Record deal: Chinese champions Guangzhou Evergrande said they allowed top scorer Elkeson to join Shanghai SIPG in a record deal yesterday to help bolster their Super League rival’s chances of continental glory. “For the purpose of supporting Chinese teams to compete in the AFC Champions League, and for the national glory, we agreed Elkeson’s transfer to Shanghai SIPG club,” Guangzhou said.

Kermorgrant: Bournemouth striker Yann Kermorgant has joined Reading for an undisclosed fee, the Premier League club said. The 34-year-old Frenchman has agreed an 18-month contract with championship side Reading, ending his two-year stay at Bournemouth. Kermorgant scored 15 goals to help Bournemouth win the championship last season and earn promotion to the top flight.

Chelsea: Werder Bremen have signed Papy Djilobodji on loan from Chelsea until the end of the season. The 27-year-old joined the Blues from French club Nantes in the summer but managed only one minute of action for the Premier League champions. Djilobodji’s signing was confirmed by Bremen – who finished the first half of the Bundesliga campaign in 16th position out of 18 – yesterday afternoon.

Williams: Athletic Bilbao forward Inaki Williams has disappointed any potential Premier League suitors by signing a new contract with the Primera Liga side. The highly-rated 21-year-old, who has been linked with a host of English clubs, has extended his deal at San Mames until 2021. The club confirmed the release clause in the new contract would be €50 million.

Nolan: Leyton Orient have announced the appointment of Kevin Nolan as their player-manager on a two-and-a-half-year deal. The former Bolton, Newcastle and West Ham midfielder replaces Ian Hendon, who was sacked by the League Two side following a poor run of results. Nolan, 33, had been training with the O’s since leaving West Ham in August.

Crepulja: Celtic manager Ronny Deila has taken Croatian midfielder Ljuban Crepulja on trial as he looks to strengthen his squad. Crepulja will train with Celtic for “maybe a week” after the 22-year-old defensive midfielder arrived from Slaven Belupo.

Spanish Cup: Quarter-finals, first legs – Valencia vs Las Palmas 1-1; Sevilla vs Mirandes 2-0.

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