Et tu, Samuel?

Earlier today saw the press conference from the representatives of Samuel Eto'o, in which his future would supposedly be clarified. However, far from clearing up his current situation, we are left with more questions than we had at this stage yesterday.

To summarise today's events, we are left with the following potential scenarios:

Eto'o will stay at Barcelona and see out the final year of his contract:

However, Eto’o has one season of his present contract left to run and, rather than accept the riches on offer at City, he is preparing to see out the final year before leaving Barcelona for nothing next summer.

A move to ourselves could still be agreed:

"The club said coach Pep Guardiola did not want him. Guardiola has not told the player he is not required."If they have a serious offer from Man City and if they want to continue with this negotiation we could be interested."We haven't spoken to City but if Barca have reached an agreement it shouldn't be that difficult to reach a deal."

He would prefer to stay at Barca, but would be happy to join us if they wish to see him leave:

"I don't know if they really want Samuel to stay of if they just want to make money out of him. He would be delighted to stay if they want him and we will study their offer if it is serious, but if they don't want him we will do all we can to help Samuel find a new club. In theory he wanted to play in the Champions League, but if Manchester City have an offer accepted, we would be delighted to go there."

All clear?

The club have of course offered no comment regarding any move for Eto'o. Perhaps this is as a result of being stung in the same way following the failed attempt for Kaka. Of course, this gives us no idea of the clubs intentions - whether there is a genuine interest, how close we may be/have been to signing Eto'o and what potential there is to signing him.

It does look doubtful at this stage, yet neither Barca or Eto'o have categorically ruled out a deal which could leave an avenue open for us. I don't see though that a deal is likely to be concluded any time soon, which will clearly be frustrating, and I don't see Hughes or Cook wanting to be kept hanging around in the hope of concluding the transfer.

Celtic friendly announced

Mark Hughes' men will complete their build-up for the Barclays Premier League campaign with a prestigious friendly against Celtic at the City of Manchester Stadium on Saturday, August 8 (kick-off 3pm).

The visit of Glasgow's former European champions means that City will warm up for the season with an intriguing Old Firm double header, with the Celtic match preceded by a midweek clash with neighbours Rangers at Ibrox Stadium.

>>mcfc.co.uk

Eto'o press conference scheduled

The agent of Samuel Eto'o is scheduled to hold a press conference tomorrow to announce details on the strikers future. The latest media reports however, suggest that Eto'o is likely to turn down the reported £25 million bid with it being suggested that it would take a 180 degree turnaround for Eto'o to now join us.

The phrase '180 degree turnaround' is quite ambiguous though and I guess doesn't necessarily rule out Eto'o leaving Barcelona. There is the possibility that his team are very aware that Barcelona would like to sell him at this price (given he could walk for free this time next year) and they are trying to extract a 'golden handshake' payment.

Whilst Inter have been mentioned in the mix, I doubt they could match our offer (in financial terms) - particularly after failing to offload Zlatan Ibrahimovich, so signs do point at this stage to him running down his contract.

There will of course be a clearer indication this time tomorrow.

UPDATE (23:50)

timesonline reports that the deal could be dead in the water over the player's demands for upto half of the £25 million transfer fee. Excessive that may be but Eto'o is clearly in a huge position of strength here. A club desperate to secure him, a club desperate to sell, and him in the middle knowing a year from now he can pocket a signing on fee should he run his contract down.

The hope is that Barca come to an agreement with him regarding a payment which enables the transfer to go through.

Hart to miss final

England's appeal against goalkeeper Joe Hart's booking in the European Under-21 Championship semi-finals has failed.

Hart was shown a yellow card for unsporting behaviour during England's penalty shoot-out win over Sweden.

A previous booking meant the 22-year-old was automatically suspended for Monday's final against Germany.

>>bbc sport

Reports suggest Eto'o deal is close

It has been widely reported - with the News of The World leading the story - the past twenty-four hours or so that Samuel Eto'o is set to arrive at the club this week, along with the announcement of the signing of Carlos Tevez.

Landing Eto'o would be a fantastic capture. Still only twenty-eight years old, he would bring a proven track record and a real presence up front. He seems a versatile player, able to fit into various formations and adapt to different style. Above all, he would bring that most valuable of qualities; goals.

