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Transfer predictor: Kalidou Koulibaly to Chelsea scores a 6, Aleksandr Golovin’s switch to Monaco gets a 7

Sport360 staff

12:10 17/07/2018

The transfer window is well and truly open.

With the rumours growing in pace and volume during this ‘silly season’, it can be difficult and painstaking to separate the stories of some legitimacy from the rest of the white noise.

Fortunately, we’ve taken it upon ourselves to do it for you.

Below, you’ll find some of the latest transfer news churned out of the rumour mill broken down and analysed for your benefit along with our calculated predictions.

KALIDOU KOULIBALY – NAPOLI TO CHELSEA

Chelsea are still monitoring the Napoli defender and could pounce for their long-term target this month, according to the Mirror.

Why it will happen: The Blues view the 27-year-old powerhouse as a like-for-like replacement for the ageing Gary Cahill. And the Senegalese defender would be a serious addition to Maurizio Sarri’s side.

Why it won’t happen: Chelsea may feel the £80million price-tag is too much for a defender who is untested in the Premier League.

Prediction: Although Koulibaly has established himself as a world class defender, it remains to be seen whether Chelsea would be willing to fork out – including add-ons – close to £100m.

Rating – 6/10

ALEKSANDR GOLOVIN – CSKA MOSCOW TO MONACO

Monaco have made an offer to sign the CSKA Moscow star, according to the Express.

Why it will happen: A move south from Moscow should appeal to Golovin as he looks to make the next step in his promising career and Monaco have a long track record of developing prospects into superstars.

Why it won’t happen: Russian players have rarely moved abroad in recent years. Plus, Monaco could get priced out of the fight if the likes of Arsenal and Chelsea strengthen their interest.

Prediction: If Golovin is serious about leaving Russia, then the French Riviera is the perfect place for him to flourish. Head coach Leonardo Jardim added a further attacking edge to the team last season and his skills would compliment this approach.

Rating – 7/10

FRENKIE DE JONG – AJAX TO BARCELONA

Barcelona will meet with Ajax to discuss a potential deal for their highly-rated midfielder, according to Sport.

Why it will happen: De Jong is being viewed as a long-term target for the Catalan giants in the wake of Antoine Griezmann’s decision to stay at Atletico Madrid. And with the potential to win silverware at the Camp Nou, it looks like a difficult move to turn down for the young Dutchman.

Why it won’t happen: With many frontline players ahead of him, the youngster may opt against a move to Spain due to a potential lack of minutes next season.

Prediction: The 21-year-old is undoubtedly one of the most promising players in the world, but another year at Ajax may help further his development.

Rating – 4/10

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