TRANSFER SPECULATION

Diarra - who has also been linked with Chelsea - has made an outstanding contribution to Lyon's rise to the top of the French league this term, as well as their smooth passage into the knockout phase of the Champions League.

But the 24-year-old is hoping to find a fresh challenge in the summer, his adviser Frederic Guerra admitting a move to Spain or Italy is a possibility.

"The Premiership is, by far, his favourite league. I can't confirm that he will play there next year, but he would like to. Mahamadou is the best defensive midfielder in Europe. We know that Chelsea are looking for a player to replace Claude Makelele, who is getting older.

"Last summer there was contact with Manchester United, and we also know that Manchester United are looking for a defensive midfielder to replace Roy Keane. Besides, Real Madrid haven't got a defensive midfielder. It would be logical for Mahamadou to play for one of those teams."

From the Mirror:

United have identified AC Milan midfielder Rino Gattuso as the man they want to replace for Roy Keane.

Gattuso, who has admitted it would be a "dream" to play for United, was targeted by Sir Alex Ferguson last summer as the Old Trafford chief faced up to the beginning of the end of Keane's stay.

United chief executive David Gill has been spotted in Milan several times in recent weeks, increasing the belief that a formal move for the player is now likely.

If a bid does come, Gill and United will be told that Gattuso is available if the Old Trafford club can match Milan's £5million valuation.

A Milan source said: "Gattuso is a player that club considers is saleable this summer. The feeling is that it is the time for changes."

However, elsewhere Milan’s vice president Adriano Galliani has dismissed the reports.

"Gattuso at Manchester? It's pure market fantasy."