What the World Cup can do for your career

By David Lee Wheatley @davewh1980 @fluent_football

The 2014 World Cup in Brazil was without doubt one of the most entertaining in the tournament's history, as several wonderfully attack-minded matches left interested onlookers breathless, along with a significant helping of surprise results for fans to feast upon throughout the competition. Meanwhile, certain individuals played their way into big moves they could only have dreamt about prior to the start of proceedings in South America. Here are the top six transfers of the summer that probably wouldn't have happened without their fine performances in Brazil...

6. Gary Medel (Chile) - Cardiff City to Inter - Reported Fee: £10m

Medel was utilised as a defensive central midfielder during his one and only campaign in South Wales to little effect with relegated Cardiff City, but performed outstandingly in a central defensive role for his country at the World Cup when helping Chile reach the last-16 stage. They beat Australia and reigning champions Spain comfortably, before losing to Holland in a final group match which mattered little. They were back at their best against hosts Brazil in the first knockout round when losing out agonisingly on penalties. Medel remained rock solid throughout and his form earned a massive move to Serie A with Milanese giants Internazionale.

5. Daryl Janmaat (Holland) - Feyenoord to Newcastle United - Reported fee: £5m

Dutchman Daryl Janmaat wasn't named in connection with any Premier League sides prior to the World Cup, but his impressive showings as a right wing-back under Louis van Gaal at the World Cup convinced Newcastle United to pounce for his signature. Janmaat was one of three first-team defenders to leave Feyenoord after the tournament, along with Bruno Martins Indi and Stefan de Vrij, all of whom assisted the Netherlands to a highly creditable third place in Brazil. At just £5million, the 25-year-old will undoubtedly prove to be a bargain signing as the season wears on.

4. Guillermo Ochoa (Mexico) - Ajaccio to Malaga - Fee: Free transfer

Ochoa was a surprise first-choice goalkeeper for Mexico at the World Cup after three years playing in the French league, while he also had worries over his future to contend with after Corsican side Ajaccio failed to renew his contract before the competition began. Despite great uncertainty, the 29-year-old was outstanding between the sticks as the Mexicans made their way into the round of 16 and his imperious showing didn't go unnoticed. Arsenal took a look before opting for Colombian David Ospina instead, but La Liga outfit Malaga finally took the plunge and handed Ochoa a three-year deal. It completed a remarkable turnaround considering the curly-haired star was unsure he'd even have a club for the 2014/15 campaign.

3. Enner Valencia (Ecuador) - Pachuca to West Ham United - Reported fee: £15m

The lesser-known of two players named 'Valencia' in the Ecuador squad (after Manchester United's Antonio), Enner Valencia made a big splash at the World Cup, out-shining his more illustrious namesake with three goals from as many games. The centre-forward had once been a winger, but was converted to a striker at Pachuca where he subsequently hit 18 goals in 23 games in the Mexican league. That prolific scoring form, coupled with his impressive displays in Brazil for his national team, led to a string of clubs bring linked to his services. It was therefore quite a shock when the Hammers managed to nab him from under the noses of several bigger names across Europe and he could turn out to be a very interesting purchase for Sam Allardyce.

2. Marcos Rojo (Argentina) - Sporting Lisbon to Manchester United - Reported fee: £16m

Rojo was largely unknown outside of Argentina and Portugal before the World Cup began, but made a big name for himself thanks to his physical defensive style and added ability to cause havoc in the opponents' box from set-pieces. Strong, good in the air and versatile, Rojo helped Argentina to reach the final in Brazil and played his way into the 'Team of the Tournament'. A protracted switch to Manchester United from Sporting ensued due to third-party ownership issues and the Portuguese side's reluctance to sell, but eventually went through to make the La Plata-born defender's dream come true.

1. James Rodriguez (Colombia) - Monaco to Real Madrid - Reported fee: £65m

23-year-old attacking midfielder Rodriguez had already been involved in a big-money move a year previous to the World Cup when leaving Porto for Monaco in a deal worth around £35m. Incredibly, his superb performances at the summer tournament for Colombia led to an almost doubling of that fee when transferring from the glamourous surroundings of Monte Carlo to the world's most famous club Real Madrid. Rodriguez was top scorer at the World Cup, while he unjustly - and inexplicably - missed out on the 'Player of the Tournament' accolade to Lionel Messi. Most expected the young superstar to turn out in Monaco colours again this season prior to his summer exploits, but there was little chance of that once he'd propelled his country to the quarter-finals against the odds. Now, he just has to compete with Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale for a spot in the team at the Bernabeu!

The six named above weren't the only ones to benefit from a productive summer; others to cap off the competition with lucrative transfers included Carlos Sanchez, Bruno Martins Indi, Stefan de Vrij, Jefferson Montero and Federico Fernandez.

