Manchester United Transfer News

[Rebelred]

well currently there aint none,after all,fergie doesnt see the need to replace our ageing central midfield pairing.
Park will no doubt be given a few cameo appearances but I doubt he'll get the chance he deserves,as fergies overwhelming loyalty to Giggs will prevail.
Benfica are still(amazingly) interested in Kleberson,thank god someone is.
We need at least one top class midfielder,but to be honest I dont see us getting one.

[Rolo Feen]

we should be buying 2/3 more top quality players this season and dispensing with the randoms like kleb, bellion, miller, saha etc.

i'll be very pissed off if we end up with Edwin and Park as our only 2 signings before the new season.

[Rebelred]

we should be buying 2/3 more top quality players this season and dispensing with the randoms like kleb, bellion, miller, saha etc.

i'll be very pissed off if we end up with Edwin and Park as our only 2 signings before the new season.
currently thats the way its looking.we're not even being linked with any midfielders,what has Fergie been doing all summer?Keane is hitting 34 now and he played alot of games last season,i dont think he can do that again this season.agree with you on the randoms,apart from Saha,as i still think he has something to offer(especially if ruuds form doesnt pick up)

[dotty]

desperately need a left winger - giggs has gone stale and has been piss poor the last 2-3 seasons
although ronnie can do a job for us on the left id still prefer to see him on the right

[afeencalleddan]

randoms...saha

I'd be delighted to see Louis back in London. Some fucking random. Give me a fully fit Saha any day over Smith.

[dotty]

a fully fit Saha

is there such a thing?

[Rolo Feen]

desperately need a left winger - giggs has gone stale and has been piss poor the last 2-3 seasons
although ronnie can do a job for us on the left id still prefer to see him on the right
agreed. i've been calling for giggs to be dropped for 4 years now.
kieran richardson is finally coming through but i'm not quite convinced yet. he is close. but park should definitely be starting ahead of giggs.

u could be right about saha rebelred.

essien came out about his support of man united there last week or something didnt he? i hope fergie is silently acting on this admission of his... but as you said it's looking a bit like he's happy with what he's got.
i dont think anyone else is though....

midfielder.
another 20+ goal striker
possible defender needed.

[afeencalleddan]

is there such a thing?

You'd want to be giving the guy another season to prove his fitness. Letting him go now would be a mistake in my opinion.

[Rolo Feen]

I'd be delighted to see Louis back in London. Some fucking random. Give me a fully fit Saha any day over Smith.
again, agree with dotty here.

saha is a distinct impossibility to finish a whole season without 2 bad injuries. he's a liability. since he came, when we have needed him to fill in for RVN or whoever.... he's been injured. he's had chances , but he's never around to take them when they arise....

not much of a fucking substitute in my opinion.
he was class at fulham. but we bought a crock.

[dotty]

i would love to see saha stay injury free and get a decent run in the side,is essien the answer in midfield - personally i have been more impressed with his teammate diarra

[POL]

http://www.glazerfamilyfoun dation.com/images/aboutus/MalcolmGlazer_S.jpg http://www.glazerfamilyfoun dation.com/images/aboutus/BryanGlazer_S.jpg http://www.glazerfamilyfoun dation.com/images/aboutus/JoelGlazer_S.jpg http://www.glazerfamilyfoun dation.com/images/aboutus/EdwardGlazer_S.jpg

[Rolo Feen]

i would love to see saha stay injury free and get a decent run in the side,is essien the answer in midfield - personally i have been more impressed with his teammate diarra
i've been more impressed with papa bouba diop than any of those.......
but the way people talk about essien i suppose he must be good though i havent seen it.

aren't those 4 fellas very handsome?

[afeencalleddan]

http://www.glazerfamilyfoun dation.com/images/aboutus/MalcolmGlazer_S.jpg http://www.glazerfamilyfoun dation.com/images/aboutus/BryanGlazer_S.jpg http://www.glazerfamilyfoun dation.com/images/aboutus/JoelGlazer_S.jpg http://www.glazerfamilyfoun dation.com/images/aboutus/EdwardGlazer_S.jpg

Is the fella on the far left a keeper? He looks a bit old to play outfield!

[POL]

Doesn't Malcom look very young for an aul fella?

[Paddy Wagon]

In Essien, Owen, Diarra, Torres... Take your pick from these 4.

Out Miller, Bellion, Kleberson, P Neville...These boys are just driftwood at this stage they bring nothing to the squad barr P Neville who has a couple of good games every now and again, but would bring in a couple of Million which could help pay for Rio's & Ronnies wage increases...

[Sound]

In Essien, Owen, Diarra, Torres... Take your pick from these 4.

Out Miller, Bellion, Kleberson, P Neville...These boys are just driftwood at this stage they bring nothing to the squad barr P Neville who has a couple of good games every now and again, but would bring in a couple of Million which could help pay for Rio's & Ronnies wage increases...

Diarra or Essien possibly- not a chance with the other two.

[STEVIEG]

I wouldn't be panicking yet he had strengthened two key areas so far and United will start this year with key players who didn't start last year
Rooney
Rio
Heinze
Ronaldo
etc etc

[STEVIEG]

papa dioup, papa dioup, papa dioup


wouldn't be a bad move at all every time i've seen him i've felt he is almost like a Viera in the making.

[STEVIEG]

WardrobeGate

[Rebelred]

all well and good suggesting names,but fact is we dont look like wer're actually going to be bidding for Diop,Essien etc etc.Instead we'll give Miller and Pip another shot,god knows why.i said at the end of last season that this could be fergies last season,he's now on a rolling contract and his new bosses aint gonna accept many more third places and last 16's in Europe.But our movements in the market dont suggest that we're going to improve on that,because we havent improved our weakness,the ageing midfield!

[Del]

desperately need a left winger - giggs has gone stale and has been piss poor the last 2-3 seasons
although ronnie can do a job for us on the left id still prefer to see him on the right



Figo?????????

[Rebelred]

Figo?????????
no,someone younger.Why would you replace Giggs with someone the same age/older than him?

[Rebelred]

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/m/man_utd/4656507.stm


Glazer sums 'fail to add up'

Malcolm Glazer's takeover of Manchester United cost £790m
Malcolm Glazer's vow to fund Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson in the transfer market has been questioned by a leading business academic.
Glazer's son Joel has said that the owning family's business plan would allow Ferguson to buy the likes of Wayne Rooney, who cost £27m a year ago.

But the director of the Birmingham Business School Jonathan Michie has questioned the viability of the pledge.

"The Glazers' takeover is a huge financial risk," said Michie.

A Manchester United fan, Michie has returned his Old Trafford season ticket in opposition to the Glazer family's takeover.

United are the world's richest club, with an income of £171.5m but Glazer's takeover cost £790m - a large part of which was borrowed.

The Glazer family borrowed £265m from bankers JP Morgan, plus an additional £109m in other bank loans.

However, in two years' time the Glazers will also have to make repayments on complicated financial instruments known as hedge funds, which have provided £275m for the takeover.

If United are unable to achieve 85% of their operating profit target over the next two years, the hedge funds are allowed to accumulate remarkable powers - such as appointing directors to Glazer's takeover vehicle, Red Football.

Likewise, if the Glazers have been unable to meet the hedge fund repayments in five years' time they would gain 30% of Glazer's shares in United.

"If the hedge fund repayments are not met they become cumulatively more expensive and if they are not met five years from now they could force the club to be sold," said Michie.

"Glazer might have some scheme to pay off these debts but I can't see where the money is coming from for the transfers.

"It's difficult to see how they could a sign a player of the calibre of Wayne Rooney. The only way they could do that is to ask to increase their debt - but would they find a bank willing to lend them more money?"


The Glazers have promised to back Ferguson in the transfer market

That means the Glazer family have to start generating money - and fast.

"A ticket price rise is the obvious route to generate more money," added Michie.

"The Glazers have implied there will be better merchandising globally but it is not clear whether they have more business acumen than the previous plc board.

"They were regarded by most analysts as pretty professional in exploiting the global market."

In his interview last week, Joel Glazer remained non-committal over ticket price rises, insisting that the club would be "be competitive with others in the Premier League".

But Michie anticipates a substantial season-ticket hike will take place before the start of the 2006/2007 season.

"The only way to make cash available for transfers is to increase ticket prices, which, at best, will price many supporters out of the ground, replacing them with more affluent spectators.

"Even with ticket price rises, it is not clear whether they will be able to remain solvent in year three of their business plan and beyond."

The director of the Birmingham Business School also challenged the Glazers to put their plans forward for independent scrutiny, rather than on the club's own television station.

"I find it extraordinary that anyone reported Joel Glazer's 'interview' as an interview as such.

"This was on the station that he owns, with questions posed by, in effect, one of his own employees and in which, presumably, all the questions and answers were rehearsed previously.

"On their entire charm offensive, where the impression was that they had met and talked with absolutely everyone possible, they appear to have managed to avoid meeting a single supporter or coming up against a single independent journalist."

[gedboy]

FFS Rebelred what did you post that for?

Now NaffJacket will appear foaming at the mouth and trying to bite through his restraining straps.

[Rebelred]

FFS Rebelred what did you post that for?

Now NaffJacket will appear foaming at the mouth and trying to bite through his restraining straps.
because im a glazer sceptic who doesnt believe that united will be able to meet the repayments needed (especially on the hedgefunds) and we'll soon be joining leeds in the championship

[Del]

no,someone younger.Why would you replace Giggs with someone the same age/older than him?


If they got him on a free and gave him 40,000 grand a week then I would take the chance with him. The guy is still class, just because he is 32 doesn't mean he is beyond it. What age was Sheringham when United bought him? I know it was as a replacment but like Teddy, Figo looks after himself well and could go on for another 3/4 years. Then again that's if he has the desire to!

[Rebelred]

Rio to madrid for Owen plus cash? i dunno,we dont need another striker,what we need are 2 decent central midfielders,cant see this one happening.
Giggs reckons he still has plenty to offer,well he'd want to start offering it because theres no point in him saving it for his retirement is there now!

[ho chi feen]

FFS Rebelred what did you post that for?

Now NaffJacket will appear foaming at the mouth and trying to bite through his restraining straps.

Just accept that you're all wrong, and Naff is right, and we can all move on.

[Captain Planet]

haha smith said utd were gonna win the title this year. funny stuff. they'll be scrapping for the champions league spot i think

[Rebelred]

haha smith said utd were gonna win the title this year. funny stuff. they'll be scrapping for the champions league spot i think
we wont win the league unless we buy for central midfield.keane wont go on forever unfortunately

[11 league titles]

haha smith said utd were gonna win the title this year. funny stuff. they'll be scrapping for the champions league spot i think
well in fairness what you expect him to say before the season starts?

[STEVIEG]

haha smith said utd were gonna win the title this year. funny stuff. they'll be scrapping for the champions league spot i think


They have a lot better chance of winning it than your team.

[Teknique]

They have a lot better chance of winning it than your team.


I disagree, I reckon neither have a chance
Unt still to be 10-12 points behind Chelsea
and I fancy the Pool to get 10-15 points closer to Chelsea this year

[STEVIEG]

I think Liverpool will get closer to the big three but i'd be very very suprised if they were closer than ten points to the worst of the three of them in May. People will go on about how crap Liverpool were last year but United performed as poorly as they could points wise in my opinion and will improve while Arsenal and Chelsea will be up there too. Its between the same three for the title.

