Bookmakers Predict Arturo Vidal Most Likely to End up at Manchester United

Despite heavy interest from many top clubs across Europe, Chilean midfielder set to complete transfer to Manchester United.



After a disastrous season under David Moyes, Manchester United has decided to appoint a proven manager with years of competitive experience. Dutch mastermind Louis Van Gaal appears to inspire the best in his players, which should prove to be a winning formula once Arturo Vidal completes his highly speculated move to Old Trafford.



The Chilean maestro is touted as one of the best midfielders in his position at the moment. He has been causing havoc to opposing defenses in Italy for the past three years. At 27 years old, his best years as a midfield player are yet to come, making him a valuable asset for any world class team.

Manchester United favorites for his signature

• Arturo Vidal hailed as one of the finest midfielders

• Chilean set for dream move to Manchester United

• No shortage of potential suitors for his signature

Last season was perhaps the worst performance that Manchester United supporters witnessed from their team in years. It appears that Sir Alex Ferguson retired just in time when an era was coming to an end. Many players were showing increasing signs of weakness in their playing, making the fans cry out for an overhaul of the squad.

The Red Devils have already spent over EUR 75 million (GBP 60 million) on two talents: Luke Shaw and Ander Herrera. However, United’s pressing concern for the past several season has been the midfield area, where they have lacked considerable depth.

Alex Ferguson has often had to deploy striker Rooney in the “number 10 position,” to operate as a midfielder behind the main forward. With the imminent capture of Arturo Vidal it seems that their problem may be put to rest, as he is proven player of the highest caliber.

Mobile betting provider Paddy Power has issued odds of 1/5 (1.20) for Manchester United capturing the Chilean technician. However should the negotiations fail for some reason, any number of top clubs would be prepared to fight for the highly rated star.

Real Madrid, FC Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain are the next favorites according to the sportsbook, with all three commanding odds of 14/1 (15.00). They would all be ready to match any fee that Vidal’s current club Juventus demand.

Arsenal and other teams likely destinations

Except for clinching their first major trophy last season by winning the FA Cup, Arsenal have not secured a league title in 10 years. Gambling news reports that due to financial obligations towards their new stadium built in 2006, the North London club practiced a frugal spending policy regarding transfers.

However, the time has finally come for them to start heavily investing in their squad once again. Since last season’s capture of Mesut Ozil for EUR 50 million (GBP 42.5m), Arsenal have been on a spending spree in the transfer market. Recently they have added Chilean winger Alexis Sanchez from FC Barcelona for a rumored EUR 38 million (GBP 30m).

If the move to United doesn’t materialize and all the other clubs across Europe look for reinforcements elsewhere, Arsenal would be the next club in line. The Londoners boast the same chances of securing Vidal’s signature as the other big teams with 14/1 (15.00) odds. However, at this stage the capture of Samir Khedira from Real Madrid seems more likely.

Other clubs from the Premier League are also among the candidates for sealing the transfer of Vidal. Current champions Manchester City have been given 20/1 (21.00) odds for making the deal happen, while London powerhouse Chelsea have also been assigned the same chances.

Transfer to other clubs dependent on other outcomes

Considering Real Madrid’s high interