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:
LUKA JOVIC – EINTRACHT FRANKFURT TO REAL MADRID
Los Blancos have settled on Jovic as the long-term solution to their lack of options up front, according to AS.
Why it will happen: The Serbia forward has smashed in 18 goals during 25 matches for Eintracht this term, exciting scouts across Europe. The German club could utilise their €6-12 million option to buy for the Benfica loanee, then sell for a huge profit.
Why it won’t happen: Jovic’s exploits have not gone unnoticed. Barcelona and Bayern Munich are hot on his trail, leading to a potential bidding war this summer. Eintracht may also decide to keep hold for another season and gamble on his valuation soaring.
Verdict: At 21-years old, Jovic is one of the hottest young striking prospects in world football. Madrid exert a huge pull and need cover for 31-year-old Karim Benzema. But after years of relative parsimony, will they be prepared to invest?
Ratings: 6/10
MIGUEL ALMIRON – ATLANTA UNITED TO NEWCASTLE UNITED
Premier League strugglers Newcastle are about to shatter their 14-year transfer record and land the highly-rated Paraguay playmaker, according to Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
Why it will happen: Newcastle have coveted the Major League Soccer champion for a long time, with the player now travelling to Newcastle on Wednesday to finalise personal terms. A tally of 21 goals and 30 assists in 68 games shows his quality.
Why it won’t happen: The Magpies have been close to the finishing line before during this transfer window with Lazio’s Jordan Lukaku, then seen the deal disintegrate. They will also be wary of any last-minute bidders emerging for the 13-cap international.
Verdict: Controversial Newcastle owner Mike Ashley looks to have heeded manager Rafael Benitez’s words and decided to invest in the winter market. Almiron, 24, will know he will get regular game time at St. James’ Park.
Ratings: 9/10
DOMAGOJ VIDA – BESIKTAS TO ROMA
The versatile Croatia defender has a new suitor in Roma after Fulham and Inter Milan expressed interest in a January move, according to Il Messaggero.
Why it will happen: Vida is valued at £10.8m, a fee that Fulham deemed too large but Roma are happy to pay. This could be because the Giallorossi’s 29 goals conceded is the highest in Serie A’s top six. With Juan Jesus also out injured, a reinforcement will be welcome.
Why it won’t happen: Roma usually prefer to operate at the younger end of the market, meaning Vida’s age might be a barrier. He was also intensely linked with a summer exit, yet it did not happen. Could the story repeat itself in the winter?
Verdict: We’ve been here before with Vida and nothing happened. This time, however, it could be different because of Roma’s pressing need to add quality in defence. With competition for his signature disappearing, the Eternal City beckons.
Ratings: 7/10
ANDREAS CHRISTENSEN – CHELSEA TO JUVENTUS/BORUSSIA DORTMUND
The Serie A and Bundesliga leaders want to bolster their defences with a Denmark centre-back who has made just one Premier League appearances this term, according to The Sun.
Why it will happen: Christensen is simply not rated by new Blues boss Maurizio Sarri. His only top-flight start this term was a shock 2-1 defeat at Wolves. Yet, he remains highly rated and would offer quality to other sides.
Why it won’t happen: Chelsea batted aside previous interest from Barcelona, plus are demanding a £6m loan fee. It’s doubtful Christensen will want to swap one substitutes’ bench for another. Will he get more game time at Juve or BVB?
Verdict: Christensen’s face does not fit at Stamford Bridge under Sarri. This does not mean, however, he is guaranteed to jump at the chance to join this pair of suitors. The money Chelsea are demanding could also prove problematic.
Ratings: 4/10
