Perez says Bale isn't going anywhere

Gareth Bale will "never leave" Real Madrid,
according to the La Liga club's president Florentino
Perez.
Welshman Bale, 25, joined Real from Tottenham for
£85.3m in 2013 and has been linked with a move
back to the Premier League with Manchester
United.
"We have not received an offer from Manchester or
any other club for Gareth Bale," Perez told Spanish
paper Marca.
"Just as I can't imagine Real Madrid without
Cristiano Ronaldo, I can't imagine Real without Bale
either."
Forward Bale scored in both the Champions League
and Copa del Rey finals, as he won a cup double in
his first season at the Spanish club, as well as
finishing third in La Liga, three points behind
champions Atletico Madrid.
"Bale is a key player. He has already done so much
for the team and is a key part of our club's future,"
added Perez.
"Every club knows that Gareth Bale will never leave
Real Madrid and that the club will not discuss their
star, no matter how much is offered."
With the January transfer window about to open,
United manager Louis van Gaal was recently asked
about the prospect of signing Bale.
"I cannot discuss that with you," the Dutchman
said. "I discuss that with my CEO and not with
anyone of the media."

Lallana scores a brace as Liverpool win 4-1

Midfielder Adam Lallana scored twice as Liverpool finally rediscovered their goalscoring form as they beat Swansea 4-1 at Anfield.

After just nine goals in as many home Premier League matches this season the Reds scored four -- the first time they had done so since March 30 -- in the space of 36 minutes either side of half-time.

Recalled defender Alberto Moreno opened the scoring before Lallana got his two, one with a little help from goalkeeper Lucasz Fabianski, early in the second half.

The last side to concede two in the same match to the England international were Barnsley in the Championship in March 2012 but his second strike was pivotal as Gylfi Sigurdsson's goal had threatened to make a game of it.

An own goal from former Liverpool midfielder Jonjo Shelvey, who escaped punishment after appearing to throw an elbow into Emre Can's face, put the gloss on the victory.

On several occasions this season there has been talk of corners being turned but you wonder whether this may well be a significant win for Liverpool as they head into a new year.

Manager Brendan Rodgers' slight tweak to his system saw two full-backs replace midfielders in the wide positions, with Can showing enough in 45 minutes at Burnley on Boxing Day to convince his manager to start him as the third centre-back.

Adam Lallana celebrates his first goal against Swansea.

Moreno adapted better to the role on the left than Javier Manquillo did on the right but while he got forward plenty his tendency to drill crosses into the penalty area meant his team-mates had to be perfectly positioned to take advantage.

Raheem Sterling almost did when he directed a first-time effort straight at Fabianski but Lallana blazed the rebound over.

Moreno's energy created the opening goal - becoming Liverpool's 10th different scorer in the league at Anfield this season - as having started the move on the left he charged into the box to turn a cross from Jordan Henderson, fed by Lallana, into the goal despite Fabianski getting a hand to it.

Swansea could have been reduced to 10 men six minutes before the interval, when Shelvey seemed to elbow Can in the area, but despite referee Andre Marriner seemingly having a decent view of the incident, the midfielder went unpunished.

By comparison to Fabianksi, Liverpool's goalkeeper Simon Mignolet, starting for the first time in five matches after a Boxing Day injury to Brad Jones, was relatively untroubled.

The Belgium international's reprieve came quicker than expected but he was given an easy ride in the first half with his only save a comfortable one from Nathan Dyer, although the cheer from the home crowd appeared to be more relief than overwhelming support.

After his erratic substitute performance at Turf Moor, Mignolet would have been favourite to make a mistake but it was his opposite number who gifted Liverpool their second when his clearance cannoned into Lallana and back into the empty goal.

But Rodgers' side have been masters of their own downfall many times already this season and within a minute Swansea were level when weak headers by Manquillo and Mamadou Sakho allowed Sigurdsson to pull one back.

Sakho almost compounded that error by giving the ball away to Wilfried Bony straight from the kick-off but Mignolet came to his rescue with a low save.

A manic three-minute period ended with Sterling, who became more of a threat as the match wore on, hitting the post at the other end from an immediate counter-attack.

Despite that the momentum briefly seemed to be with the visitors but when Philippe Coutinho's backheel allowed Lallana to dance his way through the defence to fire past Fabianski Anfield could relax.

Shelvey's header past his own goalkeeper from Henderson's corner had an element of karma about it after his earlier indiscretion.

