Chelsea and Manchester United also on the verge of signing players…
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The transfer market is in full flow, and signings are expected to get wrapped up before the World Cup starts on June 14.
Here are five deals we reckon will be completed before football’s extravaganza kicks off in Brazil.
5) Alberto Moreno – Sevilla to Liverpool
The young Spanish left-back, according to MARCA, has all but wrapped up a €22m move to Anfield. The 21-year-old excelled in La Liga last term, earning his first caps for Spain, and the attention of various European heavyweights. The Reds were crying out for a new left-back all season, and Moreno could be the man they need to fix the problem position.
4) Luke Shaw – Southampton to Manchester United
Southampton’s wonderkid has been continuously linked to United, and it looks as though a £27m move is nearing its completion. Patrice Evra is ageing at Old Trafford, and although the Frenchman has signed a one year contract extension, Shaw will likely arrive as his long-term replacement. The teenager played so well last term that he’s been selected as part of Roy Hodgson’s England squad ahead of Ashley Cole.
3) Cesc Fabregas – Barcelona to Chelsea
Chelsea have released Frank Lampard on a free transfer, and will need to sign a top level replacement in central midfield. Fabregas is available, and although the Blues face competition from Arsenal, Liverpool and both Manchester clubs – their financial clout and need for the player could see them move quickly to snap him up.
2) Serge Aurier – Toulouse to Arsenal
Liverpool have apparently joined the race for Aurier, but these claims seem dubious considering the young Ivorian let slip yesterday to an Arsenal fan that he’s Emirates bound. The 21-year-old will likely replace departing Frenchman Bacary Sagna on the right of the defence.
1) Diego Costa – Atletico Madrid to Chelsea
It’s one of the worst kept secrets in football, but Diego Costa is almost certain to join Chelsea from Stamford Bridge. A touted fee of around £32m could be a bargain if Costa repeats his 36 goal season from last term in England – and Jose Mourinho will be delighted to have a new striker he can rely on.
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