Manchester United Banter Archive July 17 2014

 

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17 Jul 2014 23:49:18
Does anybody know if tom McDermott has any clout regarding transfers because he is pretty dam sure that united will sign vidal

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18 Jul 2014 00:09:21
I haven't been following him long enough to know but he seems to be pretty highly regarded. He is adamant with this one and is putting his reputation on the line for it.

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17 Jul 2014 23:41:09
Hi all.

I think everyone is fed up of the Vidal Saga at this stage but I really believe this one is in the bag, but may require a bit of patience. Quotes from the player, ex director, the betting odds and some top reporters in Italy, Chile and even the UK all point towards a deal.

I think it would be best to forget about it and we might be pleasanty surprised in the not too distant future :)

Do you think he will be a united player?

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{Ed004's Note - I am hopeful so... Yes}

And I find the Evra to Juventus thing a bit weird, there must be something to it. That, or Utd trying to tie Nani into the deal, may be the reason for the delay.

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I agree Danny - If Evra had left for Juve and we hadn't signed Vidal I would be concerned. But it makes sense that the deal is on if Evra is still here. I know the two aren't joined at the hip, but it is a good sign.

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17 Jul 2014 18:29:04
hi if any of the eds round lvg said today that he will take a look at the squad for 3-4 weeks before making a decision on signings is this him playing his cards close to his chest as a blind man can c we need atleast 5 players and if he waits 4 weeks that's the start of season and most of the best players will have been snapped up your response would be grateful thanks for the great work

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{Ed004's Note - I think he will continue to work on signings. Didn't expect him to come out like Moyes did and say the squad is poor even though it is obvious to see, it really doesn't fill the squad with confidence}

Good answer imo. Signing a midfielder wouldn't be a back track on the answer due to Carrick injury. Likewise a defender due to Rio/Vidic departure.

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17 Jul 2014 16:06:32
With the club saying carrick is out injured ( for a long time ), do you guys think that the club should go all out and snap up blind as he not only provides competition at left back but also as a defensive midfielder? And also does this mean we will also try to get a deal done for carvalho?
What do yoy guys think? Ed004 would love your opinion on this too if you have time bud :)

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{Ed004's Note - I'm hopefully that the plan was to get Vidal in this window and Strootman in January. With Carricks injury I'm not sure I would change the plan much. Instead I would ensure we got a cb so that Jones can cover dm as well as well as Fellaini and Fletcher being able to fill in. Blind however would be a very good signing as long as he understands he will be a squad player. Means we would have cover for Shaw as well}

Ed

I am not getting the formation here. Supposing we get vidal, Would that be a mid three of vidal, hererra and rooney/mata/kagawa or a mid 3 of vidal hererra and another DM(jones/carrick/fellaini)

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17 Jul 2014 20:59:51
Some great work in 1 of the broadsheets (DT) looking at what LVG said, and what he meant.

Said: We are looking to find a role for Phil Neville.
Meant: my car need washing.

Said: I am democratic.
Meant: I am democratic like the Democratic People's Republic of North Korea.

Said: I want to look at the players present.
Meant: And find a buyer for Nani at all costs.

There are plenty more, very funny

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17 Jul 2014 20:59:39
Hi Guys

I have to say that I was impressed with LVG today.He oozes self belief and came across very confident.
He also spoke with authority which the previous manager never had.Alex Ferguson always said that the most important person of any club is the manager and I believe that will be the case with LVG.
My only slight issue was with this so called assessment period.If it is to be 4 weeks as he states I feel we will miss out on quite a few targets.I accept that this period is flexible because we need to finalise some deals
sooner rather than later.
Watching him today got my juices flowing in anticipation for the next season.

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Spit on Bazza. Compare and contrast with Moyes's 1st conference when he looked like a startled rabbit about to be run over. We now have a man with stature

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{Ed007's Note - Calm down, there'll be no spitting - it's a filthy habit!}

Apologies Bond, fot fungers

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18 Jul 2014 03:27:37
You are my favourite Bond, I believe we would get along.

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17 Jul 2014 20:37:01
I think LvG's "3-4 weeks" comment regarding players is more significant to those already here rather than having an impact on those potentially coming in. He was never going to show his hand for incoming transfers, but the players who were performing significantly below their high standards last season now have a clean slate and a month or so to show him what we all know they are capable of. Here's hoping we see a few rejuvenated players, but it'll have no bearing on new signings.

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Hmm good point. Sounds like something LVG might do to motivate existing players.

There is definately talent in the squad. I think players like Rooney will improve a lot with stability and new quality around him. I even think there is a place for the likes of Wellbeck and Cleverly. They are loyal to the club and definately good in niche roles. Wellbeck did a good job as a defensive forward in the world cup. How many times did we see Ji Sung Park do that in big games that we came out on top in? He was a very valuable squad player.

