Manchester United have made the trip to Bavaria for their final preseason exhibition match of 2018-19. In a couple hours they will kick off at the Allianz Arena versus Bayern Munich. Let’s take a spin through some of the news and notes items that are circulating on the internet this Sunday fun day.
-Inter Milan winger Ivan Perisic was the fourth player United manager Jose Mourinho wanted to sign last summer, but the two clubs couldn’t agree on a transfer fee. Mourinho made it clear that he wanted four signings, and he only got three. With the transfer window closing Thursday, it’s looking like 2018 will also see the club falling short of expectations in the transfer market.
Perisic hasn’t been linked to United much this summer, as he ended up signing a contract extension with Inter last summer.
Perisic has had a wonderful summer, helping lead Croatia to a historical runner’s up finish in the World Cup in Russia. Now, in a very candid interview with Sportske Novosti, he has put United, as well as any other potential suitors in England or Spain, on notice.
“I would like to test myself in all of the biggest leagues, but the question is will I have the time? I am 29 and working to extend my career as long as I can,” Perisic said.
“Yes, I’d like to play in England and Spain, but I don’t know if there is enough time left. I heard some clubs want me but they have to talk to my club and only after that could I join the negotiations and decide.”
“If I was to change club, it could only be to a top league and top club. Only God knows what will happen in future. I am happy at Inter, but we all know anything is possible in football.”
Perisic was also asked about the idea of potentially playing for Bayern boss Niko Kovac again, and his response certainly invited more speculation about a potential move to the Bavarian giants some day.
“He had very big influence on me — I played great for Croatia under him and I congratulate him on everything he has done in Germany and signing for Bayern,” the Croatian responded.
“Me? If they want me, they know where to find me.”
-What’s the latest with the Yerry Mina situation? Are United going to seal a deal acquiring the Barcelona centre back?
No, reportedly, and it looks like the other club that was interested in obtaining him has dropped their pursuit as well.
Goal: “understands United have pulled the plug on a move for Mina, focussing their attentions on landing Alderweireld instead.”
“While that would appear to clear the way for Mina to move to Everton, it is also understood that the Toffees are now not interested in re-entering negotiations for the centre-back.”
Thus it appears Mina, who hasn’t exactly had the most optimal experience at the Camp Nou since he moved over from Palmeiras in January, will probably stay put and try to win himself more playing time. In terms of Alderweireld, it’s a situation that could be a smarter play for United, but probably not this summer.
Given his contract stipulations, a deal getting done in January looks far more likely.
Paul M. Banks runs The Sports Bank.net and TheBank.News, which is partnered with News Now. Banks, a former writer for NBC Chicago.com and Chicago Tribune.com, is currently a regular contributor to SB Nation, WGN CLTV and Chicago Now.
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