Transfer Predictor: Douglas Costa to Man United gets an 8 but Martial to Spurs unlikely

Sport360 staff 12:42 25/05/2018
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  • Future Red Devil? Douglas Costa.

    The transfer window is now open in the Premier League, with the rest of Europe set to follow soon.

    The window is followed by the usual speculation, and with the airwaves full of transfer rumours, it can be difficult to figure out which ones are legitimate and which are just noise.

    Fortunately, we’ve taken it upon ourselves to do it for you.

    Below, you’ll find some of the latest transfer news churned out of the Rumour Mill broken down and analysed for your benefit along with our calculated predictions.

    DOUGLAS COSTA – FROM BAYERN MUNICH to MANCHESTER UNITED

    Manchester United are set to come up with an offer in the region of £79million (Dh387m) to bring the Brazilian to Old Trafford, according to The Sun.

    Why it will happen: The Brazil international starred on loan at Juventus during their double-winning campaign and appears to be surplus to requirements at his parent club, Bayern Munich. The Turin giants have also not disclosed whether or not they are willing to turn that initial loan agreement into a permanent switch, opening the door for United to pounce – especially given the fact the Red Devils will have cash to spend this summer.

    For United’s part, both Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial have failed to nail down a spot on the left and Costa could present a more reliable option.

    Why it won’t happen: The 27-year-old enjoyed a successful 12 months in Serie A and will surely wait until the last minute to see if Juventus up the ante and sign him. Jose Mourinho has also stated that United are not in the market for attacking players – though that could change if the right deal came along.

    Prediction: Whatever happens, Costa’s future is not likely to be in the Bundesliga. If he enjoys a strong World Cup for Brazil, that should pique United’s interest.

    Rating – 8/10

    Reportedly in-demand: Douglas Costa.

    ANTHONY MARTIAL – MANCHESTER UNITED TO TOTTENHAM

    Tottenham are set to offer the French forward the chance to reignite his Premier League career, the Daily Mail reports.

    Why it will happen: The 22-year-old’s World Cup snub by Didier Deschamps would have hurt badly and he may feel he needs a new challenge having apparently fallen out with Jose Mourinho.

    Why it won’t happen: Martial is on a big-money deal at Old Trafford and whilst Tottenham is an attractive option, at the same time, he isn’t guaranteed regular first-team football there given a certain Harry Kane leads their frontline, with Son Heung-min, Dele Alli and Christian Eriksen completing a formidable attack.

    Prediction: Expect the Monaco ace to end his three-season stay in Manchester but it may not be Spurs who sign him.

    Rating – 4/10

    Frustrating season: Anthony Martial.

    XHERDAN SHAQIRI – STOKE TO EVERTON

    Everton are set to step up their efforts to sign the Stoke playmaker, according to Calciomercato.

    Why it will happen: After a miserable season, the Toffees are set to spend big in the summer transfer window again and are desperate for some creativity in midfield. Davy Klaassen looks set to move on so former Inter star Shaqiri is a viable option.

    Why it won’t happen: Although new Director of Football Marcel Brands is the man in charge of recruitment, the 26-year-old’s face might not fit with the club’s incoming manager and his lack of work rate would not necessarily appease the Goodison Park faithful.

    Prediction: There is no doubt the cultured midfielder will be leaving the Potters following their relegation from the top-flight, and as such, it may come down to which club offers the most cash.

    Rating – 7/10

    Xherdan Shaqiri scores arguably the goal of the tournament.

    A proven talent on his day: Xherdan Shaqiri.

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