Joining Duffer in Tallaght at Shamrock Rovers?
A hunk of money has already been spent during the current transfer window but, with over a month before it closes, business is far from done.
Following that thread, there will be more big swoops and shock transfers before that window slams shut.
Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal has already hinted at the “surprise” signing of a striker before claiming his comments were misunderstood.
It is interesting, however, to hear Zlatan Ibrahimovic use the same term to describe his next move in the footballing.
After PSG’s 2-0 win over United, in Denver, the Swede said, ‘I have another year contract with PSG… I am very happy. We are a strong team and can do much better.
‘Where I go next will be a surprise.’
Asked about either moving to the MLS or to United, a smiling Ibrahimovic added, ‘A very big surprise.’
The longest the 33-year-old has ever stayed at a club [eight in 16 years] has been three seasons – Ajax, Inter Milan and his current spell at PSG.
Ibrahimovic may provide the jersey-selling, headline-ensuring star power that United [and their marketing department] need following a report in The Sun. The newspaper claim United wanted to bring Cristiano Ronaldo back for £60m. Real want £85m for the 30-year-old so that move is off the table, for another year at least.
United have joined Manchester City and Chelsea in the race for Everton defender John Stones.
The Toffess insist Stones is not for sale but the bids keep coming. Chelsea have upped their initial £20m offer to £26m. If Everton look like wavering, both Manchester clubs will ask for separate bids to be heard, and for permission to speak with Stones. [Daily Mirror]
Crystal Palace have made a few astute summer signings and Alan Pardew, wily fox that he is, has eyed up Swansea defender Ashley Williams. Gary Monk is determined to keep the Welsh international and the club have slapped a £25m price-tag on him. [Wales Online]
Liverpool may have found an acceptable suitor for Mario Balotelli. Thus far, the only interest in the misfiring striker has been from the Italian third division, but newly-promoted Serie A side Bologna have thrown their straw hat in the ring. [Evening Standard]
Following Balotelli out Anfield’s exit door could well be Rickie Lambert. Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino wants to get the 33-year-old in as back-up to Harry Kane but West Brom are also keen on him. [The Times]
One deal that is done is Mohammad Salah’s switch to Roma. Want proof that he’s in Rome?
Our video of Salah’s arrival at Fiuminico pic.twitter.com/hS6no4ak44
— Roma Press (@ASRomaPress) July 29, 2015
