Between now and August 31st, expect to hear an incredible amount of noise regarding speculative transfers, rumors spun by players’ agents and utter nonsense from tabloids trying to sell papers. It's the summer transfer window!
It’s the best of times, it’s the worst of times. Primarily, it’s the absolute worst. Especially if, like me, you’re a supporter of Newcastle United and seemingly about to lose every player in your squad.
We’re here to help you sort out fact from fiction, to report the latest sneaking suspicions and report on any recent done deals. Join us in our transfer war room as we break down the latest wild speculation from the summer transfer window and recap the completed deals.
The Latest Transfer News, Rumors and Nonsense
Gonzalo Higuain to Arsenal
Arsenal supporters have been calling for a superior option to Olivier Giroud ever since June 26th, 2012, the day the Frenchman signed for the club.
He’s consistently scored goals for the Gunners, but he’s yet to convince fans that he can lead Arsenal to a Premier League title. Enter Napoli’s Gonzalo Higuain.
Arsenal are reportedly keen to offer £42m and Oliver Giroud for the Argentine striker. Napoli signed Higuain for €40 million in 2013 but they now value him at over €80 million.
Julian Draxler to Arsenal
Photo: @ccooperuk | Twitter
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has been a long time admirer of German international Julian Draxler. The Wolfsburg player enjoyed a fine Euro 2016, inevitably pushing his price tag up that much further.
However, Wolfsburg are reportedly interested in selling the player for an inflated fee and Arsenal might just be willing.
Cesc Fabregas to Manchester United
Many once believed that Cesc Fabregas was the snake within the Chelsea squad who’d rather lose under Jose Mourinho.
Chelsea are targeting midfield reinforcements themselves this summer, allowing Cesc Fabregas to leave for a discounted price.
Whether or not Fabregas is part of Mourinho’s Manchester United plans remains to be seen, although this rumor makes almost no sense.
N’Golo Kante to Chelsea
Photo: @FootyyWorld | Twitter
Leicester have no desire to sell their defensive midfield engine, and they’ve reportedly offered N’Golo Kante an improved contract to convince him to stay.
That hasn’t stopped the sharks from circling. Chelsea are confident they can lure the Frenchman to London with a £30 million bid and a chance to play under Antonio Conte.
Andre Gomes to Real Madrid
22-year-old Andre Gomes was a standout performer for Portugal during their victorious Euro 2016 campaign. His performances for the national team have seen Valencia stick a €65 million price tag on him.
A heavy price like that has never deterred Real Madrid. Zinedine Zidane is looking to add more quality and cover to his midfield, and Gomes fits the bill.
Done & Dusted:
Lucas Digne | PSG to Barcelona for €16.5 million
Martin Skrtel | Liverpool to Fenerbahce for €6 million
Jordon Ibe | Liverpool to Bournemouth for €18 million
Miralem Pjanic | AS Roma to Juventus for €32 million
Vincent Janssen | AZ Alkmaar to Tottenham Hotspur for €20 million
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