2) Gareth Bale and Jasper Cillessen (Real Madrid and Ajax, respectively, to Manchester United)
Two players heavily linked with Manchester United this summer, for different job roles. But in the end, for the time being, neither is at Old Trafford. Both deals never happend.
Welshman Gareth Bale, a true wing wizard, may have endured a difficult time at the Bernabeu since arriving from Tottenham. Both the Spanish media and Real fans have been critical, and a bit harsh in my opinion, of Bale. Rumours of him not getting on with Cristiano Ronaldo do not really help either, some insiders claiming that Bale does not pass to the Portuguese superstar enough.
But Bale, who hopes to edge Wales to Euro 2016 next year, insists he is up to any challenge, and is hell-bent on being a success in the Spanish capital. This has not deterred United though, who have been in need of a superstar or two of their own to take the heat off Wayne Rooney, who has been misfiring in front of goal in the League. It may well take a world-record fee (around £90m) to secure Bale, but it would be money well spent if he could help bring the glory days back to the Red Devils.
Cillessen, goalkeeper with Dutch giants Ajax, is another who United were reportedly chasing, in the midst of the David De Gea transfer unrest. Victor Valdes arrived from Barcelona, but has only played in pre-season, Anders Lindegaard has been sold, and Sergio Romero under pressure. Cillessen was seen as a potentially vital piece of cover at the back. Alas, he will remain at Ajax.