[STEVIEG]

I disagree, I reckon neither have a chance
Unt still to be 10-12 points behind Chelsea
and I fancy the Pool to get 10-15 points closer to Chelsea this year

That would still leave Liverpool trailing United no?

[Teknique]

correct
we're still a long way off yet

[shammy feen]

Its between the same three for the title.

Yep. I'd have to agree there. A number of other teams like Liverpool and Spurs are improving but I cant see them challenging Utd, Chelsea and Arsenal.

I also fancy Newcastle to have a good season with Parker in midfield.

http://www.bluesq.com (http://www.bluesq.com/)

have a match bet that Newcastle will finish ahead of Spurs at even money. I may have a piece of that in a multiple.They have a whole range of tempting season long match bets

I have a few quid each way on Mikel Forrsell to be top goalscorer as well at 33/1...1/4 the odds top 4 finish.A reasonably good bet each way I think if he stays fit.

Shammy

[STEVIEG]

Yeah hard to call a lot depends on the start for Liverpool as we saw in Europe anything can happen with them. United are probably the same a good start is imperative while the other two big teams will be definitely up there no matter what. Can't see anyone doing an Everton this year i think Liverpool will be at least fourth while Spurs will be fifth.

[Teknique]

I have a few quid each way on Mikel Forrsell to be top goalscorer as well at 33/1...1/4 the odds top 4 finish.A reasonably good bet each way I think if he stays fit.


Nice

[STEVIEG]

Emre will be a good buy for Newcastle too but there's something not sitting right about them but i think my hope for Spurs is more based on instinct than fact.

[Teknique]

Yeah hard to call a lot depends on the start for Liverpool as we saw in Europe anything can happen with them. United are probably the same a good start is imperative while the other two big teams will be definitely up there no matter what. Can't see anyone doing an Everton this year i think Liverpool will be at least fourth while Spurs will be fifth.

The Rio situation is massive for Unitedt
As much as a Langer that he is for holding the club to ransom even after defending him to the hilt , United need him

[STEVIEG]

Too right, could mean a swing of about 15 points.

[Duke]

The Rio situation is massive for Unitedt
As much as a Langer that he is for holding the club to ransom even after defending him to the hilt , United need him

£120000 i doubt chelsea would give him that and chelsea aren't even interested in him supposedly.... I wouldn't risk leaving this drag on i'd sell him now at his max market value and get a new centre half with the money!

[Teknique]

i'd sell him now at his max market value and get a new centre half with the money!


could you get a player as good tho ?

[jayl]

but there's something not sitting right about them

What, you mean Graeme Souness?

[Duke]

could you get a player as good tho ?

Well, they would have to 'suss' out the market first before they could think of selling him. Chelsea wouldn't sell gallas to man utd anyway so you can rule out any english based players. I think a £100000 a week would interest any top class centre half, even nesta or cannarvo might come for that!

[Rebelred]

Rio's situation is unfortunate in that he's thick as a plank and Pini Zahavi has his claws sunk deep into him.there is no footballer in the world worth 120,000 per week,in fact theres none worth more than 10,000(still a ridiculous amount for the actual "work" they do) in reality.
If we sell Rio,we cant be left in a situation which arose when stam left,with no replacement.Pique and Spector are probably too young yet.There's very few top class defenders available in the world at the moment,and with the state of our scouts,we're not going to uncover many unknown top class players either.I'm not a fan of Rio,but I'll admit we need him,and until we can replace him,then we should not sell him.
Also,I believe the title is between the top 2,United are no stronger than last year and we will still struggle for goals i fear,with 5 in midfield.I hope I'm wrong but we wont be within 10 points of Chelsea.Arsenal will be stronger with Gilberto back for the full season.
On the plus side,if newcastle do get emre, it may leave the door open for united to nip in for jenas

[Del]

if newcastle do get emre, it may leave the door open for united to nip in for jenas

Good call

[FL4ZGN]

nesta or cannavaro. i strongly disagree.


Is Walter Samuel leaving Real. I have heard that he could be going back to Italy for fraction the price Real paid for him.

I reckon he would be a fine partner for Rio in defense. At least he throw a boots into centre forwards and add a bit of steel to the back line just like Bruce & Pallister did.

[TonyCochrane]

Is Walter Samuel leaving Real. I have heard that he could be going back to Italy for fraction the price Real paid for him.

I reckon he would be a fine partner for Rio in defense. At least he throw a boots into centre forwards and add a bit of steel to the back line just like Bruce & Pallister did.

Samuel would be an even better player if he could only keep his compulsion to give away needless free after free after free. He was handy enough for Roma but nowhere near being worth what they paid for him, (possible record fee for a defender at the time?). I don't think the English game would suit him that well, for all the talk of the old fashioned physicality of the English game and Johnny Foreigner diving and not having the same courage and fortitude as a son of Albion the game has changed and more frees are being awarded every season, more cards, more nit-picking rather than letting the game flow from referees and I think Samuel would have difficulty staying on the pitch half the time.
Statistics wise I could be wrong about the frees/cards etc but that is my personal impression.

[Captain Planet]

They have a lot better chance of winning it than your team.
oh i dont think so.utd are a spent force.

[STEVIEG]

Been listening to that for ten years. If Liverpool finish ahead of united in the league this year i might credit you next May but somehow i think i won't have to.

[KolaKubes]

It's like with the CL this year, Liverpool fans talked it up beyond all logic and the team somehow proved them right. Again, Liverpool challenging for the title based on signing Reina, Zended and Crouch sounds completely daft but all credit will be due to Benitez et al if they pull off another miracle. Until then, it's all just talk.

[STEVIEG]

I gave them all the credit in the world for winning the European Cup but if they can bridge the 30 point gap between where they were this year (same points as Bolton) and Chelsea i will agree that their manager is indeed a Miracle Man.

[dotty]

dont think they will win the PL this year but should definitely improve,better form away from home would be worth at least another 10-15 points,but im confused by rafas buys so far - hardly ambitious like!

[Philby]

I think steady improvement is what is needed at Anfield. Once again there is a need to get some dead wod off the books and for the manager to mould the squad into what he wants. That can't be done overnight but Rafa has shown the ability to work wonders (in europe only admittedly) with another man's squad while also adding his own feel to the team (through Alonso & Garcia mainly).

To bridge the 30 point gap (which has to viewed with the mitigating circumstances in mind - massive injury problems, learning curve for Rafa & many new players & the distraction of our successful european campaign) would indeed be amazing and in all honesty is not something I'm demanding to see this season.

What I am hoping for is:

A vast improvement in away form
A significantly shortened (10-15 points) points gap to Chelsea
A continuation of the expansive style of football (was hinted at at times last year but our progress was hamnpered by injuries) Rafa is noted for

P.S. - As good as manager as Rafa is (as good as anyone imho) people across the board have failed to give credit where credit is due to the players themselves. Rafa dictates tactics & motivation. It is still up to the players to go out there and implement the plan.

Many of our players played well above themselves in Europe last year (e.g. Biscan playing like a Gerrard-clone in numerous games) and they should be commended for it. Everyone played their part from our captain & JC down to smicer who played a blinder in the final and showed true commitment to the cause despite knowing he would never play for the club again.

[KolaKubes]

Liverpool have a big squad, maybe not exactly brimming with great players but it meant they could absorb injuries and keep fresh legs out on the field right through til the end of May. In contrast, one final and somewhat fortuitous flourish against Utd in the league aside, Chelsea looked very jaded and out of sorts by May. They and Arsenal have shown good commitment to consistent selection but even suspiciously fit players like Lampard have their limits.

I think there's as little to this Chelsea side as there was to Mourinho's former charges Porto and for all his talent, Mourinho can't make silk purses out of sows' ears. Chelsea would be also rans if he left in the morning.

As for United, I think we've an excellent defensive four and now a better keeper to go with them. We've problems in midfield unless Fletcher or David Jones come very good this year but Park will inject a bit of dynamism in there which was notably lacking last year. In Ronaldo, Rooney and Ruud, we have a potentially unbeatable attacking trio but it was misfiring badly last year at times. Watch out for Giuseppi Rossi this year as well though, very talented Italian player on his way through.

[Teknique]

I think there's as little to this Chelsea side as there was to Mourinho's former charges Porto and for all his talent, Mourinho can't make silk purses out of sows' ears.


that shit is bananas
B-ANA-NAS

[STEVIEG]

Yup i agree whoever finishes ahead of Chelsea this year will probably win the league they are the team to beat.

[ho chi feen]

Everyone played their part from our captain & JC down to smicer.

Except Kewell.

[Del]

Where does Giuseppi Rossi play? What age is he?

[KolaKubes]

Rossi's a top notch forward, think "the new Zola".

[St_Cyrill_of_Tyrrenhaes]

Isn't Rossi actually a Yank? I seem to recall hearing he was born in New Jersey. Slippery customers, these wops.

[Rebelred]

Isn't Rossi actually a Yank? I seem to recall hearing he was born in New Jersey. Slippery customers, these wops.
born in new jersey,moved back to Italy as a nipper. lit up the reserves last season

[Rolo Feen]

Where does Giuseppi Rossi play? What age is he?
he's 18 now. played some fantastic football for the reserves, and should 100% get his chance to break into the team this year.

[dotty]

saw him a few times last year and was very impressed,hopefully he and david jones see their fair share of first team football next season.

[Philby]

Except Kewell.

Have looked at the final a few times since and kewell was no better/worse than anyone else for the time he spent on the pitch (not excusing his numerous below-par performances prior to that). The papers giving him 0/10 was ridiculous.

To be fair to him he helped spark the olympiacos fightback when he burned the full-back and put it on a plate for pongolle.

[Coin]

To be fair to him he helped spark the olympiacos fightback when he burned the full-back and put it on a plate for pongolle.
He also played a couple of times as a lone striker last season when the injuries were at their worst, and worked hard during those games.

[Rebelred]

http://www.manutd.com/news/fullstory.sps?iNewsi d=199485&itype=466&ica...


fergie isnt finished in the market yet it seems, i'm hoping my summer long novena to sign ballack is answered, but with Paddy V gone to Juve,I wouldnt be surprised if the German ended up at Highbury instead

[Coin]

did he actually do anything with the opportunity? he worked hard. fair play.
All I'm saying is that going on the posts about Kewell over the last 6-8 months you'd get the impression that he brings a stool and a playboy on the field and sits by the corner flag for 90 minutes (I was gonna say book, but being realistic..).

Benitez must have some faith in him, otherwise he wouldn't have started him in the final. "Sorry boss, but I think Didi over there looks very sad that he's not playing, and I think he deserves to play instead of me".

This stuff about taking the place of someone more "deserving" is bollox. The 11 who deserve to play are the 11 chosen by the manager. I'd be surprised if Kewell was let go this summer. He's undoubtedly talented, and Liverpool are starved of people who can take on a defender and beat them. This was highlighted last night as Zenden failed repeatedly to beat a crap full back. If Kewell can get his head straight (something I don't think he's ever done in his career) I think he can contribute. Big, big if though.

