Chelsea Consider Move for Manchester City’s Adam Johnson
The Blues are reportedly looking to sign former Boro winger Adam Johnson. The player was previously a target for Liverpool.
THT Verdict: It’s no secret that the present Chelsea squad lacks width, and Johnson may just be the perfect answer. He is “home-grown”, young, capable enough to play on either wing and very talented. However, even though he has not been a sure-shot starter for Mancini, City will be reluctant to sell a player of his caliber to Chelsea.
Juventus reportedly after Diego Lugano
It is reported that the Old Lady is looking to acquire the services of defender Diego Lugano.
THT Verdict: Possible. Lugano’s coming off an excellent Copa America and just could be the man Juve need in the heart of their defense. The Bianconeri have a lacked a leader in defense and Lugano’s experience and leadership ability could be just what the doctor ordered for the Turin based giants.
Spurs To Move for La Liga Duo?
It is reported that Tottenham Hotspur is going for a double whammy by bidding for Sevilla striker Alvaro Negredo and Barcelona winger Ibrahim Affelay.
THT Verdict: Negredo is no doubt a quality player and was wanted by Spurs and Liverpool earlier last season. However, a move to England failed to materialize. Acquiring Negredo’s services if it happens, is surely a boost for the Lilywhites considering their current strike force seems good on paper but not on the pitch.
Barcelona has been pursuing Cesc relentlessly. In the process if they need to sacrifice an extremely amiable team player in Afellay, the administration will not hesitate. Afellay has been very good given the few chances that came his way. He left his mark in the semi-final clash against Real Madrid where he dragged Marcelo out of position and assisted Leo Messi to break the deadlock, who latter went to score another splendid goal to eliminate Real. Afellay’s loss might not seem to be a big deal, but given his attitude and mentality, the Catalans would surely lose an extremely decent squad player.
Manchester United Starlets on Blackpool Radar
Blackpool are set to ask Manchester United if they can take young midfielders Daniel Drinkwater and Oliver Norwood on loan.
THT Verdict: Danny Drinkwater has already been out on loan for last two seasons, so if he is sent again this year it could probably mean the end of road for him at United given he is already 21. On the other hand, Norwood, who has been often praised by Sir Alex, would definitely gain valuable first team experience under the astute leadership of Ian Holloway.
Palermo To Spark Pastore Bidding War?
With the greens from the Middle East stacking up in PSG’s transfer kitty, the club is on a buying spree and its latest target is Palermo playmaker Javier Pastore. However, with Chelsea also in the running, it is reported that Palermo might just start an auction to see who offers the best money.
THT Verdict: Generally, just before any signing, the names of other clubs are thrown into the picture by the selling club or by the agent just to increase the price. This doesn’t mean that’s the case with Pastore or that he will sign for Chelsea; all this means is the signing may be very close to being announced. Chelsea have for long needed a player such as Pastore. The only thing the Weston club needs to insure is that they don’t pay over the top. A fees of around 30-35m will be good business.
Villa Eye Hutton
According to the Mirror, Aston Villa is plotting a move for Tottenham Hotspur defender Alan Hutton. Hutton has fallen out of favour at White Hart Lane and Villa will be looking to take advantage of this situation.
THT Verdict: Likely. Hutton might just make the move in order to secure more first team football. As of now, it is only Carlos Cuellar who has taken the reins over the right hand side of defense and new manager McLeish would certainly like to provide some cover for the player.
City Turn To Sorensen for Backup
Having seen Shay Given move out of Eastlands, Manchester City are in the hunt for a second choice keeper to support Joe Hart. It is reported that Thomas Sorensen from Stoke City is interesting the Citizens.
THT Verdict: Unlikely. Sorensen has performed quite well for Stoke so far and Pulis won’t be willing to do any business on this front. City will most probably have to look elsewhere for their second keeper.
Stoke Rekindle Cole Interest
After seeing a first attempt turned down because of his wage demands, Stoke City are now prepared to make a fresh move for West Ham striker Carlton Cole.
THT Verdict: Likely. Pulis has stressed on the importance of strengthening his squad before the season and if they are making a second approach for the player, then it pretty much outlines their desire to sign him; provided Cole agrees to the wage demands offered by Stoke.
Mata Not For Sale – Manuel Llorente
Just as rumours about Mata’s transfer were gathering pace, Valencia president Manuel Llorente has moved in to quash any such reports and has announced that the player is not for sale at any price.
‘Valencia will not sell to any club that wants to buy Mata.’– Llorente
Jay E Thomas joins Ipswich
THT Verdict – If Paul Jewell can use Jay intelligently, the latter can turn out to be a big name in a small team. He is perfectly capable of giving match-winning performances on his day. He is a bit laid-back with his work-rate but makes for that with skill and ball control. Arsenal Football Club wishes the London-born JET all the best for his future.