The 2019 summer transfer window ahead of the 2019-2020 season could very well bring a host of blockbuster moves.
Indeed, it could prove to be a record few months of money changing hands between clubs, with so many big-name players expected to switch teams. Europe’s leading clubs are ready to do battle and boost their fortunes, which means transfer fees could once again go through the roof.
These are three players who seem destined to change clubs over the coming months, though whether moves actually happen in the end, is another matter entirely.
Paul Pogba – Manchester United
He scored the most goals, provided the most assists, but Paul Pogba looks increasingly likely to be heading out of the Old Trafford exit door this summer. Throughout a hugely disappointing campaign for the Red Devils, the French midfielder has regularly been criticised by pundits, former United players, and frustrated fans, who expected even more from his performances.
Pogba wants #MUFC exit, #Juventus struggle with fee demands https://t.co/XNLrpKjg6t pic.twitter.com/022lE1eW5N
— CalcioMercato (En) (@CmdotCom_En) June 7, 2019
Should Pogba decide it’s time to walk away from English football and the Premier League, there’s no shortage of suitors lining up for his signature. Juventus have already expressed their interest in the 26-year-old returning to Italy, although they would offer cash-plus-players in any negotiations. If a cash-only deal worth more than €120 million is the preferred option for Manchester United, then Real Madrid, Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain are all reportedly ready to pounce.
Don’t be surprised to see the gossip columns full of “is he” or “isn’t he” transfer rumours surrounding Pogba ahead of next season, which means we could be in for some waiting before his future is decided.
James Rodriguez – Real Madrid
Having enjoyed two stellar seasons on loan at Bayern Munich in the Bundesliga, 27-year-old attacking midfielder James Rodriguez is on the move again. The German outfit did have an option to make his move permanent this summer, but the Colombian player has decided he doesn’t want to stay, taking to social media to thank the club and fans, whilst also bidding them a fond farewell.
Orgullo por estos dos años de trabajo, respeto y logros en esta fenomenal institución. Gracias @FCBayern fue un honor. #MiaSanMia pic.twitter.com/DQBXCcdISM
— James Rodríguez (@jamesdrodriguez) June 5, 2019
James will now return to Real Madrid, although he doesn’t feature in the plans of their manager, Zinedine Zidane, especially with the signing of Eden Hazard from Chelsea now completed. The Spanish giants will, therefore, look to offload the player for around €100 million or use him as a makeweight towards landing their other transfer targets this summer. That might appeal to Manchester United as part of a bid for Paul Pogba, or Tottenham Hotspur, amidst reports that Real Madrid also have their sights set on Christian Eriksen.
Gareth Bale
Despite being a key player in three consecutive Champions League triumphs, it’s looking increasingly unlikely that Gareth Bale’s tenure at Real Madrid will come to an end sooner rather than later. Zidane parked the Welshman on the substitute’s bench towards the end of the season in La Liga, preferring to give younger stars their opportunity in the limelight. The French coach is also preparing an overhaul of his squad, with Bale now even considered surplus to requirements.
WHAT A SIGNING THIS WOULD BE! ??https://t.co/xWSL9V6Yzs
— SPORTbible (@sportbible) June 5, 2019
Given that Bale is valued at around €120 million, options for potential destinations are fairly limited. However, the 29-year-old could still prove to be an attractive option for Premier League sides such as Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur, as Real Madrid begin haggling for transfer targets of their own at both those English clubs. That said, the arrival of Antonio Conte as manager at Inter Milan could prompt them to make a move, if reports from Italy are to be believed.
