Who could be stepping into shoes of Shelvey?
NEWCASTLE United midfielder Jonjo Shelvey has been linked with a move to West Ham as several reports claim discussions have opened regarding a transfer.
Rafa Benitez has all but ruled out any business between United and their relegation rivals – meaning it would take an astronomical bid for the Spaniard to agree to sell the 26-year-old.
Nonetheless, it is claimed a £12million deal is close to being agreed as David Moyes looks to strengthen his Hammers side.
However, Benitez, even at the right price, would only sell the former Liverpool man if he had a replacement guaranteed to come in and, with United’s transfer strategy yet to be confirmed, that is not going to be easy to do.
Should Shelvey seal an exit, who could replace him? Here are five options:
DAVY KLAASSEN (EVERTON)
He cost the Toffees £24million in the summer but has already been told to find a new club after Sam Allardyce replaced Ronald Koeman.
Klaassen played a key part in Ajax’s title-winning side of 2013-14 and was named captain in 201516. He has clear talent but just has not hit the ground running at Goodison Park. He might be available on loan.
TOM CAIRNEY (FULHAM)
He may have just signed a new contract but all is not happy at Fulham, with manager Slavisa Jokanovic fuming with the pace and scope of recruitment at Craven Cottage. Cairney’s own form has suffered this season - hitting only one goal so far. He netted 12 times last season.
ANDREAS SAMARIS (BENFICA)
Repeatedly linked to Newcastle last year but, despite admiration for the 28-year-old, nothing materialised. He would not be a likefor-like replacement for Shelvey in terms of passing ability but would certainly be a quality replacement. He has only played seven times this season for Benfica.
LEWIS HOLTBY (HAMBURGER SV)
The 27-year-old is out of contract in the summer and could be snapped up for a bargain price this month. He is a bit more of an attacking midfielder than Shelvey but could fit straight into the current Newcastle United. The Magpies have been linked to the German before.
STEFANO STURARO (JUVENTUS)
The Italian has made only four league appearances this year for Juventus as he struggles to break into the first team. Juventus have hinted they are ready to let him leave while his agent has constantly been talking over the past months about Sturaro’s potential exit.
At 24, he could represent an excellent investment.