The timing of it certainly fits as it is believed that Mark Hughes would like to tie up all of the summer signings by the first week of July. The potential sums of money involved are frightening though, a £25 million transfer fee (he has only season left on his current deal at Barcelona), and a weekly wage of £180,000 after tax.

It could be worth keeping an eye on a deal Barcelona are rumoured to be near to completing to bring Kerrison to the Nou Camp, as he would then be used to facilitate (via a loan transfer) a deal that would see David Villa move to Barcelona, freeing up Eto'o to move on.

UPDATE (23:19)

telegraph.co.uk back this up, suggesting a deal could be announced this week:

It is understood that Eto’o has verbally agreed to the move – having hoped there would be an intervention from Inter Milan who have tried and failed to sell Zlatan Ibrahimovic to Chelsea - that will make him the highest-paid player in the Premier League and, maybe, the world. City hope to make an announcement later this week.

We could be set for an interesting July 1st.

Big night from Joe Hart

A big performance from Joe Hart saw England under-21 side through to the final of the European Championships against Germany.

This despite throwing away a 3-0 half-time (with Nedum Onouha grabbing one of the goals) to see Sweden level at 3-3. Not only did Hart make a couple of crucial saves but he netted England's second penalty in the shoot-out.

A big downside for Hart though was his booking during the spot kicks which now sees him miss out on the final as any appeal is likely to be turned down.

Live from City event announced

The City of Manchester Stadium will play host to an incredible night of Manchester music on Friday July 17th as Doves headline an exclusive free gig for 2,500 fans and their best friend who purchase the new Manchester City home shirt from the Club’s website.“Live from City”, an event jointly hosted by Manchester City and Umbro, the Club’s new sportswear partner, will bring together some of Manchester’s finest music acts who are also great supporters of the club.

>>mcfc.co.uk

A decent line-up has been announced for the event and it is another good initiative from the club as they attempt to further engage with fans. Earlier this month, there was the kit preview launch and I (with some other bloggers) also received an invite to a preview of the forthcoming launch of the new club website.

Big changes on and off the pitch.

Rangers pre-season friendly announced

City can reveal today that Mark Hughes' men will prepare for their much-anticipated Barclays Premier League campaign with a prestigious pre-season fixture against Scottish Premier League champions Rangers.

The Blues play at Ibrox Stadium on Tuesday August 4 or Wednesday August 5, depending on the outcome of the UEFA Champions League third-round qualifying draw at which Glasgow rivals Celtic will discover their opponents and venue.

>>mcfc.co.uk

Marc-Vivien Foe

Marc-Vivien Foe. 1 May 1975 - 26 June 2003

Mystery club in the mix for Tevez

Whilst concrete news has been hard to come by, Kia Joorabchian has certainly been keeping the press happy with a stream of quotes. Today's offering brings us the news that where it may have seemed to be a straight battle between ourselves and Chelsea, Joorabchian now hints there is a third club in the mix:

Joorabchian told Radio del Plata: "Right now we are evaluating the proposals from Manchester City, Chelsea and one other team. In the next two weeks, Carlos, Adrian (Rouco, Tevez's agent) and I will meet to sort this out. City is a club with most of the chances because they are building a big squad, but it is not a decisive point.The contract with United officially runs to until June 31 (sic) and we'll respect that. After July 1, we'll see. We may be defined in 10 days."

It was speculated that the third club could be Barcelona, which is not something we have come across previously. Given that there will be nothing announced until July (when his contract with United ends), we're going to have to sit tight for at least another week.

Quote of the day

From Henry Winter:

Onuoha has nicely wry sense of humour. Asked what he learned from Sven, City defender said: 'In terms of football or other things?'

Now for Lescott?

Mark Hughes has been tidily ticking off his list of targets so far this summer, and if reports are to believed then Everton defender Joleon Lescott is now up next.

The move would make sense given there is a need to strengthen the defence both in depth and quality and Lescott possesses the characteristics Hughes has generally sought when bringing players to the club.

A potential fee could be in the region of £15-£18 million, with Lescott believed to be able to double his current salary. Everton do not appear to be in any rush to sell but the nature of the game these days is that there is no longer a player who isn't for sale. Rightly or wrongly, if Lescott walks into David Moyes's office and tells him he wants out then there is little Everton can realistically do bar trying and leverage as high a fee as possible.

