If Toronto FC supporters wanted to see a more stylish team at BMO Field, they could very well be getting their wish if this morning’s reports from Holland are to be believed.
Former Dutch World Cup midfielder Aron Winter is being tabbed as TFC’s new technical director, bringing the Ajax Amsterdam system to Canada in what is reported to be a three-year deal. (DUTCH)
The obvious question: would he be working with former New England assistant Paul Mariner, who left his manager’s post with Plymouth Argyle last week? The last lines of this report say that he will be announced as TFC head coach this week.
Last we left the Jeff Cunningham story, negotiations between the Columbus Crew and the second all-time leading goal scorer in MLS history were at an impasse. Now Cunningham’s apparently making the next move, which could see him heading to Scandinavia.
MLS clubs looking for a proven international striker this offseason could entertain brining in South African forward Benni McCarthy, who fancies a move stateside.
The captain of Gabon’s national team, currently playing in Greece, could also make a switch to MLS this January according to reports. (FRENCH)
Two players from Colombian side Envigado are seeking a US visa as their potential move to MLS takes shape. (SPANISH)
Fans hoping to see Alex Del Piero in MLS will have to wait until March, when it is expected to be determined whether he will stay on for one more year at Juventus for the opening of their new stadium. (ITALIAN)
Meanwhile, a spokesman for David Beckham confirms that a decision on a loan move to Tottenham Hotspur currently rests with the LA Galaxy. The same person gives the real reason behind Beckham’s desire to move to England on a short term basis.
There is a report that Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp wants him in time for the match against Manchester United in two weeks. The Spurs manager also reminds everyone that Beckham’s grandfather was a Spurs supporter.
In transfer news, Manchester City have reportedly landed another big catch as highly touted Wolfsburg forward Edin Dzeko looks set to join the Citizens.
Also, the new owners of EPL club Blackburn Rovers want to clear the air on reported interest in Ronaldinho, who is currently in Brazil and far removed from AC Milan’s winter training camp.
In a rare scenario that played out in England this weekend, both Brad Guzan and Brad Friedel started matches. Here’s how the two American goalkeepers fared.
In other European action, Celtic defeated Rangers in the Old Firm derby without new signing Freddie Ljungberg, while Barcelona made it 11 wins in a row with a 2-1 La Liga win over Levante.
There’s more La Liga action today with Kaka expected to make his debut for Jose Mourinho’s Real Madrid (4 p.m. ET, GolTV), while Jozy Altidore and Giuseppe Rossi lead Villarreal against AlmerÃa.
Lastly, Barcelona fans are debating an issue that doesn’t involve results or players: a potential radical new look in the club’s jersey. (SPANISH)
MLSsoccer.com Must-Reads:
Tottenham Hotspur wooing LA’s David Beckham for loan deal
Patrick Vieira, Roberto Carlos and Nicolas Sahnoun want a move to MLS
Sporting KC’s Teal Bunbury projected to be the breakout player of 2011
