Manchester United transfer news: 'Pedro will be United player, maybe Pepe too'
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ByEurosport
Updated 04/08/2015 at 15:50 GMT
Manchester United will finalise their £20m deal for Pedro in the next 48 hours and then could sign Pepe, according to a report.
Barcelona's Pedro Rodriguez celebrates after he scored a goal against Elche during their Spanish first division soccer match at Martinez Valero stadium in Elche January 24, 2015. REUTERS/Heino Kalis
Image credit: Reuters
Barcelona are hoping to recoup £24m for Pedro, but United believe £20m is enough to get the deal wrapped up.
Then, Louis van Gaal may have a pop at signing Pepe, who is apparently available falling behind Sergio Ramos and Raphael Varane in Rafael Benitez's depth chart.
OUR VIEW
Pedro has long looked bound for United so them verging on finalising the transfer isn't a surprise. Pepe going to Old Trafford certainly would be. Even if Ramos and Varane are first choice, Real Madrid would certainly need more than two centre backs this season. Plus, if they were going to offload him, several clubs would be interested and Real would undoubtedly prefer he go somewhere other than United.
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'United made two £100m bids for Bale'
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Gareth Bale has been linked with a move to Manchester United
Image credit: PA Sport
How badly did Manchester United want Gareth Bale? The Sun claim that the Red Devils twice bid £100 million for the Welshman this summer, and Real Madrid turned them down both times.
Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has refused to do business with United, which is why he refused to consider the bids for Bale, as well as offers for Karim Benzema and Raphael Varane.
OUR VIEW
The idea that Real Madrid would say no to £100m for Bale is crazy. Then again, so is bidding £100m for Bale. Normally, that would be enough to dismiss this as a silly rumour, but Perez is seemingly capable of holding spectacular grudges, while United have way too much money. So if any two clubs were going to make this kind of rumour come true, it'd be these two.
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AUGUST 3
Benfica are trying to keep Nicolos Gaitan in Portugal amid claims Manchester United are keen on the attacking midfielder.
Forward Jonas is desperate for Galtan to remain at the club. United are apparently studying a potential move for Gaitan - who is valued at around £22m to replace Angel Di Maria - who is set to quit the club in a £44 million move to Paris Saint-Germain.
"He is a very great player and everyone knows the quality that Nico has," said Jonas in the Portuguese newspaper Record.
"He has been at Benfica for many years, knows every corner of the club and is happy.
"We know there are clubs that are interested in signing him but, for me in particular, I would love it if he stays because he provides a lot of assists.
"Not just for me, but also for Lima He is a player who gives a lot to the team with his determination and quality."
OUR VIEW
Gaitan would certainly bring a lot to the United side if they are serious about landing the Benfica playmaker. In a 3-5-2 formation, Gaitan would be operate as a natural wing-back. He has pace, skill and awareness. Would United find a role for him in the middle of the park behind Rooney? It could all depend on whether or not the apparent push to land Pedro from Barcelona comes off. Gaitan may well be the fallback plan if the Pedro pursuit collapses.
AUGUST 2
Manchester United are happy to allow Brazil international Rafael leave Old Trafford, with Lyon emerging as favourites for his signature.
Galatasaray, Roma and Benfica have all been linked with the right-back this summer, but French newspaper Le Parisien has revealed that Lyon are close to sealing a transfer for the 25 year-old.
The full-back has fallen down the pecking order under Louis Van Gaal after being an ever-present under Sir Alex Ferguson and David Moyes. With Lyon appearing in this season's Champions League it represents an attractive offer for Rafael, who finds himself behind new signing Matteo Darmian.
OUR VIEW
It's pretty clear that Rafael is not hugely rated by Van Gaal, and a cut price move to Lyon looks the best option for all parties. The Brazilian remains a talented if frustrating player and may find his ability more suited to Ligue 1.
AUGUST 1
Manchester United are readying themselves for the departure of David de Gea to Real Madrid as Louis van Gaal loses patience with the Spaniard.
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Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea on the club's pre-season tour
Image credit: AFP
Spanish publication AS are reporting that the goalkeeper looked shaky and disinterested during United's 2-0 preseason defeat to PSG, prompting van Gaal to make up his mind that the former Atletico Madrid player needs to be sold.
Real have tracked De Gea all summer long and this apparent change in stance from van Gaal should prompt them to renew their attempts to bring him to La Liga.
OUR VIEW
This saga has been running all summer and still it refuses to go away. Whether Van Gaal's mind has been made up by one pre-season showing isn't clear, but if De Gea's head has been turned by Real Madrid's interest then it would make sense for the club cash in.
JULY 31
Manchester United are unlikely to sign Pedro this summer, according to Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu.
The 27-year-old forward has fallen down the pecking order at the Spanish club and has been linked with a move to Old Trafford.
United have not made a formal bid but it seems that may not now be necessary.
"The team is what it is," Bartomeu told ESPN Deportes. "It has been put together. We have the team that our coach wanted -- it's done and completed.
