A round up of the day's transfer rumours - including a prank some Saints fans fell for

Nicola Cortese has flown to Italy in an attempt to tie up signings. (Twitter)

Billy Sharp has fooled some people into thinking he is signing for Accrington Stanley, after putting a picture of him and new Stanley boss James Beattie shaking hands on his Twitter page.

However, a closer inspection reveals the prank was staged while the pair were on holiday at a Las Vegas casino.

Stanley have also confirmed it was a joke, but it one that has drawn in some easily persuaded supporters.

“James went on holiday to Florida after he was appointed as manager and he’s gone on to have a few days in Vegas. It looks like he has met Billy at a hotel there," said Stanley managing director Rob hayes.

“But there has certainly been no contact between the two clubs and there would have to be for anything to happen.

“It’s fair to say his parent club would have to pay the majority of his wages for a move like that to happen.” (Lancashire Telegraph)

Sunderland have confirmed the impending departures of Titus Bramble and Matt Kilgallon. (PA)

Ian Holloway hopes to convince Kevin Phillips to stay and play Premier League football for Crystal Palace after the 39-year-old's nerveless extra-time penalty won the Championship play-off final for them. (The Independent)

Ian Holloway will consider asking Manchester United to loan Wilfried Zaha back to Crystal Palace to help the club stay in the Premier League, a feat the south London side have been unable to achieve following each of their two previous play-off triumphs. (The Guardian)

Jose Mourinho is bringing his trusted right-hand man Rui Faria with him to Chelsea. (The Sun)

Jose Reina could sign for Barcelona in the next two weeks after his agent flew in for talks with Liverpool. (Daily Star)

Daniel Sturridge's excellent Liverpool form is likely to be rewarded against the Republic of Ireland on Wednesday with his first senior start for England. (Daily Telegraph)

Tottenham are chasing a £10m move for David Villa. (Daily Mail)