Arsenal Rumours: Jagielka in, Bendtner Out?

Transfer rumours

The latest transfer rumours surrounding Arsenal are Wenger's attempts to bring Phil Jagielka to the Emirates to add some experience and solidity to his defence which has long been called for at Arsenal. The other suggested move in the papers is with Arsenal's Danish striker, Nicklas Bendtner, who Mark Hughes will apparently attempt to bring to Fulham this summer.

Phil Jagielka is a player who Arsenal have been linked to for a while. There were reports last summer that Arsenal had made several bids for the 28 year-old Everton defender, one of which was £15 million. Wenger has maintained his interest in the former Sheffield United defender, and some sources suggest there has even been a new bid offered by Arsenal for the defender.

Arsenal have missed their rock at the back this season, Thomas Vermaelen through injury, and Wenger understands that depth and experience are key to success in a long, hard season, it is just a question of how much money he would be willing to spend, which has often been problematic, as he tends to avoid big money transfers in the fear of putting Arsenal in a difficult financial situation.

An Everton source said: "We have had major interest in Jagielka ahead of the next transfer window. But it will take a huge offer for the club to let him leave." No doubt it would take a big offer because Jagielka only signed a new 4 year deal with Everton in March of this year.

Meanwhile, the Mail reports that Bendtner wants to find a team who will offer him first team football, and with Fulham reportedly seeking two strikers to add to their squad in the summer, it looks a good match for both parties. Fulham had a £5 million bid for the 23 year-old turned down in January of this year, with Arsenal looking for Fulham to match their £6.5 million valuation of the striker who has scored 2 League goals in 15 games this season.

Bendtner, who spent a season on loan at Birmingham in the past is apparently "open to offers", with Everton and Blackburn also interested in his signature, though it seems highly unlikely that a confident player with his ambition would want to transfer to sides battling relegation.

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Ayew "Delighted" & "Speechless" At United Interest

Transfer rumours

While some players feel transfer rumours are an irritating distraction which can damage their on-field performances, Andre Ayew, the Marseille winger/striker has told of how "fantastic" it is to see his name linked to big clubs in newspapers. Manchester United and Barcelona - the two 2011 Champions League finalists have been said to be following the 21 year-old, and the Ghanian did not attempt to hide his amazement:

"It is fantastic to hear these stories, even if it's just through newspapers."

 "I am delighted to be linked with two powerhouses of world football. It means I have improved.

"I have not got a favourite, I am just speechless!"

"It would be a dream to join one of them, but I am living the dream here with Marseille as well and also looking forward to a strong finish to the season."

After an impressive World Cup for Ghana, Ayew has had a very good season with his club, Marseille, scoring 10 goals and assisting 2 in the French Ligue 1. He was unable to grab a goal against Manchester United however, when he played against them for Marseille in this years Champions League, with a Javier Hernandez double sealing a United victory in that tie.

Despite his understandable enthusiasm to being linked with two of the best teams in Europe, he was obliged to emphasise his love of playing where he is now, at Marseille, describing it as a "dream":

"Do not forget last season, I was playing at Arles Avignon in the second division." 

"The World Cup has made me realise my potential. It is a dream to play for Marseille and I love every minute of it."

Manchester United are not said to have made a move for the player, but Barcelona are reported to be preparing an £8 million bid for the versatile winger. Below you can see some highlights of Andre Ayew:

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Rodwell: Interest Flattering But Concentration With Everton

Transfer rumours

Jack Rodwell, the young Everton midfielder, who has been linked to several top sides in the past including Manchester United and Arsenal has admitted the flattery of any possible United interest in acquiring him while highlighting the importance of loyalty, and concentrating on his duties at his own club.

The 20 year-old has impressed in recent years, and has emerged as a very bright English prospect at Everton, so understandably, the defensive midfielder has been attracting attention. However, Rodwell, who has played 23 times for Everton this season, the club he supported as a child, is emphasising the importance for him to keep his feet on the ground, and stay focused on football at Goodison Park.

"You can't really pay that [the transfer rumours] any attention, you can't let off-the-field antics affect you on the pitch so you just have to have to concentrate on your own game."

Rodwell denied that it was difficult to ignore the speculation surrounding his future:

"No not at all. As long as you have got the right people around, which I have, it is easy to put to the back of your mind.

"Obviously it's flattering, but like I said I just put it to the back of my mind and I am playing for Everton Football Club and I will always give 100 per cent for them.

"I am an Everton football and I enjoy playing for Everton so I am happy to do that."

 He is certainly a talented footballer - strong, disciplined and a good passer of the ball, and with quality comes demand. He will certainly be swayed by interest, despite his denials, as all players want to be successful and win trophies with their clubs, and he has a better chance of achieving that with Arsenal or Manchester United. Everton will do well to keep him, but at the moment, his commitment is admirable.

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Arsenal After The New Vieira & Phil Jones

Transfer rumours

Arsenal are being linked to two of Blackburn's brightest young stars in Phil Jones and Steven N'Zonzi as they prepare for next season in which Arsenal will hope to have more strength in depth. Arsenal and Blackburn's style of play may be very different, but perhaps Wenger realises a few new additions accustomed to a different style may suit his side in a long, hard season against tougher opposition.

