Paper Round: Arsenal and Liverpool battle over 'free' James Milner

Liverpool and Arsenal battle over Milner: The Daily Express has an exclusive this morning, claiming Arsenal and Liverpool are both vying to sign James Milner on a free transfer in the summer. “The Reds are monitoring Milner's protracted contract negotiations at City and if the talks show any sign of breaking down the Merseyside club are ready to move to snap up the England international,” says the paper. “They will face competition from Arsenal for Milner.” However, the Express claims City are confident Milner will sign a new deal.

Paper Round’s view: Milner is often disparaged but there is no doubt whatsoever he would be an excellent signing for both of these clubs. If a deal is possible then they must do it. Particularly Arsenal, who need more spine in midfield.

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Frank Lampard to stay on at City: The Daily Mirror are confident that Lampard will be signing an extension to his current short-term contract to help cover for Yaya Toure at the African Cup of Nations. The paper reports: “Although Lampard's loan deal runs out on New Year's Eve, an agreement is in place for him to stay with City until at least mid-February, with the new MLS season not starting until March.”

Paper Round’s view: A no-brainer for all parties concerned. Lampard has been fantastic for City and why would he abandon the chance to help fire their title bid just to do some pre-season training for New York City? He would be more useful at the Etihad at the moment.

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Arsenal target Dutch defender: It’s a rumour that just won’t go away as Arsenal are once again linked with Celtic’s star defender Virgil van Dijk. However, it is claimed by The Sun that the Gunners will have to stump up £10m to get the 23-year-old.

Paper Round’s view: Arsenal desperately need a new centre-back and they need to get a deal done quickly and cleanly at the start of January. This could be the right deal, with Celtic unlikely to resist any huge bids for their players.