Pearce hints at Distin transfer problem
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The Manchester City manager, Stuart Pearce, said yesterday that Sylvain Distin's proposed £4.5m move to Middlesbrough may have hit a stumbling block.
City have given permission for their former captain to speak to the Teessiders knowing he is about to enter the final year of his contract. "We have accepted an offer from Middlesbrough but I am led to believe he cannot agree personal terms with them," Pearce said. "If he ends up staying at Manchester City I would be delighted and he will be part of our squad on Sunday."
The manager of Fulham, Chris Coleman, said that the midfielder Steed Malbranque - who wants to run down his contract and leave for free next year - will never play for the club again, leaving Jimmy Bullard to make his debut tomorrow at Old Trafford against Manchester United.
"We've done everything we can to keep Steed happy, offering him a long-term and short-term contract," Coleman said. "He's turned down everything. We can't let players who we have invested a lot of money in walk away for nothing ... Steed won't play for Fulham even if he's fit. His future lies elsewhere."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments