It looks like Louis van Gaal is about to get real serious with this transfer window…
With David de Gea looking increasingly likely to finally get his move to Real Madrid, and having seen his audacious bid for Sergio Ramos fall through, the Manchester United boss seems determined to continue his policy of antagonising the Spanish giants with attempts to sign some of their biggest stars.
This time we have circled back to the rumour that began the summer, a world record move for Welsh wizard Gareth Bale. Bale always seemed the most gettable of Real’s galacticos after a disappointing season at the Bernabeu, but Madrid will almost certainly demand every penny of the the £86million fee they paid for Bale two summers ago. (Express)
Bale would be a superb replacement for the PSG-bound Angel di Maria, but that doesn’t mean Van Gaal would give up his efforts to add fellow European Cup winner Pedro, who looks set to arrive at Old Trafford once the club meets his £22million release clause at Barcelona.
Tottenham have been uncharacteristically quiet this summer, but with forward flop Roberto Soldado finally on the way out – to Villarreal for less than half the £26million Spurs paid two years ago – the way should finally be open for Saido Berahino to complete his £20million switch from West Brom, unless Newcastle can swoop in first. (Mail/Express)
Leicester City boss Claudio Ranieri is putting his international contacts to good use – the Tinkerman is close to a £10.5million deal for Chile midfielder Charles Aranguiz, having already agreed to sign Swiss international Gokhan Inler from Napoli for £3m. (Sky Sports)
For a guy who couldn’t get out of Newcastle fast enough, Alan Pardew sure is keen on some of his former players. The Crystal Palace boss has been linked with a move for Toon defender Fabricio Coloccini. (Mail)
Palace are also chasing Spain forward Fernando Llorente. The 30-year-old striker is surplus to requirements at Juventus but can surely do better than Palace or rivals Stoke. (Tuttosport)
