Matt Ritchie In Demand
AFC Bournemouth have had injury issues galore this season so the news that Matt Ritchie is a wanted man this January among Premier League rivals will come with little surprise but huge disappointment from Cherries.
A shinning light in a difficult first Premier League season for Eddie Howe’s men, Ritchie has now been touted by Manchester United who are keen to add a goal threat in January to aid their title bid. The Manchester United links will confuse many but this is not the first time Louis van Gaal has been linked to the wide man as two months ago rumours surfaced of an interest in Bournemouth’s star.
Also looking at the winger, and a more realistic move is West Bromwich Albion, Stoke City and West Ham United but the Scottish international won’t come cheap for any side as the South Coast side are keen to get at least £5 million for his services, according to the Daily Mail. That price, however, may keep West Brom interested who saw larger bids rejected for Matt Phillips and Michail Antonio in the summer. Antonio ended up at Upton Park leaving the links to the Hammers slightly confusing.
Ritchie, now 26-years-old has not seen an approach made for him yet but the January window will be a nervy time for Eddie Howe as he aims to keep his squad together to try and survive in the Premier League.