Transfer Talk: Frank Lampard to Manchester United; Marouane Fellaini to Chelsea; Wilfried Zaha to Tottenham
The Independent's Martin Hardy analyses today's January transfer window stories and separates the reality from the rumour
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Your support makes all the difference.Player: Frank Lampard
Club: Chelsea
Possible move to: Manchester United
Time left on deal: Six months
The story: Who wouldn't fancy Frank Lampard for nothing? Lampard has still managed a goal every other game in the Premier league this season for Chelsea but they will not renew his contract. Lampard will be 35 in the summer but that will not frighten Sir Alex Ferguson. Hard to see him being offered much more than a one year deal but that may still appeal.
Chance of moving: Three stars
Player: Marouane Fellaini
Club: Everton
Possible move to: Chelsea
Time left on deal: Three-and-a-half years
The story: Fellaini has emerged as a major force in the Premier League since he moved to Goodison Park. He signed a new deal in 2011 but his admission in September that he could leave has set the sharks circling. The possibility of a £22m clause in that new deal being activated by interest from a Champions League side will worry those at Everton ahead of a possible summer move.
Chance of moving: Three stars
Player: Hope Akpan
Club: Crawley Town
Possible move to: Reading
Time left on deal: Six months
The story: Brian McDermott wants new energy in his struggling side and believes the 21-year-old midfielder can add that to his team. Akpan impressed when the sides met in the FA Cup and could sign this week.
Chance of moving: Five stars
Player: Wilfried Zaha
Club: Crystal Palace
Possible move to: Tottenham
Time left on deal: Three-and-a-half years
The story: Zaha is the most coveted young player in English football and Spurs are desperately trying to steal a march on Manchester United. Old Trafford bosses are confident they lead the chase but Spurs are attempting to start negotiations and will offer the player back on loan to Palace if they sign him this month.
Chance of moving: Three stars
Player: Victor Anichebe
Club: Everton
Possible move to: Reading
Time left on deal: Two-and-a-half years
The story: Reading need goals. Anichebe is starting to look like the player people thought he could be, adding consistency and goals to his power. Anichebe has scored five goals this season but David Moyes is ready to fight to hold onto the 24-year-old.
Chance of moving: Two stars
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