As the latest transfer window closes, lets take a look at some of the deals which have fallen through this past January, despite appearing all but certain to happen.
Jesse Lingard to Newcastle
Despite assurances that this season would be different to the last, it’s been a case of deja vu for Jesse Lingard, who has once again found himself out of favour at Manchester United and seeking first-team football elsewhere. Unlike last January however, where the midfielder was granted a loan move to West Ham, Lingard has grown frustrated by United’s excessive demands which have invariably blocked a potential exit. Newcastle appeared the most likely destination, but a deal has seemingly collapsed after a “petrified” United stipulated that the Magpies would have to pay a hefty £12million survival bonus if Lingard helps keep them up. On top of that, Eddie Howe’s side must reportedly cover the player’s £100,000-per-week wages and pay a loan fee in the region of £6million to get the deal over the line.
Adama Traore to Tottenham
Adama Traore appeared all but set to be unveiled as Antonio Conte’s first signing since taking over at Tottenham, but the Italian has endured a frustrating week as multiple deals have been hijacked. The Wolves winger has secured a sensational Barcelona return after his old club lured him with a loan, which includes a £29m option to make the move permanent in the summer. Spurs were reportedly closing in on a £20m deal prior to the Spanish side’s offer, however, it has been widely acknowledged that Traore is keen to return to the club where he started his career. It is also believed that the fast forward was unconvinced by Tottenham’s offer to use him in a variety of positions, with Traore heavily tipped to be converted into a right wing-back under Conte.
Dele Alli to Newcastle
Not only have Tottenham endured troubles in bringing players in, but they’ve also struggled to shift some of the squad who are deemed surplus to requirements, particularly in midfield. Dele Alli is the leading name to leave Spurs, but the initial planned to move to Newcastle never came true. None of the interested suitors have reportedly appealed to the player and his current club, and any deal for the out-of-favour midfielder is likely to go down to the wire. The Magpies were determined to bolster their ranks – and with it, their survival hopes – before the window closes and the collapse of a Lingard deal means all focus could now turn to but Alli chose Everton instead.
Spurs pay tribute to Dele Alli after Everton departure
Check out Spurs’ tribute to Dele Alli after the English international departed Tottenham for Everton in January 2022.
Arthur to Arsenal
Out of the potential deals listed, the one which appeared most nailed-on was arguably Arsenal completing the signing of Juventus midfielder Arthur, who was reportedly sold the club’s vision by manager Arteta. Talks have been ongoing between the Gunners and the Italian side over recent weeks, but a potential deal has hit a number of snags. While Arsenal’s hierarchy were reportedly eyeing up six-month loan, the Old Lady were pushing for an 18-month deal or a permanent transfer away. The Turin-based outfit were also believed to be reluctant to sanction any deal without first having recruited a replacement.
Aaron Ramsey – Premier League return
Aaron Ramsey appeared destined for a Premier League return long before the January transfer window opened, but he chose Rangers instead. The Italian side have publicly expressed their desire to offload the Welshman in this window, but his substantial wages – reportedly in the region of £400,000-a-week – was the biggest stumbling block. Ramsey himself is believed to have rejected offers from a number of clubs as he held out for a move to Crystal Palace and the chance to play under Patrick Vieira. Newcastle had been heavily linked, though are believed to be one of the teams the 31-year-old rejected, and a loan move to Burnley had been touted, but financial demands seem to be stumbling block.