Both Jones and N'Zonzi are the type of players Wenger usually goes for, in that they are young and not too experienced. However, both Jones and N'Zonzi have been in the Premier League for two seasons now, and have had a very successful and impressive spell in the heart of Blackburn's team.

N'Zonzi is a French international footballer and has drawn comparisons to former Arsenal captain, Patrick Vieira in his physical yet skilful playing style. Incidentally, the last time Arsenal won any silverware was when Patrick Vieira was in the side back in 2005 when Arsenal lifted the FA Cup. The French midfielder left for Juventus, and since then, Wenger has seen six years of no trophies. Perhaps Wenger has finally realised what he has been missing all of these years - a younger version of his former captain.

In a midfield full of small, skilful and creative players such as Wilshere, Fabregas, Ramsey, Nasri and Walcott, Steven N'Zonzi could add a new dimension of height and strength that Alex Song has been attempting to achieve. It would give Arsenal a new outlook on playing, and a more successful one, with that physical and commanding presence back in the midfield.

Phil Jones is a powerful central defender, and a player Arsenal would welcome to their often error prone, frail defence. It has been reported that Wenger's chief scout was sent to watch Phil Jones in action against Bolton - a game in which N'Zonzi was also involved.

However, the stumbling block will once again be the transfer fee. Wenger is not a fan of paying a lot of money for players, but considering the two players long contracts, big money will have to be spent. Jones is on a contract which expired in the summer of 2016, whilst N'Zonzi has a contract which ends a year earlier. Blackburn's manager, Steve Kean reiterated this:

"If they decide they want to move on then the clubs concerned will have to pay top dollar because they are under very, very long contracts and the fees we would be demanding would be massive."

Jones has also apparently interested Manchester United, but Sir Alex Ferguson will want to solve his goalkeeping position out before anything else. At the moment it is all speculation, but one thing is for sure; if Arsenal want these two youngsters, they will have to pay top money for them. Will Wenger be willing to is another matter.

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Nani to Real Madrid - Latest Rumour

Transfer rumours

Real Madrid have seen a few things crushed in the past few weeks. Firstly the Copa del Rey trophy was harshly trampled over by the ceremonial bus, and this week, someone far more agile, nifty and supremely talented in Lionel Messi crushed Mourinho's dreams of lifting a second successive Champions League trophy. The semi final first leg was as a whole, a disgrace, with diving and play acting coughed up all over the pitch. So what do Real Madrid do when they find themselves in a pickle? Spend a load of money on new recruits.

The latest player to be linked to the Spanish side is Manchester United's Luis Nani. The Portuguese has often been accused of copying Cristiano Ronaldo's style, so by joining his compatriot at Madrid will go no way in shaking that irritating yet flattering tag. Nani cost United £17 million in 2007, and has only this season come into his own, creating himself a guaranteed starting spot in most big games and as a result having a brilliant season, with 12 goals and even more assists.

A move to Italy was also being mooted earlier in the season as United's interest in Sneijder being suggested as a help for Inter's rumoured bid for Nani. And it is unsurprising that Nani is so sought after, with his blistering form this season and a certain impact whenever he plays. But a move to Real Madrid? Very unlikely.

Nani used Twitter to voice his side when he was being linked to Inter Milan. He wrote: "I've seen some false reports in the press. I want you to know that you will hear the truth from me. Love MU"

Sir Alex Ferguson would certainly not be eager to do any kind of a deal with Madrid after the episode with Ronaldo. The fiery Scot told the world that he "wouldn't sell a virus" to that "mob", referring to Madrid. He did in the end sell his Portuguese star to Madrid, but it was for an outrageous sum of £80 million, and not a bad deal at all.

I really can't see Sir Alex letting Nani go, who still has around 15 months left on his contract, and Nani is clearly comfortable in Manchester United. He is clearly important to United's attack, and would certainly not have a guaranteed starting place at an overcrowded squad at Real Madrid. It would be a silly, silly decision for Nani to leave for Madrid when he is in the privileged position that he is currently in.

Wayne Rooney recently admitted to regretting even contemplating leaving the great club that is Manchester United, and when you watch documentary's of Sir Bobby Charlton's time at Old Trafford and the creation of a legend, it is surely unrivalled inspiration for any footballer. So the conclusion? If Nani wants a glitzy, glamorous life in Spain with his friend and former team mate Ronaldo, whilst sitting out on the bench, then Madrid is the place to go. However, if he wants a successful, highly satisfying success, and a first team place, as well as the possibility of carving his name in the United history books, there is only one thing to do; sign a new contract at Manchester United.

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Wenger Has £40 Million - Who Will He Buy?

Transfer rumours

Arsene Wenger has been given £40 million by Arsenal, and been told that he can do absolutely anything he wishes with it. Well, as long as that 'anything' is in regards to any players he wishes to purchase in the transfer market - a market which has been scarcely used by the Arsenal manager in large quantities for a while. A market which Sir Alex Ferguson, Wengers rival, claims there is "no value" - a claim well supported by Chelsea, who proved exactly that by splashing £10 million more than what Wenger has to spend on a striker who has so far made no impact on their title chase, scoring zero goals.