[STEVIEG]

http://www.manutd.com/news/fullstory.sps?iNewsi d=199485&itype=466&ica...


fergie isnt finished in the market yet it seems, i'm hoping my summer long novena to sign ballack is answered,


It would be some signing alright.

[KolaKubes]

saw him a few times last year and was very impressed,hopefully he and david jones see their fair share of first team football next season.


It's way way more satisfying to see a few of the young fellas coming through. I don't know anything about this question of Chelsea having got their act together with their youth teams (Carlton Cole might disagree) but United certainly have. We've a crop of young players coming through the likes of which haven't been seen in many many years. Aside from the aforementioned Rossi and Jones, there's Spector (just loaned out to Charlton for the year), Pique, Ebanks-Blake, two irish lads McShane and Gibson, Richie Jones and Manchester's answer to Freddy Adu, Fabien Brandy.

And that's ignoring us having the two most exciting teenage players in Europe in Rooney and Ronaldo.

Obi Mikel is supposed to be damned good also but it looks like the shadow of Chelsea is all over that deal now. In any case, even if he signs for Utd now, I think it must be said that a lot of us are very suspicious of his character and the circus he has around him. He might just be another Patrick Kluivert.

[Sound]

Ronaldo is shite.

There.

I've said it, its out there..

[KolaKubes]

Ronaldo is shite.

There.

I've said it, its out there..

I'll spare you the invective. That's just plain wrong.

[Rolo Feen]

http://www.manutd.com/news/fullstory.sps?iNewsi d=199485&itype=466&ica...


fergie isnt finished in the market yet it seems, i'm hoping my summer long novena to sign ballack is answered, but with Paddy V gone to Juve,I wouldnt be surprised if the German ended up at Highbury instead
sounds good alright.
was hoping he would come out with a statement of this nature rather than sitting on his laurels with 2 signings....

[Sound]

I'll spare you the invective. That's just plain wrong.

Fair enough, I am on a bit of a wind up but 2 assists all season do not a quality winger make. Where is the substance rather than the style?

[ho chi feen]

Fair enough, I am on a bit of a wind up but 2 assists all season do not a quality winger make. Where is the substance rather than the style?

Substance in abundance in both of Portugal's two June WC Qualifiers- I suggest you take a look, the lad was dynamite.

[Sound]

Substance in abundance in both of Portugal's two June WC Qualifiers- I suggest you take a look, the lad was dynamite.

Thats nice.

By the same rationale Milan Baros should be striding the premiership scoring charts like a colossus after his displays in the Euro's. He isn't though.

All Im saying is that he has a vast amount of development to do to be talked about realistically in the terms being bandied about on here.

The new Simao anyone?

[ho chi feen]

Thats nice.

By the same rationale Milan Baros should be striding the premiership scoring charts like a colossus after his displays in the Euro's. He isn't though.

All Im saying is that he has a vast amount of development to do to be talked about realistically in the terms being bandied about on here.

The new Simao anyone?

Just giving a very recent example... how does highbury last february suit? Euro 2004? Etc etc etc...

[STEVIEG]

At the risk of sounding boring let me just say i've watched the vast majority of his games in the last 15 or months or so in one way or the other and the player is DEVELOPING and with a bit of tweeking could become a great player by the time he's 25. Put him up for sale and you'll see what other people think he is highly rated and while not the finished product yet he is definitely one of the most exciting and best players around and will be for a long time in my opinion.

[Sound]

Just giving a very recent example... how does highbury last february suit? Euro 2004? Etc etc etc...

I'd say 3 'etc's' is a bit generous as you would be hard pushed to find 3 other decent showings to fill them with!

He has all the skill in the world but unless he develops something of a football brain then he will be in trouble IMO...or at least the ability to cross!

[STEVIEG]

I'd say 3 'etc's' is a bit generous as you would be hard pushed to find 3 other decent showings to fill them with!

He has all the skill in the world but unless he develops something of a football brain then he will be in trouble IMO...or at least the ability to cross!


Each of the last two games against the Arse, the home against the Pool, Everton in the cup, Newcastle and southampyon away in the cup etc etc etc etc

[KolaKubes]

His decision making still isn't great but, then again, it's better for Portugal. That suggests to me that it's not so much that he's chronically thick but that the system Utd play confuses him. It confuses me as well!

If I may, one of the problems with the United team right now is that it really is in transition from the Scholes/Neville era. It's absolutely fucking disgusting to see the treatment that those Neville brothers hand out to some of the younger players when the two of them haven't one good foot between them. The sooner we're rid of some more of them the sooner the likes of Rooney and Ronaldo will be running the show.

It's the same at any level of football though, the ould lads have mixed emotions about the young lads coming through. They're a bit passive-aggressive with them y'know?

[Del]

I must admit that I would keep G.Neville, he wears his heart on his sleeve and is a great crosser of the ball.

Now in regards to that other feckin tosser, get rid of him. How can someone who has 2 good games a year get 40,000 pounds a week. What a disgrace!

[shammy feen]

To bridge the 30 point gap (which has to viewed with the mitigating circumstances in mind - massive injury problems, learning curve for Rafa & many new players & the distraction of our successful european campaign) would indeed be amazing and in all honesty is not something I'm demanding to see this season.



It was actually a 37 point gap.
Sorry just being pedantic.

[Rebelred]

His decision making still isn't great but, then again, it's better for Portugal. That suggests to me that it's not so much that he's chronically thick but that the system Utd play confuses him. It confuses me as well!

If I may, one of the problems with the United team right now is that it really is in transition from the Scholes/Neville era. It's absolutely fucking disgusting to see the treatment that those Neville brothers hand out to some of the younger players when the two of them haven't one good foot between them. The sooner we're rid of some more of them the sooner the likes of Rooney and Ronaldo will be running the show.

It's the same at any level of football though, the ould lads have mixed emotions about the young lads coming through. They're a bit passive-aggressive with them y'know?
Phil Neville hasnt a whole lot to shout at Ronaldo about,except he's on 4 times his wages(ridiculously). Gary Neville,well we've had the debate about him being a top class right back,and he is,but I think he just likes to be heard during the games,and Ronaldo is an easy target because he trys alot of things that dont always come off

[Sound]

Each of the last two games against the Arse, the home against the Pool, Everton in the cup, Newcastle and southampyon away in the cup etc etc etc etc

Sorry Stevie but he is there to create chances and 2 assists is a damning indictment. All these 'performances' you talk about dont add up to a hill of beans!

[Coin]

Sorry Stevie but he is there to create chances and 2 assists is a damning indictment. All these 'performances' you talk about dont add up to a hill of beans!
I've no stats on this, but Utd's finishing was poor last year, which would have hurt his potential for assists. As for crossing, who was he going to aim at? RVN and Saha are the two best headers of the ball on the team, and both were out for ages. Rooney doesn't seem to naturally end up on the end of crosses, he's more of the Henry type of floating around the edge of the box looking to hit the spectacular one. Keane and Scholes are both decent in the air, but Keane doesn't get into the box as much as he used to and Scholes' finishing was terrible. So who's he going to cross to? Crossing a ball is much easier if you know in advance who you're going to aim at and can drive the ball, instead of picking someone just before you strike it. Watch when RVN is fit, almost every Utd cross is aimed at him, the wingers just do it without even thinking, and when you do that it gives more confidence to how you strike the ball.

[STEVIEG]

Well as i keep saying the creator of the chances can't be faulted when the strikers don't stick them. Anyway, it's an argument thats going nowhere we'll beg to differ.
As for arguments about the Nevilles, Gary in particular is a red to the bone solid pro who has consisently done the business for years while his brother has been a useful squad player and i for one am delighted when they are shouting at players who may not yet appreciate what it means to wear the jersey.

[Philby]

United's finishing was poor last night but that shouldn't mask the fact that C. Ronaldo's final ball (be it cross, pass or shot) is not yet top class (lags behind Duff, Robben, Pires (to name but 3) in this respect). Having said that he does have amazing natural assets (build, speed, ball skills, perseverence) that, if nurtured correctly, could see him become a truly world-class player.

Much of the fans favourable opinion of C. Ronaldo is based on his elaborate tricks and his potential - not what he has delivered to date but he is well placed to become and old trafford legend if is dedicated & develops his game.

[STEVIEG]

Yeah agreed (won't make another joke about the natural assets bit!)
To be honest the whole elaborate tricks thing has calmed down a lot and United fans like him simply because he can beat a player-something not many can do these days.

[Lynott]

Where is this '2 assists all year' coming from?

He made two goals in the Cup semi final against Newcastle alone!

[Sound]

Where is this '2 assists all year' coming from?

He made two goals in the Cup semi final against Newcastle alone!


League stats last season.

http://www.4thegame.com/statistics/premiership/assists/

As the chart only goes down to 4 assists- Ronni doesn't make it..

[MonTheHoops]

who did he have to aim at? the collossus that is andy johnson who played up top on his own.

And Ian Dowie in training

[Coin]

henry has the top assists in the league and he's arsenals main striker. further, we all know how little headers they score. if a player is good enough he'll put it on a plate for people, you cant just blame it on poor finishing.

face it. ronnie, despite all of his potential has a heeluva lot to learn. i mean, wayne fuckin routledge had three times the number of assists last season. who did he have to aim at? the collossus that is andy johnson who played up top on his own.

I don't disagree with any of this. He may learn, he may not.

[Lynott]

League stats last season.

http://www.4thegame.com/statistics/premiership/assists/

As the chart only goes down to 4 assists- Ronni doesn't make it..

Just the league, fair enough!

United were poor in the league though. To be fair to Ronaldo there is only one United player on that list, also the finishing was not that great so I don't really think it is a fair reflection of how many chances Ronaldo actually set up.

[Rebelred]

crazy talk. utd finished 3rd in the league and have a squad full of top players. at one stage towards the end of last season when chelsea had a couple of draws, utd fans thought that they had a chance of catching up. again, there are a lot of players on the assists list playing for lesser teams but who have far more assits. fuck sake. gravesen played half a season and has more than three times the assists playing in the centre.
towards the end? are you mad,the league was done and dusted in feb

[Captain Planet]

towards the end? are you mad,the league was done and dusted in feb
lets be honest. utd went on a really good run but nobody wanted to say that they were back in it for fear of being laughed at. but all ye utd fans were so bursting to shout "you can never right us off". which i myself might have thought at some moments

[Lynott]

crazy talk. utd finished 3rd in the league and have a squad full of top players. at one stage towards the end of last season when chelsea had a couple of draws, utd fans thought that they had a chance of catching up. again, there are a lot of players on the assists list playing for lesser teams but who have far more assits. fuck sake. gravesen played half a season and has more than three times the assists playing in the centre.

Easy Tiger!

How is what I said crazy? Its fact!
There is one United player on the list.
United were poor in the league.
Uniteds finishing last year was well below standard.

If the guy puts fifteen balls into the box and one goal is scored in the match, the assists will say one. That would not be a fair reflection of how the guy played in the game.

[Lynott]

plenty of lower profile players created more chances for their teams than he did. thats all

Your stats don't say that. It says they are credited with more assists. It doesn't mean that they created more chances, just that the people on the end of theirs put it away.

[Sound]

Your stats don't say that. It says they are credited with more assists. It doesn't mean that they created more chances, just that the people on the end of theirs put it away.

Anyone who watched him play will tell you that he was wasteful with his final ball. A player can learn to cross but I dont know if he can learn to stop taking the wrong option.

[Lynott]

Anyone who watched him play will tell you that he was wasteful with his final ball.

Thanks for that!
I'll ask someone who watched him play. I'm unfamilar with the sport, and the concept of a TV.

[Captain Planet]

Ronaldo is well over rated. he can dance with the ball but he's far too inconsistent. there were some games last season when he was just unbelievable. controlling the game and then a week later, total shite. ole will solve the assist problems.

[Lynott]

your like a lot of manc cheerleaders.

You don't know the first thing about me, so don't talk bollox.

I am not saying Ronaldo has not got a lot to learn. I am not saying he is the finished article. I am not even saying he had a especially good season.

I am saying that that list of assists you have posted above is not a reflection on how the guys season went because Uniteds strikers were goal shy. How can you have an assist if the striker misses the target?

Logical enough for you!

Christ this place is full of cheeky fuckers. I make a simple point above and all you get is fucking attitude.

[Lynott]

wheres the like of charlton, palace and norwich took way more of their chances. doughnut

You just confirmed my point you tit!

[Sound]

Thanks for that!
I'll ask someone who watched him play. I'm unfamilar with the sport, and the concept of a TV.


Whoosh!

[KolaKubes]

Yes, Ronaldo tries stuff that doesn't come off. I wouldn't discourage him too much because if we'd a team of Gary Neville's, playing it safe all the time with the ball, we'd never fucking score. Gary himself can take some of the blame for Ronaldo not being too effective. When JOS and Brown have played behind Ronaldo, he gets quicker ball and benefits from having a more athletic player in support. Gary Neville and Beckham were utterly fucking useless as a combo in the latter's final years at OT, which is why Becksy-Wecksy lost his place to an out of position striker.

By the way, if Gary's such a fucking Red why didn't we hear from him during the Glazer takeover?

[Sound]

Gary Neville and Beckham were utterly fucking useless as a combo in the latter's final years at OT, which is why Becksy-Wecksy lost his place to an out of position striker.



Unmittigated sheeite!

[Rebelred]

read an article in the Times today,linking Ballack to United.I still dont see it happening,but I'll be delighted if it does happen!

[KolaKubes]

Unmittigated sheeite!

Clueless.

Like anyone outside the Megastore batted an eyelid when Mr Spice was shown the door. I'm forced to admit that Gary Neville has been much better in the past two years since that wake up call but he's still a pain in the ass. I'd rather see Brown at right back.

[dotty]

read an article in the Times today,linking Ballack to United.I still dont see it happening,but I'll be delighted if it does happen!

me too and there are rumours abound that United officials will meet their Bayern counterparts in Japan at the end of the month with both clubs playing pre-season friendlies in the capital Tokyo.

[Sound]

Clueless.

Like anyone outside the Megastore batted an eyelid when Mr Spice was shown the door. I'm forced to admit that Gary Neville has been much better in the past two years since that wake up call but he's still a pain in the ass. I'd rather see Brown at right back.

I'm fucked if I'm digging up the Beckham argy-bargy again! Suffice to say that I dismiss your contention from a position of comfort.

And, as a Pool fan, I'd rather see Brown at right-back for ye as well. Indeed, him and the stepover king would make the funniest combo since the Chuckle Brothers or The Krankies were in their pomp!

And, seeing as Naff isn't here to say it:
Soccer mom!

[KolaKubes]

I'm fucked if I'm digging up the Beckham argy-bargy again! Suffice to say that I dismiss your contention from a position of comfort.

And, as a Pool fan, I'd rather see Brown at right-back for ye as well. Indeed, him and the stepover king would make the funniest combo since the Chuckle Brothers or The Krankies were in their pomp!

And, seeing as Naff isn't here to say it:
Soccer mom!

The best bit is when Pool fans start talking about Utd, most of you can't even see what a fucking show pony Gerrard is and that your midfield looks better with Hamann in it!

[Sound]

The best bit is when Pool fans start talking about Utd, most of you can't even see what a fucking show pony Gerrard is and that your midfield looks better with Hamann in it!

Thats nice.

I have been banging on about the limitations of Gerrard, at length, for as long as I have been on this forum.

Now, feel free to get back to the point anytime you like.

[KolaKubes]

Thats nice.

I have been banging on about the limitations of Gerrard, at length, for as long as I have been on this forum.

Now, feel free to get back to the point anytime you like.

Fair enough. The old-style back four of two big centre-halves with two nippier lads either side is on the way out. Full backs are expected to be able to slip in and cover for a centre-half when required and, on set pieces, being able to cover the bigger players of the oppostion with your back four rather than having to pull in midfielders and even strikers is far more desirable. Bigger but no less athletic players are coming to the fore as full-backs now.
I think Utd look much more solid with a back four of Brown, Ferdinand, Heinze and Silvestre/O'Shea. I've always thought Gary Neville was too awkward to play full-back as was to be perfectly honest, often caught out of position or beaten by trickier players and without the pace to make up for an error. Arguably, despite him winning our player of the year, the same could be said for Heinze left back, he's a far better centre-half.

Above all though, I don't like Gary Neville much. I can stomach the likes of Cantona or Henry giving it the big "I am" but Neville strikes me as an arrogant little sod and he can't back it up playing-wise. His constant statements in the media about what Utd are going to do rather than letting the football and results do the talking also grate with the majority of Utd fans.

[Sound]

Fair enough. The old-style back four of two big centre-halves with two nippier lads either side is on the way out. Full backs are expected to be able to slip in and cover for a centre-half when required and, on set pieces, being able to cover the bigger players of the oppostion with your back four rather than having to pull in midfielders and even strikers is far more desirable. Bigger but no less athletic players are coming to the fore as full-backs now.
I think Utd look much more solid with a back four of Brown, Ferdinand, Heinze and Silvestre/O'Shea. I've always thought Gary Neville was too awkward to play full-back as was to be perfectly honest, often caught out of position or beaten by trickier players and without the pace to make up for an error. Arguably, despite him winning our player of the year, the same could be said for Heinze left back, he's a far better centre-half.

Above all though, I don't like Gary Neville much. I can stomach the likes of Cantona or Henry giving it the big "I am" but Neville strikes me as an arrogant little sod and he can't back it up playing-wise. His constant statements in the media about what Utd are going to do rather than letting the football and results do the talking also grate with the majority of Utd fans.

A sound theory. And a damn fine example of it is Chelsea who played 4 centre halves at times last year. Jose was also heard to remark that Aslet Cole was too-short to get into his defence.

And you will certainly get no argument from me that, no amount of being 'a great pro', makes up for being a cunto of the highest water. Nevillers socialist leanings have been conspicuous by their absence during the Glazer affair. Cantona would have had none of it!

On the down side, the theory falls down in the case of young Wesley IMO. When is this guy going to fulfill his much vaunted potential? Granted he has had horrendous injuries but he is guaranteed one cock up a match. The only thing that is good about him going to full back is that it keeps him away from the centre where his lack of concentration can do more damage. Plus, has anyone ever seen him cross a ball? Or display any attacking instincts whatsoever?

[Langer Dan]

anyone read the story in yesterdays ST linking Ballack with a move to united?

[KolaKubes]

A sound theory. And a damn fine example of it is Chelsea who played 4 centre halves at times last year. Jose was also heard to remark that Aslet Cole was too-short to get into his defence.

And you will certainly get no argument from me that, no amount of being 'a great pro', makes up for being a cunto of the highest water. Nevillers socialist leanings have been conspicuous by their absence during the Glazer affair. Cantona would have had none of it!

On the down side, the theory falls down in the case of young Wesley IMO. When is this guy going to fulfill his much vaunted potential? Granted he has had horrendous injuries but he is guaranteed one cock up a match. The only thing that is good about him going to full back is that it keeps him away from the centre where his lack of concentration can do more damage. Plus, has anyone ever seen him cross a ball? Or display any attacking instincts whatsoever?

I don't even think Neville's a great pro, I can only presume his English International status protected him from greater censure for kicking the ball into the crowd at Goodison. I might have expected it from Rooney but what the fuck was that about?
Brown's been error prone in the past but he was much better last year. I would still prefer him at full back. While I'm not sure he's any worse than Gary Nev going forward, I'm not convinced about the merits of attacking full backs anyway. Dinny Irwin's attitude was almost perfect, he was primarily a defender but when the right occasion presented itself he wasn't too averse to joining in with attacks. When Brown plays centre-half, he dives in a bit too much and gives away dangerous free-kicks. Those same qualities are more of a benefit to a full-back, putting off the winger and if a free-kick is conceded it's no more dangerous than a corner really.

[Rolo Feen]

like the ones posted here yesterday?

[KolaKubes]

anyone read the story in yesterdays ST linking Ballack with a move to united?

Ya, that one's been doing the rounds for months though. Supposedly, there might be some talks between Utd and Bayern in the Far East somewhere while we're both on tour.

[Langer Dan]

Ya, that one's been doing the rounds for months though. Supposedly, there might be some talks between Utd and Bayern in the Far East somewhere while we're both on tour.

well apparently in listing his clubs who he thought had a chance of winning the CL, Ballack was issuing acome and get me to united.

no mention of arsenal on the list, strange.

[ho chi feen]

United's finishing was poor last night.


Who were they playing last night?

[ho chi feen]

at one stage towards the end of last season when chelsea had a couple of draws, utd fans thought that they had a chance of catching up.

Replace 'utd fans' with 'fuckwit barstoolers with whom I associate' because I don't remember a single United fan thinking anything of the sort! United went on a great run mid-season, but Chelsea matched them point for point, and were way ahead, and after February united limped to the end of the season.

[storysham]

Who were they playing last night?

Clyde, won 2-0 i think, ruudy got both.

[ho chi feen]

Ronaldo is well over rated. he can dance with the ball but he's far too inconsistent. there were some games last season when he was just unbelievable. controlling the game and then a week later, total shite. ole will solve the assist problems.

I'll say it again, watch him any time he's pulled on the portuguese shirt in the last 18 months.

[ho chi feen]

well apparently in listing his clubs who he thought had a chance of winning the CL, Ballack was issuing acome and get me to united.

no mention of arsenal on the list, strange.

Only a fuckwit of even greater proportions than you would rate Arsenal of having a chance of winning the CL.

[comred]

where, pray tell, will united get 15/20m to purchase ballack?

[Langer Dan]

Only a fuckwit of even greater proportions than you would rate Arsenal of having a chance of winning the CL.


only a fuckwitt of your proportions could fail to see the sarcasm in my reference to Arsenal and the CL.

[Langer Dan]

where, pray tell, will united get 15/20m to purchase ballack?

well pal, seeing as he's only a year left on his contract he won't fetch anyhthing in the region of that fee.

[ho chi feen]

only a fuckwitt of your proportions could fail to see the sarcasm in my reference to Arsenal and the CL.

Wrong, I'm afraid.

As per usual.

[ho chi feen]

right, when i said 'towards the end of the season', i should have said jan/feb period. utd were on a great run, chelseas goals were dryin up but they were still grinding out results. utd beat arsenal and had chelsea to come....
most people, including myself reckoned there was still no chance of them catchin chelsea, however i do remember quite a few manc fans on here claiming it could be done. even the all knowing naff naff predicted that chelsea would win the league by 3 points or less if they werent actually caught. its going entirely off my point anyway, which was that utds strikers are better than fuckin most and cannot be blamed for the simple fact that ol ronnie has a dismal assists record.

