Analysing the Transfer Gossip – 19th June: Thiago, Mata, Cavani 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?
Manchester United are favourites to sign Barcelona’s Spanish midfielder Thiago Alacantara, 22, who would cost £15m. Thiago scored a hat-trick as Spain Under-21s beat Italy 4-2 in the final of the European Championships on Tuesday.
Full story: the Sun
What’s the story? Thiago is one of the most desirable players in Europe, offering his mix of passing, dribbling and goals from central midfield to give Man United a dimension they haven’t had since Veron. Barcelona somehow allowed this cheap release clause to become active.
Does it make sense? Yes, of the five main United midfield targets Thiago makes the most sense. He is quality in possession and brings a floating and penetrative style of play to nicely compliment the solidity of Michael Carrick.
Is the price right? It’s theft. Negligence on Barcelona’s part to allow it to become active due to lack of game time when they’d won the league so easily.
Will it happen? 10/10 – He wants to move to England, he wants to move to United and they need him.
Barcelona are targeting a £30m deal for Chelsea midfielder Juan Mata following rumours that new Blues manager Jose Mourinho is unconvinced by the Spaniard, 25.
Full story: Daily Mirror
What’s the story? Erm. Not sure where to start. £30m? Seriously? £30m? For Juan Mata? A man involved in over 50 goals for Chelsea last season. Barcelona who have attacking players in abundance? Apparently it’s because of a contract row. Even though Mourinho hasn’t yet spoken to Mata and doesn’t have authority over contract negotiation.
Does it make sense? No.
Is the price right? No.
Will it happen? 0/10 – No.
Napoli striker Edinson Cavani, 26, will reject a move to Manchester City to join Real Madrid in a £55m deal. The Uruguay international has also been linked with Chelsea.
Full story: Daily Star
What’s the story? Well this is going to be interesting. It is one of the moves that could set the market in motion as it is so unexpected. It means Liverpool are stuck with Suarez unless Bayern come in. It means City have surely beaten Madrid to Isco and it might mean that unless they spend a fortune on an inadequate replacement, Chelsea will roll with Lukaku and Shurrle up front.
Does it make sense? Yes, although I’d probably have chosen Suarez football wise.
Is the price right? It’s a matter of converting from 63m Euros, so however many pounds that is.
Will it happen? 8/10 – All signs, including what his parents say, point to this unless City make a last minute financial push.