FTN: Latest on Toby Alderweireld, Pogba, Courtois and Pickford

Alderweireld Already at Manchester United?

Pictures surfaced on social media throughout yesterday of Toby Alderweireld ‘wearing’ a Manchester United shirt. The pictures appear doctored and United fans shouldn’t get too excited about any signing just yet. In a further turn of events, Wikipedia then updated its information on Alderweireld. It now states that from 2018, the player plays for United and even wears the number four shirt! Mourinho is still interested in this signing becoming a reality but United are unwilling to meet Spurs’ £50+ valuation. This potential transfer looks set to run right to the wire.

Juventus Want Their Pogba Back

Could Paul Pogba be about to complete a merry go round of football transfers? French World Cup winner Pogba has endured a somewhat turbulent relationship with Jose Mourinho. He showed at the World Cup why he has commanded high transfer prices. At United, he has yet to show that form. It is felt that Mourinho’s ‘negative’ tactics don’t get the best out of Pogba. Consequently, Juventus are keeping an eye on the situation. The Italian giants need to sell before mounting a sustained bid for their former player. Juventus spent big on Cristiano Ronaldo so need to create funds if they do pursue Pogba.

Courtois Talks on Hold Until Chelsea Have a Replacement Ready

Chelsea find themselves in a ‘catch 22’ situation over the potential sale of Thibaut Courtois to Real Madrid. The £32 million pound price tag is not an issue and the keeper could leave for free if he remains at Stamford Bridge this season. That causes Chelsea a financial dilemma. Talks had been ongoing between the two clubs but Chelsea have now stopped those talks. They have told Real Madrid that they will only re-open talks should they find a replacement first.

Jordan Pickford

Jordan Pickford is one keeper identified as a replacement for Courtois. The stopper only joined Everton last season and Everton do not want to sell. Pickford raised his profile with some stunning performances at the World Cup. He was Everton’s Player of the Year and a move away from Goodison Park does seem unlikely. The player is on holiday after his World Cup efforts and Everton will look to put a new contract on the table on his return.

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