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Three January Premier League transfer targets for David Moyes

Sports Mole picks out three potential Premier League transfer targets for new Real Sociedad head coach David Moyes.

Following a largely disastrous 10-month stint in charge of Manchester United, 51-year-old David Moyes returned to management last night when he was confirmed as the new head coach of La Liga outfit Real Sociedad.

When the Scot takes control of his first training session in San Sebastian, he will find a talented yet underachieving squad, which is short in terms of numbers.

Reports have suggested that Moyes has already been informed by president Jokin Aperribay that he has limited funds available for the upcoming January transfer window, with loan acquisitions his most likely path when it comes to recruitment.

Managers tend to be creatures of habit who often to stick to what they know, so Sports Mole has picked out three potential Premier League transfer targets for the former Everton and Man United boss.


1. Joel Robles, Everton

Everton goalkeeper Joel Robles celebrates a goal during the FA Cup quarter-final against Arsenal on March 8, 2014© AFP

For eight years, Sociedad were in the safe hands of Claudio Bravo. However, after an impressive showing at the World Cup with Chile this summer, the 31-year-old goalkeeper was signed by Barcelona to provide competition for Marc-Andre ter Stegen at the Camp Nou. Rather than bring in a senior replacement, Bravo's deputy Enaut Zubikarai has so far inherited the gloves, with youngster Geronimo Rulli also having arrived on loan.

At the age of 24, Robles needs to start playing games for the good of his career. He is currently the understudy to Tim Howard at Goodison Park, having moved to Everton following a loan stint with 2013 FA Cup winners Wigan Athletic. On a personal level, the stopper could well be tempted by the offer of regular football back in his homeland, while owing to his positive relationship with Toffees chairman Bill Kenwright, Moyes may be able to negotiate a cut-price deal.


2. Tom Cleverley, Manchester United

Tom Cleverley of Manchester United celebrates as he scores their thrid goal during the Barclays Premier League match between Aston Villa and Manchester United at Villa Park on December 15, 2013© Getty Images

"I watch Spanish football a lot. If they pass the ball sideways but keep possession, the fans clap them. Their attitude is that as long as you have got the ball, the other team can't hurt you."

Cleverley is of the belief that his style of play is more suited to La Liga. By his own admission, the England midfielder is not one for throwing his weight around, nor he is a regular scorer of goals. He views himself as a neat and tidy footballer that is keen to keep the ball moving with short, simple passes.

Currently on loan at Aston Villa, it seems that the 25-year-old is surplus to requirements at Man United. His career appears to have stalled after promising loan spells with Watford and Wigan Athletic, so a move to Spain could reignite Cleverley. His time at Villa Park is due to be evaluated in January, which will allow his former United manager to nip in. From Sociedad's point of view, they have not properly replaced Asier Illarramendi since his departure to Real Madrid in 2013.


3. Mohamed Salah, Chelsea

Mohamed Salah of Chelsea in action duing the pre season friendly match between Wycombe Wanderers and Chelsea at Adams Park on July 16, 2014© Getty Images

As well as securing the services of new arrivals, one of Moyes's major tasks will be fighting off the vultures that have started to circle for Carlos Vela. A number of European clubs are said to be eager to sign the skilful Mexican in January. While a summer departure looks likely, losing the former Arsenal attacker this winter and so soon after Antoine Griezmann headed for Atletico Madrid could spell disaster.

What Griezmann provided along with his eye for goal was pace, which stretched opposition defences and alleviated pressure. Speed is something that Salah has in abundance - not that he has been able to show it much since arriving at Chelsea from FC Basel in January of this year. The Egyptian international has largely been confined to outings as a substitute and if reports are to be believed, he is growing restless at Stamford Bridge. A permanent transfer may be out Sociedad's reach financially, but a six-month loan deal could suit all parties.


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David Moyes manager of Manchester United applauds the fans during the Barclays Premier League match between Newcastle United and Manchester United at St James' Park on April 5, 2014
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