World Football Transfer Rumours: 6 Trades That Will Shake Up Title Races

The three most popular leagues in the world—the English Premier League, La Liga and Serie A—have their fair share of competitors that, year in and year out, contend each other for their respective titles.

In Italy, it's turned into a two-horse race between the Milan clubs (AC Milan and Inter Milan), though Roma, and arguably even Napoli and Juventus, aren't completely out of the picture just yet.

In England, there are now 5 clubs that consider themselves genuine title contenders. Manchester United, Manchester City, Chelsea, Liverpool and Arsenal together form the newly evolved "Big 5" of the English Premier League, as they all boast a star-studded roster in an effort to capture the country's most coveted prize.

In Spain, the monopoly of La Liga wins in recent years tends to favour the Catalans from Barcelona. Real Madrid, under master-tactician Jose Mourinho, though, will be hoping to break that spell once and for all this year.

With that being said, both clubs already attributed with the "favourites" tag, as well as those "underdog" teams, will want to make some influential transfers this winter. The favourites, such as Manchester United, AC Milan and Barcelona would dive into the market in an effort to fend off any competition, whereas their competitors will want to reinforce their squad in an effort to dethrone them.

So, without further delay, I present to you six transfers that will shake up title races.

Enjoy!

Dimitar Berbatov to AC or Inter Milan

It's safe to say Dimitar Berbatov's career in the red of Manchester United is entering its twilight era, as the Bulgarian hitman is barely afforded a place in recent starting lineups for the Red Devils. 

However, given his impressive scoring record, it's also safe to say that potential suitors for Berbatov will not be hard to find. He's the sort of player that can add a touch of lethalness to any attack, as he definitely knows where the goal is.

Robin Van Persie to Inter Milan

Robin van Persie's frustration at his team's inability to win silverware has never been more apparent than this season. Arsenal, with van Persie as captain, find themselves in unfamiliar territory towards the bottom half of the table, having already lost four league games.

And, for a player of 28 with so much talent, it's safe to say the Dutchman will want to bide his time at another club holding actual title and cup ambitions. With his contract situation reaching it's tail end, it's safe to assume Arsenal might just be willing to part ways with their technical striker, as opposed to losing him for nothing in 18 months.

Carlos Tevez to Another English Club

Only six months ago, Argentinan striker Carlos Tevez was Manchester City's crown jewel, iconic captain and star player, having become a fan favourite by way of some very impressive performances.

Now, he seems to destined to move out. A touchline fracas with manager Roberto Mancini, in which he reportedly refused to get subbed in, seems to be the final nail in the coffin as far as Tevez's Manchester City career goes.

Though he's been strongly linked with a move to Inter Milan before, the Italian club has already signed Diego Forlan this summer, making a January transfer increasingly unlikely at this moment in time. However, there may be some clubs in England itself that could ponder a move for the versatile forward, as some clubs (like Arsenal) are finding it tough to score goals.

Giorgio Chiellini to Manchester City

It's no secret that Manchester City's weakness lies in their defence. With Kolo Toure already facing extended time on the sideline due to a drug ban, it seems Juventus' Giorgio Chiellini would be of interest to Roberto Mancini.

Though he may not come cheap, money has rarely, if ever, been a concern for the Citizens. Given Chiellini's experience, strength and physical frame (and of course his Italian background), his addition to Mancini's squad seems to be the perfect anecdote in their quest to dethrone neighbours Manchester United and finally grab a league trophy.

Eden Hazard to Real Madrid

Lille's Belgian attacking-midfielder Eden Hazard, only 20, is one of the most talked about and hyped up youngsters in world football.

He's also extremely skillful on the ball, a possessor of great vision and a neat finish. It's safe to say a club with the addition of Eden Hazard automatically looks like a lot stronger team. At least they will look stronger on paper, as he's been described as having a playing style "mixed" between Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. Quite a compliment if you ask me.

"

“Eden is technically gifted and very fast. He will be a major star in the future. I would take him to Real Madrid with my eyes closed."

"Zinedine Zidane"

"

Neymar to Real Madrid

Ignore the fact that Santos forward Neymar is only 19. The Brazilian striker, despite having never played in Europe so far, is already considered one of world football's most hottest properties.

His flair, coupled with his obvious ability to score goals, is something that's made the world stop and take notice. Chelsea, Real Madrid and even AC Milan have been linked to this versatile striker, as he looks set to join football's elite group of great players.

Agree or disagree? Leave your comments in the section below, or simply tweet/follow me @saqibddb