RSS
ATOM
advertisement
The Ones That Got Away: Transfer Deals That Never Happened
Goal.com looks back over the summer transfers that never quite came to fruition.
Sep 1, 2010 8:30:00 AM
By Paul Macdonald
Maicon (Inter – Real Madrid)
Jose Mourinho lifted the Champions League trophy at the Santiago Bernabeu with the Nerazzurri, and decided he liked the place so much he wanted to stay. Real Madrid were delighted to have him, and one of his first acts was to launch a protracted chase for the flying full-back to invigorate his los Blancos revolution.
Massimo Moratti, however, wasn't interested in losing the Brazilian so soon after the Special One’s departure and in the end the €40 million price tag proved too substantial for this new, relatively austere Madrid.
Could it still happen?
This one isn’t over yet – expect Mourinho to return next summer, if he’s still in charge, that is….
Cesc Fabregas (Arsenal – Barcelona)
The longest soap opera in transfer history looked destined to be resolved this summer. Sandro Rosell had waltzed into the Barcelona presidency with a declaration of intent to "bring Cesc home", a feat that former incumbent Joan Laporta had tirelessly struggled to achieve.
However, the Gunners set out making things as difficult as possible for the Blaugrana, placing numerous barriers in front of the deal, and despite Fabregas’ desperate desire to return to the Camp Nou, Rosell’s budget would not stretch beyond €40m. Arsenal balked at that valuation, and the deal was dead.
Could this still happen?
Expect Barcelona v Arsenal: The Cesc Wars to have another chapter by this time next year.
Mauro Zarate (Lazio – Tottenham Hotspur)
The diminutive Argentine emerged as a possible target for Harry Redknapp as the transfer window drew to a close. With the London club allegedly waiting until they had negotiated their Champions League play-off round before spending, the rumor mill went into overdrive, with Zarate being described as the blue-chip purchase required to take them to the next level.
However, while Zarate had spoken of his intention to return to the Premier League after his previous loan spell at Birmingham, his name appeared to be one of many thrust in the transfer window mix, and a deal was never close to being completed with the Rome club.
Could this still happen?
With the Rafael van der Vaart switch from Real Madrid still hanging in the balance, much will depend on Tottenham’s ability to find a playmaker for the European stage.
Edin Dzeko (Wolfsburg – Milan/Man City/Juventus)
For the second summer in succession, the prolific Bosnian has been linked with a move out of German football. In 2009 he renewed his contract to stave off interest from Milan, but his turn as Bundesliga top scorer in 2009-10 despite Die Wolfe’s testing campaign had the Rossoneri circling once more.
Manchester City were also keeping tabs on the 24-year-old, but Juventus’ interest was far more substantial. Dzeko coveted a switch to Turin, but Wolfsburg would not budge, refusing to consider relinquishing their prize asset.
Could this still happen?
Milan are just a bit top-heavy with attacking options now, to say the least, but Juventus are still short of firepower, and it would be no surprise if Dezko remains their prime target.
Mark Schwarzer (Fulham – Arsenal)
The Gunners' horrendous luck with goalkeepers in recent seasons saw them chase the giant Aussie who is generally regarded as one of the safest pairs of hands in the Premier League – distinctly safer than those of Almunia and Fabianski.
Arsene Wenger reportedly offered €2.5m, but Fulham wanted more for a ‘keeper who is 38 in October. Arsenal wouldn't go any higher, and so Schwarzer remained at Craven Cottage, regardless of his longing for a move to the Emirates.
Could this still happen?
Schwarzer isn’t getting any younger, but if Arsenal’s current crop have made errors between the sticks by January, don’t be surprised to see Wenger willing to drive him to Ashburton Grove personally.
Neymar (Santos – Chelsea)
Given the recent trend for South American stars to vacate the continent when an offer from Europe arrives, it was wholly expected that Chelsea’s interest in the sparkling 18-year-old would culminate in a move to Stamford Bridge.
However, in what some would call a refreshing twist, the highly-rated Brazilian rejected the Blues’ advances, opting instead to sign an improved, long-term contract to remain with Santos, and leave Chelsea disappointed.
Could this still happen?
