Matthew Carolan takes a look at some of the potential big movers this summer across Europe and how the big clubs from the Premier League will fare...
Cesc Fábregas to Manchester United
This is the story that has dominated the papers for the last few weeks, after Thiago decided to join up with Guardiola at Bayern Munich, instead of moving to Old Trafford.
Fábregas has been at Barca, his childhood team, for two seasons now and despite what the statistics say (48 games last season and 14 goals), it’s apparent that the former Arsenal skipper is a second choice player at the Spanish champions. United have had two bids (£26 and £30 million, respectively) rejected so far, with a £35 million bid expected to be lodged, if it hasn't already, this week.
Why he should move...
Advertisement
A move to United wouldn’t just solve the increasing midfield problem for David Moyes, it would also enhance Cesc’s chances of starting for Spain in the World Cup next year. Some regular first team football as a star man in the Premier League may well breathe confidence through the Catalan magician. Not only that, but United are rumoured to have offered him a significant bump in his wage package (around double his current salary).
Why he should stay...
After years of speculation surrounding his future at Arsenal, Fábregas finally packed his bags and returned home two years ago. Piqué and many other sources close to him seem confident that Cesc is very happy in his hometown and that United are “wasting their time” pursuing him. A new manager could mean a new chance for Cesc, maybe even a new formation to accommodate him, too.
Verdict:
Even though United have offered enough to tempt Barca, I think it will take a bit more before they are swayed to let a man they tried so hard to sign go again. I expect United to make one more take it or leave it offer, with Barca leaving it.
Advertisement
Luis Suárez to Arsenal
The plucky, and at times racist Liverpool forward hasn’t been subtle about his desire to leave Merseyside. Continuous seasons of disappointment and Champions League deprivation has the Uruguayan wanting away. Arsenal have tabled a £40M (+ and added one pound to activate a contract clause) offer, which was rejected this morning...
Why he should move...
If it’s Champions League football Suarez wants, then a seemingly plush Arsenal might be a step forward. The reality is that Arsenal haven’t been a beacon of success recently either, but perhaps a billboard signing such as this will restore them to greatness.
Why he should stay...
Advertisement
He shouldn’t really. His car might get keyed if he leaves but apart from that, Liverpool haven’t shown enough encouragement financially or on the pitch to suggest Champions League football in the next couple of seasons.
Verdict:
Despite the offer from Arsenal, Liverpool seem adamant to want a bit more for their star man. Torres earned the 'pool £50 million when he moved to Chelsea and many fans will feel that is a price tag Suarez is worthy of, too.
Gareth Bale to Real Madrid
Advertisement
Gareth Bale has developed into one of the best wingers in the world at Spurs. Between AVB and Redknapp, he really has evolved as a specimen and it’s no shock that the best clubs in the world want him. Both Man Utd and Real Madrid are said to be keen, but with United fixated on Fábregas, it’s Madrid who are in the driving seat...
Why he should move...
Spurs narrowly missed out on Champions League football last season. With the return of the ''Special One' and Arsenal’s new found funds, it’s going to be another season on the fringes for Spurs, in my opinion. That’s not to say they’re a club who aren’t going places. They played some of the best football last season and are developing a young squad of quality talent.
Why he should stay...
AVB and Spurs have shown a lot of love towards Bale and to the naked eye, Bale appreciates that adoration. He speaks volumes of the club and his coaching staff, as well as his team mates. They say there is no loyalty left in football but I think both Spurs and AVB would be happy to get one more season out of Bale to try and reach fourth place before letting him move on and spread his wings.
Verdict:
Advertisement
I think Bale will stay for one more season, much like Modric, before moving on to the Spanish capital for big money.
Wayne Rooney to Chelsea
A man who not long ago said he was leaving because there wasn’t enough competition for places once again endeavours to flee because he’s lost his spot to RVP. Wayne Rooney is "angry and confused" at Man Utd. His previous history with new manager David Moyes has him unsettled and he feels like he needs a new challenge. Chelsea have made an offer, which was turned down by United...
Why he should leave...
Advertisement
The United faithful are growing more and more frustrated with this situation. His talent isn’t doubted, but his physique and commitment is. At 27, Rooney is approaching the peak of his career and if United were to sell, now is the last season where they might acquire big money for the scouser. Rooney's people have made it clear he wants out and Mourinho has made it clear he wants him. Perhaps it would be best for all parties if United received a nice £30 million to let him go.
Why he should stay...
The grass isn’t always greener on the other side. Rooney became the player he is today at United and it would be wise not to forget that. Perhaps he might win a similar amount of silverware at Chelsea, but anywhere Rooney goes will be a step sideward’s and not forwards.
Verdict:
Unless United have a top replacement waiting, Moyes won’t let their number 10 go for anything less than £30 million.
And the rest!
- It looks like Higuain is set to sign for Napoli, as he underwent a medical this morning. A blow for Arsenal fans and a bigger motivation to sign Suárez
- Soldado could be on his way to Spurs, as Valencia look set to cave for a handsome sum.
- Man City look finished now, after signing Jovetic and Negredo last week.
