While the summer transfer window does not officially open until July 1st, we have already seen many exciting deals discussed and agreed.
Make no mistake; however, the clamour for new players will begin in earnest next month, particularly in England as clubs look to spend their share of an eye-popping television deal in excess of £5 billion.
With the rumour mill already in overdrive, we’re taking a look at some of the hottest potential deals and assess their likelihood of going ahead: –
1. Romelu Lukaku, Everton to Chelsea
While nothing is certain in the ever-changing world of football, this deal seems to be as good as done.
Everton’s coveted Belgian forward Rommel Lukaku has refused to sign a new deal with the Toffees and expressed a desire to play Champions League football. Similarly, the Blues look set to sell last seasons’ top scorer Diego Costa, after a public falling out between the Spanish forward and his manager Antonio Conte.
These facts make for a compelling case, so long as both parties can agree a fee (Everton are thought to want around £70 million for the Belgian). We therefore recommend that you watch this space, as the deal could go through early in July.
Likelihood Rating: 8/10
2. Cristiano Ronaldo, Real Madrid to Manchester United
This rumour has exploded out of nowhere recently, with the Portuguese forward having apparently categorised himself as being ‘ the victim of persecution’ after Spanish authorities accused him of defrauding them out of tax revenue.
Many papers have suggested that he is now committed to leaving Madrid, although both Los Blancos and any potential suitors have yet to make any form of definitive statement.
While the silence may be deafening, however, former club Manchester United have already being linked with the prolific Portuguese forward who first made his name at Old Trafford. In fact, some reports have claimed that Ronaldo has instructed his agent Jorge Mendes to make the deal happen, with a transfer fee in the region of £150 having been discussed between the parties.
Despite Ronaldo’s brilliance and record-breaking ability in front of goal, however, a fee in excess of £100 million seems a little costly for a player who is over 30.
Not only this, but United manager Jose Mourinho seems uncertain about Ronaldo’s longevity, casting huge doubts that we will make a large transfer news. Put simply, you have a better chance of winning the jackpot playing online video slots at Royal Vegas than of this transfer going ahead. Don’t bet on it happening.
Likelihood Rating: 1/10
3. Sandro Ramirez, Malaga to Everton
Finally we come to Everton, who despite the prospect of losing Lukaku are continuing to spend big in the summer window.
Most recently, they are thought to have triggered the £5.2 million release clause of Malaga’s 21-year old strike Sandro Ramirez. The former Barcelona prodigy scored 14 goals and laid on three assists in 30 appearances last season, while his competitive price has encouraged the Toffees to identify him as a potential bargain buy.
If the release cause has been triggered, the deal is likely to go ahead as the forward (known commonly as Sandro) is thought to be keen on a move to the Premier League. He would also have European football to look forward to, with Everton ready and eager to compete in the Europa League.
Likelihood Rating: 9/10