Manchester United want to steal Spaniard from rival’s grasp and bring him to Old Trafford…
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It’s being widely reported that Cesc Fabregas is very close to a move to Chelsea to replace the departing Frank Lampard, but this afternoon, Italian football journalist Tancredi Palmeri exclusively reported that Manchester United are willing to offer the 27-year-old significantly higher wages.
If United do manage to steal the signing of Fabregas from under Chelsea’s noses – Jose Mourinho will probably to re-enter the transfer market to find another capable midfielder.
Here’s five that may interest him…
5) Paul Pogba – Juventus
The prodigal Frenchman is only 21-years-old, but Juventus have stuck a £60m price-tag on his head, with Manchester United heavily interested. Any club in Europe would be delighted to have him, after a series of barnstorming and creative performances helped The Old Lady win their third consecutive Serie A title. Pogba is the perfect modern midfielder. Not only he is strong, rangy and athletic – but he can drive through the midfield, win back possession, and create something out of nothing.
4) Bastian Schweinsteiger – Bayern Munich
Another target for Manchester United, there seems no reason that Chelsea couldn’t persuade Schweinsteiger to move to Stamford bridge instead should united secure Fabregas. Schweinsteiger would be lured by the Champions League football on offer, and at 29-years-old, he’s still very much in his midfield peak. Apparently, Pep Guardiola sees him as surplus to requirements because he moves the ball too slowly, and any club would be wise to take advantage of this.
3) Ivan Rakitic – Sevilla
Barcelona and Real Madrid are hovering, following the Croatian’s excellent season in Spain. His form earned him a spot in La Liga’s team of the Year, after he reached double figures for both goals and assists, and skippered his side to Europe League glory.
2) Adam Lallana – Southampton
Liverpool are apparently unwilling to meet Southampton’s £30m price tag, meaning a number of other large clubs could swoop for the England international. Lallana’s form means he’ll likely start for his country at this summer’s World Cup – and the fact he’s already proven himself at Premier League level could be a bonus for the Blues as well.
1) Angel di Maria – Real Madrid
The Argentine is naturally a winger, but actually played more often in central midfield last season for Real Madrid. With Lionel Messi and Sergio Aguero dominating the attacking positions for Argentina, he’ll likely be deployed in a similar role for his country at the World Cup too. Los Blancos have placed a £40m price-tag on his head, and PSG, Manchester United and Arsenal are all likely to be interested in his services as well.
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