No Deal In Place For Lavezzi
Napoli star Ezequiel Lavezzi’s agent, Alejandro Mazzoni, has told Radio Kiss Kiss: “I can say there has been no official offer from Inter for Lavezzi. I don’t know if the clubs have spoken, but there is nothing concrete. If the clubs were to reach an agreement then maybe something could happen.”
The Luka Modric Enigma
Harry Redknapp is pleading ignorance over the Luka Modric saga and saying it’s all up to chairman Daniel Levy.“I don’t know where it’s at and Daniel has said all along that he is not going to sell Luka so that is probably it as far as I know. There is no sign of him going. If he doesn’t go it’s an area we need to strengthen and we have one or two irons in the fire.” – Redknapp.
“We are trying [to get players in]. We have some names and we are trying to get one or two in. We need to do a little bit of business.”
Inter Milan Still In Striker Hunt
Inter president Massimo Moratti on the search for a new striker: “Will Manchester City’s Tevez come in? I don’t think we will get him. Diego Forlan? Ezequiel Lavezzi? These are the names on which we are working – we are watching, exploring. We’ll see. Giuseppe Rossi of Villarreal? We never thought of him. We’re looking for a player with different characteristics.”
Santa-Cruz Seeks City Exit
According to media reports, Manchester City striker Roque Santa Cruz is looking to leave the club after finding himself on the bench way too often. Leeds United are reportedly in the running for his signature.
THT Verdict: Santa-Cruz’ exit is likely. However, for a striker of his quality, there are bound to be a number of interested sides coming through soon. Also, Manchester City would seek the best possible deal for the player in terms of monetary returns. And if a Premier League club comes knocking, Leeds stand a bleak chance of bagging the player.
Chelsea In For Mata, First Bid Rejected
The Blues have finally shown intent in the transfer window and are ready to prove that they are aiming high again. The Dailymail is reporting that Chelsea have had an initial bid of 22 million pound bid turned down by Valencia for Juan Mata.
THT Verdict: Likely. For the formation that Chelsea prefer to deploy, quality wide players are a mandatory requirement. Villas-Boas isn’t really spoilt for choices in this department. Mata is a wonderful player, and would be a perfect addition at Chelsea. He can play out-wide or through the center, and is at the perfect age (23). Valencia will most likely sell him for 26m pounds, and if reports are to be believed, Chelsea already have had a 21m bid rejected, and are expected to increase it by 5m.