Transfer gossip: Man United target Nicolas Otamendi determined to leave Valencia

Otamendi ready to break free

Manchester United target Nicolas Otamendi has made it clear that he wants to leave Valencia and progress his career elsewhere. Or rather his agent has. According to his agent (according to the Sun), the Argentine outlined his desire to leave months ago. That's all well and good, but Valencia have reiterated they don't want to sell, and only a €50m trigger of his buyout clause will make it happen.

Cut-price Falcao off to London

The Mirror report that Radamel Falcao is so enamoured with life in England that he'd be willing to take a pay cut to stick around. After spending a season at Manchester United, and collecting £265,000 a week for the privilege, Radamel is suddenly not all about the money. Chelsea could be the club to benefit from the Colombian's long overdue bout of self-awareness, and boy could they do with four more goals a season.

Liverpool on the Benteke

Brendan Rodgers is to celebrate the fact that his job seems safe for now by splurging a huge chunk of his summer spends on Christian Benteke. The Independent suggest that Rodgers and owners Fenway Sports Group have already approached Aston Villa about a potential transfer. Apparently it would take something in the region of £20m to secure the big Belgian's signature and the Anfield club are sweet on a deal.

Side orders of hot goss

*Jurgen Klopp is planning a six-month sabbatical from football management, and has bought a new backpack. (Bild) *Liverpool insist their Brendan Rodgers' position at the club is not under immediate threat. Just medium-term threat. (Liverpool Echo) *Spurs are set to beat Liverpool in the race to sign Burnley right-back Kieran Trippier. Far out man. (Daily Telegraph)  *Napoli manager Rafael Benitez is the strong favourite to be the next manager that Real Madrid sack for no reason. (Guardian)