Relegated stars now Prem prey
FOR the relegated Premier League clubs, it’s now a high-power game of poker – whether to stick or twist.
The moment Championship football was confirmed for Norwich City, Watford and Bournemouth, the transfer vultures began their descent ready to pick at the bones of the sadly departed.
Even allowing for the parachute money, it’s estimated that the trio of relegated clubs will have to factor in losses of around £50million each – probably more in these worrying times of Covid-19.
Norwich players will see their wages slashed by 50 per cent – the Canaries having the foresight to prepare for demotion from the top flight after just one season.
Now, for all three, it’s about either trying to maintain the core of the squad in an attempt to try and bounce straight back or cashing in on the best players.
Nathan Ake has already been snapped up from Bournemouth by Manchester City for £41m.
Liverpool have made an enquiry for Norwich left-back Jamal Lewis and have an interest in the Cherries defender Lloyd Kelly.
Bournemouth winger Ryan
Fraser has let his contract run down and there are doubts over the futures of several other players.
Wales international David
Brooks is being courted by a number of clubs, including Crystal Palace and Newcastle United.
Josh King has attracted attention, along with his strike partner Callum Wilson and goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale.
As well as Jamal Lewis, Norwich will consider loan offers for highlyrated young defender Max Aarons. The 20-year-old has been linked with moves to Bayern Munich and Aston Villa at £20million.
And they can expect offers for forwards Todd Campbell and Emiliano Buendia, defender Ben Godfrey, who is already the subject of an enquiry from Bayern Munich, and impressive keeper Tim Krul.
And it’s likely to be all-change at Watford. A number of top clubs, including Liverpool, Manchester United and Spurs have 22-year-old Senegal forward Ismaila Sarr on their radar.
Midfielder Abdoulaye Doucoure has his admirers as does winger Gerard Deulofeu. And West Brom may bid for skipper Troy Deeney.