By the sounds of it, one of LVG's midfield roles involves the use of a box to box midfielder that plays short passess only, to more creative players. Sounds like Cleverly could at least be a good reinforcement player in that position.

Judging by what LVG did against Mexico, I would think that there is a role for Felliani too. He took off Van Persie in that game and changed the system to pump long balls into target men in the box. The Dutch scored 2 in the last 10 mins!

Theres no doubt that some players have had their chance and have to go. Anderson, who refuses to get fit, and Nani, who refuses to grow up and use a bit of vision. It makes me sad, but they've had their chance.

Of the players that remain, I think its key that if they haven't proved themselves already, we accept them as squad players if they are going to stay on, and find roles that suit them. We have done it in the past, with Wes Brown's, Phil Neville's and John O'Shea's. They were all valuable to us as utility players, and in todays market would probably carry a combined value of 30m.

It will be worth learning to use our players that haven't matured, simply so we can save, and use the finances to go after expensive players that become available.

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17 Jul 2014 20:28:54
Having finally read the transcripts of the press conference, throne thing that definitely stands out is that the players will be on a short leash to pick up on what he wants or no matter who you are, you are not safe or sacred.

It will be interesting to see how some of these guys react:)

Here comes the clear out:)

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Will certainly see who the thick ones who cannot or will not toe the party line

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Shahram

I think Rooney's head will explode. Last year we had DM drooling over him, LVG just sees him as 1 of his players and I don't think he will be able to deal with that.

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I feel another transfer request coming on!

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AJH, you mean like RvP last year when he went from SAF's main man to just another player under Moyes and didn't like it?

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If I had to pick which player I would prefer to be the main man and get all the attention it would be RVP rather then rooney much better player

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17 Jul 2014 20:27:51
Excellent press conference. It showed a man with convictions (GBH?), maturity, tact, diplomatic skills, and a sense of humour. Unlike Moyes he avoided making comments about the depth and quality of the squad, preferring to put that off until after he has had time to assess whether the players can adapt to his philosophy - which, again, unlike Moyes, he actually possesses. Once he makes his decisions he won't be discussing them with the press - those who don't fit in will just be sold. Nor do I expect him to make excuses if things don't turn out well.

With respect to the 4 week assessment period, I am sure there will be some players he's already made his mind up about, both in and out, so I expect there to be some transfer activity before the end of it.

I especially like the no vacation necessary attitude - not repeating Moyes's complacent seeming error of judgment. His cautious acceptance of the class of 92 players on the coaching staff was also very guarded and un-Moysian, and demonstrated his respect for the club.

His comments about Bobby Charlton were really great. Sir Bobby was arguably the best player ever to wear a United and England shirt. One can look back to his substitution against West Germany in Mexico in 1970 as being the end of the brief era when England were actually a good team.

It's hard, I know - I'm as guilty as many of you for trawling the transfer rumours on a daily basis - but relax, and enjoy the ride. The fact is that most of these reports are empty garbage- nothing but specious flimflam dressed up in emotive headlines. Commenting on any of it, and even worse, getting worked up about it, is a waste of time and energy.

It's hard to see us failing to improve under his guidance whether or not we sign another player.

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I think your last line says it all mate. I am sure we will do far better under LvG than we did under Moyes, even if we had made no signings. Under Moyes, the players looked lost and didn't seem to know what was expected of them. Under LvG, if nothing else, every single member of the playing staff will know what the manager wants and expects from him.

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17 Jul 2014 21:06:42
*applause*

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Have to say I agree. I don't think we realised it at the time. Moyes was the first managerial appointment in such a long period, that we went along with the change and did our best to support the new manager.

Seeing Van Gaal in the conference today I suddenly realised that this is what a Manchester United manager should be like. Pressure is magnified enormously in a club when it commands the attention of over 350 million supporters. Our fan base dwarfs even Real Madrid, who themselves are rightfully proud of their 120 million following.

I don't think you can have a weak conviction when the world spotlight is on you. Moyes may have had determination and grit, but I don't think he had belief in his ability to stand out as a manager with a legendary standing in the game. If you don't have that, I don't think you can thrive at a place like United.

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Agreed, nice post peashooter

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17 Jul 2014 20:20:47
Am I reading to much between the lines?
But it seemed to me that lvg questioned the idea of rooney being what he would consider experienced!
When asked about the importance of his experienced players like rooney he went on to say its not about age or how many games you've played, but also them as a person.
Maybe a reference to the rooney behaviour and attitude that has angered many a united fan.
What do you guys think? :)

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Nope. The journalist was trying goad van Gaal into a direct comment on Rooney's role at the club, like when Moyes said we needed Rooney as back up for RVP last summer. Van Gaal deflected the question by saying that he wouldn't be picking players based on their previous performances or their status in the team, he'd pick players that performed now and adapted to his philosophy.

