**** Recoba/ Ronaldinho conundrum from Planet Football: Alvaro Recoba will be the player Manchester United turn their attentions to should they fail with their bid to sign Paris Saint Germain's Ronaldinho, according to sources on the continent.
The Uruguayan star is very similar to Ronaldinho in his style of play, but his current situation is different.
Recoba is likely to be made available in the summer, as Inter are looking for an out-and-out wide player to play on the left side of their midfield.
However, Recoba is on enormous wages and would have to take a drop in wages to move to United, or any other side as he is one of the highest earners in Serie A.
Ronaldinho is obviously United's preference, but the player himself is hesitant about a possible move to England, with Spain and Italy his seeming preference.
**** Laurent Robert touts his wares: "I feel good at Newcastle but if I receive any interesting offers I will study them carefully.
"It would not upset me to experience other countries or even certain other clubs in England. There are just two other clubs over here that interest me - Manchester United and Arsenal.
"If I was to leave Newcastle it would be to join one of those two as I have a desire to win the championship."
Ed. No wonder he does not get on with The Greedy One.
**** Makelele quoted in the NOTW: "I’d love to go and play for Manchester United. They have in contact with my representatives and I’d love to go there.
"I will say yes if an offer comes in. feel the need to discover a new championship after five years in Spain. It’s not a matter of money. I can earn money here."
**** Not United related, thankfully, but the Screws report that Lee Bowyer has signed ‘pre contract forms’ with Newcastle. Maybe Woodgate needs some company?