It is inevitable that Neymar will ply his trade in Europe eventually, and Chelsea will lead the way in securing his signature.
Gregory van der Wiel (Ajax – Bayern Munich)
The right full-back’s emergence at World Cup 2010 as part of the Netherlands team that contested the final prompted Champions League runners-up Bayern Munich to offer the Amsterdam giants cash, plus the services of Edson Braafheid, to lure the 22-year-old to the Allianz Arena.
However, the deal appeared to hit a series of snags, one of which was Braafheid’s reluctance to leave Die Roten, and eventually Louis van Gaal admitted defeat, instead choosing to remain a silent witness during this transfer window.
Could this still happen?
Van Gaal’s prudence and the club’s self-control in not splurging cash on an inferior alternative could mean that they will return with the required amount of reddies at a later date.
Eljero Elia (Hamburg – Wolfsburg/Juventus)
The Dutch wing ace became the subject of speculation as the German and Italian sides, already familiar with each other from the Dzeko transfer that never was, turned their attentions to the 23-year-old member of the Netherlands World Cup squad.
However, this particular deal never seemed to get off the ground; the bidding parties were reportedly never in the right ballpark in respect of assessment of value, while the player seemed unconcerned with the rumors and did not issue any intention to move on.
Could this still happen?
Perhaps, but with Die Wolfe snaring Diego and Juventus opting for Milos Krasic instead, it’s unlikely that a January raid will be on the agenda of either club.
Luis Fabiano (Sevilla – Milan/Tottenham/Marseille)
A whole host of clubs were scrambling to sign the Brazilian who, like Edin Dezko, had been linked with a move to pastures new for the best part of a year. With Sevilla facing a tricky Champions League qualifying play-off match, their main objective was to retain the 29-year-old for as long as possible, and no club was willing to meet their exorbitant valuation.
Tottenham came closest to offering Fabiano a route to the Premier League, but after los Nervionenes crashed out of the Champions League to Braga, Sevilla knew their appraisal of Fabiano would have to drop, too. As a result, they moved quickly to secure Fabiano on a two-year contract extension and obliterate the gossip, for now.
Could this still happen?
Upon renewing his deal, Fabiano’s comments were those of a player very much at home in his current surroundings, and given he is 30 before the end of the year, this could well be a deal that has been put to bed for good.
Fernando Torres (Liverpool – Chelsea)
There can be no denying that the English champions wanted to sign El Nino during the summer, with a fee in the region of €75m mooted in some sources. The Blues have been comparatively quiet of late in terms of acquisitions, and with Didier Drogba not getting any younger, Torres emerged as their top target.
The player himself though has previously discussed his love of Liverpool, and the arrival of Roy Hodgson coupled with Steven Gerrard’s commitment to all things Anfield seem to persuade Torres that he could still win the trophies at club level he craves. Chelsea were forced to admit defeat.
Could this still happen?
In short, yes. Liverpool still haven’t found a buyer and if the reports are to be believed, have hefty bank payments to be settled sooner rather than later, for which Torres’ transfer value alone could pay for.
Arda Turan (Galatasaray – Atletico Madrid)
This proposed deal came literally from nowhere as the window’s end edged closer, but there was a legitimate need for los Colchoneros to strengthen in the wide areas following the departure of Jose Jurado to Schalke, earlier in the same day.
An €11m offer was thrown out though by the Turkish side, who have made a number of signings of their own and were understandably reluctant to release their club captain and star for such a paltry fee, in terms of the current going rate. There was no time for deliberations – the window had closed before Atletico could consider amending their bid.
Could this still happen?
Unlikely. Gala would face a mutiny on their hands if they were to let Turan leave for the amount that the Spanish giants value him at. Put this one in the ‘cheeky offer’ category.
Dirk Kuyt (Liverpool – Inter)
The Dutchman, who was a stalwart of the Rafa Benitez era at Anfield, was the subject of an offer from the Spaniard who wanted the ex-Feyenoord man to join him in Italy with the Champions League winners.
The Nerazzurri made a formal approach to Liverpool for Kuyt, but after days of uncertainty, the 30-year-old announced after netting in the Europa League win over Trabzonspor that he had no intention of leaving the club, despite Rafa’s recommendation, and any potential move was nullified in one fell swoop.
Could this still happen?
Very unlikely – if it was going to happen at any point, given the player’s age and possible availability if the price was right, it would have been this summer.
Antonio Di Natale (Udinese – Juventus)
The 32-year-old was one of the stars of Serie A last season, finishing on top of the goalscoring charts, prompting an international call-up for the Azzurri’s ill-fated venture to South Africa. Arriving Juve coach Luigi Del Neri reckoned that Di Natale could score the goals needed to improve on the prior year’s desperate seventh place finish.
The Bianconeri captain however is apparently enjoying life in Udine, and chose to rebuff the Turin giants offer to remain, essentially, a big fish in Udinese’s mid-table pond.
Could this still happen?
No, Di Natale is 33 in two months’ time and his flat refusal will ensure Juventus never return.
Sergio Aguero/Diego Forlan (Atletico Madrid – Inter)
Los Colchoneros’ irrepressible pairing have garnered an impressive South American understanding during their three seasons together, and playing in tandem aided Atletico to end their 14-year trophy drought by lifting the Europa League title.
Inter president Massimo Moratti, allegedly infuriated at the languid nature of the club’s transfer activity in comparison to rivals Milan, was ready to do whatever it took to land either forward in a deadline day deal to end all deals. But it proved to be just speculation as Atletico vehemently guarded their prize assets until the window closed.
Could this still happen?
Perhaps, but it would take a gargantuan offer, particularly to secure Aguero.
For all the latest transfer news visit Goal.com's Transfer Zone and join Goal.com USA's Facebook fan page!
Jose Mourinho lifted the Champions League trophy at the Santiago Bernabeu with the Nerazzurri, and decided he liked the place so much he wanted to stay. Real Madrid were delighted to have him, and one of his first acts was to launch a protracted chase for the flying full-back to invigorate his los Blancos revolution.
Massimo Moratti, however, wasn't interested in losing the Brazilian so soon after the Special One’s departure and in the end the €40 million price tag proved too substantial for this new, relatively austere Madrid.
Could it still happen?
This one isn’t over yet – expect Mourinho to return next summer, if he’s still in charge, that is….
Maicon decided he preferred Rafa's company
Cesc Fabregas (Arsenal – Barcelona)
The longest soap opera in transfer history looked destined to be resolved this summer. Sandro Rosell had waltzed into the Barcelona presidency with a declaration of intent to "bring Cesc home", a feat that former incumbent Joan Laporta had tirelessly struggled to achieve.
However, the Gunners set out making things as difficult as possible for the Blaugrana, placing numerous barriers in front of the deal, and despite Fabregas’ desperate desire to return to the Camp Nou, Rosell’s budget would not stretch beyond €40m. Arsenal balked at that valuation, and the deal was dead.
Could this still happen?
Expect Barcelona v Arsenal: The Cesc Wars to have another chapter by this time next year.
Mauro Zarate (Lazio – Tottenham Hotspur)
The diminutive Argentine emerged as a possible target for Harry Redknapp as the transfer window drew to a close. With the London club allegedly waiting until they had negotiated their Champions League play-off round before spending, the rumor mill went into overdrive, with Zarate being described as the blue-chip purchase required to take them to the next level.
However, while Zarate had spoken of his intention to return to the Premier League after his previous loan spell at Birmingham, his name appeared to be one of many thrust in the transfer window mix, and a deal was never close to being completed with the Rome club.
Could this still happen?
With the Rafael van der Vaart switch from Real Madrid still hanging in the balance, much will depend on Tottenham’s ability to find a playmaker for the European stage.
Edin Dzeko (Wolfsburg – Milan/Man City/Juventus)
For the second summer in succession, the prolific Bosnian has been linked with a move out of German football. In 2009 he renewed his contract to stave off interest from Milan, but his turn as Bundesliga top scorer in 2009-10 despite Die Wolfe’s testing campaign had the Rossoneri circling once more.
Manchester City were also keeping tabs on the 24-year-old, but Juventus’ interest was far more substantial. Dzeko coveted a switch to Turin, but Wolfsburg would not budge, refusing to consider relinquishing their prize asset.
Could this still happen?