Of course there's a chance that he doesn't think Rooney fits with his philosophy, but that will be decided in private. He kept the focus on the club as a whole (and himself of course) rather than saying anything that would have led to the type Rooney headlines we had last summer.

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I think it would be a bit strange for a new manager to have a dig at one of his players in his first press conference even before he has properly got to know the players, played a match or even taken training

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Jred - Have you read the book 1001 ways/threads/arguments/discussions to have a dig at Rooney?

Deeps.

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Jred he has taken training. But a lot of the rooney stuff has been there for all to see - questioning the club, turning up over weight and un fit, smoking, paying for granny specials etc.
And don't forget he has a very good relationship with rvp who i'm sure would have filled him in with regards to the problems of last season.
Rooney was one of the better players last year but it was pretty obvious that all the rooney a**e kissing that moyes was doing pushed a lot of noses out joint.
Just thought the way he answered the question was a way of laying his marker down of what he

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Deeps
ive been surprised more hasn't been made of it.
Just wait until rooney gets subbed in a friendly the site will go into melt down

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Domi - Are we talking about the same problems when RVP decided to go AWOL as soon as the going got tough? Or probably SAF could no longer motivate him with his drool?

Jred - I am just curious, is this the most acute case of fans perpetually having a go at one of "their" players? I honestly haven't seen a worse case. Ohh by the way, which one would you condemn more sitting on your moral high horse? Granny shagging or pulling one of on your brother?

Deeps.

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No arguments from me deeps on rvp spitting his dummy out last season.
Just pointing out the obvious that lvg and rvp seem to have a very good relationship as stated by the pair of them, and I would just assume if the reports of players been unhappy with the favouritism shown towards rooney were correct it would have been mentioned.
There was also the time when van persie came out and complained about the lack of tactical discipline with players just running around and getting in his way. i'm sure we can agree that was aimed at ronney.

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Domi - Mate, my post was not directly aimed at yours, yes it would seem like RVP and LVG have some kind of bromance going for them, but I think LVG is too old and wise to not take a mature/wise call. For that matter LVG can have bust ups with anyone. Remember Riquelme?, who would have thought of that. I think, it's a fresh slate and anyone is as vulnerable as the other. IIRC, even RVP had issues with LVG initially.

Deeps.

P.S - I think what I am really tired of is the "favouritism card" changing hands between Wazza and Persie. For a change I would like to see someone else get it.

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Deeps
Asking for a pay rise is much worse than sleeping with your brothers wife.
I could never forgive kean for holding the club to ransom agreeing terms with juventus and threatening to leave unless united broke there wage structure and paid him what he wanted.
But worse of all in fact the worse sin a player can do on this site is not moving to another club when people have spent 12 month predicting that you would .

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17 Jul 2014 20:16:03
I've woken up from my op within the past couple of hours and managed to get a look at the highlights from the press conference. Very impressed with LvG, looking forward to the season ahead.

Thanks again for everyone's well wishes.

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17 Jul 2014 20:28:21
Glad everything went ok buddy

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Hope all went well :)

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Great stuff Believe; hope you recover well. Remember to dry the area carefully after a shower ;)

Shame the club didn't sign Vidal whilst you were under!

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Believe, keep them pickled in a jar mate

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Best wishes Believe and a speedy and full recovery.
Lvg is the business, so here's to a successful season.

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I'm glad you came round believe.

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17 Jul 2014 22:31:33
I'm tucking my willy between my legs in honour of you, right now, mate.

Glad it went well.

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17 Jul 2014 23:20:28
It puts the lotion in it's skin.

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17 Jul 2014 20:06:32
I just watched the press conference,
I can't wait, for this season, a full house every home game, young players getting there chance, an attacking style of football, and a Man who looks as though he was born for this job.
Glory Glory Man. United.

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I think a lot of fans are expecting too much, too soon. LvG could well do very well at OT, but don't take it for granted. The players didn't like Moyes' way of doing things last summer, and see what happened. LvG is a far better manager than Moyes, and I am not directly comparing them. But LvG is likely to upset many people with his ways. But he won't care less and will stick to his pronciples. That is not a bad thing, but it will take time for the players to adjust to his ways and methods, so I think it would be foolish to expect instant success.
I just hope the fans accept the situation for what it is, and don't start turning on him if we don't start off too well, because we may not see his plans bearing fruit for a few months. Personally, I am far more confident in LvG than I was in Moyes, but this time round we, as fans, need to get behind the new manager 100% from the start., and not get carried away with expectation. At least not immediately anyway.

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Betty, stop, being negative, we need to win our 1st 10 games. Looking forward to seeing his pronciples though

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AJH, I thought you would be first to spit my mistake :)

Too much Blue Nun again!

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17 Jul 2014 19:14:27
Ed,

Ive read that juventus had an offensive conference in regards to vidal to bump our bid up to the 40m mark. Do you think this is the case?

Cheers

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{Ed002's Note - I have no idea what an "offensive conference" is?}

Just meant juventus saying vidal is not for sale etc is it a ploy to bump the price up?

Cheers

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17 Jul 2014 20:55:11
Ed002, surely you must know what an "offensive conference is". Remember David Haye and Dereck Chisora's Press Conference? That was quite offensive, wasn't it?

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{Ed007's Note - Anything to do with David Haye is offensive.}

LOL Bond, I hear you mate.

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I meant press offensive

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17 Jul 2014 13:06:00
Ed002, you say the club want rid of Zaha and his agent is currently looking around for interested clubs. Do you know of any other players that the club are definitely happy to see go and whose agents may be doing the same thing? I'm thinking of Young, Nani, Anderson etc. There are the usual rumours, just wondering if you know of any for sure. Thanks in advance.

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{Ed002's Note - Everything will soon become clearer.}

17 Jul 2014 18:04:02
we have to sign a centre midfielder now as carrick is out for 3 months and he is our only reliable centre mid, hopefully we will force through the vidal deal now :). we also need a centre back, hopefully we will sign varane or hummels for this position, these signings would improve our squad immensely and make use title contenders!

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Apparently the op has improved his pace, but they're slightly worried he'll lose it again once he gets off the crutches.

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17 Jul 2014 20:02:50
Nails. that is So harsh but made me laugh my butt off

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I have a feeling the surprise resignation of Conte has given Juventus cold feet in selling Vidal.

If its true Conte resigned because Vidal would be sold, Agnelli and the directors at Juventus may fear severe protests from fans. If they sell Vidal now, the resignation will ultimately be connected with Juventus "selling" their best players.

I think they would have liked to present the sales of Pogba or Vidal as intelligent business. Profits would be re-invested, the team would improve, and the sales would ultimately pave a way for a return to knockout phases of the champions league on a regular basis. - One thing Conte has failed to achieve.

Agnelli did seem to leave a bit of room for something to happen. He stated something along the lines of selling the player only if they wanted to leave?

I think we are in a position where Vidal will have to submit a transfer request to push a move through. Juve directors will then be able to justify the sale without loosing face.

That probably means us paying an additional 3-4 million so that vidal receives the money he will loose if he has to submit a transfer request.
I hope we would pay that extra sum, but the transfer has dragged on already because of an inability to compromise over a fee. Any extra payment and I think it may be the end of the deal.

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Lol nails, that made me chuckle!

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Redisotope, I agree. I was trying to make the same argument yesterday. Juventus may need a little time to make the transfer look good on their end.

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17 Jul 2014 17:27:27
'My philosophy is total, and in that there are not many experienced players'.

That has to be the quote that stood out for me at the press conference. It's clear why he is willing to let Rio leave, probably Evra. It's clear in the big games he isn't going to play players because of their 'experience' like Moyes did in playing the crap like Young rather than exciting players like Januzaj.

This man will bring attacking football with speed and power, and if you are old enough, you are good enough - that is what is most exciting.

I can't wait.

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Or, if your good enough your old enough and if your good enough your young enough.

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That was a pretty good quote to be honest.

I was impressed by his presence. He definately feels like a large enough character to handle the United job. Its also good I think that this will be the highlight of an amazing career for Van Gaal, and u get the sense that it adds something to the perception of how great both Van Gaal, and Man Utd is. Its an asset to us, at an important time. The likes of Liverpool, Arsenal and Chelsea have been feeding off our decline in the last year. This summer transfer window will have restored a healthy amount of respect, thanks to the success of LVG at the world cup, and the statements of intent behind the signatures we have made.

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17 Jul 2014 16:58:37
Carrick out for 2-3 months, he has had an operation today on his ankle ligaments. Won't be fully match fit until mid - end of October. We may see us go after someone now even if LVG wasn't planning it.

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17 Jul 2014 16:43:03
Van G said it will take up to 3-4weeks to
Make is mind up about new signings.
That means forget about signing
Vidal, Reus, Di Maria, Hummels etc.
You really think others clubs won't take them
By then. Wake up utd.
PSG or barca or man city will do all they're
Business by then.
Pls please utd don't to this again I'm this window.

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Jesus. he's hardly going to come out and say at a live press conference the names of the players who he wants out of the club and the new players he's chasing is he.
He only started work yesterday have some patience.

