2. Sergio Ramos – £42.5m
Manchester United look to be leading the chase for the unsettled Real Madrid defender’s signature, and with reports claiming that the 29-year-old has ordered the La Liga BBVA giants to negotiate only with the Red Devils [via Sky Sports], it seems a fee is all that may need agreeing upon.
Nonetheless, while van Gaal is eager to address his defensive concerns this summer, the Dutchman’s interest in Ramos may be more for promotional purposes than for the Spaniard’s ability.
The club’s presence on the European stage has taken a significant hit since the retirement of Sir Alex Ferguson, and the signing of one of world football’s most illustrious centre-backs – as Angel Di Maria did so last summer – would be a huge message of intent to their rivals.
However, the fact of the matter remains that Ramos is a volatile defender, susceptible to making rash decisions. Last March, he broke the La Liga record of the most red cards received by any one player in being sent off for the 19th time in his career [via SB Nation]. In a top flight as demanding as England’s, this is a record that should worry the Old Trafford faithful.
The Spaniard carries a price-tag of £42.5m, the Daily Star report.
