Transfer predictor: Toni Kroos to sign for Man City gets a 4, Dries Mertens' switch to Chelsea scores a 6

David Cooper - Writer 11:47 20/06/2018
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  • The transfer window is well and truly open.

    With the rumours growing in pace and volume during this ‘silly season’, it can be difficult and painstaking to separate the stories of some legitimacy from the rest of the white 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.

    TONI KROOS – REAL MADRID TO MAN CITY

    The Real Madrid star is Pep Guardiola’s prime summer target as he seeks to bolster his midfield options for next season, the Express claims.

    Why it will happen: Guardiola is keen to strengthen his midfield with the Germany international viewed as his key target. And with the potential to win silverware at the Etihad Stadium, it looks like a difficult move to turn down for the 28-year-old.

    Why it won’t happen: The former Bayern Munich star has four years to run on his contract and is reportedly happy at the Bernabeu.

    Prediction: After winning his third successive Champions League title, it looks unlikely Kroos will leave the Spanish capital, especially when he is a central part of a winning team.

    Rating – 3/10

    DRIES MERTENS – NAPOLI TO CHELSEA

    Maurizio Sarri has made the Belgian star his primary target if he takes the reins at Chelsea this summer, according to the Telegraph.

    Why it will happen: Sarri has told close friends in London that he is looking forward to bringing Mertens to Stamford Bridge and believes he is a player who can excel in the Premier League.

    Why it won’t happen: He is still a key man for the Partenopei and they really can’t afford to lose him, especially after coming within a whisker of winning Serie A last season.

    Prediction: It’s difficult to know whether Mertens would make the move to England after five years in Italy. At 31, he clearly has buckets of playing ability in him but may opt to see out his career at Stadio San Paolo.

    Rating – 6/10

    JACK WILSHERE – ARSENAL TO WEST HAM

    Everton, Southampton and Crystal Palace have been tipped as possible destinations for the England midfielder after he called time on his 17-year Arsenal career, according to The Times.

    Why it will happen: Manuel Pellegrini has reportedly told the 26-year-old that he wants to build a team around him at the London Stadium.

    Why it won’t happen: It remains to be seen whether the Hammers would take a gamble on an injury-prone player who requires wages in excess of £100,000 per week.

    Prediction: The former Gunners player can reignite his career with to another club and would get his confidence back with regular game time elsewhere.

    Rating – 7/10

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