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I think the Glazers penny pinching over the years has got us all in a negative mind-set. If we want to compete at the top level we have to buy this sort of class. Van Gaal will know that. It won't take him two days to work out that the squads not good enough. One look at Cleverley and he'll be straight into the transfer market.

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17 Jul 2014 17:35:33
I think you are taking everything to literally. He has to say these things. can't come into the club and say. Yep they are all useless I need a new starting 11 can he. Fact we already signed 2 new players regardless if it was before he officially took over states we are in the market. The weaknesses are obvious to everyone A CB and CM are a Must. a winger may feel he can shape but unlikely. Also he has to look to give the team a chance. he can do that while still strengthening. Hummels and Vidal would get in any team so can not assume he would magically find the solution in our squad

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Why do people take whatever a manager says as gospel truth?

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{Ed007's Note - People hear/read what they want to hear/read. C'mon Syd, you're a black belt at it!}

17 Jul 2014 17:39:54
You need to learn to read between the lines.

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How about:

"We have a lot of quality within the club and I need to personally assess how that quality fits the system/tactics I want to adopt. In saying that I am very aware that the squad needs strengthening with some experience and to install competition for places. I will be doing my utmost best (haha) to ensure we have the right blend of players arriving and those staying at the club. The current squad and new signings all have the opportunity to show me how they can adapt to my methods over the coming weeks. I am looking forward to the challenge ahead. I am confident Manchester United will be fighting for the title this season and will continue to do so as the measures I will be implementing will drive the club forward short-medium-long term."

Something like that doesn't damage moral, states the obvious and makes sure us supporters know we are in the hunt without being held over a barrel by the vendors. It also would provide me with more confidence, rather than playing stupid games with wording (I hope Syd is right and it was games with the wording).

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Looks like LVG will be stopping the signatures from coming in for 3-4 weeks. That only leaves a few weeks left till the end of the window.

It sounds a bit of a risky game, but it might help in a way. I think some teams have the idea that we will pay anything for players since the Shaw and Herrera deals. In fairness we have paid premiums for those players for very good reasons in my opinion.

A few weeks cooling off speculation may make sellers realise we are no longer in as bad a situation as last season. We have a good manager, coming off the back of a great world cup, and we have strengthened in 2 key areas already. Another point is that we are not involved in Europe this season and will not actually need as deep a squad as a normal campaign. At the moment we have been in a desperate state, needing to replace a formerly world class back 4 and centre of midfield. Feeder clubs round Europe have not exactly taken pity on us, and are demanding the types of fees they would expect from psg or city. One or two more signings and I don't think we will need to be held to ransom anymore. We can sit back and make signings slowly when they become available at value.

Perhaps it will also be a lesson to the glazers. "Refuse to spend now, - pay later." Not only has the sudden need to rebuild the team cost us premiums in player prices, but its cost us champions league football, worth 50-80m a season.

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Good one Ed07, so true :P

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Why would a new manager want to work with the squad he was taking over to get a chance to asses the players himself and fully evaluate the strengths and weaknesses when he could just buy 3 or 4 superstars and throw them straight in.
no need to spot some potential, back your own judgement perhaps decide a rw like schewiney could be better used as a cm.
no that's not lvg style at all.

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The problem is that nobody knows which lines to read between and what language they are written in, so everybody has a different idea of what things mean. That's why these press conferences are just a massive waste of time.

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No matter what lvg had said today many had already made there mind up and are convinced they know what's going on at united

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Vidal, Hummels and Di Maria return to their clubs in 10 days, discussions will then move forward the following week so up to 4weeks

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17 Jul 2014 19:26:14
Haha yea beast next time his press conference will be aimed just to please you.

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LvG would have been briefed on what questions he will be asked beforehand, so him and his advisor/s knew well in advance what to say. I wouldn't expect a manager who's just taken over a squad to say any different. But the truth is he will know roughly who will be going and who will be staying (hence the reason Zaha has been told to find a new club) and negotiations for new arrivals will continue behind the scenes as normal. You would be a plonker to think otherwise.

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Syd
I would be surprised if zaha leaving is lvg decision .
I think he burnt a few bridges last season

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LvG will have final say on every player. He's the manager. LvG done very well in the press conference today. Swerving some very crafty questions. The best one was the captaincy question, his reply that the whole squad are candidates was important and he nipped it in the bud. Obviously the whole squad are not candidates, just because he said that doesn't mean it's true of course.

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It goes without saying that the manager will assess the squad whilst on tour, that's a given. But the club will not be downing tools until the tour is over, the club will keep trying to secure deals and work on improving the squad behind the scenes. What this does do is take the pressure off of the club. We may not sign anyone for a few weeks, but we will be working hard behind the scenes and the club will be well aware of LvG's targets. Hence the Vidal bid, hence the Sanchez bid, hence the several enquiries for players.