"We don't foresee any departures from the team. I've read many things about a Pedro departure, but no one has officially addressed our club. Our squad is complete."
JULY 30
Manchester United have made their interest in Everton defender John Stones known, according to The Guardian.
With Chelsea having a second offer of £26 million turned down, United contacted intermediaries working on the defender’s behalf to make him aware that they would welcome him at Old Trafford.
However, they have reportedly not made a formal approach.
OUR VIEW
This would be a good signing for United. As Paul Parker mentioned recently, the club could do with bringing in a centre-back. However, it seems as though Everton are extremely reluctant to sell so it will take a ridiculous figure to prise such a promising youngster away.
JULY 29
Jasper Cillessen has reportedly told his Ajax teammates that he'll be moving to Manchester United imminently.
Cillessen has long been Louis van Gaal's first choice replacement for David De Gea, whose move to Real Madrid should finally go through.
Cillessen has travelled with Ajax to Austria as they prepare to play Rapid Vienna in a Champions League qualifier, but could link up with United early next week.
OUR VIEW
Sergio Romero, as competent as he is, was never earmarked as the man to replace De Gea and Cillessen is a player that Van Gaal knows and trusts.
While it's near impossible to replace a keeper of De Gea's class, Cillessen is as close as United can realistically expect.
JULY 28
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Angel di Maria
Image credit: Imago
The French club have bid £28.5 million for the 27-year-old and United manager Louis van Gaal is reportedly resigned to losing the winger.
The Argentina star failed to show up to the pre-season tour of the US – he was meant to arrive on Saturday after the 3-1 win over Barcelona - and struggled to get into the first team last campaign.
PSG manager Laurent Blanc also seems fairly sure the transfer will happen, insisting it is “close”.
OUR VIEW
That’s nearly half the amount United paid Real Madrid for the Argentine last summer. Surely, if any deal is to happen, they will have to hold out for more. But it does look as though the switch is now nailed on if the right price can be sorted.
JULY 27
Manchester United prepare £95million bid for Gareth Bale as Wales boss Chris Coleman admits his future is in his own hands.
The Welsh international came under intense scrutiny from the Spanish press and Real fans last season after struggling in front of goal, and the Express are reporting that Man United are offering him an escape route back to the Premier League.
Chris Coleman, Bale's international manager, has added to the speculation by saying "Gareth will do what he wants to do."
However the Wales boss believes that Bale may be best served staying put, adding: "He's good enough to play for any team on the planet but I think he will probably end up staying at Madrid and who would blame him for that?"
OUR VIEW
It seems improbably and unlikely that Rafa Benitez would countenance the sale of Gareth Bale this summer. The Welshman may have struggled at times last season but he wouldn't be doing his talent justice to return to the Premier League with his tail between his legs so soon after departing.
Louis Van Gaal has shown he's not afraid to splash out in the transfer market, but the pursuit of Bale may be a stretch too far.
JULY 25
Edinson Cavani is desperate to leave PSG for Manchester United as Louis Van Gaal looks to bolster strike force.
The Uruguayan wants to solve United's striking crisis, which has left them with just one senior centre forward in Wayne Rooney a fortnight before the start of the new season.
Cavani is believed to be desperate to play in the Premier League, and The Sun are reporting that Louis Van Gaal is interested in the former Napoli striker, though PSG want him to link up with their intended new signing Angel Di Maria.
OUR VIEW
Cavani is regarded as one of the best strikers in world football, though his time at PSG has been less prolific than his superb spell with Napoli. Van Gaal is clearly in the market for a striker, and with plenty of money to splash out, he will believe that a deal for Cavani can be done.
PSG are reluctant to let him go, and unless he digs his heels in, the striker will be teaming up with Angel Di Maria in the coming weeks.
JULY 24
Manchester United have tabled a bid for the £21 million-rated Lazio midfielder Lucas Biglia.
Not content with the purchases of Morgan Schneiderlin and Bastian Schweinsteiger, Louis van Gaal is eager to add Argentina international Biglia to his squad.
Corriere dello Sport are reporting that the Old Trafford club have tabled a £17.7million for the defensive midfielder, which they are confident will be enough to land the Lazio player.
His agent, Enzo Montepaone, told lalaziosiamonoi.it earlier this month: "I will soon be in Italy for talks [regarding his future] with [Lazio] president Claudio Lotito."
OUR VIEW
You'd be forgiven for thinking that Louis van Gaal would be content with his midfield line up ahead of the new season, but his interest in Argentine international Biglia appears genuine.
United may still be in need of striking reinforcements, but money doesn't seem to be an problem for the Old Trafford club this summer.
JULY 23
Benfica winger Nicolas Gaitan has been heavily linked with Manchester United, and has dropped a hint about his future.
The Argentine international has been tracked by United all summer and when asked whether he would be leaving Portugal this summer by SAPO Desporto replied: "Where would I go?"
Chelsea, Atletico Madrid and Valencia all retain an interest in the 27 year-old.
However, Louis van Gaal sees him as the ideal replacement for Angel Di Maria, who is set for a move to Paris Saint Germain.