Just saw that you clarified that in a later post.

[ho chi feen]

you got the tapes?

Heh heh heh, I gave him to Naff but he never gave 'em back.

[Rolo Feen]

Clyde, won 2-0 i think, ruudy got both.
wrong there biy.

kleberson the world cup winner got the first.

[Del]

wrong there biy.

kleberson the world cup winner got the first.


I'm sure it finished 4 - 0, Ruud getting 2, Kleberson and Miller

[Rebelred]

and the Ballack rumours grow and grow.United and Bayern are both in Tokyo next week and a meeting has apparently been arranged to discuss a transfer,Ballack is still on his hols at the moment.Get Ballack and the summers transfer work will be alot better. fingers crossed

[ho chi feen]

wrong there biy.

kleberson the world cup winner got the first.

The only thing I'd use his world cup medal for would be to strangle him with it.

[Langer Dan]

The only thing I'd use his world cup medal for would be to strangle him with it.


how would you strangle someone with a medal?

if you had a ribbon attached ,maybe, but a medal??

[KolaKubes]

Surely a world bup medal would be more useful as some sort of flail or something?

I don't want to kill Kleberson, he dislocated his shoulder within weeks of arriving at OT and, having experienced the same thing, that can really set you back on your heels for the best part of a year. A good start is half the work and vice versa.

[Langer Dan]

Surely a world bup medal would be more useful as some sort of flail or something?

I don't want to kill Kleberson, he dislocated his shoulder within weeks of arriving at OT and, having experienced the same thing, that can really set you back on your heels for the best part of a year. A good start is half the work and vice versa.

fairly disastrous start alright, but apparently he wants to move now!

[KolaKubes]

fairly disastrous start alright, but apparently he wants to move now!

The story on redissue is that Kleberson out (sold or a loan) equals Ballack in, apparently as early as the weekend. I don't know how reliable that is though so don't shoot the messenger.

[comred]

well pal, seeing as he's only a year left on his contract he won't fetch anyhthing in the region of that fee.

u think so eh? he's never been happy at munich partly because he's constantly looking for the next pay day..be it the mooted barca deal(which fell thru due to wage demands) barca went for the cheaper option of davids! which says everything about ballacks wage demands at the time. Ballack was also the mooted replacement for steve gerrard again his rumoured demands where to take a large chunk of 30m fee liverpool would recieve - liverpool opted for xabi.

Michael owen had only a year left on his contract and even liverpool who are appalling inept in transfer dealings still managed to comanded a fee of 8million.

Sorry but ballack aint lee park and bayern aren't psv. Bayern are financially secure enough to let this run and i dont think ballack would be disapointed if this was the outcome either.

The question remains where will manusa get the money to pay bayern the fee they are satisfied with, plus a signing on fee for ballack(he hasn't demanded a transfer as such) plus his weekly wages on top of that?

I suppose if united managed to shift rio....fergie could have one final flurry with transfer kitty.

Speculate to accumulate - thats the way leeds do it.

[Langer Dan]

The question remains where will manusa get the money to pay bayern the fee they are satisfied with, plus a signing on fee for ballack(he hasn't demanded a transfer as such) plus his weekly wages on top of that?

I suppose if united managed to shift rio....fergie could have one final flurry with transfer kitty.

Speculate to accumulate - thats the way leeds do it.

well the sale of kleberson will raise some cash and we're not bankrupt yet.

No player with a year to run will command a large fee, the clubs arn't prepared to pay it and Bayern don't want to run the risk of him going on a free next year. 8mill for Owen was apittanc ein relative terms and only happened due to him having a year to run on his contract.

Id say he'll go for less than ten mill.

[dotty]

kleberson could be on his way to celta vigo...

[storysham]

kleberson could be on his way to celta vigo...

Fucking good. useless gimp.

[dotty]

Fucking good. useless gimp.

and utd are looking to recoup as much of the near £6 million they paid for him 2 years ago!

laughing all the way to the bank if we do!

[Langer Dan]

and utd are looking to recoup as much of the near £6 million they paid for him 2 years ago!

laughing all the way to the bank if we do!


the figure being bandied about is 4mill.

which to be honest would be good business considering he's hardly featured in the last 2 years

[dotty]

the figure being bandied about is 4mill.

which to be honest would be good business considering he's hardly featured in the last 2 years

id take it,no doubt bout it
would love to see ballack at OT

[Langer Dan]

id take it,no doubt bout it
would love to see ballack at OT

well the rumour mill is working overtime on this one, twould have made for a fantastic close season if we get him.

Van der Saar, Park, Ballack.

niice!!

[Langer Dan]

from football 365

Bayern Munich insist Manchester United have not made an offer for Germany captain Michael Ballack.

Speculation in the English press linked the attacking midfielder, whose current deal expires next summer, with a move to Old Trafford but both club and player insist he is going nowhere.

Ballack said: "I'm certain I'll be playing for Bayern until 2006. We're aiming high, and I want to be a part of it."

Bayern general manager Uli Hoeness confirmed that the Premiership club "had not tabled an offer" and that talks had started on a new contract.

The Munich giants are "hoping to secure the player for the long term," according to Hoeness, while chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge slapped a 'not for sale' tag on Ballack.

bugger!!

[Langer Dan]

united have turned down bids for Kleberson and Phil Neville

[Philby]

Makes little sense in getting rid of someone like Neville (In retrospect the sale of Nicky Butt was ill-advised too), relatively low wages, would run through walls for the club, versatile, fans respect his work-rate, good pro.

Kleberson is at the other end of the spectrum. The worst player to win a world cup (Roque Junior aside)? I'd snap off anyone's hand who'd offer >£1m for him.

[Langer Dan]

Makes little sense in getting rid of someone like Neville (In retrospect the sale of Nicky Butt was ill-advised too), relatively low wages, would run through walls for the club, versatile, fans respect his work-rate, good pro.

Kleberson is at the other end of the spectrum. The worst player to win a world cup (Roque Junior aside)? I'd snap off anyone's hand who'd offer >£1m for him.

guess united want to keep as much cover as possible for midfield this year

[TonyCochrane]

Makes little sense in getting rid of someone like Neville (In retrospect the sale of Nicky Butt was ill-advised too), relatively low wages, would run through walls for the club, versatile, fans respect his work-rate, good pro.

Kleberson is at the other end of the spectrum. The worst player to win a world cup (Roque Junior aside)? I'd snap off anyone's hand who'd offer >£1m for him.
Did I not read somewhere that Phil was on 65K a week or did I imagine it?

[Philby]

Did I not read somewhere that Phil was on 65K a week or did I imagine it?

I'd be truly shocked if that was the case.

[Langer Dan]

I'd be truly shocked if that was the case.

he's on 35k a week.
I remember because wes brown was looking for parity with his wages in his last contract negotiations

[TonyCochrane]

fair enough so I spose. I was sure I remembered reading a few columns by some commentator who wanted Fergie in the retirement home, one of the arguments he used was the fact that Philly was on 65k, ie Fergie had lost it. The dude, whoever he was said it a few times too, stuck in my mind because of how wierd it seemed.

[KolaKubes]

Makes little sense in getting rid of someone like Neville (In retrospect the sale of Nicky Butt was ill-advised too), relatively low wages, would run through walls for the club, versatile, fans respect his work-rate, good pro.

Kleberson is at the other end of the spectrum. The worst player to win a world cup (Roque Junior aside)? I'd snap off anyone's hand who'd offer >£1m for him.

"Relatively low wages", not a bit of it, there are some shocking rumours about how much the Chuckle brothers are paid. Selling Nicky Butt was only a bad move in so much as the likes of Miller, Fortune and even O'Shea were coming in his place. He had stagnated terribly at Utd.

[Philby]

The Ballack to Manyoo rumours gather pace...don't think it's likely myself (and even then Ballack & Keane are very different players). Ballack would be far more likely to replace Scholes than Keane (although I think him signing is pretty unlikely in any events)


BALLACK'S TO YOU FERGIE ("") Jul 31 2005




From Steve Bates

SIR ALEX Ferguson has started his move for German superstar Michael Ballack.

And Fergie is confident the 29-year-old Bayern Munich midfielder will be a Manchester United player before the start of the Premiership season.

I can reveal that United have decided to make the pursuit of the £9million Bayern Munich star their top priority.

Ballack - who has been staying in the same Tokyo hotel as United and scored twice yesterday to give Bayern a 3-1 win over Jubilo Iwata in the second of two pre-season friendlies - is still in contract dispute with his club. That alerted Fergie but, at first, he suspected the German skipper might just be trying to force more cash out of the Bundesliga giants. Now he is convinced he can land Ballack and the Old Trafford board - who had informal meetings in Japan - have told Fergie they will give him the financial backing.

The row in Portugal with Roy Keane would only have helped Fergie to make up his mind. It is still unclear whether Keane and Ferguson have fully patched up their differences. Keane was left behind when United flew out for their four-match Far East tour and played for the reserves at Walsall yesterday.

Fergie's decision to chase Ballack is another indication that his 33-year-old Irish captain is no longer the force of old.

Fergie is also being kept informed of Michael Owen's situation.

The England star's future at Real Madrid became even more uncertain yesterday when the club confirmed the capture of strikers Julio Baptista and Robinho.

But United sources told me that Owen is not at the top of Fergie's list of priorities.


<source - The People>

[ho chi feen]

United the only option for outcast Owen

David Hills
Sunday July 31, 2005
The Observer

Manchester United are clear favourites to sign Michael Owen after a series of developments that have made the England striker's departure from Real Madrid a certainty.
Though there have been no talks yet, informally both United and Real are aware that a deal is in the interests of both clubs. Real, who paid £17million for Julio Baptista from Sevilla last week, have splashed out a fee said to be closer to £20m on Baptista's fellow Brazil striker Robinho, arguably the most sought-after young player in the world.

The combined spend means Real, who already have their new duo's compatriot Ronaldo and Spain star Raul, are overloaded with forwards. Real are desperate to offload Owen, who arrived from Liverpool a year ago, to recoup some of their outlay, and are said to be willing to consider offers around £12m - which would represent a £4m profit on the player.

Though Owen scored 13 goals last season and his success contributed to Fernando Morientes's departure to Liverpool, he never achieved a regular place, starting just 20 matches. The England striker, whose good goals-per-game ratio in Spain means that his reputation has not been seriously damaged, is anxious for regular football in a World Cup season, but is only interested in a move to a club of sufficient stature, and only in England.

Owen has already rejected overtures from Newcastle and, according to a source close to him, Everton, Bolton and the German side Schalke. While there are those on the Arsenal coaching staff who see Owen as the man to complement Thierry Henry, Arsene Wenger is apparently not among them and would take a great deal of persuading to change his mind. Jose Mourinho has shown no interest in bringing the player to Chelsea.

Sir Alex Ferguson, though, is a long-standing admirer of the England striker. Manchester United struggled for goals last season, and Ruud van Nistelrooy, who was unable to shake off fully the effects of injury, has failed to score on the current Far East tour. Wayne Rooney was an undoubted success but not prolific, while Alan Smith is being earmarked for a midfield role. Louis Saha has not convinced since his 2004 move.