So with that in mind, who will Wenger bring to Arsenal, who he believes will add something different, somehing better to the squad. A squad which many commentators, critics and pundits suggests needs adding to, in the form of real stability - a defensive midfielder perhaps, or a good few central defenders to sure up that shaky defence, and maybe even an injury free, reliably prolific striker who will convert the chances that Marouane Chamakh, Nicklas Bendtner and Robin van Persie cannot.

It's all very easy to list what Arsenal need, but what's harder is to tell Wenger what Arsenal need, and then convert those thoughts into actions. The general consensus is that Arsenal must spend - explicitly suggested in the Arsenal board giving him £40 million to do what he likes with. But with Wenger stubbornly set in his ways of spending little and relying on youth, there will be a lot of thinking involved in finding the right players for the right values at Arsenal. With £40 million ready to spend, the gossip columns will have no shortage of players to link to Arsenal either, so here's a few already being tipped for a move.

Lets start with that defensive midfielder. Gokhan Inler is the man rumoured to be on Arsenal's wanted list, and at a rumoured bargain of £8 million, it seems too good to be true for Wenger. He was followed by Roy Hodgson when he managed Liverpool, and was tipped to be Javier Mascherano's replacement, but of course a deal never materialised and he remains playing at Udinese. Arsenal are apparently watching him closely, and it always helps when a player comes out with: "My future has absolutely not been decided". The player has a good work rate and aggressive style of play - an enforcer in the middle - something Arsenal desperately need.


Next up is those defenders who have been linked to Arsenal. Bolton's Gary Cahill has been mentioned more than several times, and his admission that he wants to be more like Jack Wilshere, playing against the big teams in the Champions League have not done any harm to a possible transfer to the Emirates. Wenger is a vocal admirer of Cahill who is starting to make a name for himself in the English national side, but his sudden rise to prominence has done something awful to put Wenger off. His asking price has risen drastically. Valued at over £20 million, surely this is out of Wenger's price range. Unfortunately I cannot imagine Wenger spending this much on a defender.


A defender far, far, far within Wenger's price range is Phillipe Mexes. In fact he's so cheap, he's free. His contract at Roma expires in June, making him a free-agent, however, Wenger will still need to use some of that £40 million to persuade the Frenchman to Arsenal. Mexes would come with a heft wage packet, and with Chelsea also rumoured to be on his trail, Arsenal must be ready (if they want him) to offer him those wages.

Other rumours are less prominent. They are so because they are rumours about attacking players, and Arsenal have no lack of those at the club, but perhaps if investment is not used, those class acts such as Nasri, Fabregas, van Persie and Walcott will turn their heads to new clubs - though that is unlikely considering their apparent loyalty to the cause. Attacking rumours include another Frenchman, Yann M'Vila and Sporting Lisbon forward Yannick Djalo. 


There is then of course, Arsenal admirer, and Wenger admirer, Eden Hazard. A very bright prospect, and real attacking flare, he has already stated that, "If one day I leave Lille, I will go to Real or Arsenal." The Belgian play maker is the "next big thing", and with Arsenal now having the money, surely Wenger wouldn't pass up the opportunity to have a player who really wants to play for his team and "dreamed of joining as a child."


Arsenal's goalkeeping situation is covered by Szczesny now, and I think most Arsenal fans, and Wenger accept him as their new number 1 goalkeeper, while Wenger doesn't look likely to delve into his pockets for a new one. Especially when he can just call Jens Lehmann back for free, or if he's not available, David Seaman.

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De Gea to "Renew or Leave" As United Scout Patricio

Transfer rumours

David de Gea, targeted by Manchester United to replace Edwin van der sar, and current Athletico Madrid number one has been told by his club that he will have two choices at the end of the season: to renew his Athletico contract, or leave for United.

The 20 year-old Spanish goalkeeper had met with Athletico club officials twice now to discuss his future, but no deal has been agreed, and with 3 years left on his deal, the Spanish club are getting agitated. The Madrid Chief Executive Angel Gil Marin said:

"We have met with him to negotiate a new deal on two occasions." 

"He has a contract with Atletico for three more seasons, so it is necessary to renew it and reasonable to revise his salary, which is well below his current performance. 

"But at the end of the season there will be two choices - to renew or to leave."

The Sky Sports journalist and compatriot of De Gea's, Guillem Balague has spoken about the decision being in De Gea's hands, but that the player is still undecided. He sees Manchester United as a great opportunity and a great leap forward of course, but is comfortable in his home country and may yet decide to commit to his boyhood club.

The latest reports are that, if Sir Alex Ferguson fails in his attempts to bring De Gea to Old Trafford, he will move for the Portuguese 23 year-old goalkeeper, Rui Patricio. The Sporting Lisbon goalkeeper is regarded as one of the brightest prospects in Europe, and it has been reported that former Sporting star Luis Nani has recommended the goalkeeper to Ferguson.

The Portuguese press stated that Ferguson sent his goalkeeping coach Eric Steele to Portugal over the week end to watch Patricio in action against FC Porto, and with a number of European clubs watching the player, Steele wasn't alone.

Patricio is not Portugal's number one choice goalkeeper, but he did win his debut against Spain, in the second half of a 4 - 0 win for Portugal on the 17th November 2010. If he joins United this summer, he will be fighting for one of the toughest number 1 spots to fill in Europe, with huge boots to fill when van der sar retires. A goalkeeper is certainly coming to United this summer, but it is up to David de Gea who that goalkeeper is: him, or United's insurance, Patricio.

