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.
JORGINHO
Napoli defensive midfielder Jorginho could be free to leave for Manchester United if the Serie A giants decide to “sacrifice” him to bring in new talent, the Sun reports his agent as saying. The 26-year-old’s representatives are said to have travelled to the north west in January, sparking speculation of a summer move to Old Trafford. The Brazil-born Italy international is said to be happy in Naples, however agent Joan Santos said the arrival of a younger player could see him let go. “That will require an important investment and Jorginho could be sacrificed to make way,” he said.
ORIOL ROMEU
Romeu has ruled out a return to his boyhood club Barcelona in favour of regular game-time at Premier League relegation-threatened Southampton, according to Marca. The 26-year-old is a product of the famed La Masia academy system, but made just two appearances for the Camp Nou side before signing for Chelsea in 2011. A lack of minutes led to the Spaniard joining the Saints, and he has gone on to make over 100 appearances for the south coast side. Quizzed on a return to Barcelona, Romeu said he would snub the Catalan giants in favour of staying at St. Mary’s.
CLAUDIO MARCHISIO
Claudio Marchisio is set to leave Juventus for MLS or the Chinese Super League, according to Goal. The Italian midfielder has gone from future captain to benchwarmer, starting only four Serie A games this term. Although his contract does not expire until 2020, the 32-year-old could leave at the end of the season in favour of regular minutes abroad. Marchisio has previously stated that he could not play for another Italian side out of respect for Juve, so a move to America or China seems inevitable.
ABDOULAYE DOUCOURÉ
Watford’s French midfielder Abdoulaye Doucoure has said he is being pursued by Arsenal, Tottenham and Liverpool, The Sun reports. The 25-year-old told French television programme Telefoot that his prime choice would be to play for Arsene Wenger. Such move would pay off handsomely for club and player – Doucoure arrived at Vicarage Road as part of an £8million deal in 2016 and is on £60,000-a-week, the paper says.
