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Transfer predictor as Alvaro Morata to Atletico Madrid gets a 9 but Tanguy Ndombele to Juventus is a 4

David Cooper

11:30 21/01/2019

More than halfway through January, the winter transfer window has remained unusually quiet, with there being more speculation than action at this point over various proposed moves.

The rumour mill remains in overdrive, however, with news of potential deals flying thick and fast.

We’re running the rule over four of the latest transfer rumours doing the rounds, with our analysis and predictions below.

ALVARO MORATA – From Chelsea to Atletico Madrid

Chelsea’s out-of-favour forward Alvaro Morata is set to move to Real Madrid’s cross-town rivals Atletico Madrid, according to Marca.

Why it will happen: Alvaro Morata has simply not clicked in the Premier League and Gonzalo Higuain is touted to take his place at Stamford Bridge. Atletico Madrid need a striker, given Diego Costa has been extremely inconsistent this season, scoring just once in La Liga.

Why it won’t happen: This seems like a done deal, but there can always be complications in the form of competition from another club. But with Sevilla pulling out of a potential move, it’s likely that Morata will be sporting an Atletico shirt by the end of the month.

Prediction: The Spaniard knows the league and has performed well during his time at Madrid. Atletico know what they are doing and Chelsea are ready with a replacement too. This deal can prove to be a nice move for all parties involved.

Rating – 9/10

PHILIPPE COUTINHO – From Barcelona to Chelsea

Philippe Coutinho has never really settled into life at Barcelona and several clubs have decided to capitalise on this failed marriage. Daily Express reports that Chelsea have made contact with Barcelona over a £100 million transfer for the Brazilian.

Why it will happen: Coutinho has played in and dominated the Premier League but has failed to find his feet in Spain. Chelsea could use his versatility after Cesc Fabregas’s departure and Willian hitting a run of poor form. The former Liverpool man can be a great multi-utility player.

Why it won’t happen: Barcelona will surely be more patient with the player. Even if they decide to sell the 26-year-old, the price will be at least close to how much they bought him for. It’s unlikely that any club will match the nine figure bid.

Prediction: Ousmane Dembele is sidelined with an ankle injury and the Brazilian has a good chance to remind the world of his capabilities. Coutinho can be a good fit at Stamford Bridge, but expect him to stay at Barcelona and fight for his spot.

Rating – 3/10

Tanguy Ndombele – From Lyon to Juventus

Juventus are pushing for a move for highly-rated Lyon midfielder Ndombele, according to Gianluca Di Marzio.

Why it will happen: It would be hard for any player to reject a move that would see them share the field with Cristiano Ronaldo. Juventus can lure Ndombele with the prospect of winning trophies and a place in the starting line-up soon.

Why it won’t happen: Lyon are in the last-16 of the Champions League themselves and it’s extremely unlikely they will let one of their best players leave mid-season. Since Ndombele is cup-tied, Juventus may opt against signing him.

Prediction: Manchester City are also after the 19-year-old and they could enter into a bidding war with the Italian giants. In any case, the transfer will probably happen in the summer and Lyon should be able to survive the winter window without losing one of their hottest properties.

Rating – 4/10

BERNARDO SILVA – From Manchester City to Real Madrid

Of course, there has to be a player linked to Madrid every other day, given their poor season is begging to be rescued by a world class star. Bernardo Silva is the latest player to be linked with the Spanish giants, Mirror reports.

Why it will happen: Madrid can lure Silva with a direct entry to their starting line-up as they have been struggling on the left side in recent months. Gareth Bale is often out injured and then poor when fit, therefore a replacement is needed.

Why it won’t happen: Silva is a crucial part of City’s squad and Pep Guardiola clearly has the Portuguese in his long-term plan. The 24-year-old is seen as the heir to his namesake David Silva and the Premier League champions will do anything to keep him.

Prediction: The only thing that can come out of this reported rumour is a new contract for Silva. It’s unlikely he will leave City anytime soon and the former Monaco man could use this interest for a fresh contract.

Rating – 3/10

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