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…
As Chelsea have regrouped under Antonio Conte, repairing the woes of a dreadful campaign last year, one player has been conspicuous in his absence.
A combination of serious injury and the form of Conte’s preferred trio of centre-backs has seen Zouma’s playing time reduced as Chelsea have motored toward the Premier League title.
And, if The Sun is to be believed, former Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho is preparing a raid on his former club to strengthen Man United’s defence with the France international.
The paper is also reporting that Chris Smalling and Phil Jones are headed for the Old Trafford exit door to make way for Zouma.
Rating: 3/10
Sport360 Verdict: There is no doubt that Mourinho is interested in adding to his defence this summer, with a partner for Eric Bailly a priority. And while Zouma would be a perfect fit, and is a player Mourinho knows well, is it realistic to think Chelsea would sign to a potential rival? You wouldn’t count on the Stamford Bridge hierarchy doing too much business with Mourinho and United.
The talk of Kyle Walker’s exit at Spurs has ramped up in recent weeks, with even La Liga giants Barcelona linked with a move for the England full-back.
The latest admirers? Manchester City who, again according to The Sun, have been told by Tottenham that £50 million would be what it takes to make a deal happen.
Walker is reportedly unhappy that he isn’t matching the £100,000 a week deals of fellow key Spurs men Harry Kane and Hugo Lloris and that if no improved terms are offered then a move could be in the offing.
Rating: 4/10
Sport360 Verdict: It is certain that Pep Guardiola is in the market for full-backs and Walker is one of the best out there in the Premier League. However, a far more likely outcome is that Walker secures a new deal with Spurs and continues to lead the revolution under Mauricio Pochettino with the Premier League title firmly on their minds.
It seems the Southampton centre-back will be the centre of a bidding war this summer, with a long list of admirers looking at him most fondly.
The Netherlands defender is currently a long-term injury absentee at St. Mary’s and although the club believes the player will remain for one more season – hopes increased by his response to being given the Saints captaincy – the player and club will be tested.
And, as reported in The Daily Star, Manchester City and Arsenal are leading the chasing pack with a £50m price-tag on the Dutchman’s head. Liverpool, Chelsea, Manchester United and Everton have all also been linked with a move.
Rating: 7/10
Sport360 Verdict: There is still hope on the South Coast that the dominant defender will remain at the club next season and Saints fans do have reason to believe that. However, if someone comes up with something in the region of £50m for Van Dijk then a swift exit will be approved by all involved.
The Monaco schemer has already stated that this is his final season at the club, even stating that the Premier League and La Liga are preferred destinations.
And it seems United are leading the pack, with The Express reporting that Silva will be part of a double Ligue 1 raid for United worth £80m.
The other player apparently on their wishlist is PSG’s Blaise Matuidi with the duo destined to be United’s latest big money foray into the transfer market.
Rating: 8/10
Sport360 Verdict: Silva is available, keen on the Premier League and United’s attack needs some freshening up. It seems, on paper, a no-brainer but all will depend on whether United prefer Silva to other options such as James Rodriguez or Silva is fancied by a more attractive option elsewhere, possibly as Rodrguez’ replacement at Real Madrid. It is certainly one to follow.
Ronaldinho’s still got it…
Yep, that enigmatic Brazilian is still one of the most exciting players on the planet.
Need evidence? Well, here you go, a classic Ronaldinho no-look pass in a Barcelona legends match for you to drool on…
LEGEND: @10Ronaldinho with this perfect no-look assist in the @FCBarcelona Legends match. 😎🔥pic.twitter.com/se1wR7BWsz
— SPORF (@Sporf) April 29, 2017