Milan are just a bit top-heavy with attacking options now, to say the least, but Juventus are still short of firepower, and it would be no surprise if Dezko remains their prime target.
Dzeko - not 'Edin to Juventus
Mark Schwarzer (Fulham – Arsenal)
The Gunners' horrendous luck with goalkeepers in recent seasons saw them chase the giant Aussie who is generally regarded as one of the safest pairs of hands in the Premier League – distinctly safer than those of Almunia and Fabianski.
Arsene Wenger reportedly offered €2.5m, but Fulham wanted more for a ‘keeper who is 38 in October. Arsenal wouldn't go any higher, and so Schwarzer remained at Craven Cottage, regardless of his longing for a move to the Emirates.
Could this still happen?
Schwarzer isn’t getting any younger, but if Arsenal’s current crop have made errors between the sticks by January, don’t be surprised to see Wenger willing to drive him to Ashburton Grove personally.
Neymar (Santos – Chelsea)
Given the recent trend for South American stars to vacate the continent when an offer from Europe arrives, it was wholly expected that Chelsea’s interest in the sparkling 18-year-old would culminate in a move to Stamford Bridge.
However, in what some would call a refreshing twist, the highly-rated Brazilian rejected the Blues’ advances, opting instead to sign an improved, long-term contract to remain with Santos, and leave Chelsea disappointed.
Chelsea made an offer he could refuse
Could this still happen?
It is inevitable that Neymar will ply his trade in Europe eventually, and Chelsea will lead the way in securing his signature.
Gregory van der Wiel (Ajax – Bayern Munich)
The right full-back’s emergence at World Cup 2010 as part of the Netherlands team that contested the final prompted Champions League runners-up Bayern Munich to offer the Amsterdam giants cash, plus the services of Edson Braafheid, to lure the 22-year-old to the Allianz Arena.
However, the deal appeared to hit a series of snags, one of which was Braafheid’s reluctance to leave Die Roten, and eventually Louis van Gaal admitted defeat, instead choosing to remain a silent witness during this transfer window.
Could this still happen?
Van Gaal’s prudence and the club’s self-control in not splurging cash on an inferior alternative could mean that they will return with the required amount of reddies at a later date.
Eljero Elia (Hamburg – Wolfsburg/Juventus)
The Dutch wing ace became the subject of speculation as the German and Italian sides, already familiar with each other from the Dzeko transfer that never was, turned their attentions to the 23-year-old member of the Netherlands World Cup squad.
However, this particular deal never seemed to get off the ground; the bidding parties were reportedly never in the right ballpark in respect of assessment of value, while the player seemed unconcerned with the rumors and did not issue any intention to move on.
Could this still happen?
Perhaps, but with Die Wolfe snaring Diego and Juventus opting for Milos Krasic instead, it’s unlikely that a January raid will be on the agenda of either club.
Elia - Never fancied the Old Lady
Luis Fabiano (Sevilla – Milan/Tottenham/Marseille)
A whole host of clubs were scrambling to sign the Brazilian who, like Edin Dezko, had been linked with a move to pastures new for the best part of a year. With Sevilla facing a tricky Champions League qualifying play-off match, their main objective was to retain the 29-year-old for as long as possible, and no club was willing to meet their exorbitant valuation.
Tottenham came closest to offering Fabiano a route to the Premier League, but after los Nervionenes crashed out of the Champions League to Braga, Sevilla knew their appraisal of Fabiano would have to drop, too. As a result, they moved quickly to secure Fabiano on a two-year contract extension and obliterate the gossip, for now.
Could this still happen?
Upon renewing his deal, Fabiano’s comments were those of a player very much at home in his current surroundings, and given he is 30 before the end of the year, this could well be a deal that has been put to bed for good.
Fernando Torres (Liverpool – Chelsea)
There can be no denying that the English champions wanted to sign El Nino during the summer, with a fee in the region of €75m mooted in some sources. The Blues have been comparatively quiet of late in terms of acquisitions, and with Didier Drogba not getting any younger, Torres emerged as their top target.
The player himself though has previously discussed his love of Liverpool, and the arrival of Roy Hodgson coupled with Steven Gerrard’s commitment to all things Anfield seem to persuade Torres that he could still win the trophies at club level he craves. Chelsea were forced to admit defeat.
