Analysing the Transfer Gossip – 18th July

Sunderland are considering a move for former Chelsea and Liverpool midfielder Raul Meireles, 30, who is unsettled at Fenerbahce.

Raul Meireles

What’s the story? Meireles has bounced around these last few years after a decent first campaign at Liverpool but can still offer certain qualities in the midfield.

Does it make sense? If he can find the kind of form he had at Liverpool then yes, but the question mark is whether he’s different enough to what they have. Meireles is yet another grinder and hard worker in a team that has precious little inspiration or quality.

Is the price right? Can’t see him costing more than £3m which would represent a decent price.

Will it happen? 7/10 – This sounds like it fits the profile of how Sunderland are trying to do business at the moment so it could well do.