[the phantom]

Everyone knows that off-season moves are nearly as important as the season itself- a team needs players, after all! Here are a few squads and the rumors surrounding them...

Rohan- After a strong showing last year Rohan fans haven't heard much good news this off-season, as several of their biggest stars seemed reluctant to guarantee they're returning for this year. At this point it's pretty well settled that Gandalf is wandering off (and Shadowfax with him), and it seems Rohan will be losing their other primary horse-and-rider pair because...

Anduin- Multiple sources are confirming that Eorl and Felarof are deep in negotiations with Anduin, and with their major players from last season confirmed to return (Grimbeorn, Celeborn, etc.) Anduin supporters are feeling pretty good. Almost as good as...

The Barrow-Downs- They've complied with Eru's "Tolkien Mandate" and added several Middle-Earth talents. Yep, it's official- Bombadil and a few of his friends will be joining Hookbill and his crew of characters. Their payroll will probably still be on the low side, but for the first time this squad appears to be a threat to make it out of the group stage.

Armenelos- On the flip-side, these guys are used to advancing, and last year is looked on as an anomaly (they were in the "Group of Death" after all). No word has reached anyone of significant departures, and rumors of Elros are swirling after he declined to renew his contract with Imladris.

Valimar- Another perennial contender is feeling good about their status- it seems clear that Valimar has been successful at knocking their payroll down for their returners. And more interestingly, Manwe has scheduled a press conference for the end of the week, and he promises that he will be sharing "some extremely exciting news".

The Havens- Fans of The Havens are still waiting for a bit of excitement. While they were pleased last week to hear that Earendil and Cirdan would be re-signing, Angrod and Aegnor stated that they would be jumping ship (but to where?).

Mordor- Similarly, Mordor has heard more about departures than signings, with not one, not two, but three Nazgul apparently going elsewhere. Of course Sauron can fill the slots, but will he choose to go budget or quality?

Arnor- These guys have managed to do both thus far, cutting costs ever so slightly while looking to be improved. Thanks to their financial ties to team Eriador (through Elrond and Norbury Sport), it appears Isildur is headed to Eriador while the Witch King and Malbeth will be joining Arnor.