Analysing the Transfer Gossip – 28th July Part One

As we move in to the off-season an unprecedented amount of managerial movement around Europe will surely see an already frantic transfer market go in to overdrive. This will give plenty of opportunities for transfer rumour and gossip. So how much of it is realistic?

Part Two is here Part Three is here

Tottenham have rejected a bid of what would be a world record £81m for Bale, with Real preparing another offer for £85m

Gareth Bale

Full story: Sunday Mirror

What’s the story? Wow. This is something that had gone completely cold but is now the red hot story in the world. It does seem to be true, with various outlets from both countries reporting it with exactly these figures.Does it make sense? There will be people who say Bale isn’t worth this much, or that Spurs should sell him and sign four players but I disagree with both points. Yes, Bale isn’t Ronaldo, and Ronaldo cost less, but players are only worth what someone will pay for them. After Messi and Ronaldo, Bale is the most desirable player on the market. He’s only just turned 24 and scored 31 goals last year which is more than most strikers. Who wouldn’t want that? The problem for Spurs, is that selling him so late in the window means they have far fewer options to go after. They could potentially go after a center back or Eriksen and maybe sure the squad up to push for the top four, but selling Bale means losing their ace.Is the price right? Compared to other transfers made this summer, Bale is worth £60m+ in pure terms. However, Spurs don’t want to sell and are relentlessly tough negotiators which increases the price. It is ‘too much’ as such but the idea of Bale and Ronaldo in the same team is incredibly exciting and maybe Champions League winning.Will it happen? 7/10 – This has quickly gotten to the point where it looks more likely than not.

Manchester United striker Javier Hernandez, 25, is a transfer target for Spanish side Valencia.

Javier Hernandez

Full story: Sunday People

What’s the story? With the sale of Soldado to Spurs seemingly imminent Valencia will need a replacement and Hernandez could be at a point in his career where he wants to be the main man.Does it make sense? It’s not a bad idea. Hernandez is ‘only’ a poacher which means that he’s not going to be a talisman in a Champions League push for United, but, he’s capable of getting Valencia 20 goals which is exactly what they need him for.Is the price right? He’s possibly worth £12-14m given that he’s not really proven as a long term starter rather than as an impact player which he is certainly good at. Valencia could afford that if they get £26m for Soldado.Will it happen? 4/10 – It could do, but it will depend what happens with Rooney.

Fabregas has agreed to join Manchester United following a secret meeting between the Barcelona star’s agent Darren Dein and Old Trafford executive chief executive Ed Woodward.

Cesc Fabregas

Full story: Sunday Express

What’s the story? Has he really? Despite saying multiple times that he doesn’t want to go anywhere and having forced his way out of Arsenal to join that club he supports and adores. Despite saying he wouldn’t play for any English club other than Arsenal?Does it make sense? No.Is the price right? If Barcelona sell, what are they planning on doing when Xavi retires, which could be next summer if Spain win the World Cup? There’s no reason to let him go.Will it happen? 2/10 – I can’t see how it possibly can.

Swansea City manager Michael Laudrup wants to bring in another striker before the start of the season despite bolstering his attacking options with the £12m record signing of 24-year-old Wilfried Bony.

Michael Laudrup on the lookout for another striker

Full story: Skysports.com

What’s the story? Swansea seem to want to have two options for every position and having let Danny Graham leave are possibly a striker light.Does it make sense? Yes. Although Michu or Shelvey could operate as a false nine it’s a good idea to bring in a player who is a specialist striker.Is the price right? It’ll depend who they line up. Swansea have spent over £20m now so there won’t be much left in the pot.Will it happen? 9/10 – They’ve been hoovering up players so why not one more.

Newcastle director of football Joe Kinnear has inquired about Sunderland’s 28-year-old defender Phil Bardsley.

Phil Bardsley

Full story: Sunday Express

What’s the story? Blimey. Newcastle looking in to their rivals’ dustbin?Does it make sense? Maybe. They’ve lost Danny Simpson so could do with another right back in the squad.Is the price right? Di Canio wants Bardsley out of the club so would probably take £1m.Will it happen? 6/10 – It’d fill a need for both clubs but it’s not a path often trodden.