Transfer news and rumours: 22 January 2016
Will Fernando Torres leave Atletico Madrid?The January transfer window is in its third week and a number of players are linked with clubs across Europe. While Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid look to bolster their squads before the FIFA enforced transfer ban, other clubs are not far behind when it comes to signing replacements or add more bench strength. Most deals usually take palce on deadline day but the foundation for these deals are usually laid in the days prior. Here are some of the major transfer news and rumours in Europe today.
#1 Serie A
– Fiorentina have completed a move for West Ham striker Mauro Zarate. The 28-year-old Argentinian forward had fallen down the pecking order under Slaven Bilic and was forced to make the move in a bid to play regularly. He posted a message on Twitter thanking his teammates and fans of the London club.
– Tuttosport claim that Juventus have rejected bids from Barcelona for both midfielder Paul Pogba and striker Paulo Dybala. The two 22-year-old stars have been in fine form for the Turin-based club this season.
It is understood that Barcelona may have the first option on buying Pogba in the summer if he requests a transfer but the French international will not be sold in this window. However, they have told the Catalan club to forget about signing Dybala.
– Napoli have rejected a €22m bid from Swansea City for Manolo Gabbiadini. The 24-year-old forward has struggled for game time with Gonzalo Higuain in fine form. Gabbiadini has mainly made substitute appearances in the league this season while scoring regularly in the Europa League.
But Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis wants to keep him and will only sell if the bid is closer to €35m.