The MEN follows up on this theme, stating that for a move to happen the ball is now in Lescott's court and that we may be able to sweeten the deal by including Jo in any offer.

Hart move confirmed

Joe Hart will spend next season on loan with Barclays Premier League rivals Birmingham after the newly-promoted club agreed a deal for the highly-rated England Under-21 goalkeeper.

Hart heads south with manager Mark Hughes' blessing, having lost his first-team spot when Republic of Ireland keeper Shay Given joined in the January window and admitted that his time on the Blues bench has been the most frustrating of his young career.

>>mcfc.co.uk

A good move for Hart in what is a World Cup year, but the move only be stalling an inevitable bigger decision over his future for another season. Still, Hart seemed fairly laissez-faire about the whole situation that sees him leave on loan:

"It has been tough. It's frustrating, but there's only one person can play in goal and Shay's doing that at the moment. I've had to deal with it the best I can. It's not been ideal, but it's not the end of the world."

Sturridge set for Chelsea

The 19 year-old's contract expires this summer, but as he is under 24, he is not available to sign on a Bosman-style free transfer.

The two clubs have failed to reach an agreement on a suitable compensation package. City are looking to get a 'development fee' of around £10 million, but Chelsea's valuation is thought to be £3 million.

>>telegraph.co.uk

Nothing official from either club's websites, but it is a story that is now being widely reported with the agreement (or decision) of a fee the only thing now outstanding.

What will be interesting is the undoubted recriminations from both camps as to exactly where the blame lies for the failure to sign him to a new deal. I've written plenty before as the saga dragged on but we should see more come out over the next few days or so.

As big a potential loss as this could be, we are in a fortunate position that in terms of bringing players to the club the loss may not be anywhere near as damaging as it once might have been.

Taylor signs

Former England Under-21 goalkeeper Stuart Taylor has become the second player this summer to leave Aston Villa for the City of Manchester Stadium - after a glowing testimonial from Villa No.1 Brad Friedel.

Friedel played under Blues boss Mark Hughes at Blackburn for three years, and Taylor revealed: "I talked to Brad for some advice and he couldn't speak highly enough of the manager and his goalkeeping coach Kevin Hitchcock.

"He has a high regard for Kevin as a person as well as a coach and I can't wait to start. This is a fantastic club to be joining, a club that is going places with a great new owner and a manager I have a lot of respect for."

>>mcfc.co.uk

A move which surely pre-empts confirmation of Joe Hart leaving the club for the 2009/10 season. There isn't a huge amount to say about the move. Taylor (surprisingly only 28) has been somewhat of a career back-up, but has proved an adept and capable goalkeeper when called upon.

An interesting note maybe in that Taylor has only signed a one-year deal, perhaps dismissing those rumours that Hart will not return to the club next summer.

Santa Cruz signs

"I'm very happy to have signed for City - it's been close to happening for a while, and now I can just focus on football and concentrate on doing my best for the club.

"I know the kind of football Mark Hughes wants to play and the kind of character he is - he's a winner, he wants to make things happen and be successful. Those are always my thoughts as well, so knowing what he wants was a big factor in coming here, because I know the club is going in the right direction.

"I know his staff and the kind of training they will have the team doing, so everything was very attractive for me.

"The owners want the club to be more successful - they want to break into the top four, and the fact that the fans are so passionate about everything to do with City was also a factor. I am very motivated to play for these fans.

"I spoke to the Chairman and I know his ambitions are known to everybody at the club - he made sure that I know as well. It was a good conversation. He wants the best for the club and to give something back to the fans."

>>Roque Santa Cruz.

"We're obviously delighted to get him here. It was really important that we signed him, because it's an area of the squad that we have needed to address for some time, and the qualities Roque brings will be of great benefit.

"His ability in the air and his physical presence are qualities we've been missing, but he also has technical ability and good pace for a big man. He's a very good player and one I know well from our time at Blackburn."

>>Mark Hughes.

The expected transfer was confirmed via the official site earlier this afternoon, and any possible concerns about his injury history must have been answered during the medical.