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Syd
Im not sure about about that, in zaha case he may of been informed why the club are letting him go .
But i'm sure you no best

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Jred, if you think the club are going to standstill for a month then that's up to you, but I am not that naive. MU are being very active in the market trying to get the manager's targets, trying to sign players is a massive clue. But let's not let evidence and common sense prevail here.

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Syd
Not at all united have already signed shaw and herrera which lvg has confirmed where deals already in place . Vidal is also a moyes target or should I say a united target which we have been working on pre lvg if reports are true.
Lvg could well take a couple of weeks to asses the squad and then make his own suggestions but then again that's not how it works on FIFA.
And you would like us to sign vidal hummels and reus so no matter what is said or happens you will twist it to suit your own opinion

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17 Jul 2014 13:52:01
ED any specific reason why we haven't allotted kit numbers to Shaw and Herrera?

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{Ed007's Note - I don't think any numbers have been allocated yet.}

17 Jul 2014 15:55:27
Just read through the transcript of LVG's press conference and he seemed to go out of his way to mention the commercial side of the club a few times. Can anyone who watched the conference comment on his tone when doing so? It seems a little odd for him to mention it unless he was trying to make a point or express his indignation; but having not seen how he delivered the words it's hard to tell.

I have to say I wasn't overly impressed by his press conference although it was nice that he was able to use his reputation (Ie point out that he has a history of winning things) to deflect questions about expectations. I'dve preferred him to have been a little more positive, mind.

Bad news about Carrick and more so that LVG said that it could be up to four weeks before he makes a signing. I appreciate that he needs time to evaluate some of the squad but surely he's seen enough of Young, Valencia and Nani to know that we need a wide player desperately (not to mention the fact that at present we have just three first team CB's - all of whom are injury prone and questionably not good enough).

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He isn't impressed by the commercial side of things, all he cares about is the players, pitch, football and fans. He made that pretty clear.

Carrick being injured will only make the need for Vidal more important. Up to four weeks could be two days Redseven. Clever wording, I am not concerned.

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I have to say I was impressed with his press conference on the whole. He was never going to come out and say we will win the league, but he said he would do his utmost and that is his aim and that is all we can ask. The couple of times he mentioned the commercial side of the club did worry me slightly. It just seemed to me like it was something he wasn't comfortable with but which obviously comes along with the world's biggest club. I think he just wants to concentrate on the football 100% and sees the whole commercial bit as getting in the way, he likes control and maybe sees that side of it as something he can't control.

Time will tell, but I was happy overall with what he said, his persona and the way he handled himself. Just wondering now what Carrick's bad injury is, doesn't sound good but maybe it will ensure he dips into the transfer market quicker than the 3-4 weeks he stated.

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17 Jul 2014 16:26:04
Do we really need this explaining after SAF's press conferences. Managers lie in press conferences, it is the perfect place for them to make things up and play the media to print exactly what he wants them to print. If Carrick is injured do you think we will start the season with Herrera, Cleverley and Fellaini? Not a chance.

Anyway, he actually said it could take up to 4 weeks to make his decisions about whether players are good enough, I think he will realise in about 2 days we are short of midfielders.

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It struck me as strange as well. Surely he must have known how commercially focussed we are before agreeing to the job?!

I heard the conference and he definitely shoe-horned it in twice, hard to tell whether he was peeved or not as I haven't heard him speak too often but there was no need for him to bring it up at all as the questions were not leading that way.

Wouldn't be surprised if it just laying foundations if things don't go according to plan. He may want to do ABC and because of sponsorship commitments we need to do XYZ, this will probably go for signings, sales, who and when we play friendlies etc. He should know this already.

I was really confident before the conference, I feel a tiny bit deflated after it, it just didn't feel right to me, a bit of hedging but I suppose it's only his first press conference and we should just judge what happens as the media is a tool to be used for the clubs benefit not a lie detector test.

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I thought he handled himself very well, like a true professional, he's far to wise of a cat to come out making predictions about how were going to do even though the press tried there best to make him do so.

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17 Jul 2014 16:45:03
More positive? He said he is not aiming for top 4 but for number 1 are you disappointed he didn't say we would win the title by Xmas?

Also Carrick is no great loss and have you never seen a new manager get a totally different performance from a group of players

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He brought it up in the context of being a big challenge to balance the club's desire for on-field success with off-field commercial success, and that it may not be possible to achieve both. He also said that United were the biggest club in the world in terms popularity, but that they weren't the biggest football team because that requires continuous success.

Reading his tone is difficult, but if say that he was sending a message to the owners that if they put profits before investment in the team, he'll not be afraid to call them out for it.

