Coral’s Rumour Reel: Stoke battle Middlesbrough for Given signing
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Veteran Aston Villa goalkeeper Shay Given has become a reported target for Stoke City, despite looking seemingly close to joining North East side Middlesbrough. The Potters are hoping to add a new stopper to their squad, as Asmir Begovic prepares to depart and the Republic of Ireland stopper is seen as a suitable replacement (13/5 with Coral for Ireland to qualify for Euro 2016).
From a possible Villans departure to a recent incomer, and Micah Richards believes his new club should sign QPR striker Charlie Austin, after completing his switch to Villa Park.
Former Villa centre back Ron Vlaar could make a switch to Southampton, following his recent contract with the Villans expiring. The Netherlands defender could link up with fellow Dutchman Ronald Koeman at St Mary’s Stadium on the south coast.
Elsewhere, Manchester United frontman Robin van Persie is reportedly close to agreeing a move to Turkish club Fenerbahce, following in the footsteps of former teammate Nani, who recent completed such a switch.
Long-serving Real Madrid shot stopper Iker Casillas is set to be unveiled as a Porto on Friday, following an agreement between the two clubs. The veteran Spaniard has been at the Bernabeu for over 15 years but his departure could pave the way for Red Devils goal guard David de Gea to arrive.
Although, Louis van Gaal could soon see new acquisitions at Old Trafford, with Italy international defender Matteo Darmian edging closer to a move, while Southampton midfielder Morgan Schneiderlin could be snapped up before the club’s pre-season tour begins on Monday.
Another departure from Old Trafford, though, could be Northern Ireland international skipper Jonny Evans, but former Baggies player Daryl Burgess has stated that his former side should avoid spending £10m on the United centre back.
Premier League newcomers Bournemouth are closing in on the £6m capturing of St-Etienne winger Max Gradel, with the former Leeds United and Leicester City attacker reportedly open to a move back to England.
Finally, former Arsenal forward Carlos Vela has turned down an offer to join West Ham United, with the 26-year-old’s £21.4m buy-out clause not putting the Hammers off. Although, the Real Sociedad striker is reportedly unwilling to make a return to the Premier League with Slaven Bilic’s men, who are 20/1 to finish in the top six next term.
