Red Blood Manchester United Blog

Hazard to announce transfer decision

2012-05-28T06:43:00.004-07:00

Eden Hazard

Lille midfielder Eden Hazard hinted he has reached a decision on which club to join this summer.

The 21-year-old Belgian has been pursued by several clubs and has previously revealed interest from Manchester United, Manchester City and Chelsea.

With his future looking likely to be in the Barclays Premier League, an announcement from Hazard on his future could be imminent.

Today [Monday] he wrote on Twitter: "good afternoon guys. i made up my mind. see you later. thanks"

Hazard enjoyed a stellar season as Lille finished third in Ligue 1 and struck a hat-trick in what was almost certainly his final game for the French outfit.
He confirmed his preferred destination is England, recently telling Belgian news website HLN: "It will anyway be Manchester City, Manchester United or Chelsea.

"The decision will depend on the amount of play I would see and the position where I would play.

"Not everyone can say that he can make a choice between the three top clubs."

The playmaker has also recently hinted Chelsea's triumph in this season's Champions League made a potential move to Stamford Bridge more attractive.

When asked about a possible move to the Blues, he was quoted as saying by France Football: "Now, yes. They won the Champions League so they will be back in that competition next season.

"It's important for me to play in that competition. Chelsea are a great team with great players. Of course it's a possibility."

Hazard's agent John Bico claims an agreement on personal terms has been reached with all parties interested in the young Belgium international.

Lille, however, said at the start of last week that they had not received a firm bid for Hazard.

Andy Cole tips Manchester United to bounce back for new title challenge

2012-05-28T06:40:00.001-07:00

Andy Cole has insisted Manchester United will emerge stronger — not weaker — from their Barclays Premier League title misery.

Former Old Trafford favourite Cole dismissed any suggestion United could struggle to get over the agonising manner in which they surrendered the championship to neighbours Manchester City.

Manager Sir Alex Ferguson claimed before the epic final day of the season a fortnight ago that City might suffer “untold” damage were they to blow their chance to win a first title since 1968.

Cole insisted United were made of stronger stuff, having almost always bounced back from failing to retain the Premier League by regaining it the following season.

The former England striker was part of the side that famously did so in 1996, having blown it on the final day of the previous campaign in similar circumstances.
“I see that in whatever Manchester United team there is,” said Cole.

“No-one wants to lose, especially last day of the season. You can't wait for pre-season to come around because you want to get the season started again.

“I would imagine that next season the boys will come back much stronger, determined to try to win the Premier League again.”

Cole, now an official ambassador for United, backed Ferguson to ensure they would not take this season's outcome lying down.

He added: “The gaffer's very, very disappointed that we lost it the way we did do but, ultimately, he brushes it all underneath the carpet and says, ‘Hey, it's gone now — let's look towards next season'. He always does that.

“He'll bring in new players, everyone knows that, and he'll have a right good go at it again.

“Because that's what the manager is. He loves a challenge.

“He said that when we won our 19th championship, he said that last season, that we love a challenge and whoever throws down the gauntlet, we're prepared to challenge them.”

Having lost the title on goal difference, Cole envisaged Ferguson strengthening in midfield and up front in particular.

“He's let a centre-forward go in Michael Owen, so he might look in a centre-forward position,” Cole said.

“He's been linked with a couple of midfield players as well, so we'll just have to wait and see.”

Cole insisted his former team-mates Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes could also be huge assets next season, despite being 38 and 37 respectively.

“The two of them, again, last season were absolutely fantastic,” he said. “For their age, the way that they played was unbelievable.

“We've been linked with a couple of players in that midfield area.

“If you use Scholesy and he plays 20-25 games, what a 25 games he'll give you, because he's a phenomenal player.

“If Giggsy plays 25 games, he'll give you a fantastic 25 games as well.”

Manchester United Transfer News: Red Devils Must Secure Phenom Nick Powell

2012-05-27T02:59:00.002-07:00

Nick Powell

With 18-year-old star Nick Powell set to make his last appearance for Crewe Alexandra on Sunday, news continues to heat up regarding where he may transfer. There is no question that the current leader in the clubhouse appears to be Manchester United.

According to Neil Moxley of the Daily Mail, the Red Devils are prepared to offer the up-and-coming midfielder a $4 million deal as early as next week. Alexandra hasn't been beaten in 18 straight English League Two contests, and Powell is a big reason for that.

Crewe only finished seventh in the regular-season standings thanks to a rocky beginning to the year, but Powell has been absolutely fantastic as of late in leading them to the league final against Cheltenham. Powell's 14 goals on the season lead Crewe by a large margin, while his seven assists are third on the squad as well.
There is a belief that Powell is the best English prospect to surface in years, and because of that Man U needs to strike quickly. Regardless of the Red Devils' late-season struggles that allowed Manchester City to capture the Premier League title this season, Manchester United still is and always will be considered the pinnacle of English football.

If Powell develops into the type of player that so many expect him to become, then Man U absolutely must have him. Manchester United is equivalent to American sports teams like the New York Yankees, Los Angeles Lakers and Dallas Cowboys. Great players are simply that much better when the they play for those teams, and that would be the case with Powell and Man U.

The Red Devils' midfield is already fairly stacked with the likes of Antonio Valencia, Nani, Ryan Giggs and Ashley Young, but it never hurts to add talent. Perhaps Powell wouldn't play a ton right away, but since he's only 18 years of age, that shouldn't be an issue. Even if he needs a year to act primarily as a substitute, it will be good for him and Man U in the long run.