Special mention, too, must go to Mexico and ex-Barcelona defender Rafael Marquez, who confounded the critics who said he was too old by enjoying an excellent World Cup and earning himself another crack at European club football with Verona at the age of 35.

It all just goes to prove that, despite all of the worldwide scouting tools available to clubs these days, there's still opportunities for footballers to earn a dream move which simply wasn't on the cards before the start of a World Cup tournament.

Bayern gear up for trophy tilt

By David Lee Wheatley

The Thursday signing of Xabi Alonso sent out a statement of intent suggesting Bayern Munich are ready for another assault on Champions' League glory following the desperately disappointing end to last season when falling to Real Madrid in the semi-final of the same competition.

Pep Guardiola has been sourcing a replacement for Toni Kroos most of the summer, who moved on to Real Madrid after a hugely successful World Cup campaign. Though the head coach had to wait until the Bundesliga season began before securing a worthy signing in Kroos' place, it could be argued that an upgrade has actually been installed in the centre of the park with the £8m purchase of the recently-retired Spanish international.

Alonso may be 32 now, but age is no barrier to a classy player of his type, who utilises his brain and passing ability more than any pace that he may have had. The ex-Liverpool star could indeed keep playing on at the highest level for many years to come and Bayern will reap the rewards of that projected longevity.

Along with the midfielder, Bayern have recruited a top-class goalkeeper in the shape of Pepe Reina to cover for the highly impressive Manuel Neuer. Additionally, Borussia Dortmund goal-getter Robert Lewandowski and powerful Roma defender Mehdi Benatia also joined up over the course of the transfer window to bolster a squad which certainly appeared a little jaded when suffering the demoralisation of heavy defeat against Real last April.

Robert Lewandowski got off the mark in competitive football for his new club in yesterday's 1-1 draw away to tough opponents Schalke, while Xabi Alonso made a tidy 68-minute debut appearance. The stats showcased what the Basque-born World Cup winner brings to any team in which he features with more touches during the match than any of his new team-mates, but Bayern struggled to create a great amount of opportunities.

However, Alonso will get fitter, while Lewandowski and Thomas Muller shall undoubtedly plunder many goals throughout the campaign in a burgeoning and potentially potent partnership.

Arjen Robben and Franck Ribery will again be absolutely crucial on either wing and with Mario Gotze gradually becoming more influential, too, it should be a very exciting season for Guardiola's men as they attempt to retain the German domestic title and regain their grip on the Champions' League crown.

Xabi Alonso will be at the heart of everything they eventually achieve and may make Real's directors feel massively regretful over their decision to sanction his switch to the Allianz Arena.

Twitter: @davewh1980

The Great Porto Gravy Train

By David Lee Wheatley

Portuguese giants FC Porto could well be the most economical club in the whole of Europe having raked in approximately £614m through transfer fees over the course of the last ten years, yet still continue producing teams capable of competing at the highest level.

A largely unknown Jose Mourinho led a vibrant young squad to UEFA Cup glory in 2003 when defeating Martin O'Neill's Celtic 3-2 after extra-time in the final, which took place in the Spanish city of Seville.

He managed to keep the bulk of his burgeoning side together and out of the clutches of interested clubs who had begun to circle over Mourinho's stars like vultures searching for prey. That ability to fend off bids for his best players paid handsome dividends twelve months on when the Oporto-based outfit defied all the odds to win the Champions' League 17 seasons after their last taste of glory in the competition.

Mourinho was hot property and he duly switched to west London club Chelsea that summer, therefore placing a huge amount of uncertainty over the futures of his players. That's where the great sell-off truly began, with the prudent directors at the club able to identify targets to bring in who could replace any of the outgoing stars sufficiently.

Internationals Paulo Ferreira and Ricardo Carvalho had been integral cogs in the defensive wheel for Porto during that historic period under Mourinho and they followed their mentor to Stamford Bridge in 2004 for a combined total of £34m. The exodus had begun in earnest, with midfield magician Deco also leaving for a lucrative £18.5m move to European giants Barcelona.

Fast-forward to 2007 and the biggest incoming money involved Pepe heading to Real Madrid for a remarkable £26.4m and promising midfielder Anderson signing up with Manchester United in a deal worth around £20m. Those two agreements highlighted FC Porto's extraordinary ability to locate talent from across the globe and develop them into world-class footballers over a relatively short space of time.

Pepe had joined the Dragons for a paltry sum of £1.7m from the Madeira-based Maritimo in 2004 and spent three years honing his game before netting Porto a whopping £24.7m profit. Meanwhile, Anderson left his Brazilian homeland and Gremio for just £4.4m in 2006 and was on the way to Old Trafford 18 league appearances later for almost five times that amount.

Jose Bosingwa and Ricardo Quaresma were the stand-out sales in 2008, moving to Chelsea and Internazionale respectively for large fees. French clubs then came in for Lucho Gonzalez and Lisandro Lopez a year later, while Bruno Alves left for Zenit St. Petersburg in a £19.4m switch in 2010.

