Another day, another nine million Old Trafford links.
It seems Louis van Gaal is finally getting going in the transfer market (because everyone has chosen to forget that they’ve already signed Memphis Depay). Manchester United are closing in on Thomas Muller. The pursuit of the 25-year-old is believed to have been stepped up with news that Robin van Persie is off to pastures new in Turkey and talk that the German World Cup winner could be on his way will excite the masses in Manchester who’ll be the latest beneficiaries of the superstar’s undoubted impact – with no-one knowing exacly what it is he’s good at. (Daily Star)
The biggest news – or rumour – is that United, Liverpool, and Arsenal are all in a war to capture Real Madrid front man, Karim Benzema. United are losing van Persie and Chicharito so they’ll be linked with 19 new players by default but Brendan Rodgers is believed to be keeping an eye on the situation whilst Arsene Wenger is said to have phoned up his compatriot in a schmoozing bid. Rafa Benitez is at the helm at the Bernabeu now and rarely opts for a front three the way Madrid have accommodated Benzema, Ronaldo, and Bale in recent times. (The Express)
28-year-old Asmir Begovic is hitting his prime, he’s producing some of the best performances in world football and most clubs would welcome him with open arms to man their posts. So he’s doing the logical thing and settling for a life on the Chelsea bench with an £8m move set to be complete. (The Telegraph)
West Ham United have joined the race to pinch Javier Hernandez off of Man United (Daily Mail). Well, we say pinch, we mean catch, as Louis van Gaal throws the striker as far away from himself as possible. Sevilla were installed as favourites last night to land the Mexican but the Spaniards and the Hammers could have their work cut out for them as Liverpool have bumped themselves to the front of the queue. Brendan Rodgers is supposed to be keen at nabbing the United goalscoring whose energy and movement would definitely suit his pressing obsession. (Forza Italian Football)
Newcastle United have been told that Charlie Austin will cost them £15m. So Crystal Palace are offering £6m for him. Really. (The Guardian).
Tim Sherwood looks set to blow half of the Christian Benteke money on bringing Andros Townsend to Aston Villa. Presumably it’s the Benteke money anyway, we’re not expecting Randy Lerner to hand him over £15m for the craic. (Daily Mail)
Raheem Sterling’s future at Liverpool looks to be all but non-existent after both Daniel Sturridge and former club captain and legend, Steven Gerrard, stuck the boot into him.
