Gossip: De Gea, Navas, Pirlo, Pato
EURGH. DE GEA STUFF RETURNS
It was a lovely few months, but it seems that the David de Gea to Real Madrid stuff is set to go back into overdrive as we head into the winter transfer window. Spanish newspaper Marca are the first to the punch.
Marca claim that Real Madrid are set to offer Keylor Navas a new deal, but that will not deter them from pressing ahead with a potential move for De Gea. Navas has been in fine form for Rafael Benitez’s side since his own move to Manchester United broke down this summer, conceding just three goals in 12 games in all competitions.
As a result, the Costa Rican has, as Marca put it, ‘won everyone over. Critics, fans, teammates and the board.’. His reward will be a new contract to reflect his excellent form and his importance. However, this does not end Real’s interest in De Gea. Real will continue to scout the keeper and explore the possibility of signing him, despite the Spaniard signing a fresh, new, shiny deal of his own at Old Trafford in September.
PIRLO NOT COMING TO THE PREMIER LEAGUE
That’s right, (Premier League) football fans. Andrea Pirlo has pretty much confirmed he isn’t heading to England’s top flight, even on a short-term loan deal during the MLS off-season.
“No, I do not think I will go to Europe, it would not be fair to my team. All I’m thinking about is training this off season for the 2016 campaign at New York.”
This ends any speculation concerning Manchester City signing the Italian, according to talkSPORT (we weren’t aware there was any speculation). Of course, Pirlo plays for City’s feeder club New York City FC, so that’ll probably be it.
WEST HAM WANT PATO
A lot has changed in eight years. In 2007, Alexandre Pato was one of the most coveted stars in Europe at AC Milan, while West Ham were barely escaping relegation thanks to Carlos Tevez. Fast-forward to 2015, and Pato is surplus to requirements at Corinthians, while the Hammers are Champions League bound and Sam Allardyceless. Heady days.
Anyway, Pato, who was linked to Manchester United and Sunderland (bizarre combination) in the summer, could now be set to move to Upton Park. The Brazilian has been on loan at Sao Paulo after falling out with parent club Corinthians, who are now looking to permanently offload the 26-year-old.
Where do West Ham come into this? Well the Daily Mail claim they ‘are currently the likeliest suitors’ due to Pato’s desire to play in one of England’s big cities. Which basically means London.
AND THE REST
Everton, Swansea and Sunderland all want Bordeaux midfielder Wahbi Khazri…Sunderland boss Sam Allardyce has joined the race for Sion’s Swiss centre-half Leo Lacroix…Carlo Ancelotti would consider a return to Chelsea if Jose Mourinho is sacked – but not as an interim manager…Barcelona are set to offer Lionel Messi a new contract to see out his career at the Nou Camp, according to Spanish newspaper Sport.