One of the most successful Porto buys of recent times has to be deadly Colombian striker Radamel Falcao, who cost only £5m from River Plate in 2009 and scored better than a goal per game in helping the blue-and-whites to Europa League glory in 2011. That outstanding form prompted Atletico Madrid to part with £41.4m for his services to hand the Portuguese giants yet another massive injection of cash.

And, it goes on, with the wonderfully-named Hulk joining big-spending Zenit for over £48m in 2012 and the impressive creative pairing Joao Moutinho and James Rodriguez exiting for the bright lights of Monte Carlo in a reported £62m double-deal.

The latest on this long list of top names to have left the Estadio do Dragao continued earlier this transfer window with Manchester City's capture of Fernando and Eliaquim Mangala in two separate moves which totalled a mind-blowing £45.2m. Mangala set Porto back just £6m when swapping Belgium for Portugal in a 2011 when sold by Standard Liege - yet another supreme piece of business from the boys in blue.

In summary, an unbelievable 15 players have been sold for more than £15m each over the last ten years and no doubt more will follow with the likes of Jackson Martinez and Juan Quintero next on the radar of several renowned sides around the continent.

Porto's scouting network must take the majority of the credit for the conveyor belt of talent that keeps coming through the door at the Dragao. Their work in South America especially must be commended as that has proved a particularly happy hunting ground for the club on so many occasions in the past.

All of this upheaval would cause problems for most teams, but seemingly not Porto. They've claimed their domestic league title on seven occasions throughout the decade since Mourinho departed, as well the Portuguese Cup four times and a solitary UEFA Europa League crown.

It's even more surprising that Porto have enjoyed such ongoing success when taking into account the relatively meagre outlay of £293m has been utilised in the ten-year period between 2004-2014 while the incredible income of £614m has been rolling in.

To keep such a tight hold of their budget without compromising the quality on the pitch is simply remarkable and who would bet against FC Porto continuing that trend while battling for further honours at the top table of European football for many years to come?

As long as they maintain this philosophy which has served them so well, there'll be no stopping them as they attempt to fight off rivals Benfica and Sporting at home, while aiming for a repeat of that golden day in 2004 when they held aloft the most sought-after trophy in European football.

Twitter: @davewh1980

Transfer window: Manchester United's top targets

 

By David Lee Wheatley

 

 

There’s a massive rebuilding job to do at Manchester United Football Club and hugely experienced Dutchman Louis van Gaal has been entrusted with undertaking the gigantic task ahead. Many current stars will leave through the doors of Old Trafford over the course of this summer, including stalwarts Nemanja Vidic and Rio Ferdinand. With turmoil surrounding the club following such an awful season last time out under the doomed leadership of David Moyes and the recent arrival of a new manager with fresh ideas, this will be period of substantial change for the Red Devils. With that in mind, I take a look at some of the new faces we could potentially see in a United shirt come August, as the Premier League heavyweights attempt to mount a challenge for domestic honours that remained way out of their reach throughout the disappointing 2013/14 campaign.

 

ARJEN ROBBEN (Bayern Munich)

Louis van Gaal’s fellow Dutchman Arjen Robben has been earmarked as one of his new club’s priorities during this transfer window and the 30-year-old could be interested in a switch to United in order to play under his current national team boss. Their links go way back, with Van Gaal responsible for taking the flying winger to Bayern back in 2009, as they proceeded to win the Bundesliga title in their first season together in Germany. Robben has continued to blossom in Bavaria on the right-hand side of their potent forward line, creating havoc with his darting runs, accurate crossing and ruthless eye for goal. Having already featured in the Premier League for Chelsea in the past, the ex-Real Madrid man might be tempted to try his luck on these shores once more having won everything possible during his five-year stint in Munich.

LUKE SHAW (Southampton)

At 18, Luke Shaw is the latest in a long line of impressive graduates from the Southampton academy ranks and he’s made a significant impression on their commendable top-half league finish this season, while forcing his way into England’s World Cup squad ahead of the vastly experienced Chelsea wing-back Ashley Cole. It’s been a campaign of several stunning highs for the teenager and could now be capped off nicely with a move to Manchester United for around £25 million, with the player himself said to have already advised friends he is on the verge of joining the Red Devils. Usual full-back mainstay Patrice Evra has not been offered a new contract, while current understudy Alex Buttner fails to inspire much confidence at the very highest level. Therefore, it is imperative van Gaal brings in an energetic replacement as soon as possible, with the marauding Shaw fitting the bill perfectly.

