While it bubbles under throughout the year, transfer speculation and gossip really ramps up in the month of January and throughout the summer, when the windows are open for clubs to buy and sell. Chatter is non-stop as reports, rumour and rhetoric see names linked with moves.
But what happens beyond all the talk? For example, what steps are taken by Manchester United, who agreed to a deal on Tuesday to make Brazilian international Fred the first signing of this window, to finalise targets?
Around the start of the year, manager Jose Mourinho, executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward and head of corporate development Matt Judge start working with a list of names in whom there is interest. Factoring into this will also be any young players, already at the club, who are good enough to break into the first team.
The approach is adaptable, but it’s better to plan and, eventually, United will have a list of three priorities for each position they want to strengthen.
“A club like United will first identify the best players in the world in the positions they want,” a source familiar with the club’s methods tells ESPN FC. “But there’s one thing saying that Marcelo is the best left-back on the planet; he’s not going to leave Real Madrid. And Jordi Alba is not going to leave Barcelona, either.
“United — a club which likes name signings and are of the opinion that five Galactico players win the Champions League — are less likely to shatter the bank for a defender,” the source continues. “United look at the players who might be more gettable in the positions they want, while still remaining open to the idea of getting the very best.”