separate deal to the Luiz transfer but the French club are keen to extend his contract, which still has two years to run.
The chances of the Blues enticing the player, who turned 29 earlier this month, are likely to hinge on the contract offer he receives from PSG, with Lavezzi's camp looking for a pay rise taking him up to the £90,000-a-week mark.
PSG may be prepared to use Chelsea’s interest in Lavezzi as part of a big bid to sign one of Oscar or even Eden Hazard, who manager Laurent Blanc has admitted is his main attacking target of the summer.
Meanwhile, Chelsea are confident of finalising the £35m transfer of Diego Costa from Atletico Madrid. Goal revealed last month that the Londoners had agreed the terms of a deal for the striker and the transfer should be completed despite reports in Spain that the player is harbouring reservations about leaving the Liga champions.
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