TONI KROOS (Bayern Munich)

£20 million-rated central midfielder Toni Kroos has long been on Manchester United’s wish-list and recent reports suggest an agreement was struck during the Moyes era for the German international to transfer from Bayern during this close-season. Having changed managers in the meantime, it was possible that latest incumbent to the role van Gaal could have vetoed the move, but he evidently has high hopes for the stylish Kroos after apparently giving his blessing to the deal. The 24-year-old is approaching 50 caps for his country and has been regularly involved at club level under both Jupp Heynckes and Pep Guardiola. Additionally, he also played under van Gaal for one term following a year out on loan at Bayer Leverkusen during the Dutch supremo’s first year in the Bayern hot-seat. If media announcements swirling around the player’s future are to be believed, the pair wlll be reunited at United next season.

CESC FABREGAS (Barcelona)

Another long-term target Cesc Fabregas could be brought in as an attack-minded midfield partner for prospective new signing Toni Kroos, should United’s enduring pursuit of the Catalan finally come to fruition this year after their initial courtship came to nothing last summer. David Moyes was desperate to add the former Arsenal star to his ranks throughout the 2013 close-season window, but eventually failed to deliver the Barca star’s signature and ended up settling for a lesser talent in the shape of Belgian Marouane Fellaini. Having flopped badly last season, he could be on the way out to pastures new, while the likes of Fabregas and Kroos could be handed the midfield mantle alongside the reliable contributions of Darren Fletcher and Michael Carrick. Fabregas is an intelligent footballer who shone brightly during his time with the Gunners despite some troubles finding his best form at Barcelona; he is eminently capable of reproducing his sparkling form of the past back in the Premier League.

EDINSON CAVANI (Paris Saint-Germain)

The Uruguayan forward was a qualified hit with Napoli, scoring 78 goals in 104 league appearances during a three-year stay at the San Paolo. However, his big-money move to PSG has seen him played out of position as a winger, when he much prefers featuring as a central striker on his own or in tandem with another. Superstar Zlatan Ibrahimovic holds that position as a lone striker; promises made to Cavani on signing that he would play alongside the Swede in a potentially explosive strike partnership were broken and the imagined two-pronged attack never materialised. Again, Manchester United have been fervent fans of the long-haired 27-year-old for some time, with strong rumours circulating that Cavani will indeed swap Paris for the north-west of England in search of his favoured ‘number 9’ role.

MARIO MANDZUKIC (Bayern Munich)

Yet another Bayern star linked with a move to the Premier League is Croatian striker Mario Mandzukic, who is rumoured to be unhappy with the stop-start nature of his involvement in the Die Roten starting line-up under Pep Guardiola. He may feel the time is right to experience a new challenge in England, with several top clubs said to be checking on his availability including Arsenal and Chelsea. On top of the fact that Mandzukic has often been forced to play second fiddle to a midfielder such as Thomas Muller taking his spot up-front, he has also witnessed the transfer saga surrounding lethal Borussia Dortmund striker Robert Lewandowski drag on for months prior to an understanding being found earlier this year. With the Pole likely to become first choice at the Munich giants once his career there begins in earnest, it could spell the end of the ex-Wolfsburg star’s time at the club. However, his goalscoring record with Bayern is mightily impressive and he would be a magnificent asset for United should such a transfer take place.

 

Whoever does come in, they all must be of an extremely high standard in order for the team to dismiss the last campaign as a mere blip and resume their serial position of title challengers, while also regaining a European Champions’ League into the bargain. It’s sure to be a busy summer at Old Trafford, so watch this space!

 

 

Twitter: @davewh1980 



Mata the man for Moyes

By David Lee Wheatley

Juan Mata completed his surprise move to Manchester United from Chelsea yesterday for a club-record fee of £37.1 million, despite prevailing concerns over the recent decline in form at Old Trafford without Sir Alex Ferguson's leadership. Yet, the Spaniards' switch from Stamford Bridge can be interpreted as a stark message from under pressure new boss David Moyes that he means business in his pursuit of a swift return to former glories.

Two-time Blues' Player of the Year Mata fell foul of Jose Mourinho's tactical thoughts on how he sees his dynamic Chelsea team functioning during this second tenure at the west London outfit, with the Portuguese preferring Oscar, Eden Hazard and Willian across the midfield, while consistently dragging the very best out of the trio.

This meant a stop-start campaign for the frustrated playmaker, with just 13 league appearances coming his way from 22 matches played so far this season. His form suffered dramatically, forcing Mata to leave a club he loves in search of regular time on the pitch. That yearning led the former Valencia attacking midfielder to join reigning Premier League champions United, a team undergoing a dramatic and painful transition following the stuttering to a halt of a hugely successful period.

A transfer of this magnitude will reassure many United fans that the Moyes era has strong potential to be just as enjoyable as the past two decades and also signifies a steely determination from the club's hierarchy to reach the pinnacle of domestic and European football once again.

