Preseason is back in full swing and now that the transfer window has officially reopened, July 1 has arrived folks, plenty of business is getting done.
With big names returning to Europe from the Confederations Cup, the tug of war for certain internationals is set to hot up this week.
Which teams will get their man? Only time will tell. But for now, here are today’s rumors.
Edinson Cavani’s representatives have reportedly met with Paris Saint-Germain officials about a move to the French champions. The Uruguayan striker is on his way out of Napoli after courting interest from Real Madrid, Chelsea and Manchester City, and Cavani has voiced his intent to Naples. PSG will have to offer $80 million to met the 25-year-ol strikers get out clause. Having Zlatan up top with Cavani should take European soccer by storm. (Le Parisien)
Chelsea are set to hijack Real Madrid’s bid for AC Milan striker Stephan El Shaarawy. The 20-year-old Italian international could cost up to $47 million but Chelsea have a key bargaining chip in Fernando Torres, who could sweeten the deal. But would losing Torres really be a good thing for Chelsea? The Spaniard looked at home as last season closed out and he began scoring regularly once more. He scored 22 goals in 64 games for Chelsea last term, compared to 12 in his first 67 games. But José Mourinho may want his own man to lead the line and El Shaarawy can play anywhere across the frontline. Can the youngster excel at Chelsea? (Daily Express)
Staying in London, Tottenham Hotspur are set to be busy in the coming weeks as Andre Villas-Boas continue his recruitment drive to crack the top four this season. And Valencia striker and Spanish international Roberto Soldado is wanted by Spurs. Soldado, 28, would cost $25 million and his lethal scoring record would certainly help ease the pressure on Gareth Bale. Soldado has scored 82 goals in three seasons for Valencia. Could he be heading to White Hart Lane? Spurs definitely need a poacher (Daily Star)
Nicholas Anelka could be set to make a shock switch back to the English Premier League. West Bromwich Albion have offered the Frenchman a deal, after Anelka’s stint in China ended abruptly due to various issues. The veteran has played for Arsenal. Liverpool, Chelsea, Manchester City and Bolton in the EPL. Could the Baggies becoming his sixth EPL club? With no transfer fee and a proven goalscoring record, he could do a job. West Brom boss was Anelka’s assistant coach at Chelsea and rates him, and Anelka was recently on a short-term deal at Italian champions Juventus. But can the 34-year-old still hack it in England’s top-flight? (The Sun)
Arouna Kone is moving closer towards the exit door at Wigan, with the Ivorian striker set to leave this week. New Wigan boss Owen Coyle has stated that a “number of offers” have been tabled for Kone. Coyle also revealed that the 29-year-old wants to join former boss Roberto Martinez at Everton. Kone provides pace, directness and the ability to finish. He is set to cost the Toffees $8 million, but do Everton really need him? If Martinez gets rid of one or two strikers, the Ivorian could have a leading role to play this season. (BBC Sport)