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.
WILLIAN
Barcelona have seen an offer of cash + the signing of unwanted winger Malcom for Willian rejected by Chelsea, according to The Telegraph.
Why it will happen: Barca came in for the Brazil winger in the summer and are back again now. If they can push their offer north of the rejected £50 million for a 30-year-old, Chelsea could be willing to deal.
Why it won’t happen: The Blues are locked in a battle for Champions League qualification and want to strengthen, rather than lose players. Callum Hudson-Odoi might be their only major sale.
Verdict: Barca are refusing to give up on Willian. With Malcom unable to convince in his early months at the club and Munir El Haddadi pressing for a switch to Sevilla, there is space available. But a summer exit for Willian seems far more likely.
Rating 4/10
AARON RAMSEY
Wales and Arsenal midfielder would favour a switch to Liverpool if he rejects foreign interest from the likes of Juventus and Bayern Munich, according to BBC Sport.
Why it will happen: Ramsey is an experience and established performer in the Premier League, available on a free transfer. Why wouldn’t Liverpool be interested?
Why it won’t happen: Ramsey favours a switch abroad and Juve are the kings of sweeping up bargain buys. There is no better place for a new adventure.
Verdict: A deal is yet to be signed with Juve, leaving everything open. But all noises point to them being at the front of the queue. Liverpool’s centre-midfield options are also stacked. They’ll prioritise Naby Keita’s assimilation over bringing in Ramsey.
Rating 2/10
Mesut Ozil
MICHY BATSHUAYI
Everton have joined a list of clubs interested in Chelsea’s Michy Batshuayi after the striker ended his loan spell at Valencia, according to The Telegraph.
Why it will happen: Everton have been short of quality up top since fellow Belgium star Romelu Lukaku was sold. Batshuayi struggled in Spain but was superb for Borussia Dortmund, meaning the Toffees might take a chance on him.
Why it won’t happen: Everton downplayed any transfer movements this week, plus Valencia are yet to secure cancellation of his loan from Chelsea. A return of one goal in 15 La Liga matches also shows that the striker is not in the best of form.
Verdict: This is a complex one to pull off. With Kurt Zouma already on loan from the Blues, either Batshuayi or Zouma would need to be purchased. If Everton can negotiate a good deal on the former, either permanent or temporary, he looks like a good gamble to take.
Rating 6/10