While Mata's assists and goals will undoubtedly improve the current Manchester United side substantially, the requirement for further reinforcement remains obvious. With many of United's stars aging and past their best, plus no emerging clutch of young stars a la 'The Class of '92' coming over the horizon, the Red Devils must continue to scour Europe for the very best talent available. Not only will Mata's arrival spruce up the squad, it should also convince other big names to commit to deals with United in the summer.

It appears the incoming signing has signalled transfers out of peripheral players such as Fabio and Zaha, with the pair set to leave for Cardiff City, albeit only temporarily in Zaha's case. More departures are expected both this month and during the close season, as Moyes goes about reconstructing the team to suit his own vision.

Meanwhile, Chelsea will no doubt miss the skill and poise of the little Spaniard and Mourinho will desperately hope the risky decision to let him go doesn't come back to haunt him.

Top 10: Controversial transfers of the last 25 years

 



 

By David Lee Wheatley

 

Here's my list of the most thought-provoking and shocking transfers that have taken place within the last 25 years of European football.

 

10. Robin van Persie (Arsenal to Manchester United)

Arsene Wenger was desperate not to sell number one marksman van Persie to a Premier League rival, but the player held all the cards with his contract almost up and the value on his head diminishing by the week. Despite efforts to push him in the direction of Italy and Spain, the Dutch striker remained steadfast to eventually make his dream switch to Old Trafford a reality.

 

9. Andy Cole (Newcastle United to Manchester United)

Adored by the Geordie faithful, Cole was sold by Kevin Keegan in a move that caused uproar on Tyneside. A huddle of fans approached the beleaguered boss on the icy steps of St. James' Park to remonstrate with him over the unexpected decision, but the deal had been done and there was no going back. Cole went on to become a legend under Sir Alex Ferguson in Manchester, while Keegan didn't last much longer in the Magpies' hot-seat.

 

8. Ashley Cole (Arsenal to Chelsea)

Another case of Arsenal having their hand forced in relation to a transfer of one of their players to an arch-rival. Left-back Ashley Cole was tapped-up illegally by the Stamford Bridge outfit some time before they went through the proper channels to complete the high-profile move. The England man immediately went from hero-to-zero on leaving the Gunners.

 

7. Paul Ince (West Ham United to Manchester United)

Trail-blazer Ince made the crucial mistake of having a photograph taken of him sporting the red of Manchester United prior to any agreement having been made between the clubs. The first black player to captain the full England national side became a reviled figure at Upton Park and every visit back there was a painful experience for the dynamic midfielder.

 

6. Carlos Tevez (Manchester United to Manchester City)

A consistently controversial Carlos Tevez made a break across the north-west city of Manchester to join the Light Blues, upsetting the United supporters and manager Ferguson no end. The 'Noisy Neighbours', as they were christened by Sir Alex, took to putting up huge billboards of Tevez above the tag-line 'Welcome To Manchester' in an obvious tactic to rile up their nearest-and-dearest. Throughout a turbulent stay with City, Tevez remained a thorn in the side of United, helping City to the Premier League title in 2012.

 

5. Mo Johnston (Nantes to Glasgow Rangers) 

Having established himself as an idol at Parkhead with Celtic fans, Johnston moved on to an adventure in France with Nantes. Two years later, Graeme Souness made the brave choice to bring Johnston back to Scottish football with Rangers, while the player himself snubbed a proposed return to his former side. Though not the first Catholic player to feature for the predominantly Protestant club, he certainly was by far the most high-profile to do so. With the searing local rivalry, coupled with the religious differences between the two sides, the transfer surprised many onlookers. However, Johnston did well on the field for his new team in scoring almost a goal every two games. Despite the amount of time that has passed since, many Hoops followers will never forgive him.

 

4. Sol Campbell (Tottenham Hotspur to Arsenal)

England defender Campbell once uttered the words in an official Spurs club magazine that he'd never sign for Arsenal, but he duly did in 2001. The Tottenham supporters spent plenty of time demonstrating over the switch and carnage ensued when the Arsenal team coach arrived at White Hart Lane in anticipation of a hotly-contested north London derby. Campbell was a rock at the heart of the Gunners' defence for many years and made a brief return for a second spell late in his career.

 

3. Eric Cantona (Leeds United to Manchester City)

Fresh from winning the First Division title at Elland Road, the French genius left for Manchester United in a bargain £1.2m move that shocked the Yorkshire side of the Pennines to its very core. Although a troublesome character at times, Cantona wowed crowds with his sublime technique and skill during a five-year stay at Old Trafford. Leeds boss Howard Wilkinson was vilified for letting him go and Alex Ferguson hailed for snapping him up in equal measure once the forward went on to forge a position as one of the Red Devils' all-time greats, before retiring prematurely aged just 31.

 

2. Roberto Baggio (Fiorentina to Juventus)

The 'Divine Ponytail' set off riots in the city of Florence when sold to Turin giants Juventus in 1990. Over 50 people were injured on the streets at the height of the trouble, as Fiorentina's finest left for pastures new following an impressive showing at the Italia '90 World Cup. Baggio went on to establish himself at the Delle Alpi as a true legend of the Italian game, while Fiorentina suffered demotion to Serie B a short while later, before scrambling back to the top.

