Xabi Alonso to Manchester United? Say it isn't so! Alonso in a Man Utd shirt is nauseating prospect, and given his history with Liverpool, the chances of a deal seem to be slim. However, there's no smoke without fire, and new reports today suggest that Louis Van Gaal is planning a move for the 'outstanding' Spaniard.
According to Italian newspaper Corriere Dello Sport:
* Man United believe they can snap up Alonso for a cut-price fee.
* Talks with Alonso are planned 'in the next few days', and United hope to convince him to sign before the transfer deadline.
This is not the first time Alonso has been linked with a move to Old Trafford:
* NOV 2013: The Mirror reported: "David Moyes wants to take the World Cup winner to Old Trafford but his ties with Liverpool may prevent the switch from going through"
* JAN 2014: The Daily Star claimed: "Xabi Alonso has been offered to Manchester’s big two – United and City - as well as Chelsea"
Ordinarily, I'd argue that there's absolutely no chance of this deal ever happening, but the Van Gaal factor could player a part here, and if Alonso did end up at Old Trafford, he'd clearly be signing for Van Gaal, and not United.
Still, Van Gaal aside, I can't think of a single reason why Alonso would even contemplate moving to Man Utd. The Spaniard often speaks of his love for Liverpool, and I sincerely doubt he'd risk damaging his legacy by joining LFC's most hated rivals.
If Alonso were to return to the Premier League, then a Liverpool is surely the obvious destination. Reds legend Dietmar Hamann would certainly love to see that happen, and last season, he tweeted:
"I'd love to see Xabi Alonso back at Anfield. He's a pleasure to watch, but I can't really see it happening"
Don't do it, Xabi!
Author: Jaimie K
According to Italian newspaper Corriere Dello Sport:
* Man United believe they can snap up Alonso for a cut-price fee.
* Talks with Alonso are planned 'in the next few days', and United hope to convince him to sign before the transfer deadline.
This is not the first time Alonso has been linked with a move to Old Trafford:
* NOV 2013: The Mirror reported: "David Moyes wants to take the World Cup winner to Old Trafford but his ties with Liverpool may prevent the switch from going through"
* JAN 2014: The Daily Star claimed: "Xabi Alonso has been offered to Manchester’s big two – United and City - as well as Chelsea"
Ordinarily, I'd argue that there's absolutely no chance of this deal ever happening, but the Van Gaal factor could player a part here, and if Alonso did end up at Old Trafford, he'd clearly be signing for Van Gaal, and not United.
Still, Van Gaal aside, I can't think of a single reason why Alonso would even contemplate moving to Man Utd. The Spaniard often speaks of his love for Liverpool, and I sincerely doubt he'd risk damaging his legacy by joining LFC's most hated rivals.
If Alonso were to return to the Premier League, then a Liverpool is surely the obvious destination. Reds legend Dietmar Hamann would certainly love to see that happen, and last season, he tweeted:
"I'd love to see Xabi Alonso back at Anfield. He's a pleasure to watch, but I can't really see it happening"
Don't do it, Xabi!
Author: Jaimie K
That;s what they said about Sturridge and they were wrong! Not saying we need him though, given the youngsters we already have and they certainly would not let him go cheaply to us, if at all
ReplyDeleteDont believe he would go to United cause he is Liverpool mad. Also - dont beleve we can get Falcoa -he is using us but his heart is set on R Madrid -with his best mate James Rodrigues -if De Maria sold Madrid will use money and buy him - Best abandon it and go for young roberts of Fulham and S Eto
ReplyDeleteStill a great player (akin to Pirlo in that his ability isn't affected by lack of pace), and as he's entering what will probably be his last couple of seasons at the top it seems probable he'll want to be playing in the Champion's league. Still, I imagine Ed Woodward (or 'The Equalizer', as I believe he's called) is getting used to short telephone conversations by now.
ReplyDeleteIf he is available then the only possible destination that makes sense is Anfield. He is the perfect player to swap in and out for Gerrard due to his age, familiarity with the club and all round excellence in the deep lying play maker role.
ReplyDeleteZaha, Sinclair, Rodwell amongst many others, Including youngsters coming to Liverpool. Other youngsters with dreams of playing for the big clubs should look at these players and see what's happened.
ReplyDeleteYou may dream of playing for them, but quite often it can ruin your career.
Zaha is still young, so will probably be fine moving somewhere else. But he has effectively lost a year and half of his career.
I don't know who it is advising them to move, or whether they just get washed away with the potential 'glory' but these young players need better coaching for which direction to take.
And Will Hughes, whom I hope will be joining us next season.
ReplyDeleteWe do need a more defensive mid fielder, I just don't think BR likes players purely dedicated to that role. I think a tough tackling box to box type is the closest we will get.
No chance, whats the point of bringing in a player who`s not as good as some of our youth? this is a none starter from the off. Glad he went to the Mancs and not us in the first place, Dalglish was lucky to escape him Jeez.
