The winter transfer window has started to heat up now there is less than a week left until it closes.
The rumour mill is in overdrive, with news of potential deals flying thick and fast.
We’re running the rule over four of the latest transfer rumours doing the rounds, providing our analysis and predictions below:
YANNICK CARRASCO – DALIAN YIFANG TO AC/INTER MILAN
Belgium forward wants to cut short his lucrative stint in the Chinese Super League and push through a move to one of the Milan giants, according to Gianluca Di Marzio.
Why it will happen: Eyebrows were raised when Carrasco departed Atletico Madrid aged just 24-years old, last February. A keenness to return to Europe, for footballing and family reasons, means there is a strong desire to see a loan move pushed through.
Why it won’t happen: Carrasco inked a contract until December 2021, rumoured to be worth €11 million net salary per annum. Such wages will be a stretch for most prospective employers. Arsenal have also been linked.
Verdict: All sides must stretch to make such a deal come to fruition. AC and Inter are both under review by UEFA because of Financial Fair Play obligations. For Carrasco, he may need to give up some cash to make an exit.
Rating: 5/10
ADRIEN RABIOT – PARIS SAINT-GERMAIN TO TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR
Spurs are hoping to seal a cut-price £20m move for PSG’s contract rebel, according to The Sun.
Why it will happen: PSG have been backed into a corner by Rabiot’s reluctance to renew a deal that expires in June. Barcelona’s recruitment of Ajax’s Frenkie de Jong could have ended their interest. Spurs can offer cash for a move now, meaning PSG get some kind of fee rather than lose the France midfielder for nothing in the summer.
Why it won’t happen: Rabiot has reportedly rejected terms worth more than €10m a season to remain in the French capital. This is a sum only a select few at Spurs get paid. Plus, links to Bayern Munich and Barca refuse to go away. Also, an ESPN source close to the player reportedly said Rabiot views Tottenham as below his level.
Verdict: Rabiot is persona non grata at the Ligue 1 champions and has been banished to the reserves. Spurs offer an instant escape route for player and club, plus some cash. If Rabiot becomes a summer freebie, however, his exit will be far more financially beneficial on a personal basis.
Rating: 6/10
LEANDRO PAREDES – ZENIT SAINT PETERSBURG TO PSG
The Argentina defensive midfielder and reported Chelsea target has agreed terms on a €35m move to PSG, according to RMC Sport.
Why it will happen: PSG have been desperate to land reinforcements in the middle, with the situation exacerbated by Rabiot’s failure to ink a contract extension. Zenit are also happy to cash in on their €23m addition from Roma in July 2017.
Why it won’t happen: It will take something remarkable to stop this switch in its tracks. Chelsea have backed away from previous interest, while Zenit are already reportedly looking to spend their windfall on Rubin Kazan and Iran forward Sardar Azmoun.
Verdict: Expect an announcement to be made imminently about the arrival of a player who failed to make the cut for Argentina’s World Cup 2018 squad, but is a noted passer of the ball. His price is perfect for FFP-conscious PSG.
Rating: 9/10
NICOLO BARELLA – CAGLIARI TO MANCHESTER UNITED
United plan to outbid Inter Milan and secure a summer £50m deal for the emerging Italy midfielder, according to Gazzetta Dello Sport.
Why it will happen: Barella has long been tipped for the top and this season has seen him earn a regular spot in the Italy XI at just 21-years old. A switch to the club of his heart, Inter, from Cagliari seemed assured. Yet they cannot compete with the riches on offer in the Premier League.
Why it won’t happen: There is plenty of uncertainty at Old Trafford, in regards to their next permanent manager and first director of football. Plans could swiftly change. If Inter can summon the money, they will pull on Barella’s heartstrings.
Verdict: Rumours about interest in Barella from United refuse to ebb away. Ander Herrera has been outstanding under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, but he’s 29-years old and a new deal has yet to be inked, while Fred has underwhelmed thus far. If Barrella is happy to head abroad, they look a strong option.
Rating: 6/10