The potential move divided opinion amongst fans, and whilst there are plenty of positives - goals, physical presence and familiarity with Hughes's coaching and 'system', there are also negatives - injury history, an inflated fee and the concern he is a one-season wonder.

Only time will tell as to whether his signing is a hit or bust, but my own immediate reaction on the signing being concluded is a positive one.

Santa Cruz undergoing medical

Roque Santa Cruz is undergoing a medical at Manchester City ahead of his proposed move to Eastlands.

The long-term City target is finally set to complete his switch from Blackburn for a fee believed to be around £18million.

>>skysports.com

We may be some time.

I would be surprised if, having nailed his colours so clearly to the Santa Cruz mast, that Hughes would be keen to see the deal falling through at this stage due to an obvious (and public) injury, so would not be surprised if some prior due dilligence on his condition was conducted.

On the move

A pair of reports not widely reported, but nevertheless suggesting that deals which will see Joe Hart and Gelson Fernandes leave the club have been agreed:

From The Sunday Mercury:

Birmingham City have completed the signing of Manchester City goalkeeper Joe Hart on a season-long loan.

Hart will be officially unveiled after England’s under-21 European Championship campaign finishes in Sweden.

From IMS Scouting:

Reports in France this morning claim that Swiss defensive midfielder Gelson Fernandes will move to Ligue 1 side Lens for three million euros from Manchester City.

The 22-year-old Swiss international has also been tracked by fellow French clubs Monaco and Saint Etienne.

And then there were two

So it would seem.

News broke earlier today that Tevez had decided to reject United's offer for him (after they had met the previously agreed valuation) with

Reports have since surfaced that Kia Joorabchian suggested it is between ourselves and Chelsea to land him. On the surface, if one of the principle reasons Tevez decided to reject United was his lack of regular playing time during 2008/09, would Chelsea be a consideration given he may find himself in exactly the same situation? Even with the imminent arrival of Roque Santa Cruz you have to think Tevez would be a certainty to start, and from a financial aspect I don't see us being outbid by Chelsea on any wage demands.

It appears to be edging closer.

Santa Cruz fee agreed

It was first reported through Sky Sports, but has now been more widely reported that a fee has been agreed with Blackburn for Roque Santa Cruz.

I'll post more in length once the transfer is concluded (reported to be early next week) but my initial thoughts are that he will bring something else to the squad that we don't currently possess, and adding goals is never an easy task of course. There are however plenty of questions over Santa Cruz which do hang over the move.

I suppose a big question will be what effect this may now have on potential pursuits for Tevez or Eto'o, with a view being that this signing means that one or both will now not be arriving.But if we have the possibility of landing all three this will seriously upgrade an area that was lacking last season. If this is the case, I don't see Hughes passing up such an opportunity.

The process of the fixture list

To coincide with the release today of the 2009/10 fixtures, there was an piece on the BBC's site covering the process of how the fixture list is put together.

Interesting stuff, but may take a while to get your head round it all.

Transfer lull

“We will shrink our squad and add four to six players,” he said. “But there are two things going on. One, a general view of Arab investors and two, a whole hierarchy within football where there is a group of clubs that fall within the hierarchy and the clubs that fall outside don’t have a seat at the table and shouldn’t even demand one.

“I’m frustrated with people assuming we are going to throw crazy money at deals, that we won’t understand true values and we can’t negotiate or get value for a player.

“We’ve had numbers thrown at us that are a joke. There are situations where a £10m player will be offered to us for a ‘City price’ of £20m. We just leave. If people are throwing crazy numbers at us, fine, deals won’t be done.

>>Khaldoon Al Mubarak

To suggest a further 'four to six players' is quite a claim given the recent lack of activity since the arrival of Gareth Barry, and you sense there is some frustration around over the lack of further additions.

This is especially so given the confidence Garry Cook had that all transfer activity would be completed by the start of pre-season training, and perhaps the same frustrations in trying to conclude transfers that we saw in January are again being experienced.

His comments may be designed to serve a dual purpose - both in trying to reassure fans that plans are afoot, and to also put out a message out to other clubs that we will not be held to ransom.

I imagine that Hughes identified well before the end of the season precisely the players he wants to bring into the club, but that immediately after the season managers, agents and players alike are away, which makes it difficult to conclude deals (although I accept the signing of Barry was an anomaly in this respect). Looking around as a whole, there is very little in the way of deals being concluded (despite the endless speculation), but as we head to the end of June we should begin to see deals fall into place.

