Soccer Summer Sale - Rumours Start
Who? - Kevin Phillips - Speculation Where is he? - West Bromwich Albion Who is he linked with? - Wigan Athletic
Kevin Phillips looks certain to be playing Premiership football next year, but it may not be with promotion favourites West Brom. The veteran striker - who is the Championship's joint leading scorer with 22 goals - has rejected an offer of a new contract with the Baggies, reportedly wanting a two-year deal rather than the one on offer. A source close to Phillips said: "Kevin is disappointed with the contract he has been offered at the Hawthorns. He feels the terms do not reflect his achievements this season." This has alerted Wigan boss Steve Bruce who believes Phillips can still cut it at the highest level.
Who? - Steven Sidwell - Speculation Where is he? - Chelsea Who is he linked with? - Aston Villa
Chelsea midfielder Steve Sidwell could be on his way to Aston Villa. The former Arsenal and Reading star has not been able to force his way past his superstar Chelsea rivals and has made only seven starts for Avram Grant's side. Having moved on a free transfer from Reading in the summer, Chelsea would be keen to make a considerable 5 million profit from the transfer to Villa. Martin O'Neill sees Sidwell as an ideal replacement for Gareth Barry, who has been consistently linked with Liverpool.
Who? - Daniel Alves - Speculation Where is he? - Seville Who is he linked with? - Manchester United, Chelsea
Sevilla full-back Daniel Alves has emerged as a surprise target for Manchester United, with Chelsea also known to be interested. The Blues had an offer turned down for the Brazilian defender last summer and would surely rival any interest from Sir Alex Ferguson. The 24 year old is widely seen as one of the best in his position and, with Gary Neville in the latter stages of his career, could be an ideal addition to United's squad. Alves is keen on the move and said: "I was upset when Sevilla turned down the Chelsea offer. But if I leave this summer and get a deal which makes me as happy then perhaps it was not a disaster. I know Barca, Real Madrid, Chelsea and United want me and I'd be honoured to go to any of them."
Of these rumours the most persistant and most likely is Alves coming to the Premiership and i feel Chelsea will win the bidding war, whilst Sidwell who has been a bit part player for the blues this season will almost certainly being jumping of the bridge and probably landing in a Villa along with Martin O`Neills growing colony of fine young English talent.
As for the old war horse Kevin Phillips where ever he plays next season he ill guarantee one 100% effort and goals!
