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 three of the latest transfer rumours doing the rounds, providing our analysis and predictions below:
ALVARO MORATA – CHELSEA TO ATLETICO MADRID
Alvaro Morata
The Morata to Atletico saga is reaching a climax and it’s only a matte of time that the loan deal is finalised. BBC reported that the player confirmed this after landing in Spain and the announcement is imminent.
Why it will happen: Morata has not clicked with the London-based club and the signing of Gonzalo Higuain evidences this. Diego Costa’s return to Atletico has not benefitted them either, and Morata could shine for Los Colenchores, given he knows the league well.
Why it won’t happen: This is probably out of the question as the transfer is most certainly happening. Only a failed medial test can realistically prevent this from happening.
Verdict: This transfer takes into account the best interests of all the parties involved. Atletico get a striker with La Liga, Champions League, Serie A and international experience while Morata is handed an opportunity to revive his career in a league he is accustomed to.
Ratings: 10/10
IVAN PERISIC – INTER MILAN TO ARSENAL
Ivan Perisic
The Croatian has reportedly handed in a transfer request and the Gunners are said to be the frontrunners to land his signature.
Inter director Guiseppe Marotta told Sky in Italy: “Perisic has asked to leave but there is no offer for him. We will see in the coming days.
“We will listen to the request of Perisic, he has put in a transfer request; we must try to satisfy him but also respect the value of him.”
Why it will happen: After a promising start, Arsenal’s season took a downward trajectory in the past couple of months. Although strengthening the defence should be priority, they can do with more fire-power upfront, due to Alex Iwobi and Henrikh Mkhitaryan’s inconsistency.
Why it won’t happen: It might be too late to start negotiating as the deadline day is very close-by. Also, Arsenal could face competition from other top clubs in Europe, with Manchester United’s name popping up in several rumours.
Verdict: Arsenal’s defence needs reinforcements and they should prioritise that. Perisic is a brilliant player and brilliant players make great additions. But is he the player Arsenal need?
Rating: 4/10
CALLUM HUDSON-ODOI – CHELSEA TO BAYERN MUNICH
Callum Hudson-Odoi.
The wonder-kid at Chelsea has seen his transfer saga stretched to the limits this winter window. Having failed to start a single league game, Hudson-Odoi looks set to resume his career in a new outfit, potentially that of Bayern Munich.
Express.co.uk reported that Bayern Munich president Hasan Salihamidzic said that there could be interesting developments on Monday.
Why it will happen: Whenever he has been handed the minutes, Hudson-Odoi has shown why he’s so special and sought after. The Englishman could be a great addition to the Bayern side, with Arjen Robben and Frank Ribery reaching the twilight of their career and Kingsley Coman constantly injured.
Why it won’t happen: Should Eden Hazard choose to leave for Real Madrid, Chelsea will be pressured to keep this wonder-kid. Regardless, the London-based club should be desperate to secure one of their best academy graduates for a longer term.
Verdict: At this point, it’s mostly up to the player. Hudson-Odoi will be designing his own destiny as he chooses between his boyhood club and a European heavyweight. The youngster will almost certainly shine at either club.
Rating: 6/10
ADRIEN RABIOT – PARIS SAINT-GERMAIN TO LIVERPOOL
Adrien Rabiot
With Frenkie de Jong signing for Barcelona, Rabiot is tasked with finding a different suitor. Chelsea, Tottenham and Liverpool popped up as potential destinations for the midfielder. But Mirror reports that the Frenchman is hesitant on a move to Tottenham as he is hopeful of a move to Anfield.
Why will it happen: Liverpool can boast of the best defence in the league and the attack is well stocked too. If anything, the Reds need to add more quality to the midfield and the inclusion of Rabiot can ensure this.
Why won’t it happen: It’s unlikely that Liverpool will push for a move in the next three days as they can sign the midfielder in the summer on the expiry of his contract.
Verdict: There is no doubt as to what what Rabiot can offer. Clubs like Barcelona and Bayern Munich have been chasing the youngster and understandably so. Paris Saint-Germain have made peace with the fact that the midfielder won’t sign an extension and are hence looking to offload him. A move to Liverpool – either now or in the summer – could benefit both the club and the player.
Rating 6/10