Could this still happen?
In short, yes. Liverpool still haven’t found a buyer and if the reports are to be believed, have hefty bank payments to be settled sooner rather than later, for which Torres’ transfer value alone could pay for.
Arda Turan (Galatasaray – Atletico Madrid)
This proposed deal came literally from nowhere as the window’s end edged closer, but there was a legitimate need for los Colchoneros to strengthen in the wide areas following the departure of Jose Jurado to Schalke, earlier in the same day.
Turan was a target for Atletico
An €11m offer was thrown out though by the Turkish side, who have made a number of signings of their own and were understandably reluctant to release their club captain and star for such a paltry fee, in terms of the current going rate. There was no time for deliberations – the window had closed before Atletico could consider amending their bid.
Could this still happen?
Unlikely. Gala would face a mutiny on their hands if they were to let Turan leave for the amount that the Spanish giants value him at. Put this one in the ‘cheeky offer’ category.
Dirk Kuyt (Liverpool – Inter)
The Dutchman, who was a stalwart of the Rafa Benitez era at Anfield, was the subject of an offer from the Spaniard who wanted the ex-Feyenoord man to join him in Italy with the Champions League winners.
The Nerazzurri made a formal approach to Liverpool for Kuyt, but after days of uncertainty, the 30-year-old announced after netting in the Europa League win over Trabzonspor that he had no intention of leaving the club, despite Rafa’s recommendation, and any potential move was nullified in one fell swoop.
Could this still happen?
Very unlikely – if it was going to happen at any point, given the player’s age and possible availability if the price was right, it would have been this summer.
Antonio Di Natale (Udinese – Juventus)
The 32-year-old was one of the stars of Serie A last season, finishing on top of the goalscoring charts, prompting an international call-up for the Azzurri’s ill-fated venture to South Africa. Arriving Juve coach Luigi Del Neri reckoned that Di Natale could score the goals needed to improve on the prior year’s desperate seventh place finish.
The Bianconeri captain however is apparently enjoying life in Udine, and chose to rebuff the Turin giants offer to remain, essentially, a big fish in Udinese’s mid-table pond.
Could this still happen?
No, Di Natale is 33 in two months’ time and his flat refusal will ensure Juventus never return.
The deadly duo were wanted men
Sergio Aguero/Diego Forlan (Atletico Madrid – Inter)
Los Colchoneros’ irrepressible pairing have garnered an impressive South American understanding during their three seasons together, and playing in tandem aided Atletico to end their 14-year trophy drought by lifting the Europa League title.
Inter president Massimo Moratti, allegedly infuriated at the languid nature of the club’s transfer activity in comparison to rivals Milan, was ready to do whatever it took to land either forward in a deadline day deal to end all deals. But it proved to be just speculation as Atletico vehemently guarded their prize assets until the window closed.
Could this still happen?
Perhaps, but it would take a gargantuan offer, particularly to secure Aguero.
For all the latest transfer news visit Goal.com's Transfer Zone and join Goal.com USA's Facebook fan page!
Thank you for your comment!
Please enter your name
Please enter your location
Please share your comment!
17 Comments
Advertisement
Inside Goal.Com
-
RIGG: Milan striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic is certainly no Mr. February
The Swedish striker traditionally struggles in February. Facing a three-match ban this month, the jinx looks set to continue.
-
DEMPSEY'S DIARY: Playing in the World Cup was the ultimate dream
In his latest diary entry for Goal.com, the U.S. international and Fulham midfielder talks about playing in his first World Cup despite a back injury and what it meant to score.
-
ROGERS: Capello resigns as coach, but the villain is FA chairman Bernstein
Capello and John Terry are far from blameless in the England saga, but the real culprit is the FA chairman.
-
LABIDOU: Is MLS falling behind? The league's new younger direction
With high-profile players like Nicolas Anelka and Luca Toni rejecting MLS for other developing leagues, is the league falling behind its competition?
-
ROSANO: Mexican soccer needs to address referee treatment
Nick Rosano argues that Mexico's continued officiating problems may have less to do with referees themselves and more to do with how they are treated by the federation.
Advertisement
Advertisement