If Manchester United is going to continue to remain at the top of the EPL, then it needs to stockpile young talent like it always has. If the Red Devils allow competing teams like Man City, Chelsea, Arsenal or someone else to nab a potential superstar like Powell, then they'll be kicking themselves for doing so for the foreseeable future.

Powell has improved steadily and noticeably over the past couple seasons, and if his upward trend continues, then he may very well be one of the Premier League's best players in just a few years. There is something to be said for pursuing established players, but the biggest wins often involve getting a young player at a fairly low price.

Provided Powell becomes the player that he should, the price tag that Man U seems likely to pay will ultimately be a bargain. Every young, English soccer player likely dreams of playing for Manchester United one day and it appears as though Powell may have that chance. The Red Devils just need to ensure that they can secure him.

Follow @MikeChiari on Twitter.

Ryan Giggs sure Man Utd will win back their Premier League crown

2012-05-27T02:55:00.005-07:00

Ryan Giggs

Ryan Giggs is convinced Manchester United will win back their Premier League title from derby rivals Manchester City next season.

United missed out on a 20th top-flight title after City completed a dramatic 3-2 victory over Queens Park Rangers on the final day of the season, winning the Premier League crown on goal difference ahead of their derby rivals.

Giggs, who has won the title on 13 occasions, pointed to the Red Devils past triumphs in the face of adversity, and the veteran midfielder insisted United would come back stronger in August.

“So it’s disappointing to have been so near but then again, there are so many positives to take out of the season as well,” Giggs told United’s website.
“I think you’re more driven when you lose a trophy. We refer to it as our trophy because we’ve won it so many times and I think when we do lose it, we want it back and we want it back quickly.

“We’ve faced disappointments before and we’ve always come back and that’s what we need to do now. We’ve had so many highs over however many years but you’ve got to take the lows as well. You’ve got to take it on the chin and come back bigger and better next year.”

The 38-year-old is already eagerly anticipating taking part in his 22nd season in the top flight, and added that the disappointment of missing out on the title will only serve as motivation.

“I felt good against Sunderland,” added Giggs. “It was the last game of the season and yet I still felt good.

“So now I’ll get refreshed this summer and look to go again next season. Hopefully we’ll get a positive result at the end of it. We were so near [to winning the title] this year but sometimes you need disappointments in your career, and your life, to go forward.”

Berbatov: Man Utd's loss, PSG's gain

2012-05-27T02:54:00.002-07:00

Dimitar Berbatov

Dimitar Berbatov is set to leave Old Trafford despite Manchester United having activated a one-year extension to their record signing’s contract in the past couple of months.

However, they are willing to listen to offers for the £30.75 million Bulgarian forward, 31, and PSG- bossed by ex-Chelsea chief Carlo Ancelotti - are leading the chase, according to The Sun.

Berbatov’s agent Emil Danchev said: “PSG’s project can really interest him because he wants to play in the Champions League next year.

“Plus, there has never been a Bulgarian player at PSG, so it could be good.”
Danchev confirmed earlier that Berbatov will be leaving at the end of the season.

"I had three meetings with (Manchester United manager) Alex Ferguson. We accept that he is trying to build a new team, change the playing style, introduce more speed," Danchev told Bulgarian Canal 3 television.

"Manchester United's future does not include Berbatov," he added.

Danchev said that the 31-year-old striker will most probably leave England for another top European team but added "there will be no cosmic transfer fees."

Berbatov joined Manchester United from Tottenham Hotspur in 2008.

But he has recently lost his prime spot on the squad and speculation has been rife that he is set to leave the club.

Manchester United Transfer News and Rumours Sunday 27 May

2012-05-27T02:52:00.001-07:00

Eden Hazard

Manchester United’s pursuit of Eden Hazard depends on them being able to pay him £155,000 a week, according to The People. The newspaper reports that Lille have accepted offers of 40million euro – £32million – from each of United, Manchester City and Chelsea – and it is now up to the player to decide which of the three Premier League giants he is set to choose.

City have offered Hazard a basic wage of £8million a year – £155,000 a week – and that could rise to as much as £10million a year if Hazard successfully earns a series of bonuses. Hazard is already the highest-paid footballer in France, but the wage he will pick up in the Premier League will dwarf the £77,000 a week he currently earns at Lille.

The 21-year-old Belgian looks set to make up his mind following his country’s friendly with England at Wembley next Saturday and he said this week that minutes on the pitch and where he will play is just as important as any financial factors.
However, after looking out of the running earlier this week when Hazard hinted it was a toss-up between City and Chelsea, the midfielder playmaker could choose United after all. City already have the likes of Samir Nasri, David Silva and Yaya Toure in the playmaker’s role, while United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is looking at Hazard and Borussia Dortmund’s Shinji Kagawa, who was the subject this week of a bid of 16million euro (£12.8million) from United and looks more able to offer him time on the pitch.

United Target To Decide After Euros
PSV Eindhoven midfielder Kevin Strootman will decide his future after the European Championships.

The 22-year-old has been linked with United as well as a number of other top sides in Europe despite only moving to PSV from Utrecht last summer along with his team-mate Dries Mertens in a 13million euro deal.

Serie A side Inter Milan are believed to be favourites to secure his signature but Strootman’s agent Chiel Dekker claims that any decision over his future is currently on hold.

