The stakes are ever higher as far as the (increasingly likely) transfer of Nicolas Anelka are concerned. Reports in today's Daily Mail (and hence Soccernet) suggest that Lazio have tabled a deal worth £20 million, to be discussed in London on Wednesday.

Lazio aren't exactly skint at the moment, having taken a world record transfer fee for Christian Vieri last week, but the article suggests they are more interested in a cash-plus-player(s) deal which might involve Ivan de la Pena or Pavel Nedved. (The Mail on Sunday reported that Lazio were keen on Roy Keane, who would probably command a fee of around £20m himself.)

This latest rumour follows an interview in Sunday's News of the World in which Anelka said he would be 'both hurt and embarrassed' if he had to return to Highbury in August. 'I love London,' he claims. 'I actually prefer it to Paris. I love Arsenal, I love playing at Highbury and I love all the fans. I also have a terrific relationship with Arsene Wenger.' But - 'I just can't take all the crap anymore. I have stomached it for one year - but not two.' (Sky Sports has more...)

Regular readers will know that Arseweb is past caring. If he wants out, let him go. We could buy 4 Kanus for £20m, or two-and-a-half Dennis Bergkamps, and I know what I'd prefer.