Coral’s Premier League transfer window round-up
Forget the 4th of July celebrations, the 1st of this calendar month is when all the action kicks off for football fans.
To celebrate the official opening of the transfer window, Coral guide you through the rumours that are hitting the headlines and attracting our attention.
Liverpool – Dejan Lovren
Returning from World Cup disappointment with Croatia, Lovren could join the Southampton exodus, following teammates Rickie Lambert and Adam Lallana to Anfield.
An excellent campaign saw stars emerge from St Mary’s, but, following reported financial difficulties and the departure of manager Mauricio Pochettino, the centre back may see this summer as an ideal time to make a move.
Hot or cold? Hot. Brendan Rodgers proved his side have incredible attacking potential in their last campaign, and has already added further options up front, but the Reds’ defence still looks shaky. Lovren would be an instant upgrade to Liverpool’s current centre back options, and make a perfect partner for Mamadou Sakho or Martin Skrtel.
Manchester United – Wesley Sneijder
Netherlands last 16 goal-hero Sneijder is currently plying his trade at Galatasaray, but has recently admitted he would be keen to link up with Clockwork Orange coach Louis van Gaal at Old Trafford. It was a shock when the former Inter Milan midfielder transferred to the Turkish champions, and it would surely suit Sneijder to return to the spotlight with an elite European team.
Hot or cold? Cold. The Red Devils are well-stocked with attacking midfielders and, after signing Ander Herrera, they should be looking at securing another box-to-box or defensive option. Sneijder reportedly had his chance to make the switch in 2011, but, having been in poor form before Brazil, represents too much of a risk.
Tottenham – Romelu Lukaku
Belgium star Lukaku is reportedly bemused at his lack of first team action at Chelsea, with only 10 Premier League appearances for the Blues in three seasons. The west London club look set to splash the cash on Diego Costa, and have been consistently linked with Europe’s elite strikers.
Hot or cold? Warm. Spurs are keen to add a proven poacher to their ranks, and Lukaku would be a fantastic fit. There is the bitter city rivalry with Chelsea to consider, but, after flogging Juan Mata to Manchester United, bullish Blues boss Jose Mourinho has shown he is not afraid to sell locally if the price is right.
Tottenham – Esteban Cambiasso
Spurs have been linked with a surprise move for defensive midfielder Cambiasso, a free agent this summer after ten years at Italian giants Inter Milan. The 33-year-old has previously played alongside current Spurs manager Mauricio Pochettino for Argentina, and may be keen to link up with his compatriot again.
Hot or cold? Hot. For free, the former Real Madrid reject represents quite the bargain, even if only able to contribute for a couple more seasons. His positional sense, experience and determination could serve Spurs well, but may spell trouble for the immediate futures of Sandro and Etienne Capoue.
Arsenal – Mauricio Isla
A versatile right back, Isla has not been a regular starter in Antonio Conte’s title-winning Juventus team this term, and may feel the time has come to seek pastures new, with several Premier League clubs linked with a swoop for the South American star.
Hot or Cold? Warm. After an impressive World Cup campaign for Chile, there will surely be plenty of suitors for Isla’s services. Arsenal have yet to splash the cash on defensive positions, but, after losing Bacary Sagna on a free transfer to rivals Manchester City, they will need to add real quality if they are to retain their Champions League place.