“Inter Milan and the player? At the moment there is nothing concrete,” he said.

“Manchester United? The same. Personally, I find it rather difficult for him to leave the club because he only arrived last summer and has a five-year contract.

“The boy is not worried at all and is just focused on his work for Holland. Eventually, after the Euros we will see what might happen.”

QPR Want Fabio
Manchester United defender Fabio da Silva is a loan target for QPR. United boss Sir Alex Ferguson said last month that the 21-year-old needs to go out on loan to gain more first-team football and while Portugese side Benfica are said to be interested Rs’ boss Mark Hughes is looking to the youngster to bolster his defensive options next season.

Benfica claim that Fabio had agreed to move to the Lisbon club but he has since performed a U-turn and now wants to remain in the Premier League. The news has alerted Hughes and Fabio could be set for Loftus Road.

By FootballGossip

Manchester United close in on midfield duo Kagawa and Hazard

2012-05-24T22:22:00.001-07:00

Shinji Kagawa

Manchester United are set to make an improved offer of £13m for Shinji Kagawa.

The Borussia Dortmund midfielder has one year left on his contract but Sir Alex Ferguson wants to land him.

United are also confident Eden Hazard will choose to move Old Trafford this summer.

Manchester City and Chelsea are also fighting for Hazard's signature but the Belgian winger has confirmed that his choice will ultimately be governed by regularly he will be a starter.

He told Belgian news website HLN: 'I do not know when I'll make a decision about my future club.

'It will anyway be Manchester City, Manchester United or Chelsea.

'The decision will depend on the amount of play I would see and the position where I would play.

'Not everyone can say that he can make a choice between the three top clubs.'

Hazard's compatriot Jan Vertonghen remains focused on a move to Tottenham from Ajax.

By Daily Mail

Manchester United Club Focus - Ferdinand England exclusion to benefit United

2012-05-24T04:35:00.003-07:00

Rio Ferdinand

As England's Euro 2012 squad was put through its paces for the first time under Roy Hodgson, Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand was thousands of miles away in Thailand, possibly at the end of his international career.

It was a bold decision to leave out the experienced defender, who acknowledged his disappointment at the situation. It seems that his falling out with John Terry over the alleged racial abuse of his brother Anton has cost Ferdinand his place at Euro 2012 and the chance to add to his 81 caps, although Hodgson insists the decision was purely a football one.

The controversial move to drop the Manchester United centre back may have been aimed at keeping peace within the squad. However there will surely still be divisions thanks to the Ferdinand-shaped hole that will exist in Poland and Ukraine. The best way of avoiding dissension would arguably have been omitting Terry. The Chelsea captain should be considered innocent until proven guilty, but Ferdinand can only be considered innocent in this situation.
It smacks of falsehood that Hodgson claimed Ferdinand has been left out for footballing reasons. The experience garnered in huge games for United and numerous tournaments with England would have been valuable at Euro 2012. Ferdinand is one of the most gifted defenders of his generation, and whilst he perhaps has lost the edge off his once electric pace, he has improved his reading of the game that is so important at international level.

When also looking at the players chosen ahead of him in the squad, the idea of Ferdinand being left out for purely footballing reasons appears even more nonsensical. The veteran has been in excellent form this season, whereas Joleon Lescott could reasonably be described as erratic, and Gary Cahill is unproven at this level at the age of 26. Phil Jones is an understudy of Ferdinand's at United, although the youngster does possess versatility.

Hodgson alluded to the fact that Ferdinand had not featured regularly for England since before the 2010 World Cup, and that he should stick with the players that got England to the finals. Yet the captain he has appointed, Steven Gerrard, has played just 33 minutes of international football since November 2010.

United fans will look to the positives that a summer's rest will bring the 33-year-old. Ferdinand played 30 league games for United last term, which was huge in getting over the loss of Nemanja Vidic and bringing stability to the back line. He seems to be able to better manage the issues with his back that Sir Alex Ferguson has talked openly about. A whole summer's rest can only be beneficial for maximising his fitness next season as United look to reclaim their Premier League crown.

The Old Trafford outfit will point to the two stalwarts of their squad, Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes, who both benefitted at club level thanks to retirement from international football. Scholes was just 29 when he called time on his England tenure, stating his family life and Manchester United career were more important to him. Giggs meanwhile, who has had to manage hamstring problems through his career, retired from playing with Wales at the same age Ferdinand is now. These two players have prolonged and excelled in their latter years at United. Ferdinand will hope that he can do the same.

By Oli Coates

Arsenal, Manchester United & Tottenham make enquiries to sign Dembele

2012-05-24T04:26:00.003-07:00

Moussa Dembele

Manchester United, Arsenal and Tottenham have all made enquiries for Moussa Dembele, Goal.com can reveal.

The three clubs have registered their interest in the Fulham attacking midfielder through third parties in the last two weeks.

The London club are expecting bids imminently for their prize asset, who they value between £12-15 million.

The interest is believed to be strongest from Spurs, although Dembele would prefer to move to a team who will play in the Champions League next season.

Manchester City and Chelsea have cooled their interest in the Belgian, who has only a year remaining on his contract.

But Dembele is highly regarded by United, Arsenal and Spurs, given his price tag and the two seasons of Premier League football he has under his belt.

Fulham are eager to offer the 25-year-old, who joined the Londoners from Dutch club AZ Alkmaar for £5m in the summer of 2010, an improved deal but appreciate they are facing a losing battle to hold on to him.