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Nani for Sneijder?

Transfer rumours

When Nani walks out onto a football pitch wearing Manchester United colours, you know that he will have an effect on the game. He will cause problems on the wings, he will come inside and unleash a thunderous shot, he will win free-kicks in dangerous areas, he will create and score goals. If it wasn't for him and his stunning form this season, United wouldn't be where they are now - 7 points clear at the top of the Premier League and on course for a Champions League semi final and FA Cup Final.

It wasn't always like that, and at one point he might have been out of the Old Trafford door with a thumping headache and Sir Alex Ferguson's angry words ringing in his ears. But he kept at it, and has turned inconsistency's into an instrumental role at United. Why on earth would United want to let him go?

Well apparently, for Wesley Sneijder. The Netherlands international and Inter Milan play maker has been on Ferguson's wanted list for a while now, with the Inter Milan president confirming solid interest in the player from United. Considering the great World Cup he had and the well known quality in midfield that he can inject, that is very much understandable. Weight is added to the argument when you consider that Paul Scholes' contract negotiations are well off resolving and retirement is just around the corner. United will be looking for a replacement, and what a fantastic one Sneijder would be.

Would Ferguson really allow Nani to leave United so he can exchange him for an older player, in a different position? One that statistically has not had anywhere near as good a season as Nani has, and one who has never played in England before? Sure, he may settle down very quickly in England, but what if he doesn't? One of United's most influential players would be enjoying life in Italy while the player exchanged for him is suffering in a new, very different environment.

Manchester United fans have been left scratching their heads as to why Nani has been left off of the Player of the Year short-list. He has, in the Premier League alone, scored 9, and directly assisted 14 while playing a prominent role in countless Manchester United attacks, often proving lethal for the opposition. Meanwhile, Sneijder has managed 3 goals and 5 assists in the Italian Serie A.

I for one, would not like to see Nani leave Old Trafford for Sneijder. I would like to see the Dutchman wearing the red of United, but not at the expense of one of United's best, who is always looking to improve. Sir Alex has spoken of Nani's early troubles before, and by the sounds of it, the great Scot would not be any hurry to see Nani go either:

“Nani wasn’t close to leaving because he’d have had to get by me! Of course we sat down and talked. You do that with all your players.

“I don’t need to trumpet his improvement, he’s been consistent all season. He’s a match winner – he creates goals and he scores goals. Every time he gets near the ball, you think something special is going to happen. That’s the sign of a great player.”

Jose Enrique to Liverpool "Deal has been Done"

Transfer rumours

Liverpool had reportedly been watching Jose Enrique, the 25 year-old Spanish left back, and now according to Liverpool legend Phil Thompson, a deal "has been done" to bring the Newcastle player to Anfield.

Enrique joined Newcastle in 2007 for £6.3 million, signing a 5 year contract with the Magpies. But after a few impressive seasons with Newcastle, helping them to win promotion last season and then this season helping them to a safe League position, he has attracted the attention of several top teams. 

Manchester United had been linked to the former Valencia player, but it seems that Liverpool have already agreed to sign him. Kenny Dalglish let Paul Konchesky go to Nottingham Forest on loan when he was appointed manager, and has obviously made getting a replacement his priority. Liverpool have been linked to Fabio Coentrao and Oscar Wendt, but Damien Comolli has watched him personally. 

Enrique's contract expires in 16 months and has held off talks to renew it until the end of the season. Being targeted by clubs such as United, AC Milan and Liverpool have certainly contributed to that decision.

Liverpool Eye Two Dutch Wingers For Carroll

Transfer rumours

£35 million is a lot of money, and as Liverpool are finding, if you spend it all on one player but don't use his main asset to your advantage, you won't always get your moneys worth. It could be worse though - they could still have Fernando Torres. Anyway, Liverpool will reportedly look to exploit Andy Carroll's heading talents by purchasing two natural wingers - something severely lacking a Liverpool; both Barcelona's Ibrahim Afellay and Hamburg's Eljero Elia.

In October of last year, Afellay, a now 25 year old Barcelona player said:

"Playing in the Premier League would be best for my prestige. I'd like to play for Liverpool or Manchester United , the top-level prospect for any player.

In the January transfer market however, he completed a move to Barcelona - a move which was quite an odd move for the player. Surely if an inexperienced attacking midfielder wanted to play games, they wouldn't attempt to push players like Lionel Messi, Xavi, Iniesta and Sergio Busquets out of a side by joining Barcelona. Nevertheless, the deal was done, and unsurprisingly, Afellay has since found that his game time has been limited to only 9 League games.

Liverpool held a keen interest in Afellay before his move to the Nou Camp, and as the summer window approaches, talkSPORT claim:

"talkSPORT understands Afellay will speak with officials at the Nou Camp regarding his future in the coming weeks and if there are no assurances over his future, he will be free to leave this summer."

You may ask why Barcelona will want to sell a player they have only just purchased. Some say that it was simply a money making ploy on Barcelona's half. They recognised his potential, and saw that his contract at PSV was almost up, they had a tiny three million euro offer accepted, and signed the player to a long term contract. They now hope to sell him on for a lot more than they bought him for, due to the length of his contract at Barcelona. It's intriguing, but certainly a possibility.

