SPECULATION in Spain over Real Madrid's desperation to sign Cristiano Ronaldo has reached fever pitch after the Man United star's Champions League heroics.

Sports daily AS claims secret talks have taken place in London between Ronaldo's agent, Jorge Mendes, and Madrid official Franco Baldini.

Baldini is said to have been told that the 22-year-old would jump at a move, and Madrid president Ramón Calderón is prepared to offer a staggering £50m.

Bayern Munich president Franz Beckenbauer has admitted for the first time that Owen Hargreaves could join Man United this summer - for £20m.

Argentinian legend Diego Maradona, 46, has been released from hospital in Buenos Aires and will to travel to the La Prairie clinic in Switzerland to continue his treatment for "over-indulgence in smoking, drinking and eating".

Brazil will be England's first opponents at the new Wembley on Friday, June 1.

Eoin Jess, 36, has quit Northampton and retired from football.

Romario again missed out on his 1,000th goal as Vasco da Gama were knocked out of the Carioca Championship after a 4-4 draw with Botafogo.

Stoke want Hibs midfielder Michael Stewart.

Stories in today's English papers:

Chelsea squad will share £14m for Grand Slam.

Sven-Goran Eriksson lined up to replace Glenn Roeder at Newcastle.

Barnsley, Birmingham charged by FA over mass brawl on Monday.

Former Norwich boss Nigel Worthington has replaced sacked Rob Kelly at Leicester.

Former Barnsley boss Andy Ritchie new manager of Huddersfield.

Fulham's ex-Rangers keeper Antti Niemi says players must carry can for Chris Coleman sacking.

Macclesfield dismiss speculation linking manager Paul Ince with other clubs.