As for him not being confident, the best thing he said during the press conference was when he was asked if top four was the minimum he wanted in his first season and he replied by saying that first place was always his goal. Overall a huge departure from Moyes and we have another manager who looks like he understands why he's here.

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Danny - that's how I read it and that's what worries me. Surely something has come up during conversations with the owners which has made him feel the need to stress that point?

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17 Jul 2014 17:43:04
here's a link to the press conference.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kcqeA8PONxE

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I doubt anything specific has come up so far, but I would assume that Woodword has been banging the corporate drum around him for the last few days and he's setting out his stall. The Glazers want their managers to see the club as a business first and a sports team second. Van Gaal is simply telling them that all he cares about is on-field success, even if that means sacrificing profits.

I can possibly see tension further down the line, but that can only be a good thing. The Glazers have always had a manager who will swear blind that there is always money available, even when we are failing to secure our targets. Van Gaal knows what a big rebuilding job is required and he won't stay silent if the owners start penny pinching. The Glazers will either need to start backing their big talk with big money, or admit that they want to run the "biggest club in the world" on the cheap.

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Agree with Stretfordender, it was a good thing LVG didn't come out and make predictions. I think people were expecting a mourinho like conference from when he joined chelsea in 2003.

LVG is experienced and dosent need to make a reputation by announcing himself at his age. I expect him to entertain and engage, but I think he will choose the right moments to be contraversial.

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17 Jul 2014 15:28:41
Just heard the first 10 mins of the press conference and he said that Shaw & Herrera were already sorted and he simply had to ok the deal. He now needs 3 weeks+ to assess the current crop.

I hope he doesn't mean Vidal, Hummels etc won't be signed until he has seen what he has got and how they can pick up his style. This could mean we miss out and frankly class players like these can pick up any style.

Probably explains why things have gone quiet.

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I wouldn't worry beast, he will have his targets and he will know fine well there's a few players not up to it but he can't really come out and say it, he's just covering himself and trying to keep harmony in the squad.

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Nothing has gone quiet Beast. MU are trying to sign players and that will not stop. He said up to four weeks. That could mean anything up to four weeks. One week? One day? Clever wording, takes the pressure off of Ed Woodward.

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Your're right there mate!
It doesn't take long to find out how good is nani, bebe, Fellani, cleverly, young, etc,,,
My 7yr old daughter even say get rid them. I'm tell her
I'm not LVG

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17 Jul 2014 13:33:15
Hi I've seen some reports saying that we are in for rues again but so are liverpool any truth eds?

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{Ed007's Note - No.}

17 Jul 2014 13:53:32
Now I know were all excited by links and possible deals for Vidal and Reus etc. i'm still hoping a deal could be done for Daley Blind. Now I know people will.say he's not the quickest and fair point but neither was sherringham or bergkamp and whist granted they were forwards and not left backs they both had fantastic football sense and were fantastic players. Also with evras imminent departure to juve he would give us experienced cover at lb for which he one ajax player of the year and also in midfield which last season he won dutch footballer of the year. He is obviously very adaptable and versatile with a good footballing brain on him.

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The problem with Blind is he won't want to come to United as a utility player. He wants to play in his favourite position in cm and, frankly, he isn't good enough to be a first choice cm for us.

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17 Jul 2014 13:01:57
Just my 2 cents, but I reckon Woodward has spoken to Vidals agent and has been told Arturo wants the move and the deal on this side is complete. Juve on the other hand will hold out for their asking price as they have no need to sell.

Its a dangerous game being played by Woodie, as an asking price offer from another big club could tempt Vidal and we cannot afford to miss out on this one imo. Not every day a player of this calibre comes along.

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17 Jul 2014 17:37:14
I have several concerns - the two most poignant being as follows.

It seems pretty much a given that Juventus need to sell in order to buy and according to Ed002 they'll likely sell one of Pogba and Vidal with their preference being that Pogba is the one to leave. The longer we haggle over the price the more likely it is that somebody makes an acceptable offer for Pogba in the meantime. If that happens any deal for Vidal could be dead in the water.

My second concern is our reluctance to pay what's needed. It's hard to get a reading of exactly what that amount is given that all of the papers seem to offer varying suggestions; but a common figure that seems to crop up is €44m/£35m.

Assuming that's anywhere near accurate; how would the player feel about us valuing him at less than £7.5m more than Fellaini or less than Andy Carrol. Our reluctance to pay what's needed raises questions about our valuation of/regard for the player and if I were Vidal I'd maybe feel that any club that came in offering the full amount wanted me a hell of a lot more than one who spent weeks haggling over a few million (especially given our recent sponsorship deal).

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17 Jul 2014 12:48:33
Just a thought but what about cleverly at RB.

