Analysing the Transfer Gossip – 28th July Part One

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?

Part Two is here Part Three is here

Tottenham have rejected a bid of what would be a world record £81m for Bale, with Real preparing another offer for £85m

Gareth Bale

Full story: Sunday Mirror

What’s the story? Wow. This is something that had gone completely cold but is now the red hot story in the world. It does seem to be true, with various outlets from both countries reporting it with exactly these figures.
Does it make sense? There will be people who say Bale isn’t worth this much, or that Spurs should sell him and sign four players but I disagree with both points. Yes, Bale isn’t Ronaldo, and Ronaldo cost less, but players are only worth what someone will pay for them. After Messi and Ronaldo, Bale is the most desirable player on the market. He’s only just turned 24 and scored 31 goals last year which is more than most strikers. Who wouldn’t want that? The problem for Spurs, is that selling him so late in the window means they have far fewer options to go after. They could potentially go after a center back or Eriksen and maybe sure the squad up to push for the top four, but selling Bale means losing their ace.
Is the price right? Compared to other transfers made this summer, Bale is worth £60m+ in pure terms. However, Spurs don’t want to sell and are relentlessly tough negotiators which increases the price. It is ‘too much’ as such but the idea of Bale and Ronaldo in the same team is incredibly exciting and maybe Champions League winning.
Will it happen? 7/10 – This has quickly gotten to the point where it looks more likely than not.