Sterling's flap at the head of Federico Fernandez down in front of the Kop was not as potentially serious as Shelvey's elbow but could equally have been punished with a red card, although his withdrawal soon after was more to protect his legs more than anything else.

Swans substitute Bafetimbi Gomis hit the angle of post and crossbar late on but it was a deserved win for the hosts.

Who goes where in January transfer window

England and Scotland

Compiled by BBC Sport's Shamoon Hafez

JOEL CAMPBELL (22, striker) Arsenal

Linked with: Swansea, Stoke

The pacey Costa Rican has barely had a look-in this season for the Gunners, despite starring at the World Cup. Finds himself behind Danny Welbeck, Olivier Giroud and Yaya Sanogo in the pecking order. Could make a loan move to Swansea or Stoke.

RON VLAAR (29, defender) Aston Villa

Linked with: Manchester United, Arsenal

Solid performances for the Dutch during their World Cup semi-final run saw the central defender's stock rise and his contract runs out in the summer. Manchester United and Arsenal - who both need to reinforce their defences - could sign him for a cut-price fee.

PETR CECH (32, goalkeeper) Chelsea

Linked with: Liverpool, Arsenal

The Czech has found himself on the bench this season following Thibaut Courtois' capture of the number one spot. May look to move away from Stamford Bridge to ensure first-team football, and the experienced stopper would solve Liverpool's goalkeeping crisis. 

MARIO BALOTELLI (24, striker) Liverpool

Linked with: Inter Milan, Napoli

Brendan Rodgers took a gamble in the summer on the problematic frontman bought to replace Luis Suarez, but the move has failed to pay off, with the Italian failing to score in the Premier League so far. A return to former club Inter Milan  under manager Roberto Mancini has been mooted.

ANDERSON (26, midfielder) Manchester United

Manchester United midfielder Anderson has won the Premier League four times, the Champions League and League Cup twice

Despite winning 10 major trophies at Old Trafford, the Brazilian has struggled with form, injuries and weight issues and is now out-of-favour. A permanent move to Fiorentina failed to materialise last season. Contract may be cancelled to facilitate a move back home to Brazil.

SAIDO BERAHINO (21, striker) West Brom

Linked with: Tottenham, Liverpool

Earned his first call-up to the England national side in November after his goalscoring exploits for the Baggies, where he has netted seven goals this season. Has attracted the attention of Liverpool and Tottenham  who are looking to boost their options in attack.

WILL HUGHES (19, midfielder) Derby County

Linked with: Liverpool

Considered one of English football's hottest talents outside the top-flight, the England Under-21s international has been a consistent performer for the high-flying Rams over the last three seasons. Liverpool may firm up their interest, despite the player signing a new contract in the summer.

ALEX MOWATT (19, midfielder) Leeds United

Linked with: Aston Villa, Everton

The youngster came through the academy and broke into the first-team last season, making 29 Championship appearances and recently named Football League young player of the month. Has netted four times in the league so far this campaign. Aston Villa and Everton have been monitoring his progress.

KRIS COMMONS (31, forward) Celtic

Linked with: Crystal Palace, Leicester

The current PFA Scotland Player of the Year netted 32 goals last season as Celtic won the league, but is yet to agree a new contract which ends in the summer. Has been told he will not be offered a long-term deal.Crystal Palace and Leicester  have been linked with the player.

LEWIS MACLEOD (20, midfielder) Rangers

Linked with: Everton, Burnley

Received his first Scotland call-up in November after a string of impressive performances for his club in the middle of the park and has represented the national side at all junior levels. Everton or Burnley could take advantage of the Ibrox club's perilous financial situation.

Spain

Compiled by La Liga reporter Andy West

Are Real Madrid and Barcelona set to lose players in the window? Sami Khedira has been linked with Chelsea, while Martin Montoya may move to Juventus

ALESSIO CERCI (27, winger) Atletico Madrid

Linked with: Arsenal, Inter Milan

The versatile forward signed from Torino in the summer, but his impact has been limited and he recently admitted he is running out of patience at his failure to earn more playing time. Arsenal have been linked but his departure could depend on whether Atletico can sign a replacement.

SAMI KHEDIRA (27, midfielder) Real Madrid

Linked with: Chelsea, Manchester United

The German has struggled to establish a regular starting place, not helped by a series of injuries. Contract expires at the end of the season and could wait to ensure a bumper 'Bosman' deal, but Chelsea, Manchester United and Arsenal are all reportedly keen to secure him sooner. 

