If Arbeloa's switching numbers to accomodate someone (why the change, really?), I reckon the deal is pretty close. Or done, even. With regards to history, Alves would surprise me less than Heinze.
This will be a major change to the way we've played under Rafa, so I doubt it. Kind of. The argument makes sense, esp. if we're going for Alves. We already have Finnan who will fit right in as a wing back. Wonder where this leaves Pennant, though...
Torres looks likely now. However, I got this sneaky feeling we'll sign none of Mancini, Malouda or Simao. No Tevez either, I'm afraid. Rafa will surprise us, as usual.