* The Guardian:
Fabio Capello's time as coach of Real Madrid appeared to draw to a close last night with his side's departure from the Champions League. After Madrid's 2-1 defeat against Bayern Munich at the Allianz Arena, Real's sporting director, Predrag Mijatovic, refused to confirm that Capello would be in charge for the derby against Barcelona on Saturday night.
Asked if Capello would take charge on Saturday, Mijatovic replied: "Right now, I can't say." When he was told that the response did not seem to be a resounding vote of confidence, he would only concede: "For the moment he is our coach."
When Capello was questioned about his position, he replied: "My future depends only on the president." Pushed as to what that meant, he snapped, "Right, thanks," and walked off.
* Sheffield United are reported to be interested in Alan Smith. The MEN say they are willing to pay £7m.
* New Liverpool owner Tom Hicks:
"United have been competitive over a long period and that's what Liverpool has the opportunity to do."
"Everyone involved with Liverpool wants to be the very best.
"Chelsea's transfer market moves are going to slow down, from everything I hear.
"But we're not going to do that, I promise.
"Manchester United, the team east of here, is the club we have our eye on."
* The Mirror:
Manchester City have moved a step closer to a takeover by mystery American businessmen - after a flying visit by their would-be suitors.
A high-powered VIP delegation were shown round City's Carrington training camp and academy facilities as they consider a cash injection.
The secret visitors, guided by club officials over the last 48 hours, came as chairman John Wardle looks for the right people to take City forward - with cash for new players a priority.
In a further significant move, a Manchester City Council official was with the party when they were shown round the ground.
The Americans want to know what the financial arrangements are between City and the council as they compile all the facts before deciding on the figures in their offer.
Hmmmmmmmm.