AYMERIC LAPORTE (20, centre back) Athletic Bilbao

Linked with: Manchester United

Widely regarded as one of the best young defenders in La Liga, Laporte has stated his commitment to Athletic, but a poor season for the club both domestically and in Europe may force him to consider his future if his £33m buy-out clause is met. Manchester United have been linked. 

PEDRO LEON (28, winger) Getafe

Linked with: West Brom, West Ham

The ex-Real Madrid playmaker missed the first few months of the seasonafter being barred by La Liga  because his salary takes Getafe over their league-imposed wage limit. Has returned to action amid legal wrangling, but doubts over his future remain and West Brom have been linked.

MARTIN MONTOYA (23, right-back) Barcelona

Linked with: Liverpool, Juventus

The homegrown right-back - who has been on the fringes of the Barca squad for the last four years - is surplus to requirements, having been overtaken by summer signing Douglas as back-up to Dani Alves. Premier League suitors  will face stiff competition from Juventus, among others.

Rest of Europe

Compiled by European football writer Andy Brassell

Out-of-favour playmaker Xherdan Shaqiri would boost Liverpool's attack, while Wesley Sneijder could finally make a move to Old Trafford

Germany

XHERDAN SHAQIRI (23, midfielder) Bayern Munich

Linked with: Liverpool, Napoli

Having arrived from Basel with a big reputation in 2012, has never nailed down a first XI spot - hardly surprising when Arjen Robben and Franck Ribery are the competition. Scorer of a hat-trick for Switzerland in 2014 World Cup, he has interest from clubs including Liverpool and Napoli.

AARON HUNT (28, midfielder) Wolfsburg

Linked with: Werder Bremen

German left-footed international midfielder, with an English mother, has struggled to make an impact since joining on a free from Werder Bremen, having previously interested a host of Premier League clubs. Sporting director Klaus Allofs insists "nobody" will be allowed to leave in January.

France

EZEQUIEL LAVEZZI (29, winger) Paris Saint-Germain

Linked with: Inter Milan, Napoli, Valencia

The Argentine has had an excellent 2014, but with FFP a major concern, PSG would countenance the departure of a player who has 18 months to run on his contract. Serie A suitors include Inter and old club Napoli, but there are serious doubts they would be able to match his lucrative salary.

Italy

KEVIN STROOTMAN (24, midfielder) Roma

Linked with: Manchester United

The Dutchman has only just returned to action following a serious knee injury and was booed by home fans in a recent match with Sassuolo. Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal is a big fan of the player's wide range of passing and could make a £32m move to Old Trafford. 

Portugal

ENZO PEREZ (28, midfielder) Benfica

Linked with: Manchester United, Valencia

Is Perez set to move to the Premier League?

The 2013-14 Portuguese Liga Player of the Year impressed for Argentina in the latter stages of the World Cup and was close to joining Valencia in the summer.  The club are expected to come back in for him and are favourites to clinch a deal ahead of interested Premier League parties.

NICOLAS GAITAN (26, midfielder) Benfica

Linked with: Manchester United, Monaco

This winger-cum-playmaker has flourished since arriving in Lisbon as a nominal replacement for Angel Di Maria in 2010, and has eight assists in the Liga already this campaign. Extensively scouted by Manchester United  in recent seasons, Monaco are poised to bid for him again.

Netherlands

NIKLAS MOISANDER (29, defender) Ajax

Linked with: Tottenham, Napoli

The central defender has become captain in his second spell at the club, but his contract is up at the end of the season and he has shown little inclination to sign a new deal. Everton could come back in for the Finland stopper, with Spurs and Napoli also thought to have an interest.

Ukraine

BERNARD (22, winger) Shakhtar Donetsk

Linked with: Tottenham, Inter Milan

A 2013 Copa Libertadores winner with Atletico Mineiro, the Brazil midfielder pondered long and hard before joining Shakhtar straight after. He has never truly established himself, however, in Mircea Lucescu's first-team. Clubs in England and Italy are tracking this speedy creator.

YOUNES BELHANDA (24, midfielder) Dynamo Kiev

The Moroccan playmaker surprised many when he opted for Dynamo in August 2013, having previously expressed an interest in moving to England. Though the league leaders are very pleased with his contribution, both player and club's heads could be turned be a big offer.