ReplyDeleteWas he best in the world back then? He was just a talent and he did not achieve anything back then and was still unproven. What if he was given a bumper contract and could not reach the same level? And if he was so sure about his progress then he should have accepted low wages because I am sure club like United would renew his contract if he performed well.
ReplyDeleteZaha stats on loan to Cardif 14 starts Goals-0 Assists-1 poor pass rate 57% need anymore?
ReplyDeleteI'd still sign him. Why? Still a better DM than Gerrard.
ReplyDeletePeople saying that he is better than Gerrard and all.. Try to understand that Gerrard is in the club not only for playing. His Auro, presence is what motivates others to play at their best. He might be not the best DM but he is very important !!
ReplyDeleteAt United will never get to Liverpool end of discussion.
ReplyDeleteThat's a tough call for a player. If you're facing the end of your career, you know your current team hasn't much use for you, and then someone like United come along and offer you one last shot playing football at the top level ... it's quite unfair of us as Liverpool fans to expect him to say no. What are his alternative career options? Maybe if another top flight team in Spain, Italy or Germany were in for him he'd have a choice, but is that the case?
ReplyDeleteThis all depends on how Xabi sees his next couple of years at Real. If he's been told he's only going to be a bit-part player then he needs to make a move for his own sake. But if he's still going to be potentially a prominent player in Madrid then United can get bent and there is no chance he'll join them. If comes down to choice. Does he have more than one?
You don't think he received a bumper contract from Juve?
ReplyDeleteunless he under performs, I don't see Coutinho being benched or starting out left too much... but that's a decent starting line up you got there mate ;)
ReplyDeleteThis is of topic Jamie can you do story or looking into the news That FSG Ian ayre and Rodgers have been lying to us about the true Fee off Suarez
ReplyDeleteThe Crowd at Barcelona were chanting that they got him lot less
And the President of Barcelona come out stating that Fact aswell.
Being big reason why we haven't replaced or wont be replacing Suarez with world class striker. Thank u jamie
We will not be winning anything as long as we have BR and current Top Management people who only want UNDER 21'S Players to carry on LIVERPOOL'S DOMINANCE of the 70's and 80's. It's simple NO BIG signings NO TROPHIE'S 4 LIVERPOOL. We lose 1 BIG player in Suarez BUT no BIG replacement. For me we need : a Keeper like Clemence or Reina who can distribute the ball well. Center Back in the mould like Alan Hansen, Phil Thompson, Mark Lawrenson. Midfielder like Jimmy Case and a striking pair like Toshack - Keegan or Dalglish - Rush. Only then we can challenge Arsenal, Chelsea, Man City and the Devils.
ReplyDeleteI'm getting bored of the transfer window now. The amount of complete nonsense that's reported is really ridiculous. With the exception of a couple of decent outlets, by and large media in this country are a complete disgrace. The amount of stories that are simply made up is staggering considering I'm pretty sure its actually against the law to just make up a story and pass it off as truth.
ReplyDeleteNot talking about you Jaimie, you always post links to the sources of the stories you write about but some papers and websites are shambolic
Shhh - the wife think I go to watch football!!! ;-)
ReplyDeleteIf he is not good enough to start for Utd why would he be good enough to start for us? Yes he could thrive under the attentions of Rodgers, equally he could flop and we have our own home-grown youngsters who are already thriving under his management, why bring in another to usurp their opportunities. Most likely he would go out on loan anyway and we have enough of those aswell.
ReplyDeleteAlso there has been a lot of talk about his attitude, he was a big fish in a small pond at palace and seemed to carry the same attitude to Utd where he was surrounded by players who had actually achieved something. I don't know if this is true but I I don't think the possible benefits of this move outweigh the possible negatives.
Balotelli would be entertaining .. a maverick, nobody would know what to expect ... Loan swap Borini + dosh?
ReplyDeleteI appreciate your honesty mate, please don't take offence! It's just that the ACoN has always been viewed as an irritant which I think is a tad unfair. I agree you need to count the cost before buying an African player but the truth us that some have demonstrated beyond doubt that the pros outweigh the cons-Drogba, Essien, Eto'o, Song, Okocha etc etc
ReplyDeleteIMHO Bony is certainly a risk worth taking!
If this happens I'll eat my sock. And not a freshly washed one, a post 10k run one.
ReplyDeleteIf Sturridge was not good enough for either Chelsea or Man City why should he be good enough for Us?
ReplyDeleteIf Coutinho was not good enough for Inter Milan why should he be good enough for Us?
and we can go on
Tweet from Nicolo Schira
ReplyDelete#Liverpool offer to Mario #Balotelli a contract until 2018 by 6 mln € a season. #Milan wants 25 mln € from #LFC
Thoughts?
Roberts of Fulham? He's only played like five games?
ReplyDeleteOnly £20M or so then?
