Originally Posted by
portu
January Open - Here's What's Coming Up for Those Trying to Keep Up
Insigne Signs?
Bill Manning reportedly flies to Italy this week (supposedly Wednesday) regardless of the figures it appears most is settled, the question after that is: will he come now or in June?
Akinola and Perruzza Re-Sign?
Akinola deal close amid Whitecaps interest and Perruzza expected to put pen to paper on a long-term deal.
Marshall-Rutty Speculation for Summer 2022
JMR has had trials at Arsenal and Liverpool already, and Liverpool starlet Harvey Elliott seems to be trying to get JMR to "sign" something per the comments on his last Instagram post. JMR cannot move until he turns 18 this June, however a deal can be agreed in advance similar to Alphonso Davies' transfer.
Soteldo (back) to Brazil?
TFC is actively shopping Soteldo around and there is interest in Brazil, but the club is only interested in selling (no loans) and has attached a 7 million dollar price tag to the winger who has attracted interest from Sao Paulo and Palmeiras. Notably, a deal with Sao Paulo has been linked to a swap for U-22 midfielder, Nestor, who appears well seasoned despite his years. Soteldo occupies one of three DP spots, of which a player such as Insigne or Belotti would require.
Jozy Altidore Buy-Out Impasse - Since the report in Fall 2021 that Jozy was to be a free agent there has been little movement until this week when it was discovered that the impasse between the club and Jozy was compensating his option year (2023). The player appears to have all the leverage here as he occupies one of three DP spots, of which a player such as Insigne or Belotti would require.
Andrea Belotti Pursuit
All reports on this appear premature, although some seem more bullish than others on this potential deal. Like Insigne, Belotti's contract runs out this Summer and would be available on a free. Expect clarity on this to pick-up in the coming weeks as front office priority moves off closing Insigne and onto the rest of the squad, especially if Manning journeys to Rome on Wednesday as reported.
Criscito
It has been reported months ago that Criscito (Genoa) has been a target of the club and numbers have recently come out ranging from 1.4m USD to 3m EUR. Details on this remain murky, but as with Belotti clarity should be expected as Insigne reaches conclusion and if/when Manning goes to Italy. The club however, clearly needs a centre-back so push will have to come to shove on Criscito or another this month.
Another Striker
It has also been reported recently that an "Italian striker" is in the club's sights, which previous reports would suggest is Mattia Destro (Genoa). There has also been a report of interest in Spanish striker, Jesus Jimenez, currently of Gornik Zabreze (Poland). These reports as well as those of Belotti suggest that a striker is also on his way in this month.