Transfer Talk: Yoann Gourcuff to Arsenal; Ludovic Sylvestre to Fulham; Yoan Gouffran to Newcastle

The Independent's Martin Hardy analyses today's January transfer window stories and separates the reality from the rumour

Yoann Gourcuff (GETTY IMAGES)

Player: Yoann Gourcuff

Club: Lyon

Possible move to: Arsenal

The story: Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger likes the 26-year-old and wants to add new players to his midfield during the window. A loan switch has been mooted.

Chance of moving: Two stars

Player: Victor Wanyama

Club: Celtic

Possible move to: Arsenal

Time left on deal: Two-and-a-half years

The story: Wanyama has been a revelation at the heart of Celtic's midfield this season. The 21-year-old has the power and technique to be a hit in the Premier League and Arsenal need strengthening.

Chance of moving: Three stars

Player: Ludovic Sylvestre

Club: Blackpool

Possible move to: Fulham

Time left on deal: Six months

The story: Sylvestre, who began his career at Barcelona, impressed Martin Jol when Fulham faced Blackpool in the FA Cup and could move for the player before the end of the month.

Chance of moving: Two stars

Player: Yoan Gouffran

Club: Bordeaux

Possible move to: Newcastle

Time left on deal: Six months

The story: Gouffran has scored 12 goals in France this season and is running down his contract, allowing Newcastle to make a cut price move for the striker.

Chance of moving: Four stars

Player: Massadio Haidara

Club: Nancy

Possible move to: Newcastle

Time left on deal: 18 months

The story: The Nancy left back is on the brink of a £2m move to St James' Park, where they desperately need bodies. Nancy have confirmed a fee has been agreed and all that stands in the way of a move is a medical and personal terms.

Chance of moving: Five stars