Zhirkov Exit Imminent
According to media reports from Russia, Chelsea left-back Yuri Zhirkov is set to depart the side for Russian club Anzhi Makhachkala for a reported fee of about 13 million pounds.
THT Verdict: Yuri Zhirkov hasn’t been able to extablish himself in the Chelsea first team ever since joining the club in 2009, because of injuries and the presence of Ashley Cole/Florent Malouda on the left flank. Now, in Bertrand and Aanholt, the club have two left-backs ready, if not for the first team then surely for serving as Cole’s backup. Chelsea may consider selling the Russian for 15m, allowing Zhirkov to play regular first team football which is essential for his career with the Russia NT.
Sneijder Refuses to Rule Out United Move
Reports coming from Manchester claim that a move for Inter Milan midfielder Wesley Sneijder is still on the cards.
THT Verdict: This is turning into yet another saga in this transfer window. While Sir Alex has recently termed Sneijder story has ‘nonsense’, this statement by the player has once again increased the speculation. Also, the recent good performance by Cleverley against Barcelona has given Fergie something to think about as the manager has claimed that Tom has a good chance of starting the season. Therefore, although it would be a more than welcome addition to the Untied midfield if the demands of the player match with that given by the club, Sir Alex could wait for a couple of games in the season to go by before deciding to make his final move.
Chelsea To Return for Modric
According to the Mirror, Chelsea will return for a third time for Tottenham playmaker Luka Modric. The Lilywhites have previously rejected two bids for the player.
THT Verdict: Chelsea should refrain from paying anything over 30m for the Croatian. If the bid is accepted, he would be a welcome, creative addition to the Chelsea midfield; if not, then Chelsea have a talented, young midfielder – Joshua McEachran – who is ready to serve the first team in a similar capacity.
Roma Eye Chamakh?
As per the media, Italian club Roma is looking to bid for Arsenal’s Moroccan striker Marouane Chamakh.
THT Verdict: Not Happening. The Moroccan International is absolutely in Arsene’s plan this season, the arrival of Gervinho doesn’t mean anything to Chamakh’s position in the team. He will mostly play as a striker down the middle while Gervinho will operate in the flanks as seen in Pre-season. In a traditional 4-4-2, whenever employed, it’s Chamakh who is going to partner Van Persie.
Villa-Boas Rules Out Sturridge Sale
New Chelsea boss has refused to sell striker Daniel Sturridge to Bolton next season.
THT Verdict: It’s unlikely that Daniel Sturridge will go out on loan, as the manager reckons him to be ready to play for Chelsea, if not start all games, then in some capacity. The ex-Man City forward can play down the center or on the right side of the three-pronged attack. Also, with the club yet to buy any kind of wide player whatsoever, he is one of the few who can start from that position.
Juventus Set Sights on Chelsea Defender
Juventus are reportedly looking to make a move for Chelsea defender Alex.
THT Verdict: It’s unlikely that Juventus is going to splash cash on one center-back who doesn’t have prior experience in Serie A. Alex’s non-EU citizenship will be another road block in the deal. Chelsea will not think about selling him as long as a Serbian defender Rajkovic gets his work permit. Juventus is more likely to go for a player like Diego Lugano than Alex.
Arsenal Demand 15 million for Bendtner
According to the mirror, Arsenal have slapped a price of 15 million pounds on Nikolas Bendtner.
THT Verdict: The massive earnings of Nicolas Bendtner at Arsenal – 52K a week, means clubs need to match that or even higher to acquire the services of the Great Dane! The 15 Million price tag, if reports are to be believed, is a bit too much of Nicolas, who has hardly set the stage on fire at Arsenal. But, then, the Dane didn’t get to play in his favored position through the middle. Arsenal needs to sell if they want to buy new players, there can be a possible ‘compromise’ in this particular situation.