OUR VIEW
Van Gaal can't afford to lose a player of Di Maria's quality and not seek to replace him, no matter his shaky debut season in England.
At 27 Gaitan is a good age to be making the transition to the Premier League, but like his countryman he offers no guarantee of adapting quickly to the demands of English football.
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Adnan Januzaj
Image credit: Eurosport
JULY 22
Manchester United midfielder Adnan Januzaj is the subject of interest from Turkish club Fenerbahce, after a difficult first year under Louis van Gaal.
Turkish newspaper Fanatik is reporting that Fenerbahce have made an official enquiry for the young winger who has fallen down the pecking order after a promising start to first-team life under David Moyes in the 2013-14 season.
The Belgian wing-wizard is the subject of a £5.6million offer and could be the third United player to swap Manchester for Istanbul this summer, after Robin van Persie and Nani.
Everton are also thought to be keeping an eye on Januzaj's uncertain future.
OUR VIEW
It would certainly be a surprise if Adnan Januzaj were to be so cheaply and easily discarded by Louis van Gaal. Just last summer he was the big hope for the future of Manchester United, but he has found opportunities less forthcoming under the Dutchman than he did David Moyes.
You can not fault Fenerbahce's ambition this summer, and to acquire a talent like Januzaj at a snip at £5.6m would represent a significant coup.
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JULY 21
Nicolas Otamendi has no intention of returning to Valencia after his holiday, as Man United step up their pursuit of the Argentine.
Reports in the Spanish press suggest that the 27 year-old is hoping a solution can be found over the coming days. His agent is attempting to speed up the process so that Otamendi can avoid returning to Valencia.
The La Liga side are allegedly willing to let him move to England, however a fee has yet to be agreed.
The Argentina centre-back has been on holiday after his exploits in the Copa America.
OUR VIEW
It's clear that a stalemate has been reached in Louis van Gaal's pursuit of Sergio Ramos, so the persistent links to a central defender of Otamendi's quality is no surprise.
If the Spanish press is to be believed then the transfer is a question of when not if, with Otamendi seemingly determined to leave Spain. The Argentine would represent an upgrade on Phil Jones and Chris Smalling, and would link up well with fellow countryman Marcos Rojo.
JULY 20
The 28 year-old goalkeeper spent last season on loan at Monaco from Sampdoria and impressed as the Argentina No. 1 at last summer's World Cup in Brazil.
Serie A outfit Roma are also targeting Romero, who is a free agent after leaving Sampdoria, but Van Gaal is hopeful a deal can be struck.
Although de Gea could still leave for Real Madrid, Romero would expect to be the No. 2 goalkeeper to whoever replaces him.
OUR VIEW
Van Gaal showed last season that he values an experienced goalkeeping deputy, ready to come in and perform in the first-team at a moment's notice, and Romero fits the bill like Valdes did last season.
As a free signing there would be little risk, and should the de Gea transfer saga leave United short in goal, they will have a World Cup runner-up in their midst to rely on.
JULY 18
It is looking increasingly likely that Di Maria will leave Old Trafford this summer and ABC report that Di Maria hugely regrets his decision to leave the Bernabeu and is hankering for a move back to Madrid.
Di Maria, the papers adds, does not feel valued by Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal and has struggled to settle in Manchester.
The report suggests that his decision to leave, which it claims was motivated by money, has turned sour but that Madrid are unwilling to take him back.
OUR VIEW
Yes, it is looking increasingly likely that Di Maria will leave United this summer. However, his move from Madrid to Old Trafford descended into financially-related acrimony, so the chances of a return to Madrid look highly, highly unlikely.
Di Maria was said to have favoured a move to PSG last summer but FFP restrictions meant that the French champions were unable to complete the deal. However, PSG retain an interest and, with FFP rules having been relaxed, are thought to be back in for the Argentine. However, United are very unlikely to recoup the full £59.7 million that they paid for him.
JULY 17
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Manchester United's David de Gea celebrates
Image credit: Reuters
It is looking increasingly likely that Real Madrid will delay a move for Manchester United’s David de Gea until next season, according to the Times.
De Gea had widely been expected to make the switch to Madrid this summer but, despite the fact that the Spanish keeper only has one year left on his contract, United are thought to be asking for a fee in excess of the world record £32.6m Juventus paid for Gianluigi Buffon in 2001, adds the report (£).
Furthermore, the falling out between Louis van Gaal and Victor Valdes has only served to increase United’s dependence on De Gea, which has left them open to the prospect of losing the Spanish international on a free next summer.
For their part, Madrid appear to be closing in on former youth team player Kiko Casilla, who was capped by Spain in November after a string of impressive performances for Espanyol.
OUR VIEW
This does seem relatively plausible. United are one of the very few clubs in the world that can financially afford to let a player of De Gea’s calibre run his contract down. Obviously, they would prefer not to let him leave on a free but the Valdes situation may have forced their hand. Van Gaal is adamant that he wants shot of the former Barcelona keeper, and the Dutchman would be loath to lose both his senior goalkeepers in one summer.
