Author: Stretford_End
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Robin Van Persie and Luka Modric have both been linked with moves to Manchester United in the press today, with many reds shocked at the notion of the Arsenal captain moving to Old Trafford. It appears that Van Persie will leave Arsenal this summer, after failing to agree a new contract with the North London club. He also released a statement informing the Arsenal fans as to the reasons why he would not be renewing his contract. Luka Modric has been unsettled for some time and was subject of a £40million move to Chelsea last summer. Now that Tottenham, unluckily, are not in the draw for 2012/13 Champions League, it seems that Modric will be on his way out of the club – providing his valuation is met.
Mirror links Van Persie to United
Despite much excitement amongst the forums this morning, I have to say that I can’t see either player moving to Old Trafford. Having said that, Robin Van Persie is quite possibly the best striker (excluding Messi and Ronaldo) in Europe at present and has had a glorious season. Many will no doubt point to his injury record as a doubt and of course, it plays a massive part towards a potential purchase. Ruud van Nistelrooy’s move to United had to be delayed by a season when he failed a medical, before breaking down in a PSV training session.
But United, if the story were indeed true, would be up against rivals Manchester City, Juventus and big spenders PSG, who already have added Zlatan Ibrahimovic to their squad for next season. Manchester United simply can’t compete with the riches of Manchester City, Chelsea or the Paris club – which is an enormous factor. The purchase of the Dutchman would also go against United’s recent transfer policy of signing players under the age of 27.
Michael Owen was the last player, in 2009, to move to Manchester United over the age of 27 and that was on a free transfer. The Mirror stated that Sir Alex Ferguson informed “footballing friends” that he believes Manchester United have won the race to sign the player. For me, it is a complete non-starter, a bit like the Theirry Henry to Manchester United rumour in 2008.
Luka Modric available….for £35Million
I’ve always been a massive fan of the Croatian playmaker, despite many reds I’ve spoken to having doubts about the amount of goals he gets. I thought he was exceptional in the 0-0 draw back in 2010/11 and I blogged back in 2010 (when there was again press speculation linking him with a move to Old Trafford) about how he could have a big impact at United. Again, I the £35Million fee is a massive issue, with little ‘sell on’ value (as quote by Fergie on other transfer speculations) for a player who is approaching 27.
The BBC stated that there has been ‘continuous interest’ from three different clubs – with Real Madrid, PSG and Manchester United the clubs in question. Yesterday, the Tottenham manager, Andre Villas-Boas, was quoted as saying:
“There has been continuous interest from three different clubs. But it is important for Tottenham to hold onto their rights. His situation will continue as it is until the price is right. It’s important to understand his feelings. We have been speaking and I understand his point and he understands the club’s point.
Earlier in the summer he also spoke about the fact that he believes Modric, who signed for the cub in 2008, would be on his way:
“It’s fair to say that the club respects Luka’s ambitions and his willingness to move on and he respects the fact that he’s an important player for the club and can help us move forward. Ongoing discussions will continue with these clubs until we reach an agreement which is acceptable for each party.”
Luka Modric is under contract until 2016, so Tottenham Hotspur can demand any price they like for their player. United fans know all about an unhappy player, in Ronaldo, being unsettled by Real Madrid and Ramon Calderon’s pursuit in 2008. As Ronaldo was under contract, United could demand the £80million fee that Real Madrid paid for him. Having said that, when a player (as Ronaldo was and it appears Van Persie & Modric are) is unsettled – it is difficult to hold on to them longer than one season.
So, to conclude, I can’t see either of these players heading to Old Trafford, due to the riches that other clubs can offer both the players and the clubs. United have also been linked with a big money move for Brazilian youngster Lucas Moura, although the £30million branded around is quite ridiculous.
Can you see either Van Persie or Modric moving to Old Trafford? If so, what type of fee would they command? Arsenal fans – do you think Van Persie will remain at your club, or do you think he is Manchester City bound (the obvious favourites)? Lastly, Tottenham fans, will Luka Modric leave White Hart Lane this summer – if so, where do you think he’ll end up? Comments are open.