Transfer Gossip: Verratti, Fabregas, Sturridge, De Gea, Hart

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  • Every day we will be keeping you updated with the latest transfer rumours as the season draws to a close and the window opens up…

    Marco Verratti

    He’s perpetually linked with a move away from Paris Saint-Germain and this time it’s Barcelona who are rumoured to be interested in the 24-year-old.

    The Italy international is one of the premier midfield talents in world football and reports in Spain have suggested the two clubs are already holding talks with Verratti’s agent apparently spotted at Camp Nou recently.

    Is it just me who contemplates the type of people who can ‘spot’ agents? Anyway, the rumour has no doubt emanated from his performance in the Champions League last 16 tie as he formed the creative nucleus of PSG’s fluid 4-0 first-leg win over Barca at the Parc des Princes.

    With Andres Iniesta entering the final few years of his glittering career, Verratti is seen as a long-term replacement. (Mundo Deportivo)

    Rating: 5/10

    Sport360 Verdict: While Verratti is very much in the mold of Iniesta, PSG will be reluctant to let one of their premier players depart. Despite losing to Barca in the Champions League this season, obvious strides are being made in their bid to lift the trophy for the first time so the attraction to leave is not so great. Then again, it is Barca we’re talking about.

    Cesc Fabregas

    Antonio Conte will do well to keep hold of fringe stars like Fabregas and Willian, particularly the Spain international.

    At 29 years old, Fabregas is in the prime of his career and his displays this season prove he warrants regular first-term football having chipped in with four goals and eight assists.

    It’s no surprise then he’s emerged as a target for AC Milan with reports in Italy suggesting the new owners see Fabregas as the man to “transform and revolutionise” the fallen Serie A giants.  (Corriere dello Sport)

    Rating: 7/10

    Sport360 Verdict: Given his peripheral role this season it’s difficult to see how Chelsea could dissuade him from a move away from Stamford Bridge. If AC are serious about their bid to sign the Spaniard, they could well prize him away. However, there is one detraction – Europe. Milan are sixth in Serie A at the moment and they are struggling to cement a Europa League spot which could put Fabregas off.

    Daniel Sturridge

    It looks like his time at Liverpool is coming to an end with the striker falling out of favour with boss Jurgen Klopp.

    His career has been punctuated by moments of  quality and in equal measure, injury. The 27-year-old could be shipped off to help fund a war chest for the Reds this summer with West Ham emerging as a potential destination for the England international.

    The Hammers lack firepower, particularly when Andy Carroll isn’t available, and if he can remain fit, Sturridge would add guaranteed goals. (Daily Telegraph)

    Rating: 8/10

    Sport360 Verdict: Liverpool simply can’t rely on Sturridge anymore. He’s started just once in the Premier League since October and he’s struggled to recapture both the form and fitness of his stunning 2013/14 campaign. Even when available Klopp has turned to Divock Origi instead and it’s clear Sturridge’s future lies away from Anfield.

    David De Gea and Joe Hart

    Right, a lot to unravel with this one. David De Gea may actually be set to leave Manchester United for Real Madrid this summer with rumours swirling in Spain that the 26-year-old may have actually already agreed terms with Los Blancos.

    If he is to depart, Jose Mourinho will be in the market for a new No1 and there’s not many world-class goalkeepers to put on his shopping list.

    One option, though, is Manchester City stopped Joe Hart. The 30-year-old is currently on loan with Torino in Italy, although his performances have been rocky at best.

    However, apparently he’s keen on a move back to the northwest of England and with Torino unable to fork out the £15 million (Dh71m) to make his deal permanent, United could swoop in. (De Gea: Marca) (Hart: Independent)

    Rating: De Gea 7/10, Hart 4/10

    Sport360 Vedict: Another season without Champions League football – while Real are on the path to defend the trophy this season – could see De Gea exit. As we’ve seen so often in the past, teams can do little when the likes of Madrid or Barca come in and if De Gea is angling for a move then there’s every chance he will go. But it’s difficult to see Hart swapping the Etihad for Old Trafford as he represents a significant downgrade from De Gea.

    What else is going on…

    A step too far from Ronaldo?

    But then he can produce this so…

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