Argentina: Maradona Has Roles For Riquelme and Veron

Argentina coach Diego Maradona has confirmed that Juan Roman Riquelme and Juan Sebastian Veron are both in his plans in the lead-up to the 2010 World Cup, as he feels it is vital to have an experienced playmaker in the side.

Riquelme, 30, and Veron, 33, were both absent from Maradona's first squad as coach due to club commitments, but having watched a number of games involving the pair in recent weeks, Maradona is keen to get them back in the national setup in 2009.

"It is clear to me that at least one of Riquelme or Verón must start, as they can take charge of the team, issue orders and take on the role of on-field coach," he told Ole.

Maradona has previously spoken about his affection for Riquelme, whom he believes "is in need of a rest," over the winter break, and so decided to elaborate his feelings toward Verón.

"Verón is one of the best in the world," he affirmed.

"We will have to find a place for him in the side, maybe in a three-man central midfield or something.

"Our goal is to find a place for as many players as possible that can do damage to our opponents, and I have a lot of options in that regard."

Maradona is also impressed with Verón's attitude, considering that the midfielder is reaching the twilight years of his football career.

"I speak with him and he has a lot of desire, a real thirst to play for the national side once more... despite his age, he has the desire of an 18 year old, keen to make an impact.

"He doesn't look like a playing drifting towards retirement. He runs more than anyone and if you add this to his other attributes then it makes him a complete player," he concluded.

Brazil: Corinthians Target Veron

Newly-promoted Corinthians' continued search for recognised name signings has led them to Estudiantes and two-time Italian league winner Juan Sebastian Veron, whom they are keen to bring on board for the 2009 Brazilian Championship.

Veron, 33, is out of contract in June of next year and his agent Miguel Pires has told the Brazilian press that he is set to meet with Corinthians president Andres Sanches next week to discuss the possibility of the midfielder joining the Sao Paulo club.

"A representative of the Corinthians president phoned me and we arranged a meeting for next week," he told Globo Esporte.

"Verón has a contract with Estudiantes until June, as he wants to play in the Copa Libertadores. Corinthians understand the situation and are still keen for us to meet."

Corinthians have been linked with a number of high-profile players since sealing their promotion, including a proposed big-money deal for the currently out of contract Ronaldo, and are desperate to secure a big name ahead of their top flight return.

Veron Set For MLS Switch With DC United

Reports from Argentina suggest that Estudiantes midfielder Juan Sebastian Veron could be on his way to DC United when his contract expires at the end of December.

DC United are thought to be keen to capitalize on the 'Beckham effect' that is sweeping across America and wish to bring in a star name of their own in time for the 2008 season.

Veron, 32, has enjoyed his spell back at Estudiantes and was instrumental in their 2006 Apertura victory. However, the promise of one last big paycheck, along with the opportunity to be part of an ever improving league, may be enough for Veron to consider the move to the United States.

If Veron does leave, then it seems that his coach Diego Simeone may follow suit, preferring to join River Plate than continue at Estudiantes without his main talisman.

Thursday Transfer Gossip

First off, Chilean forward Alexis Sanchez will play for River Plate this season. Ole (Spanish link) report that the Argentine side have agreed a one-year loan deal with Udinese for the player, but without an option of purchase at the end of the deal.

Juan Veron may join David Beckham in the MLS come January. The Daily Mail reports that the Argentine playmaker has been offered a deal by DC United which he is currently considering.

Finally, AC Milan have confirmed that negotiations to sign Emerson from Real Madrid have broken down. The Gazzetta Della Sport (Italian link) reports that Milan wanted an initial loan deal, whilst Madrid were keen to sell the Brazilian outright.