But the west Londoners, whose highest paid player is goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer, know they cannot compete on wages or status with the richest Premier League clubs, and accept they will struggle to maintain Dembele's services if he receives an attractive offer in the summer.

Goal.com understands that manager Martin Jol would prefer a sale early in the summer window rather than a lengthy saga, to give him enough time to source a replacement.

The Belgian was a revelation for Fulham in the last few months of the season after Jol converted him from a deep-lying forward to a central midfielder.

He has scored only seven goals in 72 appearances for Fulham, including just two goals last season, although many believe he could be even more effective playing with higher quality players.

By Goal.com

Man Utd to win race to sign Eden Hazard after agreeing five-year deal - report

2012-05-24T04:20:00.002-07:00

Eden Hazard (left)

Manchester United will reportedly beat Chelsea and Manchester City in the race to sign Lille playmaker Eden Hazard.

Hazard has already confirmed he will move to the Premier League this summer and is widely expected to join either Chelsea, Manchester City, or Manchester United, despite reports on Thursday morning suggesting Arsenal were showing interest (see Related Articles).

His agent has confirmed that personal terms with Chelsea and the two Manchester clubs have already been agreed, with a decision set to be made after the Belgium international plays for his country against England on June 2nd.

And according to reports in France, United are set to win the race to sign the £30million-rated 21-year-old.
According to Le10Sport.com, relatives of Hazard have told them that the player has already made up his mind on a move to Old Trafford.

Hazard had said at the weekend: "My agent has met with Manchester, and with Chelsea, they both give good offers, and are both great clubs."

According to Friday's report, Hazard was ready to announce he would join Sir Alex Ferguson's side on Sunday night and was set to sign a five-year deal, but was told by his advisers to delay a decision to hear out Chelsea and Premier League champions Man City.

Hazard admitted earlier this week "it is possible that Chelsea's arrival at the negotiation's table will delay things, as nothing is done until I sign a contract."

Agent John Bico on Thursday told the Daily Telegraph: "We are no longer in the negotiations stage. We have reached agreement with all parties. There will be no higher bid.

"Eden has already said he wants it to be fixed before June 2. He will decide after the games against Montenegro and England, then go on holiday with peace of mind."

Despite the report coming out of France, at time of writing, Man City remain the bookmakers' favourites to sign Hazard, ahead of Man Utd, Chelsea, and Real Madrid.

Who will win the race to sign Eden Hazard? Have your say below!

By CrunchSports

Manchester United lodges 17m euro bid for Kagawa

2012-05-24T04:13:00.004-07:00

Shinji Kagawa

Manchester United has made its first move to sign Shinji Kagawa, by lodging a 17 million euro (13.6m pound) bid for the Borussia Dortmund star.

The Premier League giant has been pressed into action after being made aware last week of growing interest in the attacking midfielder from Arsenal.

Reports emerged in Germany on Thursday that United had made a move for Kagawa and sources have confirmed to Goal.com that the club has made a formal bid for the Japan international.

United is believed to be hopeful of wrapping up a quick deal but it is understood that Arsenal's interest remains strong and the Londoners could also submit an offer for a key figure in Dortmund's back-to-back league titles.
Kagawa has only a year remaining on his contract and the Bundesliga club has hinted recently that it will not stand in the way of a transfer this summer.

Speaking last week, Dortmund sporting director Michael Zorc said: "I had a meeting with his agent and Shinji Kagawa has informed us that he will definitely not be extending his contract. Should we now receive offers for Kagawa, then we will consider and negotiate them."

Goal.com exclusively revealed in April that United was lining up a bid to sign Kagawa, whose reputation has grown over the last few months.

Manager Sir Alex Ferguson and his assistant Mike Phelan were then present at the DFB-Pokal final two weekends ago when Kagawa scored in Dortmund's emphatic 5-2 win over Bayern Munich.

Arsene Wenger is also an admirer of the Japanese midfielder, who arrived in Germany after the 2010 World Cup for a fee well below 350,000 euros and has been an influential presence in Jurgen Klopp's team.

He has scored 10 times in 30 international appearances, and his 71 appearances for Dortmund have yielded 29 goals, including the opener in the cup final, before setting up hat trick hero Robert Lewandowski's first of the game.

By Goal

United Linked With Lavezzi

2012-05-24T01:30:00.002-07:00

Ezequiel Lavezzi

Manchester United are being linked with interest in Napoli striker Ezequiel Lavezzi.

According to Il Giornale di Napoli, the Red Devils are ready to put in a bid for the 27-year-old Argentine who scored 11 goals in 42 games for Napoli this season and has caught the eye of a number of top European clubs.

Lavezzi wants to leave Napoli after five years with the Serie A side but the 31million euro (£25million) release clause in his contract is likely to prove a stumbling block.

His preference is to move to Inter Milan but their failure to qualify for the Champions League has severely affected their ability to compete in the transfer market this summer and a £25million bid for Lavezzi is out of the question for them.

Paris Saint-Germain are also said to be interested and could afford to pay his release fee although Lavezzi is said not to be keen on a move to France.

By FootballGossip

Michu hints he's ready to join Manchester United or Liverpool

2012-05-24T01:25:00.003-07:00

Michu (left)

Rayo Vallecano midfielder Michu has issued a come and get me plea to Premier League giants Manchester United and Liverpool, after admitting he’d be willing to quit the Spanish side.