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Wtf??

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Still requires a forward pass for that position too!

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Just a thought but no

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Yeah why not and we could play RVP beside Jones at CB. Worth a try and will save some £'s.

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Just a thought but if we want a cover right back how about just buy one?

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Best joke i'v heard in a long long time ha

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17 Jul 2014 13:41:37
Well I recently met Roy Keane at a function in Dublin and spoke about how disappointed I was that cleverly never kicked on from he's early promise and he said he was one of the best young lads he'd seen and great attitude and it was him that suggested the RB slot. He said he'd play and do anything that was asked of him very like a young Gary Neville.

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That would be great, a defender who would be scared to tackle. Cleverley's best position would be at another club.

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Just thought, but what about Raphael, Valencia, Jones, Varela?

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Not a Clever-ly move.

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Oh dear

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A defender who doesn't pass the ball forwards? Not sure how well that one would work!

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I think Cleverley's best position is cm for Villa.

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17 Jul 2014 16:27:39
Nomid,

The turtle?

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GDS, I got it mate. Cowabunga dude!

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Haha indeed!

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17 Jul 2014 12:05:42
Supposedly Vidal is more or less a done deal just like Shaw was a couple of weeks before it was announced (explains the similarities of negative stories in the media due to a lack of activity). Hummels is the next man on the list and apparently is likely to move as he wants the move badly.

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17 Jul 2014 12:01:56
Have we completely withdrew our interest in Vidal?

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17 Jul 2014 11:09:23
Dortmund have just announced the signing of Ginter. replacement for Hummels maybe?

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Could be seen as either that or just that they are trying to improve. Our interest in Hummels is clear though.

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17 Jul 2014 11:41:32
Or strengthing back line after suffering from cb injury crisis last season?

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Ginter's not ready to replace Hummels yet. Perhaps next summer though?

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17 Jul 2014 11:04:06
Is it just me that thinks Khedira is massively over rated? I would be happy to see him move to Arsenal or Chelsea. Every time I've seen him play I swear hr charges around aimlessly like a headless chicken.

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Couldn't agree more.

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Not in the top class bracket of players but far, far better then what we currently have

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Agreed he is very overrated, good player but the price being banded around for him is way to high.

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Better than what we have yes but I wouldn't want him.

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StandUnited
We currently have Herrera

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17 Jul 2014 09:33:08
Another conspiracy theory Ginter is meant to be a done deal to Dortmund so he could be Humells replacement

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17 Jul 2014 08:36:23
Surely with Dortmund closing in on the signing of Ginter, is a good sign that Hummels may be leaving? Or am I clutching straws?

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17 Jul 2014 00:38:15
Eds, firstly great site. Was just wondering if you could maybe narrow down who you think we will sign before September. Personally I think we need a top centre back, good holding midfielder and maybe a winger

Thanks, Dan

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{Ed002's Note - RTFP.}

17 Jul 2014 00:40:29
If we can't get Vidal or Carvahlo then anyone else think Lars Bender or Khadera are worth a look? We defiantly need another CM

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Stand-United, any 4 you have mentioned would be good signings.
I would add Schweinsteiger to the list also. He would be the ideal number 6 imo.

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I like Bender but not Khadeira. Rather have Fellaini than the overhyped wimp that is Sami.

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You genuinely think Fellaini is the better of the two!? Wow

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Both of them don't fit usual systems. They both can't defend and are not that mobile, Sami also falls over so easy and feigns injury far too much, he is meant to be a ball winning midfielder or box to box (not sure which he is best at neither is anyone) and yet he dips toes in. At least Fellaini can impact certain games at certain times. Sami has done nothing for me of note. All this major hype has started since the Brazil drubbing, when frankly any pro footballer would have done well in that team against that opposition.

He is a trap and I hope Arsenal & Chelsea fall for it.

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16 Jul 2014 16:17:47
Eds do you think. with this yes or no or may b situation with Vidal. if the deal goes off. I think then we may not sign any other cdm and wait for LvGs forever fav. Kevin strootman in january window. thoughts?

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{Ed004's Note - I'm hoping we get Vidal this summer and then Strootman in January. If we don't get Vidal now we need another signing and I'm not sure who. Maybe Carvalho}

Juve have lost a popular manager who it seems quit because of them selling their best players. Knowing what Italian fans are like, Juve do not want to admit this and are saying they are not selling Vidal. I still expect him to sign for us!

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17 Jul 2014 09:02:37
Second that ed004.

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I think the Strootman signing is outside the Vidal deal. he is a van gaal favourite and would play 6 if we get Vidal or could play box to box if not.
He is strong, assured on the ball and would balance the team.
Hoping for late summer buy as rumours he may be back in training already.

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