Newcastle make move for Taylor

Newcastle have made an undisclosed bid for Swansea left-back Neil Taylor.

The 22-year-old Wales international made 30 league appearances last season - including 26 starts - as the Welsh club clinched promotion to the Barclays Premier League via the npower Championship play-offs.

"We have received a proposal from Newcastle regarding Neil," Swans chairman Huw Jenkins told www.swanseacity.net. "But the proposal has not been accepted or rejected at this stage."

Jose Mourinho is the world's best coach - Real Madrid president Florentino Perez

Perez reinforces faith in 'Special One' and promises next season will bring more success in terms of silverware.

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez insists José Mourinho is the best coach in the world and is certain that the capital city club are destined for big things next season.

Perez was eager to reiterate his faith in the 'Special One' in front of 5000 club members who visited Valdebebas for a tour of Madrid's training facilities.

Crouch committed to England

Peter Crouch remains committed to England despite starting only one international during the past 13 months, it is understood.

Tottenham striker Crouch was reported to be ready to walk away from England while Fabio Capello remained as head coach after not being named among the substitutes for Saturday's Euro 2012 qualifier with Switzerland.

Official: Antonio Conte appointed new Juventus coach

Juventus have confirmed Antonio Conte will be their coach for the next two years after the 41-year-old signed a contract in Turin on Tuesday afternoon.

A statement on the club's official website reads:

"Antonio Conte has returned to Juventus. This time to lead them not from the pitch, but from the bench. He is the new coach. Conte has signed a two-year contract that will tie him to the Bianconeri until June 30, 2013."

Michael Mancienne signs for Hamburg from Chelsea

The 23-year-old will join his new team-mates after competing for England at the European Under-21 Championship.

Londoner Mancienne has had limited chances at Chelsea but he now joins Blues former technical director Frank Arnesen at the German club.

"Hamburg are a big club with a lot of tradition and some fantastic fans," Mancienne said.

Young eyes Champions League

Ashley Young has set his sights on starring in the Champions League one day.

With Wayne Rooney suspended and Liverpool duo Steven Gerrard and Andy Carroll both missing through injury, Young looks certain to start England's Euro 2012 qualifier with Switzerland at Wembley on Saturday.

It would represent another high spot in an excellent year for Young, which has not gone unnoticed away from Villa Park. "I have never doubted my ability. There will always be people who do and everybody is entitled to their opinion. But my opinion is that I can play in the biggest and best competitions," said Young.