Michu, 26, was the highest scoring midfielder in La Liga last season with 17 goals in 39 games, and morning reports claimed north-west rivals United and Liverpool were both interested in securing his services.

Now the in-demand Spaniard claims he’d be ready to join one of the Premier League’s leading lights, should they meet his club’s £8million valuation.

'If a good offer arrives for Rayo and me I will study leaving,' Michu told reporters in Oviedo.
'Rayo are suffering from money problems and it is normal to analyse things in these circumstances, but personally I still do not have an offer on the table.'

Fulham, Stoke, Southampton, Wigan and West Brom are all reportedly standing by should United and Liverpool both overlook the player, as all parties are aware Rayo would almost certainly have to accept half the amount they’re asking for Michu.

By Metro

Giggs hails Manchester United's form against London clubs

2012-05-24T01:19:00.002-07:00

Ryan Giggs

Manchester United legend Ryan Giggs has praised his side for their form against London clubs last season, after seeing the Red Devils keep a near-perfect record against the teams from the capital.

The 3-3 draw against Chelsea on February 5 was the only occasion when United did not take full points from their 10 games against London-based teams in the Premier League, and the Welshman noted that success as a key part of their title challenge, which lasted until the final day of the season.

He also singled out the 8-2 victory over Arsenal in August as one of the highlights of the campaign, adding that such an emphatic win over rivals is always special.

"As a team performance you've got to look at the Arsenal game when you’re talking about highlights," Giggs told the club's official website.

"To score eight goals against a team that has been one of our biggest rivals for so many years is something special.

"Our form in London – I think we won nearly every game there apart from Chelsea – was very pleasing."

He also claimed that, despite the Chelsea result being the only blotch on their record, the performance was as impressive as any win, after United came from three goals down to rescue a point in an inspired revival.

"Again, that was against one of our rivals from the last few years, and at Stamford Bridge where we haven’t had a good record over the last 10 years," Giggs reflected.

"We came back and we kept the belief, and we were probably unlucky not to win it in the end. There were so many great performances like that during the season."

By Goal

AmaZulu to face Man United

2012-05-24T01:16:00.003-07:00

AmaZulu are closing in on a deal that could see them play English Premier League side Manchester United in Durban in July.

Usuthu are set to battle the 19-time English Premiership champions at Moses Mabhida Stadium on July 18 in a once-off friendly, pending the negotiations.
According to Usuthu’s marketing and brand manager Lunga Sokhela the deal could be finalised in a matter of days.

The idea was triggered after a visit to the Moses Mabhida by the Manchester United support staff and it was initially meant to be a four-team tournament involving United, AmaZulu, Mamelodi Sundowns and Ghanaian side Asante Kotoko.

However, the promoter could not come up with the money and as it stands, Manchester United are negotiating directly with AmaZulu for the friendly.

By KickOff

Bebe heading back to Old Trafford after loan spell at Besiktas

2012-05-24T01:12:00.000-07:00

Bebe

Manchester United are expecting £7.4million flop Bebe back for pre-season training following the Portuguese winger’s ill-fated spell in Turkey.

United loaned the 21-year-old to Besiktas last summer and were hoping it might lead to a permanent deal.

But Bebe tore the cruciate ligament in his knee and was then fined by coach Tayfur Havutcu and ordered to train with the reserves on his return to fitness after he broke a club curfew by going to a nightclub before last month’s game against Galatasaray.
His surprise move to Old Trafford from Vitoria de Guimaraes two years ago is still being probed by anti-corruption police in Portugal over concerns that much of the fee remains unaccounted for, but it seems highly unlikely the Portugal Under-21 international will play for United again.

Meanwhile, Juventus are set to confirm the signing of United’s promising young midfielder Paul Pogba.

By DailyMail

La Liga star Michu could Manchester United’s secret weapon next season

2012-05-24T01:09:00.000-07:00

Michu

Sir Alex Ferguson’s inability to secure a prominent midfielder in his squad is probably the reason why Manchester United lost the 2011-12 season to archrivals Manchester City. The Eastlands not only won their first Premier League title in 44 years but they also established themselves as the latest football powerhouse in Europe.

Now that the season has ended, fans and media have started to question Sir Alex Ferguson’s abilities as the manager of Manchester United. Well, let’s not get too hasty and kick off the legendary Scotsman from the hot seat at Old Trafford. However, one thing is for sure – Sir Alex Ferguson will have to make some serious adjustments to his squad this summer… starting with the midfield.

Manchester United is in dire need of a new centre midfielder. Manchester City’s Yaya Toure had an exceptional season with the Eastlands. It was his impressive form that made the difference for Manchester City last season. Sir Alex Ferguson clearly needs a player in his mould, but that will not be easy to obtain.
Yaya Toure’s ability to play in the centre of the park, create offensive sparks and score goals is highly impressive. Yaya Toure also tracks back when his team requires him to defend. Put all of these skills together and you have the perfect midfielder for this era.

The gigantic Ivorian knows how to handle himself too. In spite of his humongous frame, Yaya Toure knows how to head and run at full pace. Overall, Yaya Toure is the proper definition of trouble for his opponents.

Manchester United scouts might have come up with a solution to Sir Alex Ferguson’s problems. According to club insiders there is one player who could challenge Yaya Toure next season.

Rayo Vallecano’s midfielder Michu has acquired a lot of interest in Europe this season. Sir Alex Ferguson has already set his eyes upon Michu, who has scored the highest number of goals for midfielder in Spain last season. Michu scored 17 goals in 39 games for Rayo Vallecano.