Turkey

WESLEY SNEIJDER (30, midfielder) Galatasaray

Linked with: Manchester United, Manchester City

Club and player briefly clashed when Sneijder's wages went unpaid in October. That was quickly resolved, but it seems the Istanbul giants have little desire to open talks on extending his expensive contract, especially after European elimination. Could finally make the move to England. 

South America

Compiled by South American football correspondent Tim Vickery

Brazil

LUCAS SILVA (21, midfielder) Cruzeiro

Linked with: Real Madrid

Silva has been linked with a move to Real Madrid

A key player in the team that has won the last two Brazilian league titles, and the best passing central midfielder the country has produced for some time, with sound positional sense. 2014 Champions League winners Real Madrid head his list of admirers.

JOEL TAGUEU (21, forward) Coritiba

Linked with: Cruzeiro

The lanky, left-footed centre forward was born in Cameroon but has been based in Brazil for five years. Capped at junior level for his country. His goals in the second half of the season saved his club from relegation, and could pave the way for a move to Germany.

Argentina

LUCAS ROMERO (20, midfielder) Velez Sarsfield

Linked with: Torino, Flamengo

A tough and talented Argentine central midfielder, often compared to Barcelona midfielder Javier Mascherano. Maybe more reminiscent of a slightly more defensive version of a young Diego Simeone. Is being watched by leading Italian clubs.

Uruguay

GASTON PEREIRO (19, midfielder) Nacional

Seen by some as a left-footed Uruguayan Socrates. Skilful, confident and versatile, the attacking midfielder is being watched by 2014 La Liga champions Atletico Madrid. Current team-mate and former Inter Milan forward Alvaro Recoba expects great things from him in Europe.

Ecuador

JUNIOR SORNOZA (20, midfielder) Independiente del Valle

Linked with: Burnley, Derby

The Ecuadorian attacking midfielder - a fine striker of the ball - is being linked with a move to England. Two problems though; four caps in friendlies may not be enough for a work permit, and he would seem to lack the dynamism needed in the English game. 

Africa

Compiled by BBC World Service Sport's John Bennett

Algeria

AKRAM DJAHNIT (23, attacking midfielder), ES Setif

Is Djahnit set to swap Africa for Europe?

Djahnit's club won the Africa Champions League in 2014 and he was one of the key players, finding the back of the net five times, including in the first leg of the final. Won 'best prospect' at the Algerian football awards in December. Has been linked with a move to Europe.

BAGHDAD BOUNEDJAH (23, striker) Etoile du Sahel

Algeria had a 2014 to remember and Bounedjah is one of their brightest prospects. He was top scorer in the Tunisian league last season and has been regularly leading the charts during this campaign. Any English clubs interested would face strong competition from the Bundesliga.

South Africa

RIVALDO COETZEE (18, defender) Ajax Cape Town

Linked with: Ajax

He's got a legendary first name but unlike the Brazilian, Coetzee is a centre-back. Became the youngest player to represent Bafana Bafana, when he made his debut at 17 years and 361 days old. Ajax Cape Town's parent club, Ajax Amsterdam have been watching him. 

ITUMELENG KHUNE (27, goalkeeper) Kaizer Chiefs

Considered by many to be the second best keeper in Africa behind Nigeria and Lille's Vincent Enyeama. Has just recovered from a long-term ankle injury. High price tag has put European clubs off in the past but is out of contract at the end of the season.

DR Congo

FIRMIN NDOMBE MUBELE (20, forward) AS Vita

Made headlines in March after scoring a hat-trick in a 3-0 win against Kaizer Chiefs in the African Champions League. Nominated for CAF's African footballer of the Year award, for players based in Africa. A raw talent with plenty to learn but is one to watch at the Africa Cup of Nations.

MLS

Compiled by MLS football reporter Sean Wheelock

Could Robbie Keane and Jermain Defoe form a new-look strike partnership for QPR?

ROBBIE KEANE (34, striker) Los Angeles Galaxy

Linked with: QPR

Makes a strong case as the greatest foreign import in Major League Soccer's 19 year history. In three-and-a-half seasons, he has won three MLS Cups (including this season), and was named the league's 2014 Player of the Year. QPR have been rumoured as a suitor. 

LEE NGUYEN (28, midfielder) New England Revolution

Linked with: Southampton

His 20 goals and excellent work rate were major factors in Nguyen being named an MLS Player of the Year finalist, and his club finishing as league runner up. The former PSV man could be headed back to Europe, with reported interest coming from Southampton. 

