Seconds out! It’s round two of ‘The Transfer Lens’, and today Saikat and I tackle three transfer stories doing the rounds on the world stage.
There has been little real movement so far this January transfer window, but its sure to start heating up in the coming weeks.
1. Jackson Martinez to Arsenal
The cutthroat Colombian has been linked with a January move to the Premier League these last few months, having scored 49 goals from 69 games since his move to Porto in 2012.
Chelsea were rumoured to be front-runners for the 27-year-old’s signature, but now Arsenal appear to be in pole position, after Martinez expressed his desire to turn out for Arsene Wenger’s side,
‘I cheered for Arsenal when I was a kid – I love their style of play,’ said Martinez to reporters (via the Metro),
‘It’s flowing and open with a lot of first touch passes. It would be suitable for a player like me. If I get a chance to play for a high level club like Arsenal I wouldn’t hesitate to accept it.’
Tom’s Verdict: With Arsenal in dire need of a striker, Martinez could be the perfect signing for the Gunners. Fast, direct and with a lethal finish; if Porto are given a good enough offer, it seems the Colombian would jump on the first plane to London.
2. Wayne Rooney to Chelsea
The Rooney saga rumbles on into January, with the England striker still seemingly unwilling to sit down and discuss the possibility of a contract extension at Old Trafford.
Chelsea have been hot on his heels for some time, and could be playing a waiting game with their fierce rivals concerning the 27-year-old.
With Rooney’s contract set to expire at the end of next season, and there is growing concern that he will look to leave at the end of the current campaign if United do not qualify for the Champions League.
Asked if the club felt that this was the case with their star striker, David Moyes told reporters, “Well, we would have to wait and see what [would] happen if that situation arose.”
Tom’s Verdict: January is out of the question, and United will fight tooth and nail to keep Rooney in Manchester in the summer.
The striker could be the missing piece of the Chelsea jigsaw, and if Mourinho does indeed believe that, they may be willing to apply intense pressure so as to secure their man.
3. Armando Anastasio to Liverpool
According to Italian website tuttomercatoweb.com, Liverpool are preparing a move for Napoli youngster, Armando Anastasio.
The 17-year-old right-back has impressed in the youth ranks, but is yet to sign professional terms with the Serie A side.
Brendan Rodgers is an expert at scouting young talent, and is looking to build an exciting team for the future. He reportedly faces competition from QPR.
Saikat’s Verdict: He is a highly talented young prospect, but I’m not sure if he is ready for first team action.
Frankly, Liverpool cannot afford to think anything else apart from bolstering the current squad. The youngster may be a versatile defender but won’t add any value at the moment to Brendan Rodgers’ first team.
What do you think? Do you agree with us? Will Rooney leave Old Trafford? Let us know in the comments below…
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