2009/10 fixtures released

The 2009/10 fixtures have been released this morning, and they see us open up with a game against Blackburn. The opening game was scheduled to be Everton the following Wednesday, but their involvement in Europe now sees Wolves become the first visitors of the season.

First glance at them suggests it is not the toughest opening ten games, so there is a real opportunity to get off to a decent start.

Due to the copyright laws that exist around Premier League fixtures I can't reproduce them on the blog unfortunately, so you'll have do make do with a link to mcfc.co.uk instead.

Evans bid rejected

CITY have turned down a £1.5m bid from Sheffield United for 20-year-old striker Ched Evans.

The Wales international was expected to be one of the victims of the cull which manager Mark Hughes is planning - to make room for his summer signings.

But City's rejection of the bid from the Championship play-off finalists is a sign of intent that they will not let their Academy success stories go for peanuts.

>>MEN.

I'd be surprised if the fee itself was the issue with any potential move as I think £1.5 million is more or less in the region of what we could command for Evans.

Does it indicate a future for Evans at the club? Again, I would be surprised as despite him making a number of appearances last season he did appear to fall down the pecking order with Caicedo earning favour during the run in.

The likelihood as well is that certainly one, possibly two top level forwards will arrive during the summer and some younger Academy forwards nipping at his heels so I don't see that Evans, for all his industry and physical presence (clearly an asset for Hughes) getting much opportunity. Whilst he has not had a consistent run in the side, I don't think he quite has the quality that is required - certainly not in playing a lone striker role.

Perhaps Hughes is mindful that the Sturridge situation is still in limbo, and perhaps unwilling to let Evans leave quite yet with that being unresolved.

The days best City links 06/12/2009

• Barry reveals City motivation - BBC Sports - Truveo Video Search

  tags: City

• All about the best team in the land and all the world Manchester City!!!: Gareth Barry press conference! *Video*

  tags: City

Posted from Diigo. The rest of my favorite links are here.

Bulgarians remain key parts of the squad

Firstly Petrov:

"I think he will be staying at City, he has a contract with them," Franco Moretti, Petrov's agent, is reported as saying by Sky Sports.

"I think he will stay at Eastlands for sure, because the coach (Mark Hughes) is staying there.

"He is a big fan, so he will definitely stay at City."

And Bojinov:

"I do not know if they sent someone. Anyway, Manchester City have assured me that he remains a key part of their squad.

"He has been very unfortunate with injury, but they intend to continue the working relationship and have no plans to part."

It will be interesting to see quite what role either will have during 2009/10, as the attacking aspects and make up of our squad do look well stocked, and will become even more congested if reported moves for Tevez and Santa Cruz (and others?) materialise.

A key theme with both statements though is the apparant backing for both players by Hughes as being important members of the squad, and perhaps this is the summer where for the first time we go to having a true squad of 18-22 first team players who can fit into different sides and formations.

The days best City links 06/09/2009

• The Post | Midfield star Ireland to talk with Trap

  tags: City

• Daily Express | Sport | Football

  Everton prepared for Lescott bid.

  tags: City

• Agent: Crazy offer might tempt Eto'o - FOX Sports on MSN

  tags: City

• Blues duo out of U-21s clash - Manchester City - Football - Sport - Manchester Evening News

  tags: City

• ESPN Soccernet - Correspondents - Manchester City- Elano - the latest, or is it?

  tags: City

Posted from Diigo. The rest of my favorite links are here.

Tevez deal close?

Radio station Talk Sport are claiming this afternoon that a deal to bring Carlos Tevez to the club:

"TalkSport understand that the Manchester United striker will be playing his football next year for Manchester City..."

I know from speaking to Garry Cook at last weeks kit event, he suggested that following the Barry signing the club were working on three more deals, and all would be completed by the time pre-season training started.

There are no other sources as yet to the story which suggests the deal may not be as close as some are suggesting, but if there is truth in this there would likely be some sort of announcement in the next twenty four hours or so.

UPDATE: The Guardian suggests reports are premature, but that it is a straight choice between ourselves and United - with a decision likely later this week.

