Analysing the Transfer Gossip – 16th June: Bale, Lamela, Paulinho and more
As we move in to the off-season an unprecedented amount of managerial movement around Europe will surely see an already frantic transfer market go in to overdrive. This will give plenty of opportunities for transfer rumour and gossip. So how much of it is realistic?
There is a huge bundle of transfer gossip today so I’ve had to split this in to two parts.
Real Madrid sporting director Zinedine Zidane has urged 23-year-old midfielder Gareth Bale to speed up his move to the Bernabeu by asking to leave Tottenham.
Full story: Sunday People
What’s the story? It’s almost impossible to see Bale asking to leave Spurs but this is classic Real Madrid player recruitment. Make a big fuss over how much they want the player, make an early offer, if it gets turned back ask the player to request a transfer. See; Modric, Luka. So, Spurs know what this is all about.
Does it make sense? From Real’s point of view it does, they’d force Spurs’ hand. But I just don’t see Bale as the type.
Is the price right? It seems they’ve signed off on £85m.
Will it happen? 0/10 – Bale asks for move. 7/10 – he moves.
Corinthians have yet to receive a bid for their 24-year-old Brazil international Paulinho, despite the midfielder being strongly linked with Tottenham.
Full story: Goal.com
What’s the story? It’s unusual for Spurs to carry out their business in the public glare so this wouldn’t be a huge surprise. It sounds like Guarin is first choice with Paulinho second choice.
Does it make sense? Yes. Paulinho is a classy player who brings a lot to the Spurs midfield that they don’t currently have with his mix of goals, energy and solidity. Think Steven Gerrard 5 years ago.
Is the price right? Release clause is £17m. Pay or go home. It’s good value. It makes a statement about the club’s ambition to fans and to Bale and you get a top class player.
Will it happen? 7/10 – Early stages, but he seems so perfect for Spurs.
Tottenham lead the race to sign 22-year-old midfielder James McCarthy from Wigan, although the relegated Latics want £20m for the Republic of Ireland international.
Full story: Sunday Times
What’s the story? McCarthy is a Premier League calibre player. He’s an excellent passer of the ball and works hard. Spurs could use that.
Does it make sense? Yes. McCarthy has always looked like a player who could play on a bigger stage. Spurs need to be able to pass the ball around better than they did last year so that they have a Plan B beyond ‘pass it to Bale’.
Is the price right? No. If Wigan were in the Premier League it’d be twice as much as he’s worth, but they’re in the second tier now. Think £6-8m.
Will it happen? 3/10 – he’s not at the front of their shopping list and this is way too much money.