There are still a couple of months to go until the winter window opens but, such is the precision planning involved in running clubs these days, that many of the deals that get done are in place before the window opens.
That’s why the rumours start in the autumn and simply intensify as the days shorten.
We reported a few days ago on how Arsenal were apparently closing in on the young AC Milan maestro Stephan El Shaarawy.
We reported that, despite a stellar campaign last time out, his career has stalled somewhat of late.
El Shaarawy will be desperate for first team action if he is to make the squad for Italy’s 2014 World Cup Finals campaign, and Arsenal could be the perfect move for the 20 year old. He has only started one league fixture this season, having fallen behind in the pecking order to Mario Balotelli, Robinho and Alessandro Matri.
However Chelsea are now joint favourites with bookmaker Skybet to sign the player in winter window. At odds of 5/1 he is seen by Skybet as equally likely to join Chelsea and Real Madrid in January.
Quite where Jose would fit another playmaker we aren’t quite sure but there is rarely smoke without fire and rumours about Shaarawy leaving Milan are becoming increasingly persistent.
Let’s have a look at the lad in action. Chelsea fans, is there room for this sort of talent in the side, or should Mourinho be looking for an out and out finisher?
Let’s have your thoughts. CLICK FOR EL SHAARAWY
Follow us on Twitter @soccersweep10