The days best City links 06/06/2009

• James Lawton: City wise up to Hughes' theory of evolution - News & Comment, Football - The Independent

  tags: City

• Why City are good for football - Manchester City - Football - Sport - Manchester Evening News

  tags: City

• Redknapp: Spurs were in for Barry - Manchester City - Football - Sport - Manchester Evening News

  tags: City

Posted from Diigo. The rest of my favorite links are here.

The days best City links 06/05/2009

• Former Aston Villa Manager Graham Taylor Defends Gareth Barry's Exit - Goal.com

  tags: City

Posted from Diigo. The rest of my favorite links are here.

The days best City links 06/04/2009

• Ward winging back - Football - Sport - Manchester Evening News

  tags: City

Posted from Diigo. The rest of my favorite links are here.

Ze Roberto interested in move

"My future will be decided in the next few days," he told German newspaper tz. "Manchester City's interest is right at the top of my list. They want to get into Europe and I am wanted to help them.

"There are also two Bundesliga sides interested in me. One of them is even offering me a three-year contract. There is also a club from Saudi Arabia and some US clubs interested."

>>guardian.co.uk

I cannot see this heading anywhere. A 34 year old Brazilian, past his sell by date and with no Premier League experience does not fit the profile of players that Mark Hughes has brought to the club so far.

It appears to more a case of Ze Roberto trying to drum up some interest with his career at Bayern all but over.

Elano hints at Inter talks

"There are ongoing negotiations and I hope the Inter directors will go right to the end," he told Gazzetta dello Sport. "I want to wear the Inter shirt."

>>MEN.

Despite his impressive finish to last season, you do wonder what future Elano has at the club, and given the arrival of Gareth Barry this could well limit his opportunities further.

There is no doubting his talent, but will he ever fully earn Mark Hughes's favour and can he again display the level of performance and consistency he showed over the first half of his debut season? Perhaps a move to Serie A, a league where the pace and intensity is slower than Premier League, could suit his talents more.

His comments don't overly suggest an imminent deal is in place, but it would not be a huge surprise if he was playing elsewhere next season.

Hughes looking at Hart loan

"Joe is frustrated and obviously wants to play. We will look at his situation in the coming weeks and it might be to both Joe's and the club's benefit if he did go out on loan.

"He'd be playing on a regular basis and, given his ability, he would no doubt improve his standing in the game and help his development."

>>guardian.co.uk

I've written previously that the best situation for all concerned would be for Joe Hart to spend the 2009/10 season out on loan at a Premier League side. Shay Given has arrived at the club and been nothing short of excellent, but far from being jettisoned, Hart still has plenty to offer in the future.

For the present time though, what must be of concern though for Hart is that next season is a World Cup year and given the uncertaincy with the England goalkeeping position, a squad place (at the very least) is within his reach.

Not if he is sat on the bench though, and I do believe he will spend 2009/10 at a rival Premier League club, which will aid his development for our benefit in the long term, but in the short term very much for his own.

Hughes on the Sturridge situation

City are understood to have offered £55,000-a-week, with Sturridge allegedly seeking nearer £80,000. Reports have since suggested Sturridge was set to become Carlo Ancelotti's first signing at Stamford Bridge. Hughes said that while he would like to secure Sturridge, he fears the teenager is more likely to move.

"I've got high regard for him, and would like to resolve the contract situation and keep him at the club," said Hughes. "But if he gets offers from elsewhere, there's not much I can do about that."

>>guardian.co.uk

It's been a couple of weeks since the last update on the Sturridge situation, and with the press fixated on who may be arriving rather than leaving the club, the whole issue is sliding under the radar a little.

Perhaps this all weeks in our favour as I have no doubt players (and agents?) heads are turned by constant media speculation linking players here and there. I maintained from the start when talk of problems re-signing him first surfaced that I thought the end result would be that he re-sign, and the longer the situation continues the more confident I am that it will happen.

Barry reaction

"Once I had spoken to (City manager) Mark Hughes there was nowhere else I wanted to go. I was also desperate to avoid any long, drawn-out saga.

"I feel I am joining a club that will seriously challenge to win major honours. People might doubt that but I am convinced, with the plans the club has short term and long term and the backing the manager will receive from the owners, that we will be a major force.