Furthermore, having lost both keepers, United would have to pay over the odds for any replacement as other clubs would be aware of the situation and could hold them to ransom.
JULY 17
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Angel Di Maria celebrates scoring - a rare sight indeed during the 2014-15 season
Image credit: Reuters
Louis van Gaal does not know if Angel Di Maria will be at Manchester United this season with PSG apparently trying to complete a £43 million deal over the weekend.
A report in L'Equipe claims a deal is on the verge of being completed that will see Di Maria sold on just a season after arriving at Old Trafford.
Di Maria joined United in a £60 million British transfer record from Real Madrid a year ago. He has another four years to run on his current contract at Old Trafford.
He made a bright start to life in England, but faded badly and did not make a start in the final three months of last season.
"We shall see," said Louis van Gaal when asked about Di Maria's future during the club's pre-season tour of the USA.
"In football, it is a process. It's a process for Di Maria and Man Utd. We shall see.
"But he is still a member of United and he said he will come out on July 25."
Interestingly enough, United face PSG in a friendly match in Chicago on July 30. Who will Di Maria be cheering on?
OUR VIEW
Looks and sounds like the end of the road for Di Maria at United. It is clear the move to Manchester hasn't really worked out. If Van Gaal wanted Di Maria to stay, he would not be making such indifferent noises regarding the Argentina player. Put simply, Van Gaal can't afford to have another season of under performance from men like Di Maria otherwise he will be out of a job. The best way out for all parties seems to be a fresh challenge as United try to recoup some of the fee they handed over for the player a year ago.
July 15
Nicolas Otamendi could go AWOL in an attempt to force through a move to Manchester United, according to a report.
Otamendi - who is also said to interest Real Madrid - is on extended leave after his Copa America excursions with Argentina, but is due back in training on July 27.
The Argentine wants to have secured his move to the Old Trafford club by that time and could withdraw his labour according to the Daily Mail.
Otamendi has a buyout clause set at £33.65m.
OUR VIEW
This could get messy. United have apparently earmarked Sergio Ramos as their number one target, but that deal could go all the way to the wire as Real Madrid are adamant that they do not want to sell. Otamendi wants his future sorted out before July 27 and, according to the Mail, is threatening not to return to the club. However, if United do not come in for him as they are holding out for Ramos, Otamendi could find himself in the ridiculous situation where he goes on strike trying to force through a move that is not on offer.
However, a word of caution on the story as a whole - it contains no quotes just a suggestion that he could go on strike.
JULY 14
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Angel Di Maria
Image credit: Imago
Manchester United winger Angel Di Maria will quit Old Trafford and sign a five-year deal with French champions PSG, according to reports.
The Ligue 1 giants have been continuously linked with the Argentina star in recent months, with reports claiming that his end-of-season slump at United would be the catalyst for a move to the French capital.
And now French daily La Parisien claim that the 27-year-old has verbally agreed to join Laurent Blanc’s side in a whopping five-year deal. The only thing left to be agreed is a fee between the two clubs – something which the newspaper believes will be in the region of €60 million (£43.2m).
OUR VIEW
Manchester United may be making waves in the transfer window already this summer, having captured Memphis Depay, Matteo Darmian, Bastian Schweinsteiger and Morgan Schneiderlin, but it is unlikely that the Old Trafford club will allow Di Maria to leave. The Argentine started well but finished the Premier League season in a disappointing manner, and he has claimed that he is determined to put that right. It is also highly unlikely that Van Gaal will allow Di Maria to leave for £43.2m having signed him for £59.7m last summer.
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July 13
The offer could be in the region of £47 million for a player who has struggled to establish himself at Manchester United since a move to Old Trafford from Real Madrid last summer.
It is also being claimed that Di Maria will seek wages of £185,000-a-week to contemplate a move to the French capital after PSG were deterred last summer due to financial fair play rules.
Di Maria was a £59.7m British transfer record signing from Madrid, but the relaxation of FFP rules allows them to dust down their cheque book.
United may well have to take a hit on the money they paid for Di Maria if they want to get the Argentina winger off their books with Memphis Depay and Bastian Schweinsteiger arriving at the club. And Morgan Schneiderlin set for a medical.
“Yes, I like him (Di María) very much,” PSG manager Laurant Blanc has said. “But at our level, trying to improve your team, you are competing for players who belong to big clubs. And, even if one club has more money, you are not competing alone in the market.
“We have more freedom (in the market) but it remains a difficult one for us to do because we’re not alone in wanting him. The competition is very, very tough. Don’t forget Manchester United paid a fortune to sign him."
OUR VIEW
It is interesting enough to note that Di Maria has made around 150 starts for Madrid and Manchester United in the past five years. Despite being an outstanding talent, he appears to be viewed as a luxury item. Nothing much appears to have changed at United under Louis van Gaal, who has been publicly critical of the winger's contribution to the team and his work ethic in defending. It does not seem ridiculous to imagine that Di Maria, injured during the recent Copa America final, could be following Robin van Persie out of the door if the price is right.
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Javier Hernandez
Image credit: AFP
July 12
Orlando City still hope to sign Manchester United’s Javier Hernandez and say talks are ongoing, according to reports.
The Old Trafford club’s asking price and the striker’s wage demands were reportedly the main stumbling blocks last week.
But Flavio Augusto da Silva, who owns the MLS club, said over the weekend, that a deal could still be done.
"Regarding Chicharito, of course he's a great player that every club in the world would love to have and we'd love the chance to have him," said Da Silva said in the Orlando Sentinel.
"Right now we don't have anything done, and you know during the process of negotiations - where many clubs have interest, including us, because why not - the less we talk about it the better. So we'll see if there is a possibility and then we'll move forward."
"We hope in one or two weeks to be ready to talk about Chicharito in a different way."
Hernandez spent last season on loan with Real Madrid, however he was not offered a long-term contract.
OUR VIEW
This seems unlikely. Having spent the last few seasons at two of the biggest clubs in Europe, it seems far-fetched that Hernandez would drop down a level by going to the MLS.
As we have seen with the likes of Steven Gerrard and Andrea Pirlo, that is the sort of move reserved for ageing stars of the European game. Chicharito is only 27 and so should still have his best years ahead.
It’s not as though United are flush with world-class strikers at the moment, with the imminent departure of Robin van Persie to Fenerbahce and Falcao’s move to Chelsea. Of course Hernandez wants game time, but he shouldn’t have to move to the US to get it. With United back in Europe, surely the lure of Champions League football will be too great.
July 9
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Valencia defender Nicolas Otamendi
Image credit: AFP
Real Madrid appear to have confirmed that Nicolas Otamendi is indeed joining Manchester United from Valencia.
Spanish publication AS report that Real coach Rafa Benitez will replace outgoing Sergio Ramos with Ezequiel Garay, with the 28-year-old only top of his shopping list because Los Blancos are convinced Otamendi has already made his mind up.
The claim, combined with prior reports that Ramos himself is United-bound, suggests Louis van Gaal could be close to securing a massive double swoop to fix his defensive line for the 2015/16 season.
OUR VIEW
If United can recruit both Otamendi and Ramos, with right-back Matteo Darmian also on his way, perhaps Louis van Gaal will be able to challenge for the title after all this season. They finished rather high up the table in 14/15 despite being beyond a joke at the back. Adding this sort of established steel to the side could be just what the Red Devils needed to mount their first serious crack since winning the league in 2013.
July 8
Confusion surrounds an extraordinary report from Spain today which suggests Manchester United are back in for Gareth Bale with a monster bid.
Bale has been linked with a return to England with the Red Devils all summer but in recent days that interest appeared to have cooled, with United focusing on other, more affordable targets.
The Welshman cost Real a world record fee of €100 million (£85.3m) in 2013 and the club would want to see all of that back, and then some, if they were to entertain the thought of letting him go after two seasons.
However a fresh report has emerged from respected Spanish outlet COPE which suggests United are serious this time about recruiting the winger and have tabled a massive £99.5m offer, which would eclipse the world record Bale already holds.
Bale has been subject to criticism and even abuse from Real Madrid fans over his performances since arriving at the Bernabeu, with many feeling the standout showings he does deliver aren't occurring on a consistent enough basis.
OUR VIEW
To be honest, only the fact that this report comes from COPE - who do have a decent track record - gives us any reason at all to take this even remotely seriously. The story appeared done to death and perhaps even to have come from thin air earlier this summer, and it's still very hard to see this happening.
Perhaps United really did make that offer. If so, it's likely Real Madrid told them where to go, and that's that.
We're sure United will deliver some groundbreaking transfer news in this window and spend some serious cash - but not here.
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Real-Star Gareth Bale
Image credit: Getty Images
July 7
Robin van Persie is on the verge of completing his move from Manchester United to Fenerbahce, according to media reports in Turkey.
Van Persie, 31, has apparently agreed personal terms and will sign a four-year contract with Fener once a transfer fee between the clubs is finalist.
Van Persie will join his fellow United team-mate Nani at the Istanbul club is a deal is completed.
“I know him well we are good friends so if the club signs him it will be a great choice," said Nani while he was being paraded by Fener.
OUR VIEW
Looks like Van Persie is heading for pastures new. It is a bit of a low-key departure for a figure who arrived at Old Trafford to much fanfare from Arsenal for around £23 million in 2012. United need goals, and it seems now is a sensible time to move on a figure who scored 10 goals in 29 matches last season after suffering an ankle injury with Louis van Gaal's side lacking the required consistency to challenge Chelsea for the title.
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Matteo Darmian
Image credit: Eurosport
July 6
Manchester United could let Brazilian right-back Rafael leave this week if they can agree a deal for Italian international Matteo Darmian.
Torino president Urbano Cairo says the club have received three offers for Italy international full-back Matteo Darmian and has now set the interested parties a deadline of Sunday to complete the deal.
"Everyone who comes to the pre-season training camp will remain with us for the rest of the season," Cairo told La Stampa.
"Sunday will be the deadline. Three offers have arrived for Darmian, but out of respect for the clubs who have made them, I won’t reveal who they are."
Manchester United are thought to be one of the teams in for the 25-year-old, who made his international debut against England in the 2-1 World Cup win.
Should a deal be agreed, current right-back Rafael could be allowed to go with Galatasaray very interested in doing a deal.
The 24-year-old, who turns 25 on Thursday, only managed 10 Premier League appearances last season and does not appear to have a long-term future at the club.
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Rafael celebrates his goal against QPR
Image credit: Eurosport
OUR VIEW
If United can replace Rafael with Darmian over the next week it would have to go down as impressive work by the club. Darmian is just six months older than the Brazilian but looks a more rounded defender who can also do a capable job on the left. Some fans will be sad to see Rafael go but it's clear that Louis van Gaal does not see him as a first-choice option and it's time for a parting of ways.
SUNDAY 5TH JULY
David De Gea has revealed that he will be at Manchester United pre-season training on Monday.
Real Madrid have been widely expected to complete a deal for the Spanish international goalkeeper for some time now, bringing his four-year spell in the Premier League to an end.
After an unconvincing start to life at Old Trafford, de Gea has progressed dramatically - winning the Manchester United player of the year award for two consecutive seasons and becoming one of best goalkeepers in the world.
However, when asked about his future by Spanish TV channel Cuatro, De Gea would only confirm that he would be attending pre-season training.
“Real Madrid? I have to return to Manchester for pre-season,” said De Gea when questioned by the TV station.
Asked of he would be at Carrington on Monday he replied: "Of course. That's where I train."
United begin their United States for their pre-season tour on July 18 and face Barcelona a week later.
Madrid and United are said to currently be haggling over a fee for a player who has one year left on his current deal at United.
The Old Trafford club are also reportedly interested in bringing Sergio Ramos as part of the deal that would see De Gea go in the opposite direction.
OUR VIEW
A very diplomatic response from the Spanish goalkeeper. However, it's hard to know what else he would say with a microphone thrust in his face. The fact is he remains a Manchester United player and his willingness to train is indicative of a player who has kept a dignified silence this summer. However, none of that affects the fact that he does want to move to the Bernabeu club - a move that will most likely go through when United and Madrid trash out a mutually beneficial deal. De Gea, of course, is in a position of significant bargaining power considering that he has only one year left on his contract. It seems almost a foregone conclusion that he will move to Madrid and it looks like a case of when: this summer or next.
JULY 4th
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Manchester United's Dutch striker Robin van Persie plays the ball during the English Premier League football match between Swansea and Manchester United at the Liberty Stadium in Swansea, south Wales on February 21, 2015
Image credit: AFP
Robin van Persie looks set to leave Manchester United after he agreed terms with Turkish side Fenerbahce, according to a report.
The Guardian claim that Van Persie’s agent, Kees Vos, has been in Istanbul for the last few days to trash out personal terms even though the two clubs are yet to agree a deal.
It had been previously reported that Van Persie had been touted around the Turkish Super Lig in January.
"United had sent people to test the water for a move," former Feyenoord star Pierre Van Hoojidonk told the Daily Mirror.
Van Persie’s wife was initially said to have reservations about the proposed switch, but, having spent some time in the Turkish capital, has warmed to the idea, adds the report.
OUR VIEW
What an inauspicious end to what had promised to be a storied United career. The arrival of Louis van Gaal at the time seen as a considerable fillip to Van Persie who had faded under David Moyes having made an explosive start to his United career.
However, that has not proved to be the case, and, if anything, Van Persie’s struggles have intensified under his Dutch counterpart. A move away from Old Trafford could provide the fresh start required.
Where does this leave United though? They have signed Memphis Depay who scored freely in Holland but would not be described as an out-and-out striker. United are left with Wayne Rooney and James Wilson so expect further movement in the transfer window.
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3RD JULY 2015
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Football - Everton v Tottenham Hotspur - Barclays Premier League - Seamus Coleman Goodison Park - 24/5/15
Image credit: Reuters
Manchester United are reportedly set to use Jonny Evans as a makeweight in an effort to sign Everton’s Seamus Coleman.
Manager Louis van Gaal wants the right-back after missing out on Dani Alves and Nathaniel Clyne.
Everton insist the 26-year-old is not for sale but, according to the Daily Star, United are said to be hopeful of snaring Coleman by setting up a cash offer plus Evans.
The Northern Ireland defender is entering the last year of his deal and has not been offered a new one.
He has seen young defensive rivals Phil Jones, Chris Smalling, Paddy McNair and Tyler Blackett all sign new contracts in recent months.
OUR VIEW
This move has been rumoured for a while. It does seem like a good fit as United hardly have strength in depth in the right-back position – Antonio Valencia’s defensive frailties were shown up there last season – but it seems unlikely that this move would be sealed now. Coleman seems happy at Everton and has been in exceptional form under Roberto Martinez. A transfer would be a risk, even if it is to United.
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JULY 2nd 2015
United and Arsenal have appeared to be in a two-club battle to sign the 25-year-old Frenchman, but Ferdinand clearly thinks his former club are poised to come out on top.
Southampton boss Ronald Koeman has claimed that the club have yet to receive a “serious offer” for the midfielder, but that he is likely to be allowed to leave for the right price.
Ferdinand believes that a move is imminent and said on his Youtube channel: “£20-something million, it looks like it’s going to be done.
“He’s a player who could add something to United, a bit of steel, can pass the ball and play it through the lines from back to front.
“I think he’s a good player, a good addition to the squad, especially if someone like [Michael] Carrick, who is so influential for United, gets injured.
“I think this guy can step in and help buffer that. I think he’s a very good, talented player.”
OUR VIEW
It's a crowd-pleasing line from Ferdinand regarding his former club, but he could easily know something from his links at Old Trafford so it is not something to be dismissed entirely. It appears certain that Schneiderlin will depart Southampton this summer and United seem to have forced their way ahead of Arsenal in the race to sign the Frenchman. We expect this deal to be concluded within the next week with United coming out on top.
JULY 1st 2015
Manchester United striker Robin van Persie is a transfer target for Besiktas, a board member of the Turkish club has confirmed.
Van Persie is believed to want to stay at Old Trafford and his large wages could prove a stumbling block in this potential move
But Yalcin Kaya Yilmaz told HaberTürk that he was still optimistic that a deal could be done for the Dutchman.
“If the conditions are right and if he also wants to come we are willing to make an offer even if it would push us to the limit financially,” he said.
“He would really get the crowd going at the Arena and sales from season tickets and merchandise alone would be able to make back our investment.”
Meanwhile, Fenerbahce sporting director Guilliano Terraneo has reportedly travelled to Portugal to finalise a deal with the agent of United’s out of favour winger Nani.
OUR VIEW
Van Persie was a shell of his former self last season, looking sluggish and short of confidence. It was a sharp and surprising decline considering his excellent World Cup performances for the Netherlands under Van Gaal. Even with Radamel Falcao and Javier Hernandez seemingly certain to leave Old Trafford, it is hard to see Van Persie re-establishing himself. This looks like a sensible move all round - Besiktas get a big-name signing, Van Persie gets a decent contract and United get shot of a man on the downslope of his career.
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JUNE 30th 2015
SERGIO RAMOS' MUM GETS INVOLVED
The Sergio Ramos saga took a surprise twist with the player’s mum suggesting he was happy to stay at Real Madrid despite a bid from Manchester United.
Paqui Garcia opened up after being tracked down by reporters in her car.
Ramos has been linked with a switch to Manchester United in recent weeks, but his mum’s comments poured cold water on that suggestion.
It had all started so well as she swatted away questions with the line: "I can't tell you anything, I'm in a hurry, I have to go now."
But she reportedly revealed detail as journalists from El Chiringuito TV kept probing.
"Do you think he'd like to stay at Real Madrid?" the reporter asked.
"Absolutely," said Paqui. "At Madrid above all else.
"And Manchester?" came the next question.
"No," said the player's mother, with a scowl. "I don't think so.
"He loves Spain."
OUR VIEW
It's hard to know quite what to make of a middle aged woman being ambushed by a TV crew in this manner. Would Ramos have told her everything that is going on with his transfer? Possibly, but possibly not. Yet there is something refreshingly naive about her responses which makes us wonder if there is some truth in this - particularly in her initial attempts to deflect the line of questioning.Ben.
And there's another aspect: given the success of Dani Alves in pretending to want to leave Barcelona in order to land a nice new contract, plenty of people suspect Ramos of doing the same thing. Indeed, the results of the poll we've been running today suggest that nearly 60% of you think that he has no intention of going anywhere - except to the bank, laughing, when he lands a hefty new pay deal.
One thing is for sure: when a player's mother starts getting grabbed by reporters as she's off to do her shopping, you know a transfer has reached fever pitch.
Does Sergio Ramos REALLY want to quit Real Madrid?
THE END OF UNITED'S PURSUIT OF SCHWEINSTEIGER?
Manchester United will be upset by the latest news from Germany about Bayern's midfield maestro Bastian Schweinsteiger - but there could be better news on Arda Turan.
Tuesday's Euro Papers reveals all...
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JUNE 29TH. 2015
The Sergio Ramos saga continued with United reportedly making a formal bid for the Real Madrid defender.
Manchester United have made a £28.6 million bid for Real Madrid defender Sergio Ramos, according to Sky Sports News’ Graham Hunter.
It is the latest development in what has become an on-going saga, the 29-year-old has also reportedly told Real he wants to leave and join Louis van Gaal’s side.
OUR VIEW
This figure seems much more accurate than the £40million that was being thrown around earlier this week. Although Ramos is a proven world-class defender, he is nearly 30 and would be a big gamble at that price given United’s last signing from Madrid – Angel Di Maria – has struggled to adapt to life in England.