JERMAIN DEFOE (32, striker) Toronto FC

Linked with: QPR

Scored 11 goals for Toronto FC, but none in his club's final 18 matches of the MLS 2014 campaign. Transfer rumours started to swirl in August when the club publicly stated that they would consider high priced offers for Defoe. QPR has been mentioned  as the next stop.

GYASI ZARDES (23, striker) Los Angeles Galaxy

Labelled as the next star in US soccer, following his breakout campaign in 2014. Playing in the long shadows cast by Landon Donovan and Robbie Keane, he still managed 19 goals in all competitions this year, including the opening tally in December's MLS Cup Final.

AJ SOARES (26, defender) New England Revolution

Linked with: Hellas Verona

A strong, smart, and athletic central defender, becomes an even more attractive candidate for UEFA clubs due to holding an EU passport, despite being born and raised in California. Reports from the US have been trickling out that a move away from the MLS is imminent. 

Asia and Middle East

Compiled by Asia football correspondent John Duerden

UAE

OMAR ABDULRAHMAN (23, forward) Al Ain

Linked with: Manchester City, Liverpool

A gifted playmaker with all the tricks and has a precise left foot from which he can pick out a pass. Impressed at the Olympic Games in 2012 and then turned down an offer from Manchester City. Has also been linked with Liverpool, Arsenal and La Liga side Valencia.

Japan

YOSHINORI MUTO (22, midfielder) FC Tokyo

Japan produces midfielders by the bullet train but top-class strikers are a little rarer. This confident young man could be the real deal with his speed and dribbling ability. A number of Bundesliga clubs are monitoring the player's situation.

South Korea

KIM SHIN-WOOK (26, striker) Ulsan Hyundai

Striker Shin-Wook (left) is a towering presence for South Korea

The South Korean version of Peter Crouch has had a very good year with the only question mark on whether injury means he will move in January or July. Has already turned down Spartak Moscow and there has been interest from Premier League teams.

Indonesia

EVAN DIMAS (19, midfielder) Persebaya Surabaya

The wonderkid impressed on his senior debut in 2014 and has already trained at FC Barcelona. Looks to be the creative force that this football mad country has been waiting for. Inter's Indonesian owner Erick Thohir is said to be a fan but a smaller league would be a better first step.

Thailand

CHANATHIP SONGKRASIN (21, midfielder) BEC Tero Sasana

Known as 'Messi Jay' by fans in Thailand for his small stature and skills, the youngster has been in perfect form this year, leading Thailand to the ASEAN title to end a 12-year wait for major international silverware. A longer shot but clubs in Europe are waking up to this young talent.

Australia A-League

Compiled by Australian football writer Kate Cohen

MATTHEW SPIRANOVIC (26, defender) Western Sydney Wanderers

Linked with: Liverpool

Centre-back Spiranovic played for Australia at the 2014 World Cup

An elegant ball-playing centre-back, Spiranovic caught the attention of Brendan Rodgers during his time at Swansea, who maintained his interest when he took over at Liverpool. A move did not happen but now entering the peak of his career, may want to test his luck in Europe one more time.

MARK MILLIGAN (29, central midfielder) Melbourne Victory

An all-action midfielder with a great range of passing, Milligan can also fill in at central defence. A Socceroos regular, Crystal Palace came calling three times to no avail last season and a lucrative move to the Middle East fell through. The ship may have sailed for Milligan in Europe.

TERRY ANTONIS (21, central midfielder) Sydney FC

Things have not fallen Antonis' way during his young career. Unable to sign a five-year contract with Everton at 14 due to Fifa regulations, a move to Parma fell through in 2013. Has pulled the strings in midfield for the club since recovering from a ruptured quad tendon.

DANIEL DE SILVA (17, attacking midfielder/left winger) Perth Glory

An impressive Under-20s World Cup for the then 16-year-old De Silva caught the attention of Manchester United scouts. A number 10 who can also play on the left wing, De Silva has already signed with Roma for the end of the A-League season but is a name to remember.

AWER MABIL (19, winger) Adelaide United

Linked with: Ajax

A fleet-footed but raw winger, Mabil is set to trial with Dutch giants Ajax  during the January transfer window. Mabil made his debut for Adelaide as a 17-year-old and has terrorized defenders with his quick feet but has been prone to fluffing his lines in the final third.

Source:bbc.co.uk