Rovers swoop for Matteo in Leeds exodus
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.Dominic Matteo joined Blackburn Rovers from Leeds yesterday, on a three-year deal after signing on a free transfer.
Dominic Matteo joined Blackburn Rovers from Leeds yesterday, on a three-year deal after signing on a free transfer.
The Scottish international is Rovers' third signing of the summer after Paul Dickov and Javier de Pedro. The former Leeds captain's departure will further cut the relegated club's wage bill following the recent departures of Paul Robinson, Alan Smith, James Milner and Nick Barmby. Matteo has copied Smith and Milner by agreeing to waive all money owed to him by Leeds.
Rovers' manager, Graeme Souness, said: "Dominic is a proven player with an impressive track record and I am delighted to have him on board. He is versatile, able to play a couple of roles both in defence and midfield, and that is an important feature."
Leeds' wage bill should be trimmed further over the next few days as Ian Harte is in talks with Levante, last season's Spanish Second Division champions. The left-back is due to fly out today to finalise the move.
Another centre-back, Michael Duberry, is in discussions with Wolves, but the sticking point is the pay-off he is seeking from Leeds as he has a further three years remaining on his contract.
Middlesbrough are also close to finalising a £3.7m deal for the Leeds striker Mark Viduka.
The Fulham manager, Chris Coleman, has signed an indefinite, rolling contract with the West London side. His assistant, Steve Kean, has also signed a similar deal.
Coleman, who took Fulham to their highest ever League finish - ninth in the Premiership - last term, said: "I am delighted that both Steve and I have signed rolling contracts with the club and we are both looking forward to the new season and the challenges that lie ahead. Last season was a dream start to my managerial career, but I am under no illusions as to how hard this next one will be."
The club's chief executive, Jim Hone, said: "Management stability is an important ingredient for football success. The new contracts signed by Chris and Steve provide that stability and enable us confidently to pursue our long-term business development plans for Fulham."
Coleman took over when Jean Tigana was sacked last year, becoming the Premiership's youngest manager at 32.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments