CNN Transfer speculation blog - from internship April 09'

The transfer window that operates during the close season of the European football calendar is a period of fervent business in the buying and selling of some of the world’s most talented players. Goalmouth will keep you up-to-date with the latest spin from the transfer markets until deadline day of August 31.

Heard any rumors? Let us know by adding a comment at the bottom of the page or check out CNN’s guide to the 20 most wanted football players:

We kick off in France today where Lyon president, Jean- Michel Aulas, revealed his desire to keep Karim Benzema for one more year. However, Aulas will not rule out any offers made in the region of $65 million.

Benzema could be the next big transfer to happen in Europe.
According to The Independent, Real Madrid, Chelsea and Manchester United have all been linked with the 21-year-old French international.

Marca have reported that Real Madrid's attempts at signing Valencia superstar David Villa came to a grinding halt. Galacticos' president Florentino Perez decided to end his pursuit of the Spanish international, leaving the door open for Chelsea to pounce on the deal. Despite this draw back, many football enthusiasts still think Villa will leave cash strapped Valencia this summer.

Reports from The Telegraph said senior officials from Manchester City and Barcelona met this week to discuss the possible sale of Samuel Eto’o. The Catalan giants are willing to sell the Cameroon international, but for the right price. This comes after Eto'o failed to sign a new deal beyond his final year at the Nou Camp.

In Germany, BILD claimed Stuttgart will be monitoring Real Madrid’s Dutch marksman Klaas-jan Huntelaar. With Real’s summer spending spree well underway, the forward's opportunities may be limited next season. The 25-year-old has also been linked with several other European clubs including Juventus, Tottenham, Lyon and Manchester United.

Over in England, The Sun have claimed Glen Johnson is ready to snub Liverpool in favour of former club Chelsea. Portsmouth, whose financial troubles have been well documented, have reportedly accepted a $28 million offer from the Blues. It's all up to the England international now, who has expressed a desire to play Champions League football.

The Sun also reported that striker Carlos Tevez is willing to finally put pen to paper on a deal to keep him at Manchester United, provided he is the highest earner at the club. If the deal goes through, his wages will reportedly increase by $25,000 a week.

Posted by: CNNi, Sam ElderFiled under: 1 • Transfer Window • football