GATHERING STEAM
Manchester United’s pursuit of James Rodriguez could end soon with reports of an announcement at the end of the week. If it comes, the announcement would be made after the end of Real’s last La Liga match on Sunday. It seems that the deal has been sealed, with the teams just waiting for the right time to make an announcement as bookies have suspended betting on Rodriguez moving to United. Ladbrokes’ Dave Burin said: “Rodriguez joining United looks like a certainty, so all we’re waiting for now is the sight of the midfield maestro posing with the famous red shirt.”
EUROPA BONUS
Other than the incentive of lifting a trophy and qualification for the Champions League, United’s squad would receive a huge monetary bonus for the win. Collectively, the players’ wages could increase to the tune of £38m. But, should United fail to win the trophy, the players collectively lose £9m in wages. There is a £1m bonus that will be split among the squad.
POSITIVES IN CRITICISM
Chris Smalling is not the first player to have been publically criticized by Jose Mourinho. But, the Englishman is looking at the positives in the criticism and use it constructively. Mourinho questioned Smalling’s mentality and his ability to play through the pain barrier twice this term. Smalling said: “You can take positives from it in that the manager wants you out on that pitch. He wants you to represent him and be that fighter and warrior for him. With the medical staff and with the coaches, we are pushing all the time. As players, we don’t want to be sitting on the touchline or watching the games in the directors’ box. We have pushed as much as we can and I am glad to be back. We speak very closely with the manager and we have got a got a very good relationship.”
DONNARUMMA SECRET
Manchester United target Gianluigi Donnarumma has reportedly told friends that he is going to move to England in the summer. United are believed to be favorites in this transfer saga. The 18-year-old has refused to extend his deal at Milan as both Manchester clubs prepare bids. The current contract situation means that the youngster could come to United for as little as £20m. United will have the funds for a potential bidding war through the potential fee received for De Gea.
THE UNMISSABLE TOUR 2017 UPDATE
The venue for the Manchester Derby has been revealed. Houston’s NRG Stadium. The same was reported in a previous bulletin a few weeks past. The match will kick off at 1:30 UK time on July 21st. This will be first Manchester Derby to be played outside the UK.
IBRA SNUB
Manchester United and Tottenham strikers Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Harry Kane have not being included in the nominees for the Premier League Player of the Season. The list is dominated by Chelsea and Tottenham players. Azpiliqueta, Alli, Vertonghen, Sanchez, Lukaku, Eriksen, Hazard and Kante are on the shortlist.
ANOTHER ACADEMY TRANSFER TARGET
Nicky Butt is targeting another signing for the United Academy. This time, United are prepared to rival Real Madrid for the signing of 16-year-old, Umaro Embalo. There have been reports of a huge £7m from the La Liga giants. Benfica are determined to keep the player but it would be a tough ask with the likes of Madrid and United circling.