Struggling to pick out the facts from the figures? Reality from the rubbish? Sense from the silly season? We’ve got you sorted in our daily dose of the Transfer Predictor, where we round up the latest rumours with an analytical spin.
We sort through the most eye-catching transfer reports of the past 24 hours and give a balanced judgment on whether the move really will happen – and why.
Today’s edition features potential signings for West Ham, Manchester United and Arsenal.
MAXI GOMEZ
Maxi Gomez
Celta Vigo -> £45 million -> West Ham
West Ham have emerged as frontrunners to sign Celta Vigo hitman Maxi Gomez, according to Superdeporto.
WHY IT WILL HAPPEN
With West Ham frontman Marko Arnautovic closing in on a switch to China, the Hammers are in desperate need of reinforcements up front ahead of the new campaign. Lopez starred for Celta last season, scoring 13 goals and providing five assists, and would be an ideal addition to Manuel Pellegrini’s side.
WHY IT WON’T HAPPEN
Valencia are believed to be interested in the 22-year-old, with Valencia forward Santi Mina set to move in the opposite direction as part of the deal. If Arnautovic opts to stay in London, then Lopez will not move to the England capital to be second-choice striker.
TRANSFER RATING: 5/10
MATTHIJS DE LIGT
Ajax -> Undisclosed -> Manchester United
Man United have received a boost in their hopes of signing Ajax star Matthijs de Ligt, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport.
WHY IT WILL HAPPEN
The Premier League club is a contender only by elimination of more likely destinations like Juventus or Barcelona. That said, bewildering transfers are part of football and a bumper offer from the Red Devils could sway De Ligt’s decision making if an agreement from Ajax is confirmed.
WHY IT WON’T HAPPEN
After signing Adrien Rabiot and Aaron Ramsey on free transfers, one can expect Juventus to prepare an improved offer to the Ajax camp. It appears that the latest developments are more of a roadblock than a dead end. Juventus are still favourites to land the Dutchman.
TRANSFER RATING: 4/10
Lucas Vazquez
Lucas Vazquez
Real Madrid -> €35 million -> Arsenal
Real Madrid winger Lucas Vazquez could be on his way to Arsenal, according to AS.
WHY IT WILL HAPPEN
The 28-year-old has failed to hold down a regular starting place in the Spanish capital, and with the arrivals of Luka Jovic and Rodrygo he is likely to find his playing time restricted next term. A move to Arsenal could be the best option for Vazquez as he seeks regular minutes and a new challenge.
WHY IT WON’T HAPPEN
The Spaniard has proven to be a great utility player and may opt to stay to fight for his starting place at the Bernabeu.
TRANSFER RATING: 6/10