Analysing the transfer gossip – 6th July Part 1: Real Madrid, Chelsea, Arsenal 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?

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Chelsea’s hopes of signing Real Madrid midfielder Xabi Alonso, 31, have been given a massive boost with the Spanish side interested in signing Real Sociedad player Asier Illarramendi, 23, as a replacement.

Full story: Daily Star

What’s the story? Interesting. Alonso’s contract runs out next summer and seems disinclined to sign a new one. Asier Illarramendi is an almost carbon copy of Alonso with his passing range and the defensive responsibility. He is one of Spain’s elite prospects and the star man in a vibrant Sociedad side.
Does it make sense? Yes. Chelsea are grooming Nathaniel Chalobah to be their playmaker in their incredibly talented team which could soon dominate Europe. However, he’s still a few years away from being ready so Alonso could do the job in the meantime.
Is the price right? Illarramendi could cost Real Madrid up to £25m which could look cheap in a few years time. Alonso would probably cost nearer to £10-12m given his contract situation.
Will it happen? 10/10: Illarramendi to Real. 5/10: Alonso to Chelsea. He seems like a sublime option for the next couple of years to prepare Chalobah properly and Real might let him go but it’s a little early to commit too much more. Plus, newly signed Frank Lampard in the making Marco van Ginkel does need game time too.