Thursday's gossip column

All the latest football gossip from the day's papers.

Wednesday's gossip

Manchester United are leading Real Madrid and Inter in the race to sign Bayern Munich midfielder Michael Ballack. (The Guardian)

But Franz Beckenbauer has urged Ballack to sign for Madrid. (Various)

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has ruled out signing 17-year-old Mexican Carlos Vela for "a year or two". (Daily Mail)

West Ham will move for John Hartson and Glen Johnson in the January transfer window. (Daily Express)

Alan Shearer will play through pain for the rest of the season rather than undergo surgery on a hernia. (The Sun)

Hearts could appoint Sir Bobby Robson as their new manager in time for Saturday's derby with Hibs. (Daily Mirror)

France and Juventus legend Michel Platini calls for the introduction of two extra goal-line assistants rather than video technology. (Daily Telegraph)

Hearts are closing in on their new boss and may name him before Saturday's derby match with Hibernian. (Daily Record)

Canadian keeper Roberto Giacomo fears he has blown his chances of extending his Rangers deal after a nightmare loan spell at Stirling Albion. (Daily Record)