BITS AND BOBS

Last updated : 31 January 2007 By Ed

The Guardian report that Gareth Bale is likely to stay with Southampton:

'Bale visited Tottenham this month and is understood to have been impressed but has resolved to continue his development at Southampton for the next four months. He may have a larger range of teams to choose from over the summer. Arsenal's manager, Arsène Wenger, is an admirer but said last week he did not need a left-back at this stage and saw him as too expensive.

United were unwilling to match Spurs' offer, £10m with £6m up front and the rest as add-ons. But Bale is thought to prefer United and hopes they will renew interest once the season ends. The Wales international will have a year left on his contract this summer and has rejected the offer of an extension for a further season.'

* The Daily Mail report that Spurs have enquired about signing Teddy Sheringham. This could depend on a potential move for Mido to the Divs.

* Owen Hargreaves has been named Nationwide England player of the year

* Sky Sports claim that United are tracking Juve's Michele Paolucci:

'Paolucci has a deal at the Stadio Delle Alpi until 2009, but could be released early should United come calling

"My future? I have a contract with Juve until 2009," Paolucci told Corriere dello Sport.

But asked about rumours linking him with a possible move to Old Trafford, Paolucci said: "I knew something. There would be a possibility to free myself early.

"I wait on Juve, but should Manchester call I wouldn't have to think for more than a minute."

* The Youth team are through to the FA Youth Cup sixth round after beating Crystal Palace 2-0 at Ewen Fields.

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