AMSTERDAM – With the transfer window fast closing, MLSsoccer.com has learned that several clubs across Europe are knocking at Villarreal's door with both loan and transfer offers for striker Jozy Altidore.
The 21-year-old US international is normally on the sub's bench for manager Juan Carlos Garrido, but he was left out of the selection entirely for Sunday's win at Espanyol along with two other players involved in transfer talks.
"We're looking at all options," Altidore rep Lyle Yorks told MLSsoccer.com. "He could stay at Villarreal, but there are clubs that want him, for loans and transfers."
MLSsoccer.com has learned that La Liga battlers Gijón, Levante and Málaga are among his loan suitors, with the interest of Deportivo La Coruña apparently already dropped or rejected.
Yorks confirmed that Altidore also has various admirers in the Eredivisie and Premier League, though MLSsoccer.com can confirm that Fulham are no longer interested.
Sunday reports in Turkey had old flame Bursaspor back in the picture, while recent Italian reports have tabbed Bari as a potential loan landing spot.
While Altidore is not actively looking to leave the Yellow Submarine, his agent admitted that they will generally at least listen to solid offers.
"It's more about doing due diligence," said Yorks. "If the right opportunity comes up, we'll listen. We've already rejected several offers for him to move."
[inline_node:325143]This season, Altidore has made six Villarreal starts among 11 appearance across all competitions, scoring twice. He spent last season on loan to then-Premier League side Hull City, netting twice in 30 outings.
Elsewhere, MLSsoccer.com has learned that at least two Championship clubs are attempting loan swoops for Fulham striker Eddie Johnson, who will run out of contract at Craven Cottage this summer.
However, recent reports in Greece claim there is interest in the 26-year-old Florida native from several Greek Super League clubs. These reports, though, were rubbished by Johnson's agent, Richard Motzkin, when contacted by MLSsoccer.com.
Johnson, who had previous loan spells at Cardiff City and Aris FC, has yet to score in 12 Fulham appearances this season.
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