Transfer Rumors (24 Dec 08): Pennant too greedy for Real, Alonso in Arsenal link again, and more

Unfortunately for many football fans young and old alike, and for that matter, many a manager as well, jolly old Saint Nick doesn’t grant transfer wishes, though that copy of Football Manager 09 and that Ronaldo replica kit will do for many of you, I’d imagine.

However, I’d venture a guess and say that many a post office box (and e-mail inbox) has been filled by letters from far and wide from those asking for their club to buy Kaka, Gianluigi Buffon, and David Villa in January. One letter is enough, Mark H. from Manchester.

With that said, whose January wishes are in the news today? There’s unattainable, unreasonable, and then there’s, well, keep reading…

Real Madrid Comes A-Calling for Pennant

Jermaine Pennant and Real Madrid in the same sentence? On the same page, even? I’m kidding, right? Well, judge for yourselves.

Analysis: There are no words. None, none at all.

Real Madrid Work on Young Deal

While you’re likely still having a laugh about Jermaine Pennant’s link with Real Madrid, the only person laughing at their pursuit of Aston Villa’s Ashley Young might be Martin O’Neill, who may be reluctant to let go of one of his prized assets unless it’s for the right price, or a shiny new Van der Vaart.

Analysis: I’ve always wanted to see Van der Vaart in the Premier League, but it could be a risk that O’Neill doesn’t want to make, given that he’s had some injury issues this season.

Alonso to Arsenal…Again

Yes, we know this one is likely not going to happen, but hey, how about we revive that Xabi Alonso to Arsenal gossip again?

Analysis: Doesn’t sound as crazy as Pennant to Madrid, but you can file it away in the ‘highly unlikely’ bin.

Tottenham Fail in Bellamy Bid

Tottenham are looking for a new striker in January. Craig Bellamy is available. Maybe it’s a match made in heaven, if Spurs can come up from their initial offer of 6m.

Analysis: Well that means that the folks at White Hart Lane don’t read Soccerlens, do they?

Portsmouth Eye St. Etienne’s Matuidi to Replace Diarra

Portsmouth are busy shopping around for a replacement for Lassana Diarra, and the latest name on their list is St. Etienne midfielder and France U-21 international Blaise Matuidi.

Analysis: A former Arsenal man following the Arsenal way, no? Unsurprisingly, he’s an Arsenal target as well.

Hoffenheim’s Ibisevic in Inter Link

It’s always great to see a new name rise to prominence, and that’s been the case with Bundesliga leaders Hoffenheim, who have Bosnian forward Vedad Ibisevic to thank for their hot start. And as a result, Ibisevic is being linked with a move to Inter.

Analysis: It’s going to be very interesting to see how many offers come in for Ibisevic in the summer.

I’ll be taking tomorrow off, but I’m sure many of you will be busy unwrapping presents, eating lots of food, and having a grand old time. But, I’ll be back on Friday to give you all the latest transfer news and rumors.

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