Analysing the Transfer Gossip – 30th July

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 into overdrive. This will give plenty of opportunities for transfer rumour and gossip. So how much of it is realistic?

Manchester United are planning a £25m bid to sign Luka Modric, 27, from Real Madrid after coming to the realisation that they are unlikely to secure any of their primary transfer targets.

 What’s the story? Modric was  one of five midfield targets I picked out or United instead of Thiago Alcantara.

Does it make sense? Yes. Modric has the kind of elegance on the ball and ability to dribble, pass and score that United need to add dynamism to the one weakish area of their team. Real have signed Illarramendi to add to Khedira and Xabi Alonso, and all four are competing for two spots so something has to give.

Is the price right? No reason for Real to accept this as they paid £30m for him last summer and he is still worth that.

Will it happen? 6/10 – It may do. I would fancy United to be at the front of the queue if he becomes available.