#Fifa

Kozo Tashima, honorary president of the Japan Football Association, says he will run for Fifa president. He will take on Gianni Infantino in March's election in Rabat. Tashima is the second challenger to declare before the November 18 deadline. Former Tottenham defender Ramon Vega was the first. Candidates need nominations from five of Fifa's 211 member associations to get on the ballot. The Guardian reported that it is unclear whether Vega has that support. Tashima should have no trouble securing it. According to the Guardian, Tashima is acting with Uefa's blessing. Uefa has led the opposition to Infantino since his failed attempt this summer to sell a 20% stake in Fifa's commercial rights. Tashima, a former Japan international, has many allies in Europe. He held talks with Uefa officials at last month's Asian Football Confederation (AFC) congress in Tokyo. Tashima told the Japanese newspaper Sports Nippon that he has the full support of his association. "It's not about winning…

Real Madrid are close to signing Manchester United teenager JJ Gabriel, The Guardian reported on Wednesday. The Spanish club have offered the 16-year-old forward a multi-year contract. Subject to final talks, Madrid hope to bring him to the Bernabeu in January. Gabriel is registered with United's academy until the end of the season. According to The Guardian, United have not yet been contacted by the player's camp or by Madrid about the move. The club will consider legal action if they believe any rules have been broken. Madrid plan to use a Fifa loophole. It allows clubs in the EU to sign young players on professional contracts if the players hold an EU passport. Gabriel is eligible for one through both of his parents. Fifa would have to approve the deal, and United are on alert for any breach of the rules. United would be owed a compensation fee if Gabriel joined Madrid…