The summer transfer window opens in 53 days. That is enough time to watch the entire Marvel Cinematic Universe, or perhaps, if you are feeling particularly deranged, the whole Friends boxset ten times over.
Or, you could, like us, sit hunched in a darkened room obsessing over the latest whispers from the ‘In The Know’ elite. Desperately trying to separate genuine transfer talk from agents just trying to get their players’ names in as many gossip columns as possible.
While we continue to ruminate on such questions as ‘Just how many 14 year old South American wonderkids will Chelsea sign this time?’ and ‘Exactly how many versatile centre backs do Manchester City actually need?’, here are the latest Premier League transfer tales doing the rounds.
Man United learn potential Rios asking price
First up, we are off to the red side of Manchester, where an asking price update may have pricked up some ears in the United recruitment team.
betandsured bring you news regarding the future of Benfica midfielder Richard Rios, claiming he could be allowed to leave the club if a bid in the region of £39m is made this summer.
United have scouted the highly rated Colombia international, according to the report. But it is actually Fulham who have made an early move, with the Cottagers already ‘making contact’ over a potential summer deal.
Napoli are also namechecked as potential suitors, although their interest like United’s, is not believed to be as advanced as Fulham’s.
World Cup wildcard
The story notes that Rios has the potential to make a real name for himself at this summer’s World Cup. A few good performances in North America and his value could sky rocket.
Benfica are said to be mindful of this. They could hold off agreeing a sale until he has had his chance to dazzle on the world stage.
That is a gamble. If Rios flops, the offers dry up. If he shines, the bidding war begins.
What United need
United are set for a serious summer overhaul. Several players will leave Old Trafford. Two top class arrivals in midfield looks likely, especially with Casemire on his way out.
Rios could be an ideal signing alongside either Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson or Newcastle’s Sandro Tonali. Fulham may be keen, but if United come calling, you would imagine he is off in a shot.
The bottom line
£39m for a 24 year old midfielder with World Cup potential? That is not cheap. But it is not extortionate either.
United have scouted him. Fulham have made contact. Napoli are watching.
The next few weeks will tell us who is serious and who is just window shopping.
Rios could be this summer’s breakout star. Or he could be another name lost in the noise.
Either way, the transfer machine is grinding into gear. And we will be here, hunched in the dark, obsessing over every last detail.