On to Eljero Elia now, and another player that Liverpool were reportedly very close to signing in the January transfer window. His club, Hamburg confirmed a bid was received for Elia, but not from Liverpool, rather Wigan Athletic. However, a £13 million bid for the 24 year-old was quoted in certain publications, and Liverpool remain interested with Damien Comolli eyeing possible promising transfers.

There is no doubting that Elia has potential. In 2009 he was awarded the Johan Cruijff Award for "Young Player of the Year" in the Netherlands - an award that has previously been won by Arsenal legends Dennis Bergkamp and Marc Overmars as well as Robin van Persie, Arjen Robben and Rafael van der Vaart.

It seems Elia's services will be available in the summer too, as Hamburg's Technical Director Bastian Reinhardt admitted that he would be available if a “good offer” was submitted:

"In sporting terms we would like to keep him. But when we receive a good offer..."

So, this may be music to Andy Carroll's and Liverpool fans' ears. Next season may see the start of a new Liverpool, thriving on wingers' crosses into the box to be headed down expertly by the big Englishman to the predatory Luiz Suarez to finish with a goal. It looks like a recipe for success. But Liverpool need the investment first.

Video: United & Arsenal 'Target' Marko Marin

Transfer rumours

Manchester United and Arsenal are currently fighting with each other for the Premier League title, but come the summer transfer window, they will apparently be fighting for a player labelled as the "German Messi".

The 22 year-old German midfielder, Marko Marin currently plays for Werder Bremen in the Budesliga, where he can perform as an attacking midfielder and winger. He joined Werder Bremen in June of 2009 from Borussia Mönchengladbach and was even included in the German World Cup squad in 2010, making two appearances against both Australia and Serbia. 

He isn't a prolific goalscorer, with only four goals this season for Werder, but his contribution is more through his assists - 6 this season and 14 last season - troubling the defenders and making chances. 

Both Manchester United and Arsenal have been linked to bringing the exciting forward to the Premier League in the past, and now United are reportedly ready to 'intensify' their interest, and make a move for Marin. 

The player has unfortunately been accused of lacking strength on the ball and going down easily in a challenge, but as can be seen below, he has a special quality, especially in his dribbling ability and could be the spark who could light up United next season from a reported £15 million offer.

A £20 Million Bid for Berbatov Should be Accepted

Transfer rumours

You could say that Dimitar Berbatov and Wayne Rooney are like beauty and the beast. Watching the Bulgarian with the ball at his feet is a joy to behold, as he effortlessly glides past players with the silky skills of a suave, smooth and polished perfectionist. Meanwhile, Rooney charges around, with his undoubted quality, bullishly tracking back, rocketing cross field passes and sometimes getting involved in incidents he really shouldn't be.

You wouldn't, for example ever see Dimitar Berbatov screaming obscenities into a television camera after scoring a goal. That isn't his style, but both players are undeniably Manchester United quality, and are both passionate about their football.

However, the rumours circulating claim that Sir Alex Ferguson is preparing to sell the "beauty" of this pairing for an amount in excess of £20 million. Manchester United's top scorer, who is also the Premier Leagues top scorer with 20 goals, seems to have fallen out of favour with the United manager as his starts in games have become all to infrequent. Javier Hernandez's growing reputation as a guaranteed goalscorer at important times has seen him propelled into a starting spot alongside Rooney, whose place in the team seems more or less guaranteed.

Bayern Munich have apparently noticed this, and will reportedly attempt to persuade Berbatov to come back to the country where he made his name - with Bayern Leverkusen. The Germans are supposedly preparing a £22 million bid for the striker who was bought by United in 2008 for £30.75 million.

After two seasons which saw the Bulgarian score a total of 26 in 86 games, he was labelled rather harshly as "Berbaflop". He had cost a lot of money, and at his age, (now 30), it was beginning to look like a bad buy from Ferguson. This season has proved all of his critics wrong, with a stunning total of vital goals in vital games including a hat-trick against Liverpool. He has now almost scored the same amount of goals this season than he did in his firs to season's at Old Trafford, yet starting games is becoming a rarity.

I like Berbatov - he has grown on me - especially this season, but I think if United are offered £22 million like is being reported, then Sir Alex should take it. It would be sad to see Berbatov go after what he has done for United this season, and his incredible touch and fantastic hold up play will be missed by many. His calm, collected figure will be missed too, but at his age, £22 million is a fantastic deal, and one that will not be equalled in the future if this opportunity is passed.

United could use the money this summer to sign a younger striker or midfielder, someone who can contribute to the team for many years to come. A central midfielder is what is needed, and a player similar to Owen Hargreaves who is the engine of a side.

It will be sad to see Berbatov go. He is a brilliant player, with a unique style. Strong when he needs to be, quick when he wants to be, and deadly in front of goal - always.

"The interest from Manchester United in Sneijder is real." - But...

Transfer rumours

It is no secret that Manchester United need reinforcements in midfield. The frailty's have been for all to see this season, and it is credit to the winning mentality at the club that they are at the top of the Premier League table by five points without playing their best football.

