The Week Ahead

Barton to sign new Deal

Contract rebel, Joey Barton, is widely expected to sign a new deal this week that will see him become one of the highest earners at the club. The new deal is expected to see Barton commit to the club for a further four years.
It may be the cynic in me, but maybe it's the fact that only Middlesbrough came sniffing that made Joey realise that he wasn't as in demand as good old Willie Mckay had made out when recommending a transfer request back in January.
On the subject of Willie McKay, well done Manchester City for refusing to bow to his demands of £100,000 for renogatiating a contract. Surely the player's responsibility if he employs him to negotiate a deal.

Pompey Rumours

Lots of speculation that Lumana Lua Lua is on his way to the blues with ex City skipper, Sylvain Distin moving the other way. Can't see much in either rumour to be honest. Portsmouth seem to be linked with every player in world football at the moment and despite a rich new owner, with all due respect, Distin could do better for himself if he does choose to move.

As for Lua Lua? The manager has already increased his strike force to five with the arrival of Dickov and Corradi and I don't really see the forward line as a priority in any future deals.

Hammers in for Richards

A few sources are circulating this rumour for some strange reason. City have already made it clear that Richards isn't for sale and are reputed to have turned down a £5 million bid from Spurs. I think this one is just mischief making on the back of the Mirror having to apologise for claiming Micah had handed in a transfer request.

Vale and Bradford Next up

City visit Port Vale on wednesday evening and Bradford on Saturday to complete their annual pre-season visits to lower league clubs.

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