Could Adem Ljajic be on his way to Chelsea and Nemanja Matic on his way to Manchester United?
Much has been made of Chelsea’s decision to allow Nemanja Matic to join Benfica as part of the David Luiz deal in 2011 in the past few weeks. The deal has come to the fore when the duo faced off in opposite midfields for the UEFA Europa League final in Amsterdam on Wednesday night.
Although the Brazilian ended up lifting the trophy few would argue that the performance of Matic valued him as significantly below Luiz in talent that he was once a makeweight in his deal.
The tall and rangy midfielder looked strong in possession and had a keen eye for an interception; there was little to tell apart the performance of either player.
But hype was surrounding Matic before his side dispatched of Newcastle United and Chelsea saw off FC Basel in the semis.
He has been one of Portugal’s leading lights in the Primeira Liga this campaign; stepping into the void left by Manchester City bound Javi Garcia with consummate ease.
Such imperious form has seen the 25-year-old linked with a move away from the club; with one Premier League outfit continually mentioned.
Manchester United are reportedly looking for midfield reinforcements and could see Matic as the long-term successor to Michael Carrick in the holding role.
Such is his ability that the Red Devils have even been linked with a massive €30 million bid for the player; which at first seemed ludicrous but has gained credibility over the months.
It would be a real one-up on their Premier League rivals of course if United could secure a deal for a player rejected by the club just two and a half years ago.
But two can play that game…
Chelsea have been linked with another Serbian international this week; Adem Ljajic.
Ljajic is of course a former Manchester United player (of sorts). United had an agreement to sign the youngster from Partizan Belgrade in 2010 and he trained with the first-team whenever possible throughout 2009.
But when the time came to verify the deal United pulled out; citing work permit issues.
Partizan disagreed; with the clubs Director of Football Ivan Tomic declaring, ‘‘I think that they will regret this decision in the future.’’
If Chelsea manage to pry him from Fiorentina then Tomic might just be right.
Would you like to see either of these talented players finally make an impact in the Premier League?
images: © yoca91
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