 Paul Scholes is still yet to sign an extension on his contract with the club, and if he does decide to retire or move on at the end of the season, Sir Alex will urgently need to find a replacement. Likewise, Owen Hargreaves' injuries continue to pester him, and whether or not Ferguson decides to stick with him and attempt to get his moneys worth for the Canadian is yet to be seen.

Nevertheless, it is no surprise that Inter Milan have confirmed United's interest in Wesley Sneijder. Last summer, Sir Alex dismissed the fact that he had made a bid for the 26 year-old Dutchman. He said:

“I don’t know where those reports about Sneijder came from. How can anybody turn me down when I haven’t even made a bid?”

The interest however has now been confirmed by the Inter Milan President, Massimo Moratti who said this:

“The interest from Manchester United in Sneijder is real. But I didn’t look into it. My only interest is seeing Sneijder play here for many more years to come.”

Sneijder is the creative spark that the United midfield would love to have. In 21 games this season, the Dutchman has scored 3, created 5 and unleashed an ambitious 93 shots on goal. He is quick, strong and powerful with accurate shooting ability but apparently out of United's reach.

£1 Billion for Modric

Transfer rumours

Well it doesn't look like Luka Modric will be packing his bags, moving away from Tottenham and heading up North to Manchester or staying in the area and joining Chelsea. Not unless United or Chelsea, the two clubs linked with the Croatian midfielder are prepared to pay £1 billion for him.

Harry Redknapp, the Tottenham manager has led this Spurs side to a Champions League quarter final, beating one of the most successful European teams in AC Milan on the way. Luka Modric played a vital part in both helping Tottenham into the top four last season and their brilliant, over achieving success of reaching the latter stages of the prestigious European competition this year. The Tottenham manager emphasised the invaluable qualities that the 25 year-old holds in the side with a rather exaggerated expected transfer fee:

"I wouldn't want to sell him for £100 million, not even for a billion.

"He's the hub of the team."

He made his point. Of course, Redknapp would sell Modric for £1 billion - not that anyone - not even Manchester City would pay that ludicrous amount. But it is a clear statement that Modric is not for sale, and if an offer were to come in, it would have to be quite a substantial amount.

Modric only signed a long term contract at Spurs last year, and the players' representative, Mario Mamic reiterated Redknapps sentiments:

"These are just rumours. Luka has a contract until 2016 and Tottenham have no plans to sell him. He has an excellent relationship with coach [Harry] Redknapp and only signed a contract extension with Spurs last summer."

The rumours that Mamic spoke of refer to apparent interest from several English clubs including Manchester United and Chelsea as well as Italian side Juventus and Inter Milan. Certainly, Modric has his fans; he is a fantastic player and has been described by the former Chelsea assistant Ray Wilkins as one of the best midfielder's in the Premier League. Gerard Houllier, the current Aston Villa manager also heaped praise on Modric:

"Not only is he a very hard worker, he has a good brain and he provided some calmness and composure to the midfield. His passing was neat and his contribution was outstanding. He was not only winning the ball, he was passing well. We thought that he was very influential. He did not just work hard, he made the other people play well around him."

 He may not be worth £100 million or £1 billion, but Luka Modric is certainly a fantastic asset to Tottenham, and understandably has the best teams in the world watching him.

Daniele De Rossi Transfer News

Transfer rumours

The past few days have seen Daniele De Rossi's name mentioned quite a few times in the transfer gossip columns in stories linking the Italian midfielder to Manchester United. This happened only a couple of weeks ago with Javier Pastore, the Argentinian attacking midfielder who was supposedly close to a Manchester United move. I haven't heard much since. 
So this is all about the De Rossi Move:

The 27 year-old is apparently prepared to leave Roma, the club he has played for over a decade. De Rossi has suffered a turbulent time in recent years, including the shooting of his father-in-law in a gang attack and the separation from his wife. The player recently told of his recent struggle with the club he began his career with, and explained that he feels that things are changing for the worse. He said after elbowing the opposition and getting sent off in Roma's recent Champions League clash with Shackhtar Donetsk:

"They used to treat me as one of their own, they would tell me to throw in another elbow, but now the wind has changed. Something here at Roma is changing. For a year and a half, the things I've heard that have given me the most pride have come from outside Rome. I have had moments at a low ebb, in which I wasn't at my best. Do I feel wounded?

"Yes, but I don't want to play the victim, I don't want people to come and tell me how great I am. The wound will heal itself. Then, everyone makes his own assessments."

His father, Alberto, admits that the player “would never want to face a future away from Roma” but acknowledges that “if he expressed himself [in that way], then there is a cause behind it.”

His contract at Roma expires in June 2012 and his current wages reach £60,000 a week. That is well within United's budget, and with Sir Alex reportedly being given £100 million to spend, the £20 million fee supposedly being asked for the defensive midfielder would not be a problem. However, 27 is not the ideal age for Sir Alex who has been and will be looking more to youth to replace the older generation of Giggs, Scholes and van der sar.

The former Roma striker Ruggiero Rizzitelli does not believe that De Rossi will leave Italy:

"The truth is De Rossi won't leave Roma. He is their Bandieraplayer, the future captain. He is already named as the new captain after Francesco Totti."

"De Rossi has already rejected Real Madrid in the past. Two years ago the club had asked for him, but he and [former Roma owners] the Sensi family said no because he is a Roman, a Romanista and he wants to end his career at Roma like Totti.

