*Manchester City’s first signing of the transfer window could be Roma midfielder Daniele de Rossi. Manager Roberto Mancini is keen to recruit the 28-year-old Italy international but the deal could depend on whether City can sell unsettled striker Carlos Tevez.
*Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp is pondering an £8m move for giant Blackburn defender Chris Samba.
*Another Blackburn player, midfielder Steven N’Zonzi, has emerged as a shock target for Chelsea manager Andre Villas-Boas as the Stamford Bridge boss searches for a physical presence in midfield.
*Yet another Blackburn player being targeted is winger Junior Hoilett – and Stoke are prepared to offload winger Jermaine Pennant as they step up their attempts to sign Hoilett, who is valued at £8m.
*Aston Villa could be set to sign Republic of Ireland striker Robbie Keane on a similar loan deal to that which Thierry Henry has agreed at Arsenal. The Los Angeles Galaxy striker would need clearance from both his club and Major League Soccer.
*Manchester United are eyeing a £25m-plus-player offer for Lille attacker Eden Hazard, who is also a target for Arsenal.
