Rumour Reel: Koeman keen on Poland winger Grosicki for Everton ranks

Villa fancy Lambert swoop

New Aston Villa boss Roberto Di Matteo is also hoping to strengthen his squad ahead of the 2016/17 Championship campaign, and the former Champions League winning coach with Chelsea has outlined West Bromwich Albion frontman Rickie Lambert as a potential target.

The former Liverpool misfit is now 34 years of age but the newly-appointed Villans coach still believes Lambert has what it takes to fire the club back to the top flight, despite netting just four times in his last two seasons.

It’s the former Southampton sharpshooter’s second-tier experience that appeals to Di Matteo and, after striking just once in 19 appearances for the Baggies, such a move would seem to benefit all parties involved.

Lambert signed at The Hawthorns for £3m last summer from Anfield and, with one year remaining on his contract, recently stated: “I would love to be able to help West Brom and contribute, but if I’m not then obviously I have to make a decision and maybe go somewhere else.”

Krul to make Northeast switch?

Newcastle United goalkeeper Tim Krul is being watched closely by the club’s Northeast rivals and recently promoted neighbours Middlesbrough, with the Dutchman possessing just one more year on his current deal at St James’ Park and his future being shrouded in doubt.

It’s believed Toon boss Rafael Benitez will move for Gent goalkeeper Matz Sels for £5m in the coming weeks, leaving Krul’s place under threat, but Boro are keen to acquire his services and boost their defence ahead of their return to the Premier League.

The 28-year-old was the Magpies’ first-choice goalie before sustaining a serious injury while on international duty with the Netherlands last year, with a cruciate knee ligament problem seeing him then ruled out for a long period.

Present shot stopper Dimitrios Konstantopoulos was impressive last term between the sticks but he is now 37 years of age and has no top-flight experience, opening the door for a shock swoop for Newcastle’s out-of-favour Krul this summer.

Related

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