With the January transfer window approaching, FTN looks at the latest on the future of Christian Pulisic and Frenkie De Jong as well as whether MLS megastar Zlatan Ibrahimovic could be returning to Europe. There is also an update on Danny Drinkwater.
Latest on Christian Pulisic, De Jong, Drinkwater
Pulisic on the Move In the Summer?
20-year-old winger Christian Pulisic is one of Europe’s most coveted youngsters. The USA international, whose contract expires in 2020, is wanted by Chelsea and Liverpool. Pulisic’s employer, Borussia Dortmund, are adamant they will not sell in January but will consider negotiating for a summer transfer.
A fee of £70 million has reportedly been demanded. With only 18 months left on his contract, this may deter some clubs. Interestingly, Pulisic has started only one of the last four Dortmund matches. With Jadon Sancho and Jacob Larsen preferred, the Bundesliga leaders could be prepared to sell in January after all.
Manchester City Favourites in De Jong Race
Frenkie De Jong has been identified as the long-term replacement for Fernandino at Manchester City. Pep Guardiola spoke this week about having no plans for January transfer moves. Whilst the squad’s depth is immense and not in need of boosting, City run the risk of missing out on De Jong should they choose to wait.
Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain have also shown strong interest in the defensive midfielder. At just 21, De Jong has already made over 30 appearances for Ajax and made his Netherlands debut this year. De Jong’s preferred destination is City. However, should Ajax accept bids from elsewhere, City may be forced into a January move in order to not lose out.
Drinkwater to Reunite With Ranieri
Chelsea outcast Danny Drinkwater is reportedly likely to move to nearby Fulham. Drinkwater, 28, has yet to make a league appearance this season.
Despite spending close to £100 million over the summer, Fulham have had a poor start to the season. After guiding his side to victory in his first game in charge last weekend, Ranieri will be targeting reinforcements in January. Drinkwater was vital in Leicester’s title-winning season but has failed to secure regular football at Chelsea. In a new environment with unknown players, Ranieri will likely be keen to bring in a trusted entity.
Ibrahimovic Back To Europe?
Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s debut MLS season ended in disappointment as LA Galaxy failed to reach the play-offs. This came despite a strong season from Zlatan, who scored 22 goals.
Former side AC Milan are working on a loan move for the Swede. Despite significant investment over the summer, Milan’s top scorer, Gonzalo Higuain, has only five goals. Manager Gennaro Gattuso, a former teammate of Ibrahimovic, is keen to bring the striker back to Milan.
Ibrahimovic reportedly has interest in a move. LA Galaxy are unlikely to be keen on the move, preferring instead that an ageing Ibrahimovic spends the off-season resting. However, if it boils down to allowing a loan move or seeing Ibrahimovic walk away, a loan deal could still happen.
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