Toni Kroos headlines our rumour mill as Manchester United target Real Madrid star

David Cooper - Writer 09:38 20/02/2018
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  • The January transfer window may be shut but there’s still plenty of news from the rumour mill with several moves being put off until the summer.

    Here, we round-up the transfer tales that have got everyone talking.

    TONI KROOS

    Real Madrid star Kroos is Jose Mourinho’s prime summer target as he seeks to bolster his midfield options for next season, according to the Independent. The 28-year-old was tipped for a move to the Red Devils prior to joining Los Blancos in 2013. The German international has the same game management skills that Mourinho wants to succeed the retiring Michael Carrick and sit in between Nemanja Matic and Paul Pogba in the heart of the midfield to allow the trio to flourish.

    Real Madrid v Tottenham Hotspur - UEFA Champions League 

    MALCOM

    Arsenal and Tottenham have emerged as favourites to sign Bordeaux wonderkid Malcom, according to the Daily Mail. The Brazilian has been one of the mainstays in an improving Bordeaux side this season, scoring eight goals and providing six assists in 25 games. The 21-year-old has been taking the league by storm with his glittering footwork and passing ability. Although £55m is an expensive asking price, both clubs believe a fee of £33m could be enough to get the deal over the line.

    ARTHUR

    Barcelona are on the cusp of reaching a €30m agreement with Gremio star Arthur, according to Mundo Deportivo. It is believed Barcelona will pay €30m up front, plus another €10m in add-ons related to appearances and his first contract renewal. The Spanish giants’ hierarchy had watched the dynamic attacking midfielder in action in Gremio’s run to Copa Libertadores glory in November. The 21-year-old talent, who is comfortable in either the No.8 or No.10 midfield roles, is in high demand and is expected to star at this year’s World Cup in Russia.

    Gremio v Fluminense - Brasileirao Series A 2017 

    WILFRIED ZAHA

    Tottenham are preparing to launch a fresh bid for Crystal Palace star Zaha, according to the Mirror. The North Londoners remain interest in the Ivory Coast forward and are confident of landing the 25-year-old at a third attempt. Despite the arrival of former PSG winger Lucas Moura to the Wembley Stadium last month, Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino is lining up this latest push to strengthen his attacking options. Zaha will cost in excess of £50m and although his contract runs until 2022, Palace are determined to hold on to him.

    STEFAN DE VRIJ 

    Manchester United and Liverpool will battle it out to sign Lazio defender de Vrij next summer, according to Sky Sports. The Dutchman is set to leave the Stadio Olimpico at the end of the season with his contract renewal having been withdrawn. The 26-year-old is still very much on Jose Mourinho’s radar and a bid of around €15m should be accepted by the Roma club. The powerful centre-back would offer a solution to United’s inconsistencies in defence, with the futures of Chris Smalling and Phil Jones in doubt.

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