Interestingly, Manchester United has the opportunity to acquire Michu for a cut-price. Michu can be obtained for as low £3 million, which is nothing in comparison to the outrageous amount of money Sir Alex Ferguson is ready to spend on Eden Hazard.

Manchester United will face competition from Liverpool for Michu. Although, Liverpool is without a manger right now they too are planning to rebuild the club this summer. Michu would be a good signing for the Reds too.

By FanIQ

Man Utd join Arsenal FC in race to sign Olivier Giroud - report

2012-05-24T01:02:00.002-07:00

Olivier Giroud

Manchester United are reportedly keen on signing Montpellier striker Olivier Giroud, who has been linked with Arsenal and Liverpool.

The 25-year-old has been linked with Arsenal and Liverpool throughout the year, with both Premier League clubs sending scouts to watch him in action in Ligue 1 throughout the season.

But United are believed to be keen on bringing in a new forward this summer as Michael Owen will leave the club, and Dimitar Berbatov is also likely to leave Old Trafford, and according to Caughtoffside.com, manager Sir Alex Ferguson is ready to meet Montpellier's asking price for the in-form forward.

Earlier this year, reports in France had suggested Montpellier had raised the value of Giroud's release clause to €16million (from €10m), after learning of interest from Arsenal.
Being in a position to offer Champions League football, Montpellier are hopeful they can keep Giroud at the club next season.

But until Montpellier won their maiden Ligue 1 title last weekend, it was widely believed the France international would leave the club this summer.

Earlier this month, however, he insisted he was yet to decide on whether to seek a move this summer, or stay with the club for another year.

"I do not know yet what I'll do next season, if I leave or stay in Montpellier," Giroud told Telefoot.

"But English clubs make me dream, this championship makes me dream.

"But I am not obsessed with England! And money is not a motivation in my career.

"I make strategic choices of a sporting point of view."

Giroud is currently preparing for Euro 2012 and is the bookmakers' favourite to finish as France's top goalscorer (see France Euro 2012 Top Scorer odds) after finishing top of the pile in Ligue 1.

Who will win the race to sign Giroud this summer? Do United need another striker? Have your say below!

By Crunchsports

Fabio da Silva leads Manchester United's loanees on a voyage of self-improvement

2012-05-23T06:37:00.000-07:00

Fabio da Silva

Fabio da Silva is on the verge of signing for Benfica on a season-long loan deal.

United’s Brazilian left-back is being farmed out to gain further experience with the Lisbon club expected to win the battle in Portugal to land him for a campaign, though their domestic rivals Sporting also keen.

The player’s mother has been in the Portuguese capital checking out his potential new home in readiness for her son’s temporary switch.

Consistent Reds skipper Patrice Evra has blocked the 21-year-old’s path to the senior team, while Fabio’s twin brother Rafael has had more joy in the right-back berth.

Fabio started 10 League, Carling Cup and Champions League matches up to November, but injury curtailed his efforts before apperarances against Ajax in both legs of the Europa League last 32.

But Evra’s presence is set to continue to be an obstacle and Sir Alex Ferguson wants to give Fabio a platform to catch up with Rafael.

Difficult

“With Evra such a consistent performer over the last five years, it doesn’t matter who would have been second choice, it would have been difficult for them and that is the situation with Fabio,” said Ferguson.

“It has been difficult for him. Fabio’s brother has improved by getting consistent games for us. So I think a year out at a good level, playing every week, will make Fabio a real top player for us.”

But splitting from his twin will be tough.

“It’s so, so hard,” said Fabio, who has been in England with his brother since signing for the Reds from Fluminense in January 2008.

“It’s very, very difficult for me and my brother as well, but this is life. I have to play more games to improve my football and it’s why I think it’s better for me and for him as well.

“I had a good start and played a lot of games in the Champions League but, at the end, I’ve not played in many games. But it’s okay and we go to the next season.”

Old Trafford chief executive David Gill has confirmed the loan pathway that helped develop Tom Cleverley, Danny Welbeck and Jonny Evans before their elevation to senior United status will continue.

“It’s always been a feature. We’ve done that for many years,” said Gill.

“Alex and the coaching staff will work closely to try and place players in the right teams for their development. We have seen that with people like Danny Welbeck and Tom Cleverley, who have done very well and come back in after spells with other teams.

“Let’s see what happens, but it’s good for them and good for us.”

United reserves and England Under-19 players Will and Michael Keane, plus second-team colleagues Tom Thorpe, Davide Petrucci and Zeki Fryers, could all be up for similar treatment next term.

By MenMedia

Phil Jones confident Manchester United will bounce back next season

2012-05-23T06:27:00.000-07:00

Phil Jones

Manchester United defender Phil Jones is hoping to bounce back from narrowly losing out to local rivals Manchester City in the Premier League title race by regaining the trophy next season.

The 20-year-old thought that the Red Devils had done enough to win the title in dramatic fashion before City's late comeback to beat QPR saw them finish first, and the youngster is looking to build on the experience.

"It was mixed feelings at the final whistle," Jones told the club's official website. "I thought we'd pulled off the impossible at first, we thought QPR had done us a massive favour with a difficult task of going to the Etihad [Stadium]. But then City scored two goals in quick succession and that killed us.

"I'll take that on board with what I've learned this season. It's been a massive learning curve for me and I've played a lot of games this season and I've really enjoyed playing."

