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.
Rumour 1
MEDHI BENATIA – JUVENTUS TO ARSENAL
Medhi Benatia is currently in Russia with national side Morocco.
Arsenal and Borussia Dortmund are locked in a two-way battle to sign the Juventus centre-back, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport.
Why it will happen: New Gunners boss Unai Emery is desperate for more reinforcements in defence and the 31-year-old very much fits the bill.
Why it won’t happen: Benatia has no shortage of admirers and could prefer a return to Germany with Borussia Dortmund, with BVB being able to offer Champions League football.
Prediction: The Morocco World Cup star may feel this is his last chance to earn a big move to the Premier League and could relish the chance to be part of a new era at Arsenal.
Rating – 8/10
Rumour 2
The Brazilian has become a big star at Roma.
Chelsea have made the Roma goalkeeper one of their top summer transfer targets, La Gazzetta dello Sport reports again.
Why it will happen: The Blues are concerned Thibaut Courtois could leave the club, and if that is the case, need to find a replacement quickly.
Why it won’t happen: The Brazil international is also a target for both Liverpool and Real Madrid and is set to wait until making a big decision on his future.
Prediction: At the moment, it looks unlikely a move to Chelsea would be at the top of Alisson’s wishlist and the prospect of no Champions League football doesn’t help the Stamford Bridge club’s cause.
Rating – 6/10
Rumour 3
TANGUY NDOMBELE – AMIENS TO MANCHESTER UNITED
Towering midfield presence: Tanguy Ndombele.
The emerging France star is wanted by Manchester United, according to Le10 Sport.
Jose Mourinho is reportedly an admirer of the 21-year-old midfield talent, who enjoyed a terrific season on loan at Lyon from his parent club Amiens.
Why it will happen: Lyon have stalled over their first-option agreement for the midfielder, opening the door for the Red Devils to pounce.
Why it won’t happen: Ndombele may want to continue his development in France before earning a big switch to the Premier League.
Prediction: Even if United did sign the talent, they would probably want to send him out on loan first. For now, expect the Premier League giants to just monitor his progress.
Rating – 5/10
