"Premier" League - the transfer window opens [Part II]

2007-01-01 17:25 © EuroFootball.com

The Eurofootball.com website continues the BBC experts' article on what to expect from English Premier League teams as the winter transfer window opens. Before you are the second part.

What is needed?

Since Henrik Larsson has already been acquired, the priority for this super club should be a central defender.

How much money can be spent?

Head coach Sir Alex Ferguson will have a sufficient amount for the desired player, with Bayern Munich's Owen Hargreaves from the British Isles being at the top of his list.

Rumours

According to press reports, players such as Owen Hargreaves (25 years old, Bayern Munich, right back - defensive midfielder), Gareth Bale (17 years old, Southampton, left back), Antonio Puerta (22 years old, Sevilla, defender), Fernando Torres (22 years old, Atletico Madrid, forward), Jermain Defoe (24 years old, Tottenham, forward), Nigel Reo-Coker (22 years old, West Ham, defender), Antonio Rio Mavuba (22 years old, Bordeaux, central midfielder), Jamie McCarthy (16 years old, Hamilton, defender) could somehow complement Man Utd's squad.

What is needed?

Able to inspire other players - a suitable defender and forward for the starting lineup.

How much money can be spent?

Money to acquire new players has rarely been a pressing issue for Middlesbrough, although the amounts spent in recent years have decreased. The main problem is the motivation of desired players to join a team that rarely rises above the middle of the league table.

One of the main priorities of this winter transfer window should be the acquisition of Jonathan Woodgate from Real Madrid (currently on loan until the end of the season).

Rumours

Players like Jeremie Aliadiere (23 years old, Arsenal, forward), Craig Gordon (24 years old, Hearts, goalkeeper), Joey Barton (24 years old, Man City, defender), David Nugent (21 years old, Preston North End, forward), Giles Barnes (18 years old, Derby, forward), Martin Lejsala (24 years old, FC Bern, forward) could be potential new recruits.