Midfielder Marek Hamsik it appears, has caught the attention of Alex Ferguson for the January transfer window.
The form of veteran former England midfielder Paul Scholes, plus the fact that Ryan Giggs is not getting any younger has convinced Sir Alex Ferguson of the need to bring in a top notch quality replacement to bolster what is perceived by some critics to be United’s biggest weakness, midfield.
Manchester is not alone in regards to Hamsik, both Chelsea and Liverpool rivals have shown interest in the star midfielder. Snapped up by Brescia after proving his skill with Slovan Bratislava. Transferring to Napoli for 5.5m Euros after dominating the midfield at Brescia scoring 10 goals from the midfield.
Since joining Napoli in 2007, Hamsik’s efforts in Serie A have established him as one of the best midfielders in the world. Managing to score 25 goals in 81 games Hamsik’s form has been some of the best in the league. Recently Hamsik scored twice as Napoli recorded their first win over Juventus in Turin for 21 years and his performances have impressed many experts in Italy, who have been quick to label the Slovakian international as the best midfielder in Serie A.
Hamsik’s performances have been equally impressive for his national side, Slovakia. Expected to be one of the major stars of the upcoming World Cup his efforts might put him down into soccer history forever.
Interest and a big offer from major teams may not be enough however with sporting director Riccardo Bigon stating:
“Manchester United are after Hamsik? If we rejected the rumours regarding a friend like [Carlo] Ancelotti and his Chelsea, it is obvious we also reject these rumours.”
These comments have since been substantiated by Napoli chairman Aurielo De Laurentiis who confirmed:
“Many clubs have requested Hamsik, it’s true, but he will stay with us for the long-term”
Whether in Summer, Napoli maintain the same comments is yet to be seen. Napoli’s short budget will defiantly play a factor in their decision to keep Hamsik or to sell him if a good offer is made.
One factor which could scupper any deal however is Chelsea. Roman Abramovich has purportedly given manager Carlo Ancelotti the green light to make a £25m move for the player so they might beat Manchester United to the punch
