Another huge day for City in the transfer market sees a deal for James Milner finally agreed with Stephen Ireland heading to Villa in part exchange. The exact breakdown of the deal isn’t clear with figures of between £16.5m and £18m said to be going to Villa plus extras. Ireland may be getting £1m for his pay-off.
Cardiff are to be congratulated on beating a host of clubs to the loan signing of Craig Bellamy.
With the international friendlies over, it’s back to transfer dealings in what looks like being a busy 48 hours before the season opener against Tottenham.
According to the Birmingham Mail, James Milner was all set to drive up to Manchester last night, until Villa told him otherwise. A hitch regarding Stephen Ireland’s move to Villa was cited as the reason.
The shock resignation of Martin O’Neill as Aston Villa manager is unlikely to change James Milner’s mind about wishing to leave the Midlanders and join City. But what about Stephen Ireland’s move in the opposite direction?
A deal involving cash plus Ireland for Milner was supposedly near to completion with Roberto Mancini optimistic of having the England midfielder in his squad by Thursday. If Ireland decides he no longer wants to join Villa then City would be back to having to agree a cash only deal. This may prove trickier as each club’s valuation of Milner has differed widely.
Speaking in America, Roberto Mancini again raised the idea of City signing Fernando Torres. With Liverpool officials still trying to convince El Nino to remain on Merseyside, Mancini’s words were interestingly timed.
Following the three top quality signings of Jerome Boateng, David Silva and Yaya Toure, things are looking less clear as to who else will be joining City for the upcoming season.
As ever, the World Cup offers an opportunity to cast an eye over players we’d like to see playing for City. This time we have the added fun of knowing the club are looking at several individuals.
Reports from the England training camp in Austria appear unanimous in their praise for Adam Johnson. Interestingly, the Wearsider has been playing on the left and delivering a series of telling crosses.
