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Lets start with the one I think is most likely to happen. There are multiple reports that Real Betis is looking to take on Bryan Ruiz. I think many of us have come to the conclusion that he's just not going to fit at the club. This interview with Rene Meulensteen also doesn't make it sound like they think he has much of a future. The only thing that worries me, is that it's being reported as a loan. I'd much rather sell him than loan him out. Plus, selling him might allow the club to fix another problem. They currently already are full of domestic loans. However, a long term replacement to Ruiz might already be on the squad. Adel Taarabt is a similar player, but probably a bit more versatile and with a game that might be better suited to the premier league. Might the club want to finalize his transfer? That frees up a loan spot and replaces Ruiz long term all in one move. The only question is what fee would QPR need?
The second rumor is that Ravel Morrison wants to come to Fulham. It seems that Meulensteen will be linked to every player he ever coached at Manchester United. However, the story does point to some reasons why this could happen. First, West Ham need the money. They only paid £650K for him, so a decent transfer would be a good profit for them and allow them to re-invest and bring in some players to help fight of relegation. Secondly, there is a poison pill in his contract. If Fulham offer £10M for him, West Ham are required to increase his wages to £60K a week. There's no way they would do that. Reports are that Fulham made an initial offer of £5M with add ons. I could see West Ham holding out for a little more, but they'll get nervous if it looks like Fulham will offer close to the full £10M. There is some possibility there, but this also could be lazy journalists just linking Meulensteen to every player he coached at United.
Finally, we have real news and not just rumor and conjecture. Marcello Trotta is going to remain with Brentford on loan. To be honest, I've almost given up on him as a prospect. He's not tearing up League One, and he quickly is losing the shine of youth. If he doesn't finish the year strong and impress in pre-season, I think his time might be over. In more exciting loan new Jack Grimmer will be joining Port Vale on loan. I'm a little higher on Grimmer than Trotta. He's younger, and he's playing a position where players tend to develop later. I'm still not sure whether his future is at RB or CB, but I'm excited to see him get some first team action.
What does everyone else think about these moves? Have you heard any other rumors that excite you? You can treat this as an open thread to discuss any and all January rumors.
