The transfer window may not open again until January 1, 2018 but that hasn’t put an end to plenty of speculation throughout Europe.
Here, we take a look at three big stories dominating the headlines on Wednesday.
Will any of the following deals happen?
Let us know your thoughts.
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OLIVIER GIROUD
Bayern Munich are preparing to raid Arsenal for Olivier Giroud, Sport Bild report. The Frenchman is seen as a top candidate to offer back-up for main striker Robert Lewandowski.
RATING: 7/10
SPORT360 VERDICT
This story is still in its infancy but certainly makes a lot of sense. Bayern don’t need to sign an elite striker and none in that bracket would want to play second fiddle to Lewandowski either. Giroud on the other hand is among the best of those strikers who are excellent but perhaps not world class, though he’s capable of some truly outrageous goals.
The Frenchman is resigned to a bench role at Arsenal anyway but at least at Bayern he would end up with plenty of silverware at the end of the season and when he does take to the pitch, would have more than enough service to perform and remain in the fray for the national team.
Olivier Giroud
CARLOS SOLER
The Independent claim Manchester United have decided to move for Valencia midfielder Carlos Soler. The 20-year-old has a £72m release clause.
RATING: 5/10
SPORT360 VERDICT:
United have struggled in Paul Pogba’s absence with their central midfield looking flat and lacking innovation. Soler is a special talent and has the creativity and energy to make a difference even at a club as big as United. It’s a little too early though to invest that amount of money in the youngster, who at his age, needs regular football and wouldn’t be guaranteed that at Old Trafford.
Valencia’s midfielder Carlos Soler (L)
MAROUANE FELLAINI
Manchester United want Marouane Fellaini to extend his deal beyond the end of the season – and will not let the midfielder leave this January even if negotiations continue to drag, Press Association Sport understands.
RATING: 6/10
SPORT360 VERDICT
Several United fans have wanted to see the back of Fellaini almost since his arrival. However, over the last few years, many have come to appreciate him for what he offers in terms of effectiveness and the dedication he shows to the team’s cause. That’s also what has endeared him to managers in the Old Trafford dugout.
That’s why it seems unlikely that Jose Mourinho would let the Belgian leave this January even though his contract runs out in the summer, especially given the faith he’s put in him in the past.
Marouane Fellaini