"His dream is to remain at Roma with the backing of the new owners and the promise of a strong team to challenge."

The 2006 World Cup winners' future is looking uncertain, that is for sure. Whether it simply be transfer speculation or actual truth lies at the bottom of this story is yet to be discovered, but he would be a fantastic addition to the Manchester United side, as a perfect replacement for Owen Hargreaves.

Video: A Look at Arsenal Target Kévin Gameiro

Transfer rumours

Kevin Gameiro, a 23 year old French striker currently playing for Ligue 1 side Lorient is a reported transfer target for Arsenal.

The forward has apparently been watched by Arsenal scouts sent by Arsene Wenger to track his progress - and they have been impressed. The young striker has played a total of 26 games this season, scoring 17 and creating 3. His consistency has also impressed Arsenal scouts, with talk of a move not distracting his on field impact at Lorient, with goals continuing to flow.

Gameiro is a fast, energetic player with good dribbling abilities, demonstrated in the video below. He is contracted to Lorient until the end of the 2011/2012 season, but the club president, Loic Fery admitted that it is likely they will have to let the player go:

"It is true that we are mulling over three options."

"We can let him go when his contract expires, sell him in the summer or renew his contract. But the latter is complicated because we have made several incredible efforts and he has not accepted."

Fey said in August:

"There is no such thing as an untransferable player. Gameiro, and players like him, can and will leave the club, even if we would prefer that they stay. 

Tottenham were said to be interested late 2010, but did not move for Gameiro and Arsenal have since been linked strongly with the player who would cost around £10 - 15 million. The fact that he has rejected several contract extensions at Lorient suggests that he may have his eye somewhere else, and Lorient would surely rather cash in on him than wait until his contract runs its course.

M'Vila to United & Marveux to Liverpool

Transfer rumours

Yann M'Vila and Sylvain Marveux are said to be on their way to England this summer in the form of two of the top Premier League clubs, Manchester United and Liverpool.

The 20 year-old Frenchman Yann M'Villa is a defensive midfielder who plays at Ligue 1 for Rennes and has been described as a player who possesses "excellent defensive abilities" and "impressive physical strength".
He announced his love for Manchester United earlier this year:

"Manchester United is the club of my dreams. It's a very prestigious club and I dream to play for them."

Now, news sources are reporting that Sir Alex Ferguson sees him as the perfect replacement for the injured Owen Hargreaves. M'Vila has been linked to Liverpool, Tottenham and Real Madrid and is very highly rated in France so his club will be expecting around £15 million for him.

On to Liverpool's target and Sylvain Marveux is apparently "very close" to an agreement with Liverpool about a transfer in the summer. The 24 year-old versatile midfielder has been quoted as saying:

"I am very close to reaching agreement with Liverpool about joining them next season"

He can play in a number of positions in the midfield but is mostly played on the left side of midfield or in a further advanced position more centrally. Last season, Marveaux played 28 times in all competitions, scored 12 goals, and assisted 5. Liverpool have lacked a real winger in recent years, so Marveux, who seems quite eager about a move would be a good addition to Dalglish's Liverpool side.

He will be out of contract at his current club Rennes by the end of the season, so Liverpool will be able to pick him on a Bosman.

Rooney Appreciates the Importance of Valencia & VDS

Transfer rumours

Manchester United missed Antonio Valencia. They missed his pace, his skill, his clever shimmies around defenders, his sumptuous crosses into dangerous areas and his priceless assists. Wayne Rooney more than most missed the Ecuadorians individual qualities and has had possibly the worst season of his career in the winger's absence.

So Valencia's return to first team action against Arsenal on Saturday was a rare plus point in Rooney's season. His first start since that horrible broken ankle against Rangers in the Champions League last September was welcomed with a rousing ovation at Old Trafford, highlighting his importance to the team and the clubs success. Rooney was delighted:

"I can't tell you how good it is to see him back out there. It was Antonio's first game back after six months out and he looked like he'd never been away. It's fantastic for him and fantastic for us to have him back and playing the way he did."

Valencia's return to action is even more convenient when you consider Nani's absence after the Jamie Carragher horror tackle which ripped open his shin. Valencia will now make his return to Champions League football at Old Trafford against Marseille on Tuesday as United hope to progress further in the competition at the stage which Arsenal recently slipped up at to Barcelona.

Rooney praised Edwin van der sar's superb contribution to the FA Cup tie against Arsenal on Saturday as well, claiming that him and the rest of the team have been attempting to persuade the Dutchman out of his decision to retire:

"The players are trying to persuade Edwin to stay on too. I was speaking to him in the shower afterwards but it is his decision and we have to respect it."

"He is such a great goalkeeper. Despite his age he is still the best keeper in the world."

This is a sentiment shared by so many United fans who remember the huge difficulty in replacing their last consistently brilliant goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel. It will cost a large fee to replace van der sar now, especially considering the current transfer market climate - it is however, something that United will have to get used to; not seeing the great Dutchman guard the goal anymore.

Rooney's comments come after the News of The World claimed that Sir Alex Ferguson is preparing to sell Rooney in the summer transfer window. The paper's source claims that, "relations between Rooney and Ferguson are so strained that it is affecting other players," adding that, "Sir Alex is not pleased with the way Rooney has been playing... Rooney has been moaning about the squad again but Sir Alex has told him he should look at himself before criticising others."