 

1. Luis Figo (Barcelona to Real Madrid)

Portuguese wizard Figo made the seldom-travelled journey from Catalonia to the Spanish capital following several sterling seasons at Camp Nou. The Galacticos operation was in full swing at that time and the attacking midfielder sat way up high on Real's hit-list. Outrage ensued in Barcelona and the Cules simply couldn't wait to vent their displeasure in the direction of one-time favourite Figo on his return. Consequently he was pelted with numerous objects whenever he dared venture anywhere near the touchline or corner flag, including a pig's head, on a night he'll never forget!

 

Twitter: @davewh1980

 

  

Where will Bale fit at Madrid?

By David Lee Wheatley

Gareth Bale's protracted move from Tottenham Hotspur to Real Madrid moved a step closer today with the revelation of the player's lawyers arrival in the Spanish capital to finalise the switch, as Bale already indicated his own agreement with the personal terms on offer.

Unfortunately, the PFA and Football Writers' reigning Player of the Year let himself down slightly with his refusal to train at current club Spurs since Tuesday, due to the growing frustration he feels over the tedious nature of negotiations regarding the size of an expected world-record transfer fee.

Real Madrid realised recently what many sides in the past already knew - Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy is an extremely difficult negotiator to compromise with. He's forever determined to reach the very best conclusion for his club by wringing every last ounce of value from any given deal, no matter how long it takes.

Despite the delays, it's likely the saga will end this weekend or Monday - transfer deadline day - at the very latest. When Bale does sign, the next unknown within this intriguing dynamic is where he will fit in amongst a galaxy of stars at the Bernabeu.

Cristiano Ronaldo wants to be top dog at the club, evidenced once more during the last few days when it emerged he'd suggested to the Real hierarchy he simply didn't want the fee that eventually captures Bale to eclipse the £80m spent on him in 2009. Ronaldo is seen as something of a forerunner to the Welsh international and there are similarities; they frequently display versatility yet play in similar roles and have a penchant for scoring goals from deep-lying positions, both players take a stunning free-kick in similar style to one another and the two also enjoy running at pace towards petrified opposition defences.

Ronaldo can play wide, but has moved into a more central position at Real as time progressed in a parallel manner to Bale at White Hart Lane. Now the pair will be fighting for a starting berth in their favoured role in the middle of the attack, but only one can take the spot.

Meanwhile, competition on the left flank will come from Angel Di Maria, if he sticks around, and more prominently from the fantastic young Spaniard Isco, who is making waves early in his fledgling Madrid career following a summer move from Malaga.

If Bale aims for central midfield, but perhaps in a less advanced part of the pitch to Ronaldo, then he potentially comes up against stern competition from Mesut Ozil, Luka Modric, Kaka and Sami Khedira; all are not expected to remain at the Bernabeu, however.

The extremely highly-rated former Southampton man faces a battle on his hands just to gain a place in the starting line-up and could see his career stall if regular appearances aren't forthcoming. However, should head coach Carlo Ancelotti find a tactical solution within his plans that allows Bale and Ronaldo to co-exist in the same side, then Real Madrid could find themselves in possession of the most powerful attacking unit in European football.

What the Welshman will be desperate to avoid is a repeat of the spells suffered with the Castillian giants by fellow Brits including Jonathan Woodgate and Michael Owen, who both sat out large chunks of their stays due to a potent cocktail of injuries, suspension and a lack of faith from their manager; the splendid period in Spain enjoyed by former Liverpool star Steve McManaman will be the dream scenario for Bale to emulate.

Two-time La Liga and Champions League victor McManaman recently backed Bale to be a success in Madrid, while making it clear he'll need to concentrate on his football in an effort to cope with huge pressure from the media and public alike.

Should he manage to make an impression on the field, while learning the language and integrating off it, then 24-year-old Spurs phenomenon Bale will be fully capable of winning over the team's fanatical support amid Real's attempts to claim several major trophies during his stay.

He may have to cede main-man status to Cristiano Ronaldo, but football's latest superstar holds significant potential himself to further an outstanding reputation by creating a massive impact at one of the world's greatest sporting institutions.

Twitter: @davewh1980

Facebook.com/DLWSports

Transfer market set for overdrive

By David Lee Wheatley

With only five days left before the transfer window slams shut on most of Europe this summer, a selection of massive deals are expected to come to fruition in order to facilitate a massive amount of movement between clubs of all sizes over coming days.

Many managers voiced their disapproval recently of a transfer period that goes on beyond the start of the domestic fixture calendar, but there’s no denying the excitement generated for fans up-and-down the country surrounding the subject of who their team will bring in and/or lose by 2 September.

