As the majority of the world's leagues ready for the season's end, the rumours continue to pick up steam. Things are starting to get real, transfer fans.
Real make Chicharito decision
Just days after Manchester United confirmed the inevitable -- that Radamel Falcao would not be signed to a permanent deal -- another one of this summer's more predictable non-transfers looks set to happen.
The Express reported today that Real Madrid have decided not to take up their option to buy Javier Hernandez, and the Mexico international will return to Old Trafford shortly.
Despite appearing to be on the fringes of Los Blancos' first team squad for the majority of the campaign, Chicharito ended up making 33 appearances (mostly off the bench) for the Spanish giants. He scored nine goals along the way, commendable stats in anyone's book.
Where the 26-year-old will be next campaign is up for debate. Southampton and West Ham are both said to be interested, but given the deteriorating ability and options in United's front line, don't be surprised if Louis van Gaal decides to keep the goal-sneak on hand in 2015-16.
Otamendi move gathers pace
More news for United fans, this time coming from the Guardian. Apparently, Nicolas Otamendi is now trying to force his way out of Valencia, having heard the Red Devils are interested in signing him.
"Nicolas is happy at Valencia and with the fans, but he's got an option to improve on a professional level," Eugenio Lopez, Otamendi's representative, said. "Nico is going to do everything [possible] to leave."
The Argentina central defender has a release clause thought be around £43 million. Will Van Gaal be tempted to splash the cash on Otamendi now that he knows he has missed out on Mats Hummels?
Saints pair on the move
Arsenal's interest in signing Southampton centre-mid Morgan Schneiderlin has been known for months, and the Metro confirmed today that the Gunners have moved one step closer to getting their man.
"Yes, I think my decision is made," the Saints midfielder said. "The goal is to stay in England. It is a championship that I like and where I have a lot of fun."
"There are ongoing discussions, but nothing is done. But of course, the Champions League is my goal. If I leave Southampton, it will be for a club in the Champions League."
Therefore, it's just Chelsea, Manchester City, Arsenal and Man United in the running for the 25-year-old. Surely, he will be under the tutelage of Arsene Wenger come August.
Schneiderlin, however, isn't the only Saints player almost certain to leave St. Mary's. TalkSPORT said Ronald Koeman is also ready to let Gaston Ramirez go, after another unimpressive season in the Premier League.
The Uruguay international arrived on the south coast amid plenty of fanfare in August 2012 but has failed to make an impact at both Southampton and on loan at Hull City this season.
Several Serie A clubs are said to be interested in Ramirez, and he is likely to be made available for a cut-price fee, with only one year left on his existing contract.
Pulis returns for the Jedi
Alan Pardew has begun shopping Crystal Palace captain Mile Jedinak to prospective Premier League buyers, according to the Mail.
The 30-year-old has become a fan favourite at Selhurst Park over the past few seasons, but it appears he'll be moved on this summer, as Pardew looks to stamp his style on the Eagles lineup.
West Bromwich Albion manager Tony Pulis, who enjoyed an excellent working relationship with Jedinak during his time at Crystal Palace, is believed to be interested in signing his former charge. Watch this space.
Tap-ins
- The Telegraph said Tottenham have beat Liverpool to the signature of Burnley fullback Kieran Trippier. The former England U21 will reportedly head to White Hart Lane for a fee of around £3.5 million.
- Swindon Town chairman Lee Power has confirmed the Robins have received offers from Aston Villa, Crystal Palace, West Ham United and Queens Park Rangers for Australian prodigy Massimo Luongo.
"The numbers being mentioned are around £3 million," Power told SBS. "It's good money for us, and we'll be pleased with that."
- AC Milan coach Filippo Inzaghi is keen to keep Chelsea loanee Marco van Ginkel at the San Siro for another year, according to the Mirror.