Plenty of Australian 2018 World Cup hopefuls have made moves during January but there’s a sense of urgency with the transfer window due to close at midnight Wednesday (European time/10am AEDT Thursday).
Chris Ikonomidis
The precociously talented 22-year-old isn’t in the first-team frame at Lazio who have reportedly tried to find a new home for him during January. Ikonomidis has previously had loan spells in Serie B with Salernitana and Denmark with AGF, while there was interest from Italian second tier clubs in July, including Salernitana, Carpi and Venezia. The six-time Socceroo could be a major X-factor in Russia, but only if he can find regular game-time in the lead-up.

Matt Spiranovic
Firstly it’s worth noting the Chinese transfer window closes on February 28, but if Spiranovic wants to seal a move away from China’s second tier and back to Europe where he can truly test himself, then now is the time. The 29-year-old central defender was a key part of Australia’s 2014 World Cup and 2015 Asian Cup sides but fell out of favour under Ange Postecoglou since his move to China, although injury didn’t help. Bert van Marwijk’s take on Spiranovic’s situation is unknown but the 35-time Socceroo genuinely needs a move to boost his career, even though he’s being paid well.

Related Articles

Meulensteen hails return of the Aussie 'X-factor'

Socceroos midfielder embraces move to England
