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 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.
BENJAMIN PAVARD – FROM STUTTGART TO MANCHESTER CITY
Emerging star: Benjamin Pavard.
Manchester City are showing interest in the France World Cup star and Stuttgart defender, according to Munich-based newspaper Suddeutsche Zeitung.
Why it will happen: The young right-back has taken this World Cup by storm and is poised to make a huge summer move, with the Sky Blues seemingly heading a long list of clubs in pursuit of his signature.
Why it won’t happen: Pavard, at 22, may feel like he still needs to continue to learn his trade and opt to stay in Germany, given Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich have shown interest.
Prediction: Performing at a major summer tournament is always one way to guarantee a big transfer and given Pavard is already fulfilling his immense potential. Expect City to go all out to sign him.
Rating: 8/10
XHERDAN SHAQIRI – FROM STOKE TO LIVERPOOL
Is an Anfield move on the cards for the Swiss?
Liverpool‘s quest to sign the Stoke talent has hit a snag, according to The Mirror.
Jurgen Klopp’s men want to clinch a £13m (Dh63.4m) deal for the Swiss World Cup star, however, the Potters want a Liverpool player on loan as part of any such deal.
Why it will happen: The former Bavarians and Inter Milan playmaker is desperate to leave the Potters following their relegation from the Premier League and would jump at the opportunity to join Liverpool.
Why it won’t happen: Stoke’s wish to receive a player on loan as part of the deal could prove to be a stumbling block in this transfer, while the 26-year-old is also said to want assurances over the prospects of playing regular first-team football.
Prediction: Shaqiri would be a decent acquisition for Liverpool but the Kop side will need to negotiate to make sure they get the best deal possible.
Rating: 7/10
DIMITRI PAYET – FROM MARSEILLE TO WEST HAM
A return to the Premier League? Payet is linked.
West Ham are considering re-signing the playmaker, according to Goal.
Why it will happen: The French playmaker did become a cult hero among Hammers fans during his short stint in east London and all could be forgiven if he reproduces the kind of form he showed in 2015-16.
Why it won’t happen: New boss Manuel Pellegrini may want to look to the future and not go over old ground, given Payet left the club under a cloud following a fallout concerning his contract.
Prediction: At 31, Payet would hardly be a signing for the future nor have West Ham even stated that they would be interested in getting him onboard again.
Rating: 5/10
