:focal(1279x320:1281x318)/origin-imgresizer.eurosport.com/2016/02/27/1803954-38076371-2560-1440.jpg)
:focal(1266x687:1268x685)/origin-imgresizer.eurosport.com/2015/03/26/1443749-30871931-2560-1440.jpg)
United will axe Depay in summer clear-out
Manchester United will entertain offers for Memphis Depay in the summer, according to The Sun. The Dutchman has struggled in his debut season at Old Trafford, with the report alleging he will be part of a five-man clear-out along with Morgan Schneiderlin, Phil Jones, Marcos Rojo and Sergio Romero.
Paper Round’s view: Not going to happen. Give the kid a chance – he’s only 22, hardly the easiest stage of life to settle into an unfamiliar club. He should be judged on next season when, presumably under the guidance of a new manager, he might just thrive…
Manchester United's Morgan Schneiderlin (C) is congratulated by teammates Memphis Depay (R) and Phil Jones
Image credit: AFP
- - -
Chelsea pull out of Stones race
Chelsea will not pursue John Stones in the summer transfer window, per the Daily Star. The Blues are hoping to sign a long-term successor to John Terry in the summer, with Stones the initial target, but widely-reported incoming boss Antonio Conte apparently has doubts about the 21-year-old. Instead, Conte hopes to sign Italy centre-back Leonardo Bonucci, leaving Manchester United, Manchester City and Barcelona to scrap over Stones.
Paper Round’s view: According to most ‘insiders’, Conte to Chelsea is practically done. If that’s so, then the Italy boss will have discussed his transfer strategy – life as an international manager leaves plenty of time for such chatter. Opinion is split on Stones. Some highlight his composure as proof of undoubted potential; others point to the catalogue of costly errors that have stunted Everton’s season. It’s quite conceivable that Conte isn’t a fan…
Everton v Arsenal - Arsenal's Danny Welbeck in action with Everton's John Stones
Image credit: Reuters
- - -
Rodgers will take over at Swansea next season
Swansea will delve into their past to appoint a new manager, according to the Express. Brendan Rodgers is considered among the favourites for the post, but the new report alleges a deal is already in place for the Northern Irishman to take over. Francesco Guidolin has the reins at the Liberty Stadium until the season’s end.
Paper Round’s view: Not implausible by any means – although it’s unlikely a deal is done at this stage. With few obvious vacancies set to appear in the summer, Rodgers could do far worse than return to Swansea. He helped establish the club in the Premier League and was a shade unfortunate to be dismissed by Liverpool.
Brendan Rodgers looks glum at Liverpool v Norwich
Image credit: Reuters
- - -
Everton keen on Carrick
Everton boss Roberto Martinez is hoping to swoop for Manchester United midfielder Michael Carrick on a free transfer, according to the Mirror. Carrick’s contract expires at the end of June – shortly before his 35th birthday – and his United future remains clouded. The report claims Everton are hopeful a deal can be agreed, although it does raise questions about Gareth Barry’s role at Goodison Park.
Paper Round’s view: This has potential. While some United fans would like Carrick to stay next season, it’s quite possible he could be shifted on and Everton appears an ideal destination. Not that it would signal the end of Barry – Martinez could rotate the pair, ensuring their aging limbs stay fresh…
Manuel Lanzini (West Ham) v Michael Carrick (Manchester United)
Image credit: AFP