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.
BRAIS MENDEZ
Celta Vigo -> €25m -> Bayern Munich
Bayern Munich are keen on signing Brais Mendez from Celta Vigo as an alternative to Leroy Sane, according to kicker.
Why it will happen: Bayern only have two out-and-out wingers in their first team squad this season in Serge Gnabry and Kingsley Coman. Following the departures of Franck Ribery and Arjen Robben, they’re desperate for reinforcements in that department. Mendez would be an able and affordable back-up option, perhaps even a place holder until they can land a superstar in the coming windows.
Why it won’t happen: It feels as if Bayern’s approach for the Spaniard is more a case of them covering their bases rather than a genuine desire to add him to their roster. Mendez has been good for Celta Vigo and is clearly technically gifted but is nowhere near the quality of Sane. With Ajax star Hakim Ziyech in the shop window, surely Bayern opt for him if the German remains at City?
Transfer Predictor: 2/10
MOISE KEAN
Moise Kean
Juventus -> €30m -> Arsenal
Juventus are looking to sell teenage striker Moise Kean with Arsenal interested, according to gianlucadimarzio.com.
Why it will happen: Kean is bound to be fairly low down the pecking order for a spot in Juventus’ front three. However, given the promise he showed last season, playing time is integral to his development and he should be afforded plenty of that at Arsenal who are struggling in their efforts to sign Wilfried Zaha. Kean represents an affordable alternative for the financially limited Gunners and possibly one just as effective. A first refusal clause for Juventus in the deal would play nicely into the hands of the Serie A champions. It’s a win-win.
Why it won’t happen: Everton are reportedly targeting the Italian forward as well and could quite easily place a higher bid than Arsenal. Meanwhile, Kean could also decide to hold out for an offer from a team in the Champions League this season.
Transfer Predictor: 7/10
GIOVANI LO CELSO
Real Betis -> €68m -> Tottenham Hotspur
Tottenham have submitted a €68m offer for Giovani Lo Celso, according to El Transistor.
Why it will happen: Spurs are eager to secure the services of the Argentine perhaps in anticipation of Christian Eriksen’s departure. With Paul Pogba looking increasingly likely to stay at Manchester United, Real Madrid could turn to the Dane instead. Having already added Tanguy Ndombele to their ranks, Lo Celso would ensure they remain well stocked in midfield. Having triggered their option to buy the midfielder from Paris Saint-Germain for just €22m following a successful loan spell last season, Betis stand a chance to make a huge profit.
Why it won’t happen: If Eriksen does a U-turn and decides he would rather remain at Tottenham, the club may retract their interest in Lo Celso. Alternatively, Betis may try to extract more money from Spurs only to see negotiations collapse.
Transfer Predictor: 8/10