I really can't see this being the case. Despite a bad season in front of goal, United do still look a better team when Rooney is on the team sheet. Sir Alex Ferguson knows it; Rooney's goals last season emphasise his importance to the team, and there is no way Ferguson would jump to the conclusion that Rooney isn't good enough for this United side anymore. His passion and desire was on show for all to see at Old Trafford against Arsenal, summed up in the crunching but fair challenge on Bacary Sagna, met with massive cheers from the United fans, impressed by Rooney's impressive show of commitment to the cause.

Nani to Move to Central Role?

Transfer rumours

Early in Nani's Manchester United career, he was criticized by certain football fans for imitating Cristiano Ronaldo at every opportunity. The nationality obviously can't be helped, but certain similarities in their playing style plus resemblances in some mannerism's prompted people to label Nani as a Ronaldo "wannabe".

Nani has recently asked to not be compared to his former team mate as he has been having a fantastic season as one of United's main providers of goals with 15 assists for the season as well as plenty of goals. But there is one area of Ronaldo's time at United that Nani would be pleased to copy.

Rumours that Ashley Young is pushing for a move to Old Trafford have been building, but one must ask where he would fit into the United team if he does arrive in the summer. With Antonio Valencia soon to return and surely certain to start whenever fit, Giggs signing a new contract, Ji Sung Park soon to return and Young best on the wing - competition out wide would be fierce. Alexis Sanchez is also another prospective winger who has been linked toa move to United.

Ronaldo moved from the wing to a central role in his time at United, and became one of the most prolific strikers in the world. He was able to make the position his own - pushing Rooney out wide and away from the goals, and fought for the title of the best in the world with his very worthy opponent, Lionel Messi.

What is to stop Nani doing something similar? Perhaps not as the leader of the line, but he could certainly cut it as an attacking midfielder just off the striker. Which striker may be the dilemma for Ferguson, as he has watched Berbatov become top scorer and Hernandez close behind, while guaranteed starter Rooney has lagged behind in possible the worst season of his career.

The more quality and creativity on the pitch the better, and Nani's much improved final ball doesn't have to be missed; Valencia's delivery is superb, as is Young's while Sanchez's ability to shimmy around players with his low centre of gravity could cause chaos among opposition defences.

Nani has all the potential to follow in his compatriot's footsteps - perhaps not to the extent of being worth £80 million, but certainly a very valuable player to Manchester United - as he has been throughout the season. Sir Alex Ferguson commented on the two Portuguese attackers in the past, claiming Nani has settled into English football quicker than Ronaldo:

"Ronaldo was exceptional, a once-in-a-lifetime player, but it did take him time to settle and develop in the English game.

"I think Nani has done it a bit quicker."

Marek Hamsik to Man Utd or Chelsea?

Transfer rumours

Despite being treated to a January transfer window filled to the rim with big money, big name, controversial moves here, there, and everywhere, the next transfer window is already being eagerly anticipated with rumours starting to fly around like paper aeroplanes in an unruly classroom. They just can't be stopped. Even if the player involved in a rumour has only recently signed a new contract with his club, they are linked to moves away. Probably because money is far more powerful than loyalty nine times out of ten in today's footballing, business-like world.

Getting to this rumour, and Manchester United are still searching for that special talent (and they need to be special) to replace Paul Scholes in the centre of the United midfield. Charlie Adam of Blackpool was linked to a move in January, but Sir Alex Ferguson recently accepted that Blackpool needed him for the rest of the season for them to stay in the division.

Nuri Sahin, the German born Turkish international playing his football for Borussia Dortmund is also rumoured to be interesting Sir Alex with his creative ability, passing, awareness and vision that have made Scholes such a great player.

Stephen Defour, again, another name that Ferguson is keen on. It is well known the admiration Ferguson has for the Belgian midfielder as he wrote him a get well soon letter after the Standard Liege play maker broke his leg in 2009.

But it is Marek Hamsik, the Slovakian 23 year-old who is apparently bleeping loudly on the Manchester United radar. Hamsik has received wide admiration for his ability on the ball and has been linked to many a top club including Chelsea and Liverpool, while the player himself said it would be "difficult to say not to Manchester United". In an interview, Hamsik praised the English League and the atmosphere in England while his agent claimed that a move is a "possibility".

The price? Well, you don't have to know much about football to know that even average players are currently being sold for well over what they should be realistically being valued at. That's not to say that Hamsik is average, but £35 million is a lot of money for a player unproven in England and would be one hell of a risk for that amount.

Having said that, Chelsea are also strongly linked. They just paid £50 million and £25 million for Torres and David Luiz respectively. They don't mind a risk or two (or three) it seems. The price is so high because Hamsik signed a contract extension at his Italian club Napoli only recently, and to buy that contract obviously increases the asking price.

I can't see Ferguson spending £35 million on Hamsik, despite his obvious talent. I am also unsure, as many people are about this UEFA fair play money rule. How can Chelsea get round it if they splash another ludicrous amount to add to the £75 million they have already spent, when this is exactly the kind of spending that UEFA were supposedly trying to stop.

It is just a rumour.