Transfer window rumour ratings: Theo Walcott, Joleon Lescott, Lewis Holtby, Demba Ba, Joe Cole

Our football writer rates this month's possible moves

Theo Walcott

Club: Arsenal

Possible move to: Liverpool

Time left on deal: Six months

The story: Walcott has kept his cards close to his chest and so far refused to sign an extension to stay at the Emirates. The recent re-signing of five team-mates on new deals, including Jack Wilshere, has increased Arsene Wenger's hopes of keeping the England forward.

Chance of moving in the window: Two stars

Joleon Lescott

Club: Manchester City

Possible move to: Everton

Time left on deal: 18 months

The story: Strange fall from favour at the Etihad. Lescott has gone from an important player in a title-winning squad to bit part in a matter of months. Knows he needs to play to stay in favour with Roy Hodgson but still not 100 per cent certain his time is up at Man City. His salary would be a problem for his former club.

Chance of moving: Two stars

Lewis Holtby

Club: Schalke

Possible move to: Spurs

Time left on deal: Six months

The story: Holtby is hot property. A German international, just 22, with a dad from England and the always enticing fact he's in the final six months of his contract. Arsenal also like him, which makes things even more interesting, but Spurs believe they've sneaked ahead in the race to sign him.

Chance of moving: Three stars

Demba Ba

Club: Newcastle

Possible move to: Any club in Europe!

Time left on deal: 18 months

The story: The clause that haunts Newcastle entices would-be buyers at a bargain £7.5 million. Chelsea, Liverpool and keep an eye on QPR, who are paying for their future this month, are all possibles. Newcastle still haven't given up but their offer is beneath what the hit man wants.

Chance of moving: Three stars

Deal of the day: Joe Cole

Club: Liverpool

Possible move to: Queens Park Rangers

Time left on deal: 18 months

The story: "I'd like to bring Joe here," said Harry Redknapp and that usually means business. Cole is on a £120,000-a-week deal at Liverpool and they would happily off load. QPR can't pay that but they've proved already that hitting around £80,000-a-week is in their budget and Cole would welcome a move back to the capital.

Chance of moving: Four stars