"I have honestly been very undecided what to do, the (Villa) manager (Martin O'Neill) and the whole club have bent over backwards to try and persuade me to stay and made me a fantastic offer, which I am extremely grateful for."

>>Gareth Barry.

The signing gets the backing of Richard Dunne (who could see his place threatened should this mean a move to defence for Vincent Kompany), who said:

"I heard he was in talks with the club, he is a really good player and a player the Aston Villa fans will really miss, " said the Republic of Ireland defender.

"It shows the pulling power of the club. It's the sort of signing the manager is looking for - players with Premier League experience who can push the squad on."

Barry signs

Manchester City have completed the signing of England midfielder Gareth Barry from Aston Villa for £12m.

The 28-year-old was linked with a move to Liverpool last summer but ended up staying at Villa Park, helping them to a sixth-placed finish in the league.

Barry has won 29 caps for England and played over 400 games for Villa, scoring 52 goals.

>>bbc sport

Initial thoughts are this is a very good signing.

He should fit perfectly into the squad, being of a good age, ambitious and possessing the characteristics that Mark Hughes is looking for in players he brings in.

A versatile player, he provides plenty of options for us now in terms of how we line up and I can see him playing that central role we have looked for since Michael Johnson suffered his injury problems.

I did perhaps fear that Arsenal and/or Liverpool may hijack the deal at the last minute and it is perhaps testament to the club that they began and concluded negotiations in around twenty-four hours.

Garry Cook enthused at tonights kit launch that Barry was an impressive character, a "leader", and was genuinely positive about arriving at the club and wanting to play for us and people have already suggested he could be a potential captain of the side.

Said Barry:

"There is great potential here, and I'm sure there will be more additions to the squad this summer".

Interestingly, Cook also said that there were three other potential deals that were being worked on and that Mark Hughes was looking to tie all deals up by mid July at the latest so that the squad he had at the start of pre-season was the one that would head into 2009/10.

New kit launch

I spent this evening at a do organised by the club which launched the new kits ahead of the 'official' release of the kits this July and August.

I'm not normally one for being big on the kits, but I was really impressed with the 2009/10 offerings. Umbro have taken some stick on the forums and the like, but from what I saw tonight they are anything but like some of the other Umbro kits around, and Umbro were keen to emphasis the tailoring and design that has gone into them, with the material used being similar to that used for the England kit.

A personal favourite was the new home kit, which is a real basic, classic design - round neck, sky blue, with white shorts and white socks. The third kit got the thumbs up from most in attendance - a white shirt, with black and red sash (with a twist that the Etihad name is under the badge rather than across the front of the shirt).

The away kit was an all black look, with a gold slash on each shoulder and I liked the look of it, but it wasn't universally liked.

It was also good to spend some time chatting with Garry Cook - he is a really engaging guy with a tremendous amount of passion for the club and where he feels it is heading.

City in talks with Gareth Barry

It is beginning to be widely reported that we are in talks with Gareth Barry over a possible transfer to the club.

Nothing official on our site, but avfc.co.uk have a very brief statement confirming the talks.

More to follow.

Money talk

CITY earned over £44million in prize money and TV cash from all competitions last season, making them the seventh highest earners from those sources in the Premier League.

However, that figure does not include ticket money and merchandise income.

City's coffers will have been boosted by their run to the UEFA Cup quarter-finals.

>>MEN.

One thing this does do is show the absolute worth of attaining Champions League football, illustrating precisely why the top four have managed to keep such a stranglehold on the qualifying positions, and why clubs such as us (under ownership who have heavily invested in recent times) are so desperate to grab a slice of the action.

Looking at the numbers:

"Fourth-placed Arsenal earned £73.4million compared to fifth-placed Everton’s £49.5million with the Gunners bringing in £23.4million from European football."

Not surprisingly, being in the Champions League raises your profile, and with a higher profile can lead to more games on TV as Sky seek to maximise this profile:

"...the number of times a club’s Premier League matches are screened live still has a significant impact on earnings. For example, no fewer that 25 of United’s games were screened live and for each of those the club earned £480,000, totalling £12million."

Which is why, a year on from their taking control of the club, not only are the new owners focusing on the pitch in order to get us into the top four, but also off the pitch to raise our profile worldwide and generate the income and revenue to see a return on their investment.