Football in brief: City break bank to secure £19m Jo
Manchester City are reported to have agreed a club-record fee of £19 million to secure the transfer of the Brazilian striker Jo from CSKA Moscow. City's chairman, Garry Cook, has been working hard to tie up a deal which would be the first of Mark Hughes' reign as manager but complications over Jo's ownership held up the move. The 21-year-old has only one international appearance to his name – that is said to be down to a row he had with the Brazil coach, Dunga.
Ljungberg retires from international duty
The Sweden captain, Freddie Ljungberg, has called time on his international career to focus on playing for West Ham. "The physical strain of playing for the national team and in club football for such a long time has finally taken its toll," said the 31-year-old midfielder, who was handed the captain's armband for Euro 2008 before an ageing Swedish side went out at the group stage. "I will carry on playing at the highest level in the Premier League for several more years," said Ljungberg, who won 75 caps and scored 14 goals for his country. He has three years left on his contract with West Ham.
Bessone to bolster Swansea's defences
Swansea have captured the Argentinian defender Federico Bessone on a free transfer. The 24-year-old left-back arrives from the Spanish club Espanyol.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments