Could Stamford Bridge’s loss be Old Trafford’s gain?

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Football - Japan v England International Friendly

Cole is set for a move away from Stamford Bridge this summer, and the betting suggests that he should put summer holiday plans on hold. Sky Bet offer 5/4 about Cole joining Manchester United in the transfer window. (Sky Bet)

Today’s Manchester Evening News speculates that not only are Manchester United chasing Chelsea midfielder Joe Cole , but that a World Cup link up with Wayne Rooney could be critical in securing a move to Old Trafford.

Cole is out of contract at Chelsea and has yet to agree a new deal, with the Stamford Bridge club reluctant to meet his wage demands. The 28-year-old has also found it difficult to hold down a regular first-team place in Carlo Ancelotti’s side.

Cole is set to become a free agent and although it appears that Harry Redknapp is the favourite to sign the midfielder for Tottenham, the Manchester Evening News claims that Sir Alex Ferguson is “desperate” to bring him to Manchester United .

Apparently, Ferguson is particularly keen on utilizing Cole’s versatility. He is able to play in central midfield, out wide, or just off a striker as he did yesterday with Wayne Rooney during England’s 2-1 friendly win over Japan.

The Manchester Evening News speculates that should Cole and Manchester United striker Rooney form a good understanding during the World Cup, it will significantly boost the chances of Cole’s arrival at Old Trafford. (IMScouting)

Clearly these are speculative reports, and there are many of them, but is Sir Alex Ferguson about to pick up something of a bargain? Clearly Michael Owen was another kettle of fish, but the Scot’s move for the injury plagued former Liverpool man surprised many but could the Man United boss be ready to pick up another out of contract talent?

Joe Cole clearly wasn’t part of Carlo Ancelotti’s plans and Chelsea are not willing to offer him the kind of money he expects and a long list of interested parties have formed an orderly queue for the 28 year old England man. Arsenal and Tottenham have been recently linked with a move for the former West Ham man but there appears to be some momentum behind the speculation that he will in fact opt for a move to Chelsea’s main Premier League rivals, something that will greatly please Ferguson who appears keen on bringing in more creativity to his midfield.

So do Man United fans think this deal may well be done in the coming weeks?

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