Owen is on his way back from Real's tour of China to a training camp in Austria and expects to sit down with Real officials this week to discuss his departure.

[Sound]

Real really are a comedy club! What more could they want from Owen?!? He would be awesome at Arsenal, I reckon. They always wanted a 'fox in the box'- and they dont come much better than Owen.

[STEVIEG]

Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas has claimed that Arsenal and Manchester United want to beat Chelsea to the signature of midfielder Michael Essien.

He suggests Arsenal want Essien, 22, after failing to sign Julio Baptista as a replacement for Patrick Vieira.

Aulas said: "The longer Chelsea take to make up their minds, the more exposed they are to a bid from another English club who have lost a key midfielder.

"Essien is a bit mixed up. Manchester United are after the player as well."

Chelsea have been chasing Essien after missing out on a deal for Liverpool's Steven Gerrard but the French champions have slapped a £32m price tag on him.

But Arsenal's interest has increased after Baptista's move from Sevilla to Real Madrid.

The Gunners are keen to move into the transfer market following Vieira's departure to Juventus, with Baptista their first target.

Boss Arsene Wenger was reportedly looking at converting the Brazilian into a midfielder to plug the gap left by Vieira, but is now looking at Essien as a direct replacement for the influential Frenchman.

United, meanwhile, will see Essien as a replacement for Roy Keane who is approaching his 34th birthday.

Both clubs have funds available, but will not be able to match Chelsea's spending power.

Aulas added: "It's annoying to lose one of the best players in Europe but he has not gone yet.

"As far as recruiting is concerned, if manager Gerard Houllier needs reinforcements we will do what is necessary over the next period of the transfer window."

[Lynott]

Can't see united getting Essien, not if Chelsea are showing any sort of interest. I rather they signed Ballack anyway but that is looking remote also.

The thing about Owen is a funny one. Rossi sounds like a similar sort of player. Before anyone starts, I am not saying Rossi is anywhere near as good or experienced as Owen, but if the guy is to get a chance to establish himself then the signing of Owen would limit his first team chances.

[Philby]

I think it's a case of Lyon trying to put the pressure on Chelsea to meet their valuation for Essien by linking United with him. I don't think they are genuinely in the running for him. Having said that I'd be a lot more worried if united were to bag Essien than if they got Ballack or Owen - they need a youthful replacement for Keane above everything else. Alan Smith is not the answer (as commited as he is)

[Lynott]

Alan Smith is not the answer (as commited as he is)

I think its far too early to make comments like that.

[Philby]

That's your opinion. Mine is that by the time Fergie waits around to see if he can solve the Keane replacement issue on the cheap he may well have lost even more ground on the west londoners.

[Lynott]

That's your opinion. Mine is that by the time Fergie waits around to see if he can solve the Keane replacement issue on the cheap he may well have lost even more ground on the west londoners.
I don't disagree, time is an issue. However its not as though Keane has left.

That said a class midfielder is needed to add to the squad, and quick.

[KolaKubes]

The problem with last year's midfield is that the combination of Scholes and Keane together is past its sell-by-date. It needed an injection of dynamism, we'll get a little from Park (who does some great work box to box from a slightly wider position) and the inclusion of someone with fresher legs than either Keane or Scholes would be a massive fillip. Whether that's going to come from within the club or without will depend on how convinced Ferguson was by the performances of David Jones and Alan Smith over the pre-season. However, both Keane and Scholes with the right partner should continue to be useful in their own right. United still missed Keane very badly when he was out for particular games last year.

[STEVIEG]

At least this fella is around!

http://www.putfile.com/media.php?n=Wayne-Rooney-v-Urawa-Red-Diamonds

[KolaKubes]

At least this fella is around!

http://www.putfile.com/media.php?n=Wayne-Rooney-v-Urawa-Red-Diamonds

Indeed. In fairness, doomlording aside, we have the two most exciting young talents in world football at our disposal, bar none. If they click this year, anything's possible and our so-so midfield mightn't even be able to sabotage them. Throw Ballack into the mix though and our first XI starts to look a bit special.

[ho chi feen]

the two most exciting young talents in world football at our disposal, bar none..


Robinho?

[KolaKubes]

Robinho?

Robinho hasn't played a single club game in Europe yet. Nice attempt though.

I don't especially rate him in any case. Lionel Messi at Barcelona is easily next in the list. Class player.

[Sound]

Robinho hasn't played a single club game in Europe yet. Nice attempt though.

I don't especially rate him in any case. Lionel Messi at Barcelona is easily next in the list. Class player.

Easily? FFS, no Robinho, Tevez, Mascherano or Cicinho. So unless you play in Europe, you dont count? Dont ever go into scouting willa....

[ho chi feen]

Easily? FFS, no Robinho, Tevez, Mascherano or Cicinho. So unless you play in Europe, you dont count? Dont ever go into scouting willa....

I'm gobsmacked to be honest. Yes, of course Rooney (especially) and Ronaldo are extremely exciting players who surely have a great future ahead of them, but to make such uniquivocal statement, and to be so dismissive of differing opinions, well that's both daft and fuel for ABUism.

I'd be shocked if Robinho wasn't a big success at Real, they just aren't in the habit of making errors of judgement with players of his ilk, and Tevez would walk into United's starting 11.

Pele must have been shite too, I mean he never played in Europe did he?

[KolaKubes]

Easily? FFS, no Robinho, Tevez, Mascherano or Cicinho. So unless you play in Europe, you dont count? Dont ever go into scouting willa....

Ho chi feen suggested Robinho, I replied by saying that - unlike Ronaldo and Rooney who've already done the business at a serious level such as Euro2004 - Robinho has only played on his home patch and the track record of players coming from Brazil is mixed. Denilson, for example, was a former world record transfer when he came to Real Betis and has never really fulfilled his potential.



I'd be shocked if Robinho wasn't a big success at Real, they just aren't in the habit of making errors of judgement with players of his ilk, and Tevez would walk into United's starting 11.

I particularly like this bit. Is this the same Real who bought Jonathon Woodgate for £15 million last year? Who play without a semblance of a defence? Whose "scouting" involves chasing whoever won world player of the year just past? Yup, they're pretty infallible alright


Pele must have been shite too, I mean he never played in Europe did he?

Pele did it in World Cups for Brazil. Robinho's done fuck all yet and I haven't seen what the fuss is about thus far.

Messi's going to be an absolute star. You can see that within five minutes of watching him. Rossi at Utd, Babel at Ajax, Owusu-Abeyle at Arsenal are all players who've impressed me, Tevez I'd be 90% sure of as well, fair enough. Robinho's a lad I'm not convinced about yet, that's all I'm saying.

[ho chi feen]

I particularly like this bit. Is this the same Real who bought Jonathon Woodgate for £15 million last year? Who play without a semblance of a defence? Whose "scouting" involves chasing whoever won world player of the year just past? Yup, they're pretty infallible alright.

Players of his ilk meaning attacking players- Real are damn near hopeless when it comes to signing more defense-minded players, with a few notable exceptions their best defender tend to come up through the ranks.

[Rebelred]

meanwhile,back at old trafford,is fergie lining up a bid for Owen?with smith dropping back to midfield and Ruud apparently in a sulk all preseason,and fergie insisting on turning rooney into a left winger,saha always one step away from the hospital,theres room for a striker there

[ho chi feen]

meanwhile,back at old trafford,is fergie lining up a bid for Owen?with smith dropping back to midfield and Ruud apparently in a sulk all preseason,and fergie insisting on turning rooney into a left winger,saha always one step away from the hospital,theres room for a striker there

Sounds like a disaster in the making- whatever happened to picking your best XI and playing them all in their best positions? What next, P. Nev between the sticks? FFS mockery.

[Rebelred]

Sounds like a disaster in the making- whatever happened to picking your best XI and playing them all in their best positions? What next, P. Nev between the sticks? FFS mockery.
theres alot of reports around about ballack and owen today.doubt we'll get the latter this season,wouldnt be surprised if we get owen by the end of the week though. still nothing doing in midfield though!

[Rebelred]

theres alot of reports around about ballack and owen today.doubt we'll get the latter this season,wouldnt be surprised if we get owen by the end of the week though. still nothing doing in midfield though!
thinking about it last night,and its probably owen hargreaves we're bidding for. such joy!

[ho chi feen]

thinking about it last night,and its probably owen hargreaves we're bidding for. such joy!

Nah, I reckon he's got Owen earmaked to replace Keane, who's being shipped out to Sunderland and he'll slot Smith in at the back to replace Rio, who's on his way to Wigan.

[Rebelred]

Nah, I reckon he's got Owen earmaked to replace Keane, who's being shipped out to Sunderland and he'll slot Smith in at the back to replace Rio, who's on his way to Wigan.
my fears that fergie is slowly and surely losing it are being confirmed with each passing day that we don't sign at least one central midfielder.Fergies delighted with our squad though!

[oliver hymn]

I had this conversation many moons ago with rolo and ho-chi. he should have went the season becks went
good to see the oracle has returned. how long before you lose it again?
Not long I'd say.
But to be honest, and honesty IS the best policy...the PROC was boring without you... a bit like a small village without....

[Langer Dan]

more ballacks from

football 365.com
ManYoo have reportedly decided not to offer Roy Keane a new deal.

the club will let the Irishman leave next summer when his present contract expires but only after giving 'their skipper a £5million testimonial at the end of this season as a golden farewell.'

Keane announced in September that he expected to leave Old Trafford at the end of the current season, and has since launched an astonishing rant at his team-mates which has apparently put him at loggerheads with a livid Sir Alex Ferguson.

According to The Daily Mirror, Ferguson 'is ready to offer Michael Ballack the Manchester United captaincy to ensure he wins the race to sign the German midfielder.

The paper says that ManYoo are 'convinced' Ballack will sign a pre-contract agreement with them in January.

The King is dead, long live the King...

would they ever just n0t sign him and be done with it.


tis all akin to the bollocks that funds were going to be there to sign mickey owen.

all pr and spin to mask the fact we've no cash

[Fat Tom]

According to The Daily Mirror

That does it for me.
It must be true!

[Up For The Ba]

tis all akin to the bollocks that funds were going to be there to sign mickey owen.



Why do you keep harping on about him when its the one department that we`re ok in?

[Langer Dan]

Why do you keep harping on about him when its the one department that we`re ok in?

im talking about ballack.

But on the subject of goalscoring we're down on last years total at this stage which bearing in maind that last season was our worst goalscoring effort in nearly 15 years would indicate that no, its not the one department we're "ok " in.

[STEVIEG]

More reports this evening linking "The Wardrobe", Dioup with United, but it could obviously be bullshit too.

[Langer Dan]

hmm??


from football365.com
DUSCHER READY FOR MANYOO
Argentine midfielder Aldo Duscher's agents will hold talks with ManYoo this week about the Deportivo man joining United in an £6m deal, says the Daily Express. Duscher is also subject of interest from Newcastle and said: "United and Newcastle are both great clubs and it is a very difficult decision, but I would love to go to Old Trafford."


