Sports News And Updates: Football Digest: Diaby Sidelined Again; Bolton Sign Duo; QPR Agree Striker Fee

Filed under: Arsenal, Blackpool, Bolton, Burnley, QPR, Swansea, Middlesbrough, Championship, Premier League, Football

Arsenal's preparations for the new season have been dealt a setback after midfielder Abou Diaby was ruled out for up to 10 weeks.

The France international has undergone an ankle operation after suffering problems at the back end of last season and he is unlikely to play until September, ruling him out of the Premier League games against Newcastle, Liverpool and Manchester United, as well as the Champions League play-off.

"Abou had ankle surgery during the break," said Gunners manager Arsene Wenger. "Normally he should be back eight to 10 weeks after his surgery, which means the end of August."

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Diaby's injury leaves the Gunners short in the midfield department with Denilson having already joined Sao Paulo on loan, while Barcelona remain keen to sign captain Cesc Fabregas.

Trotters Land Clarets Duo:
Bolton manager Owen Coyle has completed a double raid of old club Burnley after Chris Eagles and Tyrone Mears completed moves to the Reebok Stadium.

Midfielder Eagles, who had previously been linked with Everton, and defender Mears have both penned three-year deals.

"Both Chris and Tyrone are top players and have shown that they have the ability to compete successfully at the highest level," said Coyle.

"I have worked with them both before and know what they will bring to the club in terms of character and commitment and along with Nigel Reo-Coker, we have added real quality to the squad."

Eagles said: "I know that it is a good squad so the challenge for me will be to work hard and then look to contribute. I am an attacking midfielder and I will certainly be looking to chip in with some goals."

Mears added: "I'm really looking forward to working with a manager I've worked with before and playing in the Premier League. From the outside looking in, this has seemed like it is a club going in the right direction."

Blackpool Agree Campbell Fee with QPR:
DJ Campbell could be set for a swift return to the Premier League after Blackpool accepted a bid from QPR for the striker.

Rangers, who won the Championship title last season, have reportedly offered £1.25million for the former Leicester forward.

A Blackpool statement read: "The club have had a bid for Blackpool striker DJ Campbell accepted by the Seasiders.

"The Tangerines frontman, who scored 13 goals in 31 appearances in the Barclays Premier League last season, will now discuss personal terms with the Rs over the coming days, ahead of a potential move to Loftus Road."

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