It looks like Manchester United have a busy summer ahead of them.
Having missed out on target Eden Hazard, the wrapping up of Shinji Kagawa’s move from Borussia Dortmund appears imminent but he is just one of many names that could be arriving at Old Trafford.
Leighton Baines for example has been heavily linked with a move to the club, and whilst both United and Everton have chosen not to comment on the speculation, it is a rumour that refuses to go away.
With Euro 2012 approaching Baines is fully focused on the competition, and has stated that whilst being linked to United is ‘flattering’ his primary concern is the competition:
“The United link is flattering. There is no harm in people talking about it because it is a great club.
“But I’m at a great club as well, a club that I love. The focus now is all on the tournament. There’s not much time to let other things seep in.
“It’s about getting your head on this job for the next six weeks and try to do the best you can.
“I’m not letting my focus shift to [my future] while I am in camp. I’m focused on what I’m doing at the moment.”
But it isn’t something completely removed from his thoughts, he has considered the move and when asked how hard it would be to leave Goodison Park, he replied:
“Yes, obviously. You know what it means. I’ve been there for five years myself but also know first-hand what it means to a lot of people.”
Baines is a top left back, but its a surprising move to be honest. I mean £12-15 million on a 27 year old left back would be good, but what about Evra? He didn’t have a good season but are we going to sell him because I can’s see either Baines or Evra being happy to sit on the bench. If Baines arrived then you’d think he is joining to replace Evra.
ARRIVALS
Shinji Kagawa -£12 million rising to £17 million
Leighton Baines – £12 million
Luka Modric – £30 million
James Rodriguez – £17 million + Anderson
Nathaniel Clyne – £2.5 million rising to £4.5m
Nick Powell – £4 million rising to £6 million
Total = £77.5 million
DEPARTURE
Dimitar Berbatov – £8 million
Park Ji Sung – £3.5 million
Micahel Owen – Free
Kuschazch – Free
Anderson – Part exchange
Matt James + De Leat – £2 million
Total = £13.5 million
TOTAL = £64 Million