CAPELLO TO TAKE FERGIE'S JOB?
Juventus boss Fabio Capello has hinted that he could head to Old Trafford to take over from Sir Alex Ferguson as Man United manager. Capello admitted he was ready to leave Italy, and although Real Madrid are also said to be interested, he said: "England is a place where I always would have liked to go. We shall see what happens."

[ho chi feen]

DUSCHER READY FOR MANYOO
Argentine midfielder Aldo Duscher's agents will hold talks with ManYoo this week about the Deportivo man joining United in an £6m deal, says the Daily Express. Duscher is also subject of interest from Newcastle and said: "United and Newcastle are both great clubs and it is a very difficult decision, but I would love to go to Old Trafford."

I'd take him for 6m.

We could probably beat them down to 5 though, in fairness.

[Sound]

Here is another that could solve Alex's midfield woes.

http://soccernet.espn.go.co m/news/story?id=349953&cc=5739

[Rebelred]

Here is another that could solve Alex's midfield woes.

http://soccernet.espn.go.co m/news/story?id=349953&cc=5739
always thought russia was a strange choice for him. we need at least 2 midfielders now.he's more of a holding player isn't he?

[STEVIEG]

Here is another that could solve Alex's midfield woes.

http://soccernet.espn.go.co m/news/story?id=349953&cc=5739


Good player he really dissapeared off the radar when he went east definitely worth looking at

[ho chi feen]

Good player he really dissapeared off the radar when he went east definitely worth looking at

Worth £9-£10m in my view. The outstanding midfielder of Euro 2004, not to mention Porto's march to euro glory.

A more rounded option than Duscher.

[Sound]

And he is literally crying out for a move. If the right men aren't brought in in January, Alex cant claim that there were no options.

[Rebelred]

Worth £9-£10m in my view. The outstanding midfielder of Euro 2004, not to mention Porto's march to euro glory.

A more rounded option than Duscher.
i'm not convinced Duscher is up to the level we need, just think his agent is talking a great game for the lad, a bit like Djumbo Djumbo's agent did

[Fat Tom]

Maniche deffo worth a look all right

[Fat Tom]

Franz Beckenbauer does not believe Bayern Munich have the financial muscle to keep Michael Ballack.

The German champions have offered the midfielder a bumper new contract, but he has stalled on signing the deal and is clearly waiting to assess his options in January.

Ballack will be a free agent next summer and a clutch of Europe's biggest hitters are set to sit tight through the Yuletide period before showing their hands in January.

Manchester United seem almost certain to make a move for the midfielder and Bayern president Beckenbauer feels the favourable tax system in England could play into The Red Devils' hands.

"We have offered him a four-year contract, a very good one," Beckenbauer told the Telegraph.

"He is already the highest paid player in Germany, but he won't sign.

"We don't have a (Silvio) Berlusconi or Roman Abramovich at Bayern, but we are a wealthy club.

"The problem in Germany is the tax rate. It is more than 50 percent, while in England it is much lower.

"Nobody in Germany talks about netto [as they do in Italy or Spain, calculating how much they get after tax] and this puts us at a disadvantage."

The Red Devils faithful are still reeling from the departure of Roy Keane, but a successful move for Ballack could put a spring in the step of the Old Trafford outfit

[dotty]

i hope united dont sign duscher,ive seen a fair bit of him over the last few seasons at depor and to be honest im not convinced,maniche is definitely one option we should be looking at,like van der vaarts move to hamburg i dont know why other than for the money did he move to russia and why was there not more interest shown in him at the time from bigger clubs?

[Fat Tom]

UNITED DON'T WANT BALLACK
ManYoo are going to sign Ballack, ManYoo are going to miss out on Ballack, ManYoo are going to make Ballack club president... today's news is that ManYoo don't actually want Michael Ballack, according to the Daily Mirror. A 'senior United source' told the paper that Ballack is "not the kind of midfielder" Sir Alex Ferguson wants - instead favouring one of Gennaro Gattuso, Aldo Duscher or Didier Zakora.

Meanwhile, Ferguson moved quickly yesterday to dismiss speculation that he was set to replace Alex McLeish at Rangers, and backed his friend to keep his job by taking Rangers through to the knock-out stages of the Champions League for the first time.


KEWELL FOR CATS
Harry Kewell is set for a move to Sunderland. Okay, he's not, we've just wanted to use that headline for ages... He does, however, look to be on his way out of Anfield, with The Sun reporting on his wife's revelation on 'I'm (Apparently) A Celebrity...' that Kewell's biggest ambition is to play in Italy or Spain. The Champions League-winning winger (it makes us smile, too) has been linked with his old boss David O'Leary at Aston Villa, but would only be allowed to leave Anfield if Rafa Benitez could bring in a suitable replacement - apparently Steed Malbranque, say The Daily Star.


KEANOWATCH: DAY SEVEN
He's still leaving us guessing, with apparently up to 40 clubs interested in signing the former ManYoo captain. The Times reports that Valencia have joined the chase for Keane, but Stuart Pearce has not given up hope of taking him across the city.


AND THE REST
Steve Bruce has postponed contract talks with defender Mario Melchiot, who is free to talk with other clubs from January...Portsmouth will give Neil Warnock until the weekend to quit Sheffield United with Pompey confident Warnock will leave Bramall Lane...Fulham are chasing Lecce’s Russian-born Finland international midfielder Alexei Eremenko...Sunderlan d striker Daryl Murphy has signed a two-month loan deal with Sheffield Wednesday...David O’Leary is ready to let Ulises de la Cruz leave Aston Villa. Villa may also be prepared to ship out Juan Pablo Angel and Eric Djemba Djemba should their valuations be met.

[dancefreak2003]

UNITED DON'T WANT BALLACK
ManYoo are going to sign Ballack, ManYoo are going to miss out on Ballack, ManYoo are going to make Ballack club president... today's news is that ManYoo don't actually want Michael Ballack, according to the Daily Mirror. A 'senior United source' told the paper that Ballack is "not the kind of midfielder" Sir Alex Ferguson wants - instead favouring one of Gennaro Gattuso, Aldo Duscher or Didier Zakora.

Meanwhile, Ferguson moved quickly yesterday to dismiss speculation that he was set to replace Alex McLeish at Rangers, and backed his friend to keep his job by taking Rangers through to the knock-out stages of the Champions League for the first time.


KEWELL FOR CATS
Harry Kewell is set for a move to Sunderland. Okay, he's not, we've just wanted to use that headline for ages... He does, however, look to be on his way out of Anfield, with The Sun reporting on his wife's revelation on 'I'm (Apparently) A Celebrity...' that Kewell's biggest ambition is to play in Italy or Spain. The Champions League-winning winger (it makes us smile, too) has been linked with his old boss David O'Leary at Aston Villa, but would only be allowed to leave Anfield if Rafa Benitez could bring in a suitable replacement - apparently Steed Malbranque, say The Daily Star.


KEANOWATCH: DAY SEVEN
He's still leaving us guessing, with apparently up to 40 clubs interested in signing the former ManYoo captain. The Times reports that Valencia have joined the chase for Keane, but Stuart Pearce has not given up hope of taking him across the city.


AND THE REST
Steve Bruce has postponed contract talks with defender Mario Melchiot, who is free to talk with other clubs from January...Portsmouth will give Neil Warnock until the weekend to quit Sheffield United with Pompey confident Warnock will leave Bramall Lane...Fulham are chasing Lecce’s Russian-born Finland international midfielder Alexei Eremenko...Sunderlan d striker Daryl Murphy has signed a two-month loan deal with Sheffield Wednesday...David O’Leary is ready to let Ulises de la Cruz leave Aston Villa. Villa may also be prepared to ship out Juan Pablo Angel and Eric Djemba Djemba should their valuations be met.


Ah the art of cut and paste.

[STEVIEG]

[QUOTE=Fat Tom]UNITED DON'T WANT BALLACK


Could be one of three things

1-Utter bullshit
2-Cover to save face for when they don't get him and he goes elsewhere or stays
3-A smokescreen

Then again, Football 365 could source anything

[Up For The Ba]

Ah the art of cut and paste.

Whats your point here exactly?

[Fat Tom]

I'd say - boredom, nothing contstructive to say.

[dancefreak2003]

Most of it had little to do with United.

[Fat Tom]

I know but I couldn't be arsed looking for the other transfer news thread - but what the fuck has that to do with copy and pasting.

[Rebelred]

[QUOTE=Fat Tom]UNITED DON'T WANT BALLACK


Could be one of three things

1-Utter bullshit
2-Cover to save face for when they don't get him and he goes elsewhere or stays
3-A smokescreen

Then again, Football 365 could source anything
football365 source all their bullshit from the mirror, so therefore, this story is probably bullshit

[dancefreak2003]

I know but I couldn't be arsed looking for the other transfer news thread - but what the fuck has that to do with copy and pasting.

Er it would be easier to either throw up the link or just paraphrase it yourself, never mind i'm in a strange mood.

[STEVIEG]

Remember this fella

http://home.skysports.com/list.asp?hlid=329452&CPID=8&clid=&lid=&title=Fortune+favour s+a+move

[west cork rebel]

was quite the useful player for us, allways there when needed, which was not that often, any news on Ole???

[Fat Tom]

Good news at last Fortune on way out thanks be to fuck.

[ho chi feen]

Good news at last Fortune on way out thanks be to fuck.

Yeah, because we have enough midfield cover as it is.

It's beginning to look to me like selling Pip Neville was one of the daftest things we've done in a long time- notwithstanding the fact that he probably was on too much money.

[Fat Tom]

I would only use Fortune as a left back anyway.
He's fucking hopeless midfield.
As part of a move for Duscher wouldn't be a bad idea.

Neville and Butt sales were bad moves if you ask me.

[Langer Dan]

Yeah, because we have enough midfield cover as it is.

It's beginning to look to me like selling Pip Neville was one of the daftest things we've done in a long time- notwithstanding the fact that he probably was on too much money.

trimming the wage bill.

Thank the glazers for the midfield pairing of Smith and Fletcher.

[Fat Tom]

And the injury to Giggs?

[Rebelred]

trimming the wage bill.

Thank the glazers for the midfield pairing of Smith and Fletcher.
over 20 players off the wages since june!

[Langer Dan]

Good news at last Fortune on way out thanks be to fuck.

Fortune" "I want to get some action and if it does not come then it will be necessary to think about something else.".


*Quinton Fortune's transfer quote courtesy of Vivid pictures*

Surelay a career in porn beckons with one liners like that, I mean he's already got the name

[Fat Tom]

You think thats Funny I was reading an article in the star premiership mag on Zola.
He was talking about how one freezing night they were training and how John Terry came out in this short shorts and it was amazing.

[Langer Dan]

You think thats Funny I was reading an article in the star premiership mag on Zola.
He was talking about how one freezing night they were training and how John Terry came out in this short shorts and it was amazing.

heh heh heh.


I miss Ranieri's one liners.

"i am a butcher!"

[Rebelred]

You think thats Funny I was reading an article in the star premiership mag on Zola.
He was talking about how one freezing night they were training and how John Terry came out in this short shorts and it was amazing.
was Gallas involved in this anywhere???

[Fat Tom]

Surprisingly - no.

[ho chi feen]

Fortune" "I want to get some action and if it does not come then it will be necessary to think about something else.".


