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.
HECTOR BELLERIN
Arsenal -> £50 million -> Atletico Madrid
Atleti want the right-back and are prepared to offer Spain winger Vitolo as part of a deal, according to The Telegraph.
Why it will happen: Bellerin has never played in his native La Liga and may desire a change of scenery. The Barcelona youth product’s searing pace will interest head coach Diego Simeone, especially with veteran Juanfran potentially departing. A sizeable bid may also entice Arsenal, who require funds to finance a squad rebuild. Their boss, Unai Emery, also worked with Vitolo at Sevilla.
Why it won’t happen: Bellerin is still to regain full fitness after a horrific knee injury, meaning a medical might be impossible. The 24-year-old also has four years left to run on his Gunners deal and appears content in north London. Juventus pushed for him last summer and were rebuffed.
Transfer rating: 4/10
EMMANUEL ADEBAYOR
Istanbul Basaksehir -> Free -> West Ham United
Former Arsenal, Manchester City and Tottenham striker Emmanuel Adebayor is attracting widespread interest from the Premier League, according to The Sun.
Why it will happen: The 35-year-old’s enduring prowess in front of goal was exhibited in Turkey, where 23 goals were registered across 53 Super Lig appearances since January 2017. His status as a free agent will also especially appeal to the Hammers, who covet a cut-price replacement for Andy Carroll. Adebayor played for Arsenal and Crystal Palace previously, meaning a new London club will appeal.
Why it won’t happen: Adebayor’s age told in his second full season in Turkey, netting only three times in 19 matches across all competitions and not completing 90 minutes in 2019. He was also abject at Palace in 2015/16, scoring once in 15, forgettable games. These travails, also, have not put off a plethora of clubs. Watford, promoted Sheffield United and Scottish Premiership holders Celtic want him.
Transfer rating: 5/10
MAREK HAMSIK
Dalian Yifang -> Part-exchange -> Roma
Roma are planning a surprise move to bring former Napoli captain Marek Hamsik, now at Chinese Super League side Dalian Yifang, back to Serie A in exchange for Javier Pastore, according to La Repubblica.
Why it will happen: Hamsik has cut a frustrated figure in China since he joined in January. Only one goal has followed in 11 top-flight appearances, some comedown since his record-shattering 12-year stint at Napoli. Dalian may view this bid as an opportunity to add a greater attacking edge to their foreign contingent.
Why it won’t happen: A lucrative three-year contract was only signed by Hamsik six months ago. These wages would impinge any bid by Roma. There is also his enduring loyalty to Napoli to factor in. Plus, Pastore would have to agree to move in the opposite direction and this is anything but guaranteed.
Transfer rating: 2/10
