Top transfer rumours of the day – January 19, 2015
The transfer season has moved to it’s third week with the rumour mill working overtime. Some of these rumours were turned into reality, while others were silenced by players or officials. The rumour that had everyone’s attention was about Lionel Messi’s transfer, but it was silenced by the Argentine at the Ballon D’or ceremony. Few potential deals go through were – Wilfried Bony to Manchester City, Xherdan Shaqiri and Lukas Podolski to Inter Milan, Yaya Sanogo to Crystal Palace, Fernando Torres to AC Milan – and the list goes on. The third week of the transfer season has already startled football fans by linking reputed clubs with top players. Let’s take a look at the rumours that are doing the rounds today, with clubs like Chelsea, Manchester United, Arsenal, Liverpool, Real Madrid, Juventus, Sevilla and A.S. Roma beiing heavily linked.
#1 Chelsea and Manchester United
Chelsea officials are on high alert as Real Madrid ace Luka Modric could reportedly move back to Premier League. FIFA agent Francois Gallardo revealed that the player’s wife seems to be unsettled at Madrid and this might prompt Modric to return to United Kingdom. Gallardo said, “Modric is the engine of Real Madrid, but the problem it is his wife who did not fit into Madrid in Spain.”
Chelsea to make a quick move for Mauro Icardi as the 21-year old has reportedly entered into talks with Inter Milan over contract extension. The blues had planned to approach the player this summer, but due to the latest development, Chelsea might make an offer in haste to prevent the player from securing any extension with the San Siro side.
Manchester United are keen on signing Gareth Bale by offering David De Gea to Real Madrid. According to Sunday Express, Louis van Gaal has released a bid of £80m to bring the Welshman to Old Trafford. Meanwhile, Real Madrid are willing to offer £35m to sign De Gea.
Manchester United have reportedly given up their plans to bid for Mats Hummels and Kevin Strootman. Louis van Gaal feels that the current squad is strong enough to qualify for the Champions League. Hence, there won’t be any new players arriving at Old Trafford this winter transfer window.