IT'S NOT ALL IT'S CRACKED UP TO BE

Reports have it:

Manchester United remain favourites to sign Real Madrid midfielder Claude Makelele, despite fresh interest from Italian giants Inter Milan and AS Roma.

United are said to be in advanced talks regarding the French international, who recently saw talks over a new Real deal collapse.

And:

Real Madrid ace Luis Figo has sparked the interest of England's elite by declaring he wants to move to the Premiership before the end of his career.

The Portuguese international was linked with Manchester United over the summer, while Newcastle United boss Sir Bobby Robson knows Figo from his days with Barcelona.

"For me, I want to play in the English championship," he said.

"I adore the atmosphere that is breathed in their game."

Figo could go as early as next June, with Real Madrid already making plans to land Real Betis youngster Joaquin as the 30 year-old's long-term replacement.

While:

United defender Paul Tierney has joined Crewe Alexandra on a month's loan.