Soccer Digest:The long-running saga over Real Madrid's desire to sign Chelsea's Dutch winger Arjen Robben took another twist yesterday when president Ramon Calderon claimed the deal now hinged on the London club's willingness to do business.
They have been closely linked with Robben throughout the summer but have failed to persuade Chelsea to part with the player even after the Londoners added Lyon winger Florent Malouda to their squad.
The 23-year-old was in the process of negotiating a new four-year contract at Stamford Bridge but there are increasingly ominous signs that it is now only a matter of time before Madrid finally get their man.
Calderon said: "We are advancing in the negotiations. Those responsible are doing it very well, and I hope that it comes to fruition.
"But until the agreement is closed we cannot say anything. It has to be the selling club who first decides, and once that has happened, I don't suppose there will be any problems resolving the player's contract."
Chelsea coach Jose Mourinho wants Robben to stay and sign a new deal but the Dutchman, who is represented by his father Hans, will move on if the English club decide it would be better to cut their losses.
Iraq to face Saudi Arabia
Iraq reached their first Asian Cup final last night, beating South Korea 4-3 on penalties in a pulsating semi-final that ended goalless after extra-time. Noor Sabri was Iraq's hero when he saved Korea's fourth spot-kick from Yeom Ki-hun.
After Ahmed Menajed had made it 4-3 to the West Asians, Korean Kim Jung-woo hit the post to send the Iraqi players into raptures.
Iraq, who began the tournament as outsiders after having to train and play qualifiers in neighbouring countries because of the war in their homeland, will meet Saudi Arabia, who beat Japan 3-2 in the other semi-final, in Sunday's final in Jakarta.
Baines says no to Keane
Sunderland manager Roy Keane was last night facing up to further frustration after his protracted pursuit of Leighton Baines came to nothing. Wearside was buzzing on Monday when it emerged that Wigan, who had turned down three earlier bids for their 22-year-old left-back, had finally given Sunderland permission to talk to him.
However, Wigan yesterday revealed the England Under-21 international would not be heading north. The news came amid claims that Everton had made a move for the Liverpool-born defender
Meanwhile, Setanta Sports will broadcast exclusively live coverage of Roy Keane's Sunderland in action against Juventus on Saturday, August 4th.
Supporters will have a chance to watch Sunderland's final preparations for Premier League football as they take on the Italian side in this pre-season friendly at the Stadium of Light. The game will be broadcast on the Setanta Ireland channel and kick-off is scheduled for 3pm.
In brief . . .
Republic of Ireland and Sheffield United goalkeeper Paddy Kenny(29) has signed a new contract keeping him at Bramall Lane until 2010 . . . Ronaldinhoadmits he would like to have Frank Lampard as a Barcelona team-mate but boss Frank Rijkaard does not expect it to happen . . .
Luke Youngis poised to complete a €3.74 million move to Middlesbrough from Charlton after passing a medical . . . Former Holland striker Patrick Kluiverthas rejected the offer of a trial at Championship side Sheffield Wednesday.