Gareth Bale refused to train with Tottenham Hotspur in a row over the protracted nature of negotiations between his current club and suitors Real Madrid, as the Welshman bids to force through a dream switch to the Bernabeu and it’s expected to trigger a knock-on effect throughout the Premier League once Bale finally completes his move.

North London rivals Arsenal plan to introduce at least two top-class players to appease their restless fans, with Real Madrid’s Angel Di Maria high up on Arsene Wenger’s wish-list. A deal for the Argentine winger largely depends upon Bale making it to Madrid and could be sealed quickly once Carlo Ancelotti gets his man.

Meanwhile, Manchester United have been linked with a plethora of potential signings, as have title rivals Chelsea and Manchester City. All appear ready and revved-up to pounce as deadline day approaches ever nearer on the horizon.

A little further down the pecking order, Newcastle United look set to sign two more strikers in the shape of Gomis from Lyon and old boy Demba Ba on loan from Chelsea, while the likes of West Brom, Crystal Palace, Sunderland, Fulham and Cardiff City all pronounced their intentions to add more recruits to their respective squads if at all possible.

The biggest mooted deals have taken an age to resolve and some are seemingly off altogether, with Arsenal target Luis Suarez set to stay with Liverpool and Manchester United intent on holding on to Wayne Rooney, whom Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho has been courting all summer-long.

However, more mega-money transfers are in the offing and will begin the cascading of cash through the major leagues of European football, making for a very interesting last few days of the window as clubs prepare for the long-haul to January before they can buy again.

Twitter: @davewh1980

Facebook.com/DLWSports

Fab future for Fabregas

By David Lee Wheatley

Former Arsenal star Cesc Fabregas today put paid to speculation surrounding his future at hometown team Barcelona by insisting the dream to play for the Camp Nou club may have been realised but is not yet at an end.

Having made his debut with the Gunners at the tender age of 16 following a switch from Barcelona's famed La Masia youth academy, the Spaniard spent eight happy years in north London before the lure of a return to Catalonia became too hard to resist.

Despite starting 30 La Liga matches last season, the talented midfielder failed to fully convince Barca fans of his worth. Fabregas has since been strongly linked with a move back to England, with Manchester United ready and willing to fork out over £30million to land the 26-year-old.

New United boss David Moyes seemed doggedly determined to capture the attacking midfield man, as the Old Trafford outfit vigorously pursued his signature over the last couple of weeks.

The death of the deal will be a big blow to Moyes as attempts to stamp his authority on the well established United line-up continue to labour, while Barcelona head coach Gerardo Martino will be relieved to have the Spain international available to him for the forseeable future.

It's a critical time for Fabregas and he must produce a consistently high level of performance to finally win over supporters and show them his true colours.

Twitter: @davewh1980
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Luiz fits the Barcelona framework

By David Lee Wheatley

Barcelona have today put in an official bid for Chelsea central defender David Luiz, which has been rejected initially by the west London club.

The Brazilian has long been linked to a switch to the Nou Camp, but Jose Mourinho appears keen to keep him.

Incoming Barcelona head coach Gerardo Martino earmarked the versatile 26-year-old as vital to his strategy on arrival at the club, but the reported £35million on the table hasn't tempted the Blues to sell as yet.

David Luiz fits into the Barcelona way perfectly with his marauding runs from defence, attacking capabilities in the opposition box from set-pieces and undoubted skill on the ball. It's true that his insistence on going forward can sometimes leave a hole in defensive areas, but his ability far outweighs the disadvantages of having him in the side.

Returning Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho had to bat away questions over the future of Luiz during the first few weeks of his second tenure by stating several times that the Brazil international is part of his plans, but there's been an overriding feeling that Chelsea would be willing to listen to offers if the Portuguese tactician could secure a worthy replacement.

The next step is to see if Barca come back with an improved bid for the player who only signed a new five-year contract last September at Stamford Bridge and if so, it'll be intriguing to hear the response.

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Transfer window mid-point

By David Lee Wheatley

At the middle point of the transfer window, there’s already several new signings completed involving teams from the English Premier League. What will the new men bring to the league and who’ll have the biggest impact from the array of players that made the journey to England from abroad this summer thus far?

TOP TEN (in no particular order)
*Goals/games for domestic league fixtures only

Alvaro Negredo (SEVILLA TO MANCHESTER CITY) 12-13 SEASON – GAMES: 36 GOALS: 25*
The top Spanish goalscorer in La Liga last season, Negredo is big, strong and mighty in the air. His build and athleticism should allow him to compete in the rough-and-tumble of English football with ease. The Spain international striker made his name at Almeria before furthering his reputation with a number of fine displays with Andalusian side Sevilla. He’ll fit nicely into Pellegrini’s way of thinking at City in the new campaign.

Andre Schurrle (LEVERKUSEN TO CHELSEA) 12-13 SEASON – GAMES: 34 GOALS: 11*
Versatile German international Schurrle was schedule to join Chelsea prior to Mourinho announcing his return as coach, but the deal was ratified by the Portuguese tactician and Schurrle appears a big part of his plans. He can play on the wing, as a second striker or leader of the frontline and will provide pace and awareness of the players around him. Schurrle also knows where the goal is and will surely make a splash at Chelsea if given regular time in the side.

Emanuele Giaccherini (JUVENTUS TO SUNDERLAND) 12-13 SEASON – GAMES: 17 GOALS: 3*
Italian international Giaccherini joined Sunderland this summer for a reported £6.8million fee and is exactly the creative player head coach Paolo Di Canio will look to for inspiration from midfield. Giaccherini is capable of playing on either wing or in the centre of the park and will be the go-to figure for Sunderland when attacking. The former Cesena man looked very impressive for his country at the recent Confederations’ Cup and he’ll attempt to replicate that fine form on his arrival in the Premier League.

Wilfried Bony (VITESSE ARNHEM TO SWANSEA CITY) 12-13 SEASON – GAMES: 30 GOALS: 31*
Six-foot forward Bony represents a coup for south Wales side Swansea City, as they beat off strong competition for his signature. The Dutch league Footballer of the Year is a powerful unit and with a scoring record of a goal per game, the Ivory Coast international certainly sounds the part; next task is to look it at the highest level.

Leroy Fer (FC TWENTE TO NORWICH CITY) 12-13 SEASON – GAMES: 26 GOALS: 5*
Dutch international Fer witnessed a move to Everton break down in January, but finally got his wish to play Premier League football with a summer switch to Norwich City. The 23-year-old featured for his country at all levels and impressed at FC Twente over the last two seasons following more than 100 appearances in the colours of Feyenoord. Norwich City manager Chris Hughton may have grabbed himself a bargain; Everton’s loss is Norwich’s gain.

Gerard Deloufeu (BARCELONA TO EVERTON) 12-13 SEASON – GAMES: 34 GOALS: 18*
One of the more intriguing signings so far this transfer window is that of Barcelona teenager Gerard Deloufeu. The 19-year-old forward joined Everton on a season-long loan and will attempt to develop his skills further under the tutelage of fellow Spaniard Roberto Martinez. Despite a lack of first-team experience, Deloufeu is highly-rated and promises to be a star in the making. His 18 goals from 33 ‘B’ team matches last season suggest an eye for a goal and the youngster has skill to burn. Also, he can play wide right or up-front, offering new Everton boss Martinez various options.

Ricky Van Wolfswinkel (SPORTING TO NORWICH CITY) 12-13 SEASON – GAMES: 30 GOALS: 14*
Another Dutch international to land in the Canaries’ nest is Sporting Lisbon hit-man Ricky Van Wolfswinkel. The former Vitesse and Utrecht striker agreed to join Norwich during the last campaign and the move was officially confirmed at the season’s end. An assortment of massive European clubs were linked to RVW in the past, due to the promise shown by the wonderfully-named Dutchman. For reasons unknown, the big move never materialised; now Norwich will hope to reap the benefits.

Paulinho (CORINTHIANS TO TOTTENHAM) CORINTHIANS TOTAL – GAMES: 86 GOALS: 20
Brazil international midfielder Paulinho was perhaps the outstanding player of the Confederations’ Cup as the host nation romped to a well-deserved tournament victory. His form prompted a bevy of European sides to make a play for his services and £17million later he was confirmed a Tottenham player. Skill on the ball, supreme balance and a penchant for spectacular goals resurrects memories of Brazilian stars of old and will endear him to the Spurs faithful swiftly. Paulinho promises to be one of the Premier League buys of the summer.

Marco Van Ginkel (VITESSE ARNHEM TO CHELSEA) 12-13 SEASON – GAMES: 33 GOALS: 8*
Central midfielder Van Ginkel helped Vitesse to a surprise 4th spot in the Eredivisie last season and woke Chelsea up to his potential, amongst others. He won the Dutch Talent of the Year crown (much like the English Young Player of the Year award) for his performances in the middle of the park and prompted Mourinho to nab him. The only concern around Van Ginkel is how much playing time he’ll be afforded at Stamford Bridge, but certainly he possesses the ability on the ball and all-round energy to prove a valuable addition to the squad.

Fernandinho (SHAKHTAR TO MANCHESTER CITY) 12-13 SEASON – GAMES: 23 GOALS: 2*
£30million-man Fernandinho spent eight years in Donetsk while getting largely ignored by his national team. His ability isn’t in doubt though, following some fine showings in the Champions League for the Ukrainian side. The box-to-box midfielder has electric pace and will be more than capable of holding his own in the fast and furious world of the Premier League. At 28, his prime years should coincide with the switch to Manchester City.

Twitter: @davewh1980
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