Monday's Rumour Mill

Throughout the summer I'll be keeping an eye on all the transfer rumours, gossip and general rubbish that appears at this time of year, whilst giving my own opinion on the business done. The day’s news will be accumulated and posted here before 12pm, with any updates posted throughout the day.

Premier League 

Someone is pleased with themselves

As the days have passed since the end of the 2012/2013 season, all discussion about Arsenal has revolved around the words 'Wenger' and 'money' and it appears that the stubborn Frenchman is finally going to concede defeat in trying to produce title winning teams with products of the academy. The first ready-made star Wenger has reluctantly delved into his purse for looks to be Argentinian forward Gonzalo Higuain, with the players father stating today that, “Nothing has yet been signed but I assure you the negotiations between the clubs are at an advanced stage". The price appears to be set at £22 million, which would smash Arsenal's transfer record currently set at £15 million for the purchase of Andrey Arshavin who is reportedly interested in a return to Zenit St Petersburg. For me the signing of Higuain is one small step in Arsenal be able to again compete with the likes of United, City and Chelsea, nevertheless this move must be followed by several more transfers both in and out of the Emirates.

Thiago Alcantara

As for the Champions Manchester United, their potential move for Spanish U21 star Thiago Alcantara has been dealt both a blow and a boost in the same day. What seems a common occurrence these days the player’s father has commented on the future of the Barcelona man, saying he should chose United ahead of their European counterparts. However Barcelona have today suggested they are considering offering Thiago a new contract, perhaps his performance in the U21 European Championship Final has persuaded them to keep him on. They shouldn't need persuading, in my opinion he has the potential to be one of the world's greatest midfielders, he has a superb eye for a pass, he combines the traits of both attacking and defensive midfielders which is shown through his ability to take a game by the scruff of the neck and dictate. Michael Carrick would appreciate having a more than competent partner alongside him.

Value for Money: Curtis Davies

The future of Wigan’s Arouna Kone appears to lie at either Everton or Norwich, with the Latics looking for £5 million for the Ivory Coast forward. I would expect Kone to move to Goodison Park with neither Anichebe nor Jelavic setting the world alight last season and with Norwich having already secured the signing of Dutchman Ricky Van Wolfswinkel. New boys Hull are close to concluding a great bit of business for Birmingham’s Curtis Davies, the 28 year old has been constant in the Blues team for the last two seasons and £2.3 million for one of the best centre halves outside the Premier League is outstanding value for money. Another fantastic bit of business close to being completed by a newly promoted side is the signing of Thomas Ince by Cardiff, the fee agreed must be north of at least £5 million for a player rumoured to be close to an England call up  

The Football League

Maghoma came through the youth ranks at Spurs

League one’s newest fallen giant Wolves are close to agreeing a deal for Bolton and Wales international Sam Ricketts, with their back four being somewhat abysmal over the past two seasons this could be just what they need. Elsewhere in League one veteran Swindon centre half Darren Ward looks set to join Uwe Rosler’s Brentford. Time is also running out for Coventry, whose attempt to sign Burton winger Jacques Maghoma is under threat with several league one clubs interested in the Frenchman.

Rest of the World

Hernanes of Lazio

After his impressive showing in the group stage of the Confederations Cup, Lazio midfielder Hernanes has admitted he would be open to a move to Ligue 1 with PSG. The move would strengthen PSG’s midfield following the retirement of David Beckham as they try to build a team capable of winning the Champions league. Another Brazilian interesting the French giants is David Luiz, the move would make sense as Luiz would be paired with his International partner Thiago Silva. Jose Mourinho may well be behind the move with Luiz’s erratic playing style not exactly being conducive to how Jose sets up his teams.