The former Blackburn defender has conceded that dramatic turnarounds are a part of the game and also believes that he has improved as a player during his debut season at Old Trafford.

He added: "Of course, that's football. Things like that can happen and we've perhaps been a bit unfortunate this season but so be it. City have won it this year but hopefully we'll be back next season, fighting and ready to go again.

"It's been a whirlwind season for me. We've been unfortunate with injuries this season which has probably enabled me to play more games than I expected.

"I've really enjoyed it and I feel like I've really progressed and come on as a player. It's a massive learning curve for me. Being at United in my first season has really given me an insight into the passion and drive the club has.

"The history speaks for itself and we'll do it the United way, we'll bounce back and we'll go again next season."

By Goal.com

Man United could land Rayo Vallecano midfielder Michu for bargain £3m

2012-05-23T06:24:00.001-07:00

Michu (left)

Michu, the highest-scoring midfielder in Spain last season, could move to the Premier League for as little as £3million this summer.

Rayo Vallecano’s financial problems mean the former Real Oviedo and Celta Vigo player, who hit 17 goals in 39 games, is available at significantly less than the club's original £8m asking price.

Manchester United scouts have been watching Michu, 26, and London-based agents DBW have also spoken with several other English clubs, including Liverpool, about him.

By Daily Mail

Manchester United midfielder Darren Fletcher to see specialist as he targets return for pre-season

2012-05-23T06:19:00.002-07:00

Darren Fletcher

Darren Fletcher will see a specialist next month to determine whether he will be in contention to take part in Manchester United’s pre-season preparations.

The midfielder began an extended break from football in December after suffering from ulcerative colitis, a chronic bowel condition.

The 28-year-old, will see his usual team of specialists next month and sources at Old Trafford say the club are optimistic that he will get the all-clear to start pre-season training in July.

Earlier this year, there were rumours that the Scot may be forced to retire from football but having played his last game against Benfica in November.
But United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has spoken of his hope that Fletcher, who is under contract until 2015, will return to action.

"We're hoping he will start pre-season training,” Sir Alex said earlier this month.

"But we can't assess it because we don't know enough about it.

"Darren's medical people are dealing with it and our doctor has a good idea of the situation but at the moment the boy is doing his best to come back."

By Goal.com

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has pulled out of the running to be the next Aston Villa manager

2012-05-23T05:46:00.003-07:00

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer

Aston Villa owner Randy Lerner has flown back to Birmingham from the United States to step up the search for Alex McLeish's replacement - but Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has pulled out of the running.

The former Manchester United star, currently manager of Norwegian side Molde, was interviewed by Lerner over the weekend.

But reports suggest Solskjaer has opted not to be considered McLeish's successor for personal reasons and family commitments.

Solskjaer was the favourite with the bookmakers to take charge of Villa who only just avoided relegation from the Barclays Premier League.

But sources close to the club are keen to stress Solskjaer was never offered the job by Lerner.

Villa are adamant they are still working through a shortlist of possible candidates which is understood to include Brendan Rodgers (Swansea), Paul Lambert (Norwich) and Roberto Martinez (Wigan).

Domingos Paciencia, who led Braga to the 2011 Europa League final, is also believed to be interested in the Villa post but is down the pecking order with Lerner and Villa chief executive Paul Faulkner. He managed the Porto B team during Jose Mourinho's spell in charge of the club.

Rodgers and Lambert impressed with their respective clubs during their first season in the Premier League but Villa have yet to approach either club.

Martinez rejected the chance to take charge at Villa last summer after Gerard Houllier's departure on health grounds.

Reports that Solskjaer had further talks about the Villa job before making his decision are understood to be wide of the mark.

He impressed Lerner after leading Molde to the Norwegian title in his first season after leaving United where he had been reserve-team coach.

But it was always Villa's intention to interview all the candidates on their shortlist before making a decision and they will now continue with that process.

Former Villa skipper Martin Laursen has urged the club to bring in a new manager with "hunger, drive and desire" after ruling himself out of the reckoning this summer.

Laursen believes it is crucial Lerner finds a successor to McLeish who will earn the backing of the fans by playing attractive football.

He said: "I believe the key is to bring someone in who will get the fans right behind the club again.

"Villa need to get someone in that has a hunger, drive and desire and who will look to play attractive football.

"That will get the supporters onside. That is the most important thing.

"I am confident Randy Lerner and Paul Faulkner will get things right with the appointment. They are good people who care about the club."

By RTE

Top Five: United CM transfer targets

2012-05-23T05:42:00.000-07:00

Luka Modric

Manchester United have been linked with a number of top central midfielders, but who should Sir Alex Ferguson sign to challenge Manchester City next year?

Paul Scholes' five-month return was a success, and the midfield maestro has signed on for another season. But the Giggs-Scholes axis will be available for an ever decreasing number of games next season, and Ferguson is looking ahead to bring in a long-term replacement.

The Old Trafford side have the cash to bring in one of Europe's best, but will most probably look to avoid challenging Manchester City head-to-head in a transfer battle this summer.

With that in mind, GMF looks at five central midfielders who could be heading to Old Trafford in the near future.
Wesley Sneijder (Inter Milan) - Value = £37m
Sneijder would be most United fans' dream signing. A truly world-class player, the 27-year-old is in his prime, and currently pulls the strings for Inter Milan. The Italian side have played second fiddle to the likes of Juventus and AC Milan in recent seasons and after spells in La Liga and Serie A, the Dutchman could be interested in a move to the Premier League.

