NAKAMBA, MUNETSI STAY PUT
DESPITE being linked with moves on the European January transfer deadline day, Marvelous Nakamba and Marshall Munetsi remained at their respective clubs.
The Zimbabweans were in the mix of transfer news on Monday, with Nakamba reported to be on his way out of Aston Villa after Newcastle and Crystal Palace expressed interest.
Stade de Reims’ Munetsi was being linked with English top-flight side Sheffield United and Derby County who play in the same country’s division. Derby were, however, favourites having made an official enquiry over the Zimbabwean.
The deals, however, could not be completed before the February 1 midnight deadline. Sources close to the developments at Villa Park said coach Dean Smith was reluctant to let the player go despite a serious approach from Newcastle.
The Magpies were impressed by the Warriors star in their 2-0 defeat to the Claret and Blue recently. The Zimbabwean bossed the midfield, posting a man-of-the-match performance after getting the chance to play since John McGinn was suspended.
It is said Nakamba was prepared to switch to St
James’ Park on a loan deal until end of the season.
This followed after he has pushed onto the bench with the manager preferring the partnership of Douglas Luiz and John McGinn.
Villa, however, do not have a back-up, in case any of the duo is injured.
Luiz has also been linked with a move away from Villa Park with Manchester City, reported to be interested.
There are also claims Serie A giants Juventus are keeping tabs on Luiz, who has missed only one Premier League match this season.
And the fact that Nakamba has made match day teams since the start of the season is testimony his coach has plans for him.
It could not be established why Munetsi’s deal failed to sail through after reports that he is on his way to
England.
A source close to the player, however, indicated that the player opted to stay at
Reims than ‘downgrade’ to the English second tier.
Derby County, under the leadership of Wayne Rooney, is competing in the
Championship.