United After Inter’s Julio Cesar

7 October 09 by Bill

It appears Alex Ferguson has given up hope of Ben Foster becoming United’s number one as reports suggest Julio Cesar is a potential transfer target for the club.

The Brazilian international, aged 30, joined Inter in 2005 and is now regarded as one of the best goalkeepers in the world. With Van der Sar turning 40 this month it was hoped either Ben Foster or Tomasz Kuszczak would take the reigns but after failing to impress, it looks like Ferguson will look elsewhere in an attempt to replace the veteran Dutchman.

Rumours began to surface with regard to the keeper on Tuesday when his wife claimed a ‘big club’ had enquired about his availability; a claim dismissed by the player himself.

“I deny everything,” he said. “I have a contract with Inter.”

As we all know, a denial means nothing in football. Until a deal is actually done, I wouldn’t expect the player to say anything else.

Cesar’s agent added fuel to the fire by claiming United have expressed an interest in his client but insisted no firm offer had been made and that the player was hoping to extend his stay with the Nerazzurri.

“United showed their interest for Julio but until now have not made an official offer,” he said. “At the moment we are talking with Inter to renew Julio’s contract, but we have not yet arrived at an agreement. I hope to succeed before the end of the month, that’s my aim.”

Whilst Cesar would be a great signing for the club, I am highly sceptical anything will materialise. The timing is highly suspect; right in the middle of contract negotiations. Surely his agent isn’t trying to increase his client’s value? Perhaps get a little more money out of Inter?

One thing is for sure, if United really are after Cesar, Inter will have to pay the price to keep him. Given his value to the team, I fully expect them to cough up the dough.

Transfer talk or yet another example of agents using the media to line their own pockets? You decide.