THE NET CLOSES IN

Last updated : 26 June 2002 By Editor
In an interview with an Italian football web site Thuram's agent said that his
own client's transfer to Old Trafford was complicated by the Rio factor.

"It's true Thuram's transfer to Manchester United is becoming complicated, it
appears they are dealing with Ferdinand's transfer and that could see the end
of talks on Thuram. If Thuram does not move to Manchester United, then he
will remain at Juventus."

WARNING: 'Italian style conspiracy theory coming up: those with a weak
constitution should look away now'

With no money from the sale of Thuram this could take Juve out of the market
for Nesta meaning that cash-strapped Lazio would have to raise funds
elsewhere - by selling Stam to Leeds, according to the Mail. The price they
could extract from the sheep would have to be enough for a down payment on
Veron whose move back to Rome would release the funds for Ferguson to do
the Ferdinand deal without anyone in the plc boardroom breaking out into a
cold sweat.


But what's this?

Juve's English agent Pino Pagliara said: "Ferdinand's displays at the World
Cup have made people take notice. We know Man United are keen on him
and we intend to look at whether Juventus can sign him instead."