Rumour Reel: Ozil to Man Utd, while Barca jump for Johnson and Barton Derby bound?
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Coral’s rumour reel
Jose Mourinho could be about to attempt a truly audacious move for Arsenal’s German genius, with Mesut Ozil to Manchester United linked on today’s back pages.
Could we see a repeat of the Robin van Persie tranfer? With Ozil stalling over a new contract, Mourinho could pounce for his former Real Madrid player.
Ozil to Man Utd?
The Old Trafford outfit are reportedly ready to take advantage of playmaking midfielder Ozil’s protracted contract talks, by offering a blockbusting wage packet.
Reports suggest Ozil is the highest paid star at the Emirates, collecting an estimated £140,000 a-week, but will demand more to stay in north London.
His contract runs until 2018 and Arsene Wenger is keen to tie the World Cup winner to a long term deal. The Gunners reportedly thought they were close to getting Ozil’s signature on the dotted line last week, but the player is yet to put pen to paper.
During his time in Madrid, Red Devils manager Mourinho said: “Ozil is unique – he’s the best number 10 in the world.”
United are reported ready to offer Ozil £250,000 a-week to move to Manchester and emulate former Arsenal player Van Persie.
Barca jump for Johnson?
Stoke City’s Glen Johnson is being linked with a switch to Barcelona in a eyebrow-raising rumour. The former Liverpool full back is on a list of potential options for the reigning La Liga champions to bolster their right back berth – according to reports.
Since Dani Alves’ Nou Camp exit, the Catalan club have failed to replace him, with Aleix Vidal failing to step up. Luis Enrique has now been forced to convert centre midfielder Sergi Roberto into a right back, but is looking for a specialist.
Johnson is in the final year of his Potters deal and could be a viable short term option in January.
He’ll certainly have the backing of former teammate Luis Suarez, as in his autobiography he praised the full back, saying: “He has a combination of physical strength, power and intelligence and technically he’s so good.”
Barton Derby bound?
After his disastrous Rangers spell, Joey Barton has reportedly been subject to a number of offers from England.
Steve McClaren’s Derby County are now leading the chase to sign the talented yet hot-headed midfielder, and have invited Barton train with them.
Barton agreed to terminate the final 18 months of his deal, but the 34-year-old will need to wait until January to start playing again.
Former club Burnley are also keen on reuniting with Barton – according to reports.
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Red Devils fans what do you think of Ozil to Man Utd? Tell us what you think in the comments below.
