Transfer Predictor: Mario Mandzukic to Borussia Dortmund is an 8, Liverpool's pursuit of Jasper Cillessen rated as a 7

David Cooper - Writer 12:19 16/07/2018
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  • Mario Mandzukic netted in the World Cup final.

    The summer transfer window for all international deals is well and truly open.

    With the transfer 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.

    MARIO MANDZUKIC – JUVENTUS TO BORUSSIA DORTMUND

    Croatia's forward Mario Mandzukic (R) vies with France's defender Raphael Varane during the Russia 2018 World Cup final football match between France and Croatia at the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow on July 15, 2018. (Photo by FRANCK FIFE / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE - NO MOBILE PUSH ALERTS/DOWNLOADS (Photo credit should read FRANCK FIFE/AFP/Getty Images)

    Mario Mandzukic could earn a transfer to the Bundesliga.

    Borussia Dortmund have moved ahead of Manchester United in the race to sign the Juventus forward, according to Bild.

    Why it will happen: The Old Lady are looking to trim their wage bill following Cristiano Ronaldo‘s arrival in Turin while they also want to make more room for the Real Madrid icon in attack. As such, the Croatian is expected to be one of the fall guys.

    Why it won’t happen: The 32-year-old is still near the top of his game and may sit tight on his exciting deal with Juventus, which runs until 2020.

    Prediction: It is set to be an interesting couple of weeks for the World Cup star and a switch to Borussia Dortmund would represent an opportunity for him to become a cult hero in the coming years at the Westfalenstadion.

    Rating – 8/10

    WILMAR BARRIOS – BOCA JUNIORS TO EVERTON

    TOPSHOT - Colombia's midfielder Wilmar Barrios (L) vies with England's forward Harry Kane during the Russia 2018 World Cup round of 16 football match between Colombia and England at the Spartak Stadium in Moscow on July 3, 2018. (Photo by Juan Mabromata / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE - NO MOBILE PUSH ALERTS/DOWNLOADS (Photo credit should read JUAN MABROMATA/AFP/Getty Images)

    Wilmar Barrios pictured keeping a close watch on Harry Kane at the World Cup.

    Everton are hopeful they can fend off competition from Chelsea and Tottenham to clinch the signing of the Colombia international this week, Bueno Aires-based TV channel TyC Sports reports.

    Why it will happen: Having enjoyed a strong World Cup with his nation, the dynamic midfielder would be a good fit for the fast-paced style of the Premier League and be a welcome addition to Marco Silva’s Toffees squad.

    Why it won’t happen: Barrios’ current club, Argentine giants Boca Juniors, will not part company with their man easily and will fight to retain his services.

    Prediction: Barrios is reportedly keen on a Premier League switch but may wait to see if further interest develops with Chelsea and Tottenham, rather than Everton, given they can offer European football (Champions League and Europa League), as well as greater financial terms.

    Rating – 7/10

    JASPER CILLESSEN – BARCELONA TO LIVERPOOL

    Jasper Cillessen has rarely featured for Camp Nou.

    Jasper Cillessen has rarely featured for Camp Nou.

    Liverpool are tracking Barcelona‘s second-choice goalkeeper, Mundo Deportivo reports.

    Why it will happen: Liverpool are desperate to bring in a new man between the sticks given Loris Karius’ recent error-prone displays, with the Dutch international capable of filling that void given his experience.

    Why it won’t happen: Despite being a back-up to first-choice Marc-Andre ter Stegen in Catalonia, the 29-year-old is said to be happy at Camp Nou and is on favourable contractual terms.

    Prediction: The chance to join a club of Liverpool’s stature and test himself in the Premier League should certainly turn the former Ajax star’s head. It just remains to be seen whether all of the parties involved can come to a suitable arrangement.

    Rating – 7/10

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