ReplyDeleteI actually think this one has legs and Balotelli is a in the mould of Sturridge...in that he's been at big clubs caused problems with his selfishness and immaturity last chance to make it.
ReplyDeleteI think that if Brendan could get 'hold' of Balotelli he could mould him into what we all know he can be. Balotelli has two feet, can score goals, beats a player, is strong and quick.
I think if the Balotelli we know he can be comes to us we'd be happy. It's just a matter if he's head can be straightened out. Plus lets be honest which Black Player really wants to play in Italy other than for the money with there Racists fans
Ballotelli has displayed plenty of evidence for his immature behaviour. Apart from opinion what evidence do you have to level the same accusation at Sturridge? Apart from that Ballo had all the attributes to be a success, England really is the best place for any black player to play in. Not because there is less racism but because England has a 20-30 year head start on the rest of Europe, in integrating black players into the game which is a huge advantage!
ReplyDeleteI don't know how he puts up with the shit over there and not just from the fans either, the owners have made their fair share of questionable comments. I'm sure he would jump at the chance to leave.
ReplyDeleteI've never been the biggest fan of ballotelli. He is definitely talented no doubt, but his decision making has always been suspect for me, on and off the field.
Maybe Rodgers can get the best out of him and I think I would have him over Bony. Their fees are not much different. Will wait and see if anything comes of it.
Well said that man! He's key was no Fowler, Torres or Sturridge, but don't forget he had a few fantastic seasons where he was unplayable. Immense power and shot that was too hot too handle. Of course this slowed down and the fans got on his back but the service he gave us and the commitment he showed on the pitch was second to none. Zags is not a great option IMO. Leave well alone for now. Ynwa
ReplyDeleteYep, I'm aware. Teixeira has been loaned out too. I was just using them as examples of people I'd rather us take the time to develop.
ReplyDeleteBarca and Real always claim they paid less. Neymar cost something like 40 million more than they claimed. Real did the same with Bale
ReplyDeleteScored on his debut too. I've got high hope for him and Ibe
ReplyDeleteNope that's enough for me
ReplyDeleteI don't think he's looked decent every time he's played, quite the opposite. I haven't seen him play well since he left the championship
ReplyDeleteIf xabi is availble, we should get him... He would be perfect in the deep lying playmaker role that stevie currently occupies...
ReplyDeleteIf stevie is injured, who do we play there?
Lucas?! Hell no...
We most probably would have to change the system...
No. Zaha is a whiny little baby.
ReplyDeleteWe didn't get the full 75 because Ajax were owed part of any sell on fee,i heard we ended up with 62mill
ReplyDeleteCurrently overrated and according to the tabloids he doesn't gave the right attitude to work for it.
ReplyDeleteEven if we got him now there's no way he's getting into the first team for Prem games this season unless we get a few injuries.
Suso and Ibe are coming along nicely and will be ready to challenge for a first team place next season.
Teixiera scored one and made one for Brighton against Leeds the other day, I'm really quite excited about that kid.
Agreed.
ReplyDeleteThe one advantage in particular that Borini has is his age. And he resale value is still relatively good. I was shocked Sunderland was willing to pay up to 14m for him.
Eto'o would have no resale value.
please do...
ReplyDeleteI didn't declare any players as dud, just an observation on their current squad status. Yes, we buy players for the future, but some of those players don't look like they have a future at Anfield. Ibe looks like he has potential, but needs first team action to develop. Will he get this game time or go on loan?
ReplyDeletecould not agree more jamie
ReplyDeletecommical to say the least
ReplyDeletei would not mind having schurlee at anfield
ReplyDeletehave to agree unfortunately
ReplyDeleteCourse you're going to disagree it's a random list of players that I think are better or should be heralded under great players. Maybe you're right about Weir :)
ReplyDeleteI can think of very few things more vile; except perhaps mixing up some faeces, urine and vomit for supper.
ReplyDeleteWould take Xabi back right now, no prolem. Gerrard could prolong his career and we could offload Lucas to Napoli to pay for him.
ReplyDeleteNo brainer, even at his age. This team's Gary Mac
James Pearce just said there will be no plan to sign Bony. It's Falcao or Balotelli and both wanted for loan. So no Lavezzi either.
ReplyDeletesad dream
ReplyDeleteEto'o can be the man of the moment.Do not forget Hazard and Oscar are individualist.Liverpool has the team spirit.This guy will surely deliver
ReplyDeleteOrigi is too young.No need for false hopes.Its champions league we are going to play NOT cARLING CUP.No matter Eto'o age he needs to be in this squad
ReplyDeleteHeard BALOTTELI is coming to the club.Damn what a waste of money cuz this guy not gonna spend more than 2 years in the club.
ReplyDeleteGrabbing Mario and Xabi as last two transfers of this window would be too special
ReplyDeletei just wanted to sue the pun
ReplyDelete