Carsten Cramer reveals why Borussia Dortmund walked away from Said El Mala deal
Borussia Dortmund CEO Carsten Cramer revealed that the club's pursuit of FC Köln's Said El Mala ultimately came down to the two clubs being unable to reach an agreement.
Ismael Saibari looking to make impact after joining training at Bayern Munich
The Morocco international was unveiled as Bayern player on 1 July and had been on an extended break following the FIFA World Cup, and them picking up a muscle injury.
The forward joined the Bundesliga giants in training this week and was warmly welcomed into the squad.
"My teammates gave me a great welcome,” said Saibari. “Everyone's very nice to me, the staff too." Saibari has clearly enjoyed his start to life in Munich, and the ex-PSV man also revealed that his recovery from injury was going well."
Bayern's sporting director Max Eberl was full of praise for Bayern's new acquisition, speaking of the long process that had taken place to sign Saibari.
"We've known Ismael for some time,” he said. “The final real sign that he was the right player for Bayern was the match against us," he continued, referring to the UEFA Champions League meeting in Eindhoven on Matchday 8 of the league phase in January.
"He caused problems again and again with his pace and versatility, even though we won. He's got something special."
Bayern Munich chief rules out Joao Palhinha move to Aston Villa
Bayern Munich sporting director Max Eberl has ruled out João Palhinha joining Aston Villa, insisting there is "no chance of an agreement" between the clubs.
Arsenal eye Bayer Leverkusen defender Jarell Quansah as defensive search continues
Arsenal have made enquiries about Bayer Leverkusen defender Jarell Quansah as they continue to assess options for strengthening their defence.
Bayern's Aleksandar Pavlovic sets sights on becoming match-dictating midfielder
Aleksandar Pavlovic has set his sights on becoming a more influential figure for Bayern Munich rather than chasing individual statistical milestones in the new season.