Ferguson was heavily linked with a move for Sneijder last year, but a reported £40m price tag and £250,000 a week wage demands put him off. A Dutch international since the age of 18, Sneijder has the pedigree and the reputation to step into the United midfield and make an immediate contribution. Granted, a move for the former-Real Madrid star wouldn't fit into Ferguson's philosophy of buying up-and-coming youngsters, but City's title win may force his hand.

Signing Sneijder would certainly send a statement of intent to their 'noisy neighbours'.

Luka Modric (Tottenham Hotspur) - Value = £35m-£50m
If Sneijder is the ultimate signing, Modric is a close second, and perhaps a more realistic target. The Spurs midfielder was close to leaving White Hart Lane last summer, with Chelsea the main suitors, but United could swoop this off-season.

Tottenham's unfortunate drop into the Europa League could prove costly not just in terms of TV money. Their top assets - notably Modric and Gareth Bale - may now grow restless in the absence of Champions League football and look for a move elsewhere.

A ready-made replacement for Scholes, Modric would be given the opportunity to initially form a formidable partnership with the United man. Experience of Premier League football and genuine world-class quality makes it a fairly risk-free signing, although once again the price tag could be an issue.

Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy would most likely demand at least £35m for the Croatian, which puts him more within reach of Chelsea or City. However, if Ferguson did decide to bite the bullet and pay the fee, he's unlikely to be regretting it a few years down the line.

Kwadwo Asamoah (Udinese) - Value = £10m

Asamoah has been linked with United for much of the season, but Ferguson faces stiff competition for his signature from Juventus. The highly-rated Ghanian international was brilliant for Udinese this season and the Serie A champions are reportedly keen to keep the 23-year-old in Italy.

A bid of around £10m would test Udinese's resolve and Asamoah would be one of Ferguson's cheaper targets this summer. But cheapness shouldn't be confused with a lack of quality, as Asamoah possesses the dynamism and drive to be a success in the Premier League.

Asamoah, who has 39 caps for his country, moved to Udinese for £800,000 in 2009, and has flourished in their central midfield. But several clubs are circling, and Ferguson may look to bring the Ghanian to England before others steal in.

Shinji Kagawa (Borussia Dortmund) - Value = £7m
The most likely signing and possibly also the best value. Kagawa's contract runs out at the end of next season, and a £7m deal has been rumoured. The Japanese midfielder would immediately bring much-needed creativity to a United midfield that looked tired on occasion last year, but at 23 years old, he may need time to settle.

The Borussia Dortmund star only has 49 Bundesliga appearances to his name, but already has two league titles in his only season in Germany. Signed from the Japanese second division side Cerezo Osaka for only £280,000, Kagawa has earned a reputation as one of Europe's most exciting young talents.

The Japan international met with Ferguson following Dortmund's 5-2 German Cup demolition of Bayern Munich, and did say he's keen on a move to the Premier League. With Manchester United the only team strongly linked with the star, it looks as though Kagawa is the best bet to be Ferguson's first summer signing.

Kevin Strootman (PSV Eindhoven) - Value = £15m-£20m
Strootman's rise has been rapid. The 22-year-old was a highly rated teenager with previous club Sparta Rotterdam but since moving to Dutch giants PSV Eindhoven in 2011, his career has taken off.

A box-to-box midfielder with an eye for a pass, Strootman quickly earned international recognition and already has 10 caps for Holland, alerting Europe's top clubs to his talents. Holland boss Bert van Marwijk rates the PSV player's vision and creative ability highly, and Strootman was called up to van Marwijk's Euro 2012 preliminary squad.

AC Milan are thought to be interested so Ferguson may face a battle if he wants to land the playmaker, and he wouldn't come cheap - a fee of around £15m-£20m would be required for PSV to even consider letting him go. But Strootman has the profile of a Manchester United player. He has the ability, the age and the price tag to make him an ideal Ferguson signing and he could be on his way to Old Trafford this transfer window.

Should he do so, the Dutchman can be relied upon to instantly improve the United midfield.

Who would you like to see United sign this summer? Join the debate by posting your ideal United centre midfield transfer target in the comments box below…

By Give Me Football

Ronaldo bemused by Ferdinand omission

2012-05-23T05:35:00.001-07:00

Ronaldo and Ferdinand

Cristiano Ronaldo believes England coach Roy Hodgson has made a fundamental error by not including Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand in his squad for Euro 2012.

Ferdinand was the headline omission when Hodgson announced his 23 players last week, with the former West Brom manager instead favouring John Terry amid suggestions of a strained relationship between the pair.

Terry will make a court appearance shortly after the European Championships accused of racially abusing Ferdinand's brother and Queens Park Rangers defender Anton - an allegation the Chelsea captain denies.

Hodgson has dismissed claims that this had any influence over his though process when selecting his squad, and attributed his decision to omit Ferdinand to purely footballing reasons.
Ronaldo, meanwhile, can't quite comprehend that his former Old Trafford teammate will not join the rest of the England team en route to Poland and Ukraine next month, and feels the Three Lions' chances of success will be damaged as a result.

“Maybe the coach has justifications and we have to respect those," the Real Madrid star told The Sun.

“But I have to be honest, I love Rio.

“He’s a great player, great man and he should be in the national team because he would help England do well... maybe to win the tournament.”

By Give Me Football