*Quinton Fortune's transfer quote courtesy of Vivid pictures*

Surelay a career in porn beckons with one liners like that, I mean he's already got the name

He must think he's Dwight Yorke!

[Fat Tom]

Sir Alex Ferguson has a big-name signing in mind for next summer, and also hopes to add to his squad in the January transfer window.
The Scot has spoken openly of late about the need to bolster his ranks, particularly in midfield, and is eyeing at least one new face for the New Year.

Fergie told the Observer: "We will probably just add a couple of players to bulk up the numbers in January. The one we really want to sign will only be available in the summer."

Although he wouldn't name names, Ferguson did reveal that his target has been in Champions League action this season.

"He's cup-tied in the Champions League and his club wouldn't sell him before summer in any case," he revealed.

"But I'm confident the club will back me in the summer. Manchester United always have to buy the player they need."

[Langer Dan]

He must think he's Dwight Yorke!

Wonder if MUTV would censor that video?

[Fat Tom]

who is it?

Probably doesn't want to say before Chelsea get wind of it.
May be the reason they are saying that they don't want/need Ballack

[Rebelred]

Sir Alex Ferguson has a big-name signing in mind for next summer, and also hopes to add to his squad in the January transfer window.
The Scot has spoken openly of late about the need to bolster his ranks, particularly in midfield, and is eyeing at least one new face for the New Year.

Fergie told the Observer: "We will probably just add a couple of players to bulk up the numbers in January. The one we really want to sign will only be available in the summer."

Although he wouldn't name names, Ferguson did reveal that his target has been in Champions League action this season.

"He's cup-tied in the Champions League and his club wouldn't sell him before summer in any case," he revealed.

"But I'm confident the club will back me in the summer. Manchester United always have to buy the player they need."
Diarra???

[Fat Tom]

maybe

[Fat Tom]

Football365.com
Manchester United will make a £3m move for Aston Villa midfielder Steve Davis in January, says The Daily Mirror. The Northern Ireland international has been just about the only bright spark in Villa's season and we all know ManYoo need midfielders. Meanwhile; The Sun claim that Colchester's Greg Halford is a £750,000 target for United.

[STEVIEG]

http://home.skysports.com/list.asp?hlid=329849&CPID=8&clid=&lid=2&title=United+eye+duo

[Langer Dan]

http://home.skysports.com/list.asp?hlid=329849&CPID=8&clid=&lid=2&title=United+eye+duo

interesting, very interesting.

[Rebelred]

add diarra there and it'd be very interesting

[Langer Dan]

add diarra there and it'd be very interesting

earra davis and the other lad just another sign of the Glazers not making serious funds available for a top midfielder.

[Rebelred]

earra davis and the other lad just another sign of the Glazers not making serious funds available for a top midfielder.
true enough.If we're knocked out of Europe next week he'll probably get fergie to offload more players in january to cut the wages bill again

[Fat Tom]

I think its a good short term solution till the end of the season.
If you read what I posted about what Fergie said it seems they have their main target sussed for the Summer.
There is no point spending big money in January for a cup tied player - even if it is for the Uefa Cup!!!!

[dancefreak2003]

Roy Keane Is A Waste Of Space!!!
He Is A Disgrace To He Irish Nation!!!!!


FUCK YOU WUM

[ho chi feen]

Roy Keane Is A Waste Of Space!!!
He Is A Disgrace To He Irish Nation!!!!!



zzzzzzzzzzzz

[Rebelred]

Roy Keane Is A Waste Of Space!!!
He Is A Disgrace To He Irish Nation!!!!!
but whats that got to do with United transfer news? stick to the topic,we're picky fuckers here in the sports forum

[ho chi feen]

but whats that got to do with United transfer news? stick to the topic,we're picky fuckers here in the sports forum

Mez alert.

[Rebelred]

Mez alert.
hehehe

[Del]

I think its a good short term solution till the end of the season.
If you read what I posted about what Fergie said it seems they have their main target sussed for the Summer.
There is no point spending big money in January for a cup tied player - even if it is for the Uefa Cup!!!!


Of course there's a point in spending big money in January even if the player is cup tied. I really doubt it if United will when the champions league and if they do sign some big player it will give him a chance to get settled in and be prepared for the winter for next season. Plus it will give United a better chance of pushing Chelsea a little bit further

[Fat Tom]

Depends on options I suppose.
Fergie has said his main target isn't available till the Summer so I'd say he'll get a couple of squad strengtheners in January.

[Fat Tom]

Valencia defender Fabio Aurelio has revealed that a number of English sides are monitoring his progress with Manchester United thought to be at the head of the queue for his services.

The Brazilian left back, who can also operate in midfield, is in the final year of his contract at the Mestalla and has yet to pen an extension.

His wages are proving to be the stumbling block with Valencia yet to match his demands.

As things stand he will be free to talk to interested parties from January 1, although his agent Juan Figger is scheduled to fly to Spain next week to open a new round of talks with the Primera outfit.

Aurelio insists financial motivations will not be the only factor in his decision on whether to accept a new deal at Valencia, but has made it clear he expects to be paid what he believes he is worth - especially with various English clubs waiting in the wings.

"My agent has told me that several English clubs are interested in me with a view to next season," he told Las Provicias.

"My priority is to improve as a player and I am not only thinking about money.

"However, I also have a family and want to assure our future as well."

Valencia signed the 26-year-old from Sao Paulo back in 2000 and although he has been troubled by injury in recent seasons they will not want to lose him on a free transfer.

United are understandably keen on the player with first-choice left back Gabriel Heinze having been ruled out for the season with a serious knee injury and his absence has exposed a dearth of quality alternatives at Old Trafford

[Rebelred]

"My agent has told me that several English clubs are interested in me with a view to next season," he told Las Provicias.

"My priority is to improve as a player and I am not only thinking about money.



who's he kidding

[Fat Tom]

Dinamo Moscow coach Yuri Semin has admitted he will not keep Nuno Maniche if he wants to leave Russia.

Maniche has been unsettled since he moved to Moscow from Porto earlier this summer and the likes of Manchester United and Atletico Madrid have been alerted to his situation.

Now the Russian season has come to an end, Maniche is desperate for a move and his wish looks set to be granted.

"The question of Maniche is still without an answer," Semin told Sport Express.

"Only players who want to play for Dinamo will stay, like Derlei and Costinha. They are happy to play for Dinamo, they are ready for the battles.

"They both understand what it takes, at first they thought the Russian championship was very easy - in reality it's very hard - harder than the Portuguese.

"There are not many players who can adapt to play in Russia."

Maniche is now hoping that a deal can be struck in January, with United and Atletico currently believed to be leading the chase for his signature - although a host of top European clubs are understood to be considering a move.

[Rebelred]

i said at the end of last season that this could be fergies last season,he's now on a rolling contract and his new bosses aint gonna accept many more third places and last 16's in Europe.But our movements in the market dont suggest that we're going to improve on that,because we havent improved our weakness,the ageing midfield!
sometimes I hate being right

[Fat Tom]

Fiorentina defender Manuel Pasqual will be monitored by Manchester United scouts on Sunday.

La Viola have made a big impression on Serie A this term and the 23-year-old defender will take his place in the side against Treviso at the weekend.

After leaving little-known Arezzo for a crack at the big time at Artemi Franchi, he has not disappointed coach Cesare Prandelli since securing a first team spot.

With 12 Serie A appearances under his belt, Pasqual is building a reputation as a promising left back.

Some are even tipping the youngster, who was born in the year Italy won the World Cup, as a future Azzurri international.

United have already received favourable reports on Pasqual and will analyse his performance closely on Sunday.

Left back is an area that concerns Sir Alex Ferguson as he has sorely missed influential Argentinian Gabriel Heinze, who is out with a long-term injury.

John O'Shea has largely filled in, with Kieran Richardson and Mikael Silvestre also covering the role, but all have failed to shine.

[dancefreak2003]

Manchester United will have to move quickly if they are to secure the services of Serbia and Montenegro defender Nemanja Vidic next month.

Sir Alex Ferguson is believed to be interested in luring the 24-year-old to Old Trafford in a bid to boost his shaky rearguard. Vidic has already made it clear he intends to quit his current club Spartak Moscow when the transfer window opens next month.

However, PA Sport understands that while Vidic would welcome the chance to talk with Ferguson, his current preferred choice is Serie A outfit Fiorentina.

Sources close to the player believe a deal with the Florence-based club could be struck quickly, so unless Ferguson makes contact with them at some point over the next seven days, the chances of him ending up in England are slim.

Liverpool are also thought to have expressed an interest in Vidic, who would cost around £6million.

The player has maintained the promise he showed as a youngster at Red Star Belgrade and, after helping his country reach next year's World Cup finals, he also provided the bedrock of the Spartak rearguard which has guided the Russian outfit into next season's Champions League.

http://www.football365.com/news/story_171496.shtml

[Langer Dan]

Right the Glazers have dusted off the chequebook, looks like Mikael is on his merry way then to balance the books, with Lyon and Inter supposed to have expressed an interest.

This sell to buy policy is leaving the club threadbare for cover, lets not forget the sale of Pip Neville gave us the dynamo crux of midfield that is Fletcher/Smith.

Sir Alex Ferguson produced the perfect Christmas present for Manchester United by agreeing a fee with Spartak Moscow for highly-rated Serbia & Montenegro defender Nemanja Vidic.

The 24-year-old Vidic has become one of the most sought-after players in Europe after informing the Russian side of his intention to quit the club during next month's transfer window.

"I am delighted the two clubs have come to an agreement," said Ferguson. "Nemanja is a quick, aggressive centre-half and at 24 will be a terrific addition to the squad."

Although Champions League holders Liverpool and Serie A outfit Fiorentina both expressed an interest in the centre-back, United were able to pull off the coup.

The fee remains undisclosed, but it is believed to be around the £7million mark. Vidic will now fly into Manchester to discuss personal terms and have his medical, both of which appear to be formalities.

Providing there are no unforeseen hitches, Vidic is likely to be signed in time to play in the FA Cup tie at non-league Burton on January 8, with his first Premiership appearance coming in the following weekend's Manchester derby at Eastlands.

Vidic, who joined Spartak from Red Star Belgrade in July 2004, has seen his reputation soar after being an integral part of his national side's 'famous four' defence, which conceded just one goal in qualifying as the Eastern Europeans bagged a place at next summer's World Cup.

His arrival at Old Trafford will be widely welcomed as many supporters have pointed to a glaring weakness in central defence as one of the major reasons for the problems which have afflicted the Red Devils this season.

With Mikael Silvestre looking increasingly uncertain in recent weeks and Wes Brown's poor record with injuries counting against him, Ferguson needs a regular partner to bring the best out of Rio Ferdinand, who has too often dropped below the standard expected of a £30million player.

anyone seen this guy in action?

Is he any good?

[MonTheHoops]

I thought O' Shea would be dropped for him and Silvestre moved to the left.

[Langer Dan]

I thought O' Shea would be dropped for him and Silvestre moved to the left.

Well if recent transfer policy is anything to go by they'll be clearing the decks and Silvestre is more likely to command a decent fee than O'Shea

[ho chi feen]

Why spend all this money? Couldn't they just play Smith at centreback, and move fathead into the centre of the park? He could stick Richardson up as a lone striker and keep that young hooligan Rooney on the bench.

Problem solved.