UEFA president Michel Platini has warned that from 2012 big-spending clubs like Real Madrid and Manchester City will have to curb their spending excesses. "From 2012, clubs will spend what they earn," Platini told La Gazzetta Dello Sport.

"I want to help clubs, not kill them. I think £80m is excessive for a player. Will there be opposition? Maybe from liberal presidents who want to continue their business."

The Frenchman has also ruled out using video technology on the pitch to help match officials with uncertain decisions.

"You might as well be playing on the PlayStation," exclaimed the former Juventus star.