Struggling to pick out the facts from the figures? Reality from the rubbish? Sense from the silly season? We’ve got you sorted in our daily dose of the Transfer Predictor, where we round up the latest rumours with an analytical spin.
We sort through the most eye-catching transfer reports of the past 24 hours and give a balanced judgment on whether the move really will happen – and why.
Today’s edition features potential signings for Barcelona, Manchester United and Chelsea.
JUNIOR FIRPO
RUMOUR: Real Betis -> €30 million -> Barcelona
Barcelona are plotting a summer bid for Real Betis left-back Junior Firpo, according to Sport.
WHY IT WILL HAPPEN: The La Liga champions are searching for a full-back to compete with Jordi Alba and see the 22-year-old as the ideal signing, having impressed for Betis all season. With Alba just turned 30, boss Ernesto Valverde could develop Firpo into Barcelona’s first choice left-back for years to come.
WHY IT WON’T HAPPEN: Firpo previously told Marca that a switch to Real Madrid – who are strongly linked to sign him – would be a more attractive option because his father hails from the Spanish capital.
PREDICTION: 5/10
THOMAS MEUNIER
RUMOUR: PSG -> £22 million -> Manchester United
Manchester United are set to sign PSG defender Thomas Meunier, according to Belgian publication DH.
WHY IT WILL HAPPEN: Red Devils boss Ole Gunnar Solskajer is keen to strengthen his options at full-back given Antonio Valencia’s departure last season, while Ashley Young is closing in on a move to the MLS this summer. PSG are also said to be keen for any transfer to be completed quickly for the out-of-favour Belgian.
WHY IT WON’T HAPPEN: Arsenal boss Unai Emery had earmarked Meunier as a primary target and had reportedly been in personal contact with the player for several months. Meunier is believed to be keen on a switch to North London as he knows Emery well from his time at PSG.
PREDICTION: 7/10
PHILIPPE COUTINHO
RUMOUR: Barcelona -> £132m -> Chelsea
Chelsea are eyeing a move for Philippe Coutinho as a replacement for Real Madrid-bound winger Eden Hazard, Gianluca Di Marzio claims.
WHY IT WILL HAPPEN: The 26-year-old has failed to produce the magical form he showed at Liverpool in a Barcelona jersey and could be lured away from Camp Nou by a return to the Premier League. Perhaps a move back to England could help restore his confidence and help rediscover his midahs touch.
WHY IT WON’T HAPPEN: The Blues are currently barred from signing any players this summer and may be forced to back away from a potential deal for Coutinho. The £132m price tag may deter the Stamford Bridge hierarchy, given Coutinho’s poor form over the last 18 months.
PREDICTION: 3/10
