Finnan dampens transfer rumours

STEVE FINNAN has described the stories linking him with a move to Manchester United and Liverpool as nothing more that speculation.

The Republic of Ireland defender admitted yesterday to being really flattered by the speculation surrounding his future but said that he is quite content with life with Fulham

“During the last few days there have been a number of stories in the press linking me once again with moves away from Fulham this summer. The most recent reports have linked me with Liverpool and Manchester United. I have to say that it’s really flattering to have my name linked with these two great clubs but as I’ve said before, it’s all just speculation at the moment,” he said.

“I’m happy at Fulham, but if it’s true clubs of that size are interested in me then of course it’s going to interest you. All I plan to do is enjoy my summer break and wait and see what happens. Until I know otherwise I’ll be starting pre-season training at Fulham.

“I’ve spoken to our new manager Chris Coleman to congratulate him on his appointment. I’m pleased for him that he’s got this opportunity and I think he’ll do very well. He has all the makings of a good manager and

although he might not have expected his chance to come so soon, I’m sure he’s ready to take it,” he said.

Finnan will miss the Republic’s crucial European qualifiers against Albania and Georgia at Lansdowne Road through injury but is confident that the national side can take six points in his absence.

“Unfortunately a groin injury has ruled me out of the Republic of Ireland’s two upcoming European Championship qualifiers against Albania and Georgia.

“It’s not a serious problem but the doctors advised me that I need to rest completely for the injury to be cured . It’s disappointing, but sadly I just wasn’t fit enough to take part.

“Missing out on two such important games is a blow. I love playing for Ireland and was desperate to help us win these crucial ties. Since Brian Kerr took over I’ve been a bit unlucky with injuries and illness, but having played in our last game against Norway I was hoping to win back my place.

“Sadly, I’ll have to wait until next season now, but let’s hope that the boys can get six much-needed points in my absence. It’s what we expect and to be honest, it’s what we need if we want to qualify for next year’s tournament in Portugal,” he said.

Meanwhile, Champions League winners AC Milan want to sign Manchester United midfielder David Beckham for next season, according to Gazzetta dello Sport.

The paper said a preliminary agreement between the Italian club and the player is already in place and that

Milan president Silvio Berlusconi has made the England captain his priority summer signing.

Spanish giants Barcelona are also believed to be interested in signing the 28-year-old superstar, who is expected to fetch around £30m on the transfer market. Italy’s best-selling sports daily said United want to offload Beckham before his contract expires in 2005 when he would become available on a free transfer.

That would give manager Alex Ferguson the necessary funds to strengthen the squad and boost their chances of winning next season’s Champions League.

Gazzetta reasoned if Beckham was sold United could make a move for Leeds United’s Australian midfielder Harry Kewell and Paris St Germain’s Brazilian World Cup star Ronaldinho.

Earlier this month Beckham’s father ridiculed reports that his son would leave United.

In March, Beckham was linked with a move to Milan’s arch rivals Inter after the player’s wife, Victoria, was spotted looking at houses close to the nearby Lake Como.