It looks as though the saga will come to a climax in the next few days when Real decide if the price is right - especially if Ramos is demanding a move. But that does not mean the move will definitely happen… though United fans must surely hope it will.
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Real Madrid's defender Sergio Ramos (2ndL) is shown a yellow card during the Spanish Copa del Rey (King's Cup) round of 16 first leg football match Club Atletico de Madrid vs Real Madrid CF
Image credit: AFP
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JUNE 24th 2015
UNITED GET SCHWEINI BOOST
Manchester United have had a major boost in their hopes of landing Germany's World Cup winner Bastian Schweinsteiger as reports emerge that the midfielder's contract talks have broken down.
Things are reportedly so bad that the German superclub will now not off the 30-year-old any kind of new deal.
And with Michael Carrick now 34, the BBC claim Louis van Gaal has made it a priority to sign the German midfielder this summer.
But other reports claim it's merely a plot by Schweini's agent to 'do a Dani Alves' and get his man a better deal.
OUR VIEW
Only time will tell where the truth lies. But whereas Alves had every reason to stay at the Nou Camp, Schweinsteiger has plenty of reasons to try something new - and what's more, he has plenty of old friends waiting at Old Trafford, including former Bayern manager Louis van Gaal.
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Schweinsteiger and Van Gaal at Old Trafford (Manchester United)
Image credit: Imago
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JUNE 18TH 2015
Otamendi only moved to Valencia in 2014 but after a stand-out season in La Liga is said to have drawn the attention of a host of top clubs.
His agent Eugenio Lopez revealed last month that the centre-back had received an offer from an unmanned top club. Otamendi is believed to have met with Valencia at the end of the season to advise them of his desire to leave the club.
The centre-back has been tight-lipped about his future up until now but has now revealed that his agent has his “authorisation”.
The truth is that I am enjoying being with the national team, at the Copa America, where there is a lot of responsibility to wear the jersey," Otamendi told ESPN.
"I spoke at the time with my agent, and Valencia know very well what I want.
"Every word my agent says is obviously with my authorisation, with whoever he needs to speak with. At the moment, as I said, my head is fully with the national team, to be able to perform at the maximum when I get to play, and to enjoy this unique moment."
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Argentina's Nicolas Otamendi (R) vies for the ball with Bolivia’s Marcelo Martins (L) during a friendly football match at Bicentenario stadium in San Juan
Image credit: AFP
OUR VIEW
It looks like Otamendi does indeed want to leave Valencia. However, the club from whom he has an offer and who he would like to move to remain shrouded in mystery.
Numerous media reports suggest that United are in fact that club. However, Otamendi, who is a defender first and a ball player second, does not seem to fit the criteria required to play in a Louis van Gaal team. United are first and foremost after a composed, ball playing defender and the Argentine does not fit that mould.
JUNE 11th 2015
UNITED REPORTEDLY AGREE FIRMINHO FEE
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Roberto Firmino has been linked with a £13m move to Old Trafford
Image credit: Imago
Manchester United have agreed a fee for Hoffenheim forward Roberto Firmino, according to ESPN Brazil journalist Jose Elias.
It is claimed that the Brazil international will cost just €18m, around £13m, despite many valuing him at more than £20m.
The 23-year-old has scored three goals in six games for Brazil and is part of the squad for the Copa America in Chile.
Firmino has spent most of his time at Hoffenheim in the number 10 role but can also play wide and as a striker.
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Firmino has enjoyed a prolific start to his Brazil career
Image credit: AFP
OUR VIEW:
It's hard not to be wary of reports from relatively unknown journalists claiming deals are already complete, but what is for certain is that Firmino is a high calibre player who could improve Manchester United's squad. Whether an attacking midfielder is what they need right now is debatable but if they really have agreed a deal for just £13m it is an incredible coup. So incredible, in fact, that it is almost certain to be untrue.
JUNE 8th 2015
VALENCIA KEEN ON VICTOR VALDES
As if losing one excellent Spanish goalkeeper wasn't bad enough, Spanish newspaper Mundo Deportivo are claiming that Victor Valdes could join team-mate David De Gea in making a return move to Spain this summer - by joining Valencia.
The former Barcelona goalkeeper has been backup to De Gea throughout his first six months at Old Trafford and is apparently seen by Valencia as an excellent option to replace the injured Brazilian Diego Alves.
With De Gea's move to Real Madrid seeming increasingly likely, it's doubtful whether the Red Devils would let two experienced goalkeepers go in the same summer.
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Manchester United's Victor Valdes
Image credit: Reuters
OUR VIEW:
Victor Valdes may have only played twice for United last season but it would be a shame to see him leave already. After a horrible anterior crucial ligament injury that brought his Barcelona career to an end and ruled him out of the 2014 World Cup, it was great to see him earn a permanent deal at Manchester United. At his peak he was an excellent goalkeeper, forming a key part of the Barcelona treble-winning side of 2009. If he could get back to that form there is no reason why the 33-year-old couldn't become Manchester United's first-choice goalkeeper in the short-term. He's certainly worth persevering with for another year with David De Gea set to leave and should still be at the club next season.
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