In developments since yesterday (Friday), Gareth Bale, who resisted saying anything about Real Madrid in their courtship of him, has been telling pals something different about Manchester United.
Encouragingly, the fleet footed Welsh man has confided to pals that he is interested in a move to the Premier League Champions.
Furthermore, & breaking with tradition, Tottenham Hotspur last night refused to comment on whether or not an official bid had been made.
Normally, one would expect some sharp shrift from the Daniel Levy led Londoners, even something akin to hostility, when someone comes knocking for one of their Star Players ~ but this time, not even a peep.
This hostility is one of his negotiating strategies, whereby the buying club has to "Show Spurs the Money" (i.e. up the bid considerably).
It is an excellent ploy by Levy where he shows utter contempt for the bidding & bargaining process, unless the money being offered is astounding and head turning. Basically, the buying club is bullied into 'flashing the cash', and showing their hand early in a bid to curry favour with Levy.
Levy and Spurs had their opportunity last night to employ this now familiar strategy (through the press) with the buying club (United). But nothing!
We would definitely expect to hear something today in the form of an outright refusal, or something contemptuous of the bid. Or, if there is nothing, Manchester United and it's fans could take that as a positive sign.
Understandably, the winger has made no secret of his ambition to play in the Champions League, which will not be achieved with his current Club, as they finished in fifth spot, one place outside Champions League Qualification. Bale is of the opinion that time is precious & not to be wasted.
Playing with Manchester United is going to realise that ambition for Bale.The Premier League champions are currently in Australia for the pre-season tour and the Mail reports the Red Devils' chief executive, Ed Woodward has flown back to to do "urgent transfer business."
Some speculate that it is to tie-up the Fabregas deal, now theres a new exciting twist with the Welsh Speedster reputedly becoming a top priority.
This is in light of reports that Cristiano Ronaldo is close to agreeing terms on a new contract with Real Madrid.
Woodward has already backed Moyes in making stellar signings by confirming that the club has no budget to adhere to. Bale has been in scintillating form and has become a wanted man in Europe. And he will be the Marquee signing that stamps David Moyes authority on the current United squad.
Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy is loathe to let the PFA Player and Young Player of the Year winner to depart White Hart Lane this summer, and he (Levy)is a fierce negotiator. United expect to be driven upwards by his uncompromising negotiating tactics.
However, United are hotly tipped to sign Bale in time for the start of the Premier League season.
The Red Devils are on a serious recruitment drive as they look to improve the quality & depth of the squad at Old Trafford in the wake of the Ferguson era.
The prospective signings of Fabregas & Bale would bring them in line with the quality of Chelsea & Man City. United know they have catching up to do in the Transfer Market, as it is believed that Ferguson had his squad achieving above the sum of its component parts.