Southampton defender Claus Lundekvam has admitted he is keen to link up with former Saints boss Gordon Strachan at Celtic. The 32-year-old has two years left on his current contract but a bid of around £700,000 could tempt the south coast club to sell the Norwegian.
"It would be a move that interests me. I am aware there is interest from Celtic and am waiting to see what happens next," said Lundekvam. "I enjoyed working under Gordon Strachan at Southampton. He did an excellent job both for the club and myself and if the chance came up to work with him again I would consider it."
Strachan is also waiting to see if Poland striker Maciej Zurawski is to join first signing Mo Camara at the Scottish club.
Blackburn chief executive John Williams says the chances of the club signing South African international striker Benni McCarthy are become increasingly slim. The gap between Porto's valuation and the fee Rovers are prepared to pay is so wide that, unless there is a change of heart by the Portuguese outfit, Blackburn manager Mark Hughes may be forced to look elsewhere.
Williams said: "I have to say the transfer has moved further away over the last week and I have no reason to be optimistic on this one. Although we are not throwing in the towel, the chances are slim. We have engaged in dialogue with Porto but basically the sticking point is the difference between what they are asking and our valuation. If we can't get there, we can't get there."
Charlton manager Alan Curbishley is reported to be chasing Reading midfielder Steve Sidwell. Former Arsenal trainee Sidwell, is regarded as one of the hottest young prospects outside the Premiership and Curbishley is looking to strengthen his midfield options before the start of the new season. The 22-year-old would cost in the region of £1.5 million.
Portsmouth have completed the signing of 26-year-old Columbian international John Viafara, subject to a work permit being granted. The midfielder, who arrives from Once Caldas, will become Alain Perrin's third summer signing following the arrivals of Laurent Robert and Andy O'Brien. Pompey chief executive Peter Storrie said: "We have signed another top class player. He is a box-to-box player and very competitive."
Meanwhile, Viafara, who featured in Colombia's recent 3-2 defeat against England, is hoping to help Portsmouth become a force to be reckoned with in the Premiership. "Who knew anything about Once Caldas two years ago? Why can't Portsmouth do the same? Joining them is a dream for me."
Charlton striker Jason Euell is also believed to be attracting interest from Portsmouth, reports his agent. The 28-year-old is looking for a fresh challenge after falling out of favour with Charlton boss Alan Curbishley last term. "Portsmouth are interested in Jason and I would love to get him there because it is a great place to play," said Tony Finnigan.
Finally, Norwich appear to have won the race to sign Wigan's out of contract midfielder Jason Jarrett. The 25-year-old has rejected a new deal with the newly promoted Latics and the Canaries are keen to take him on Bosman free transfer. Norwich boss Nigel Worthington first signed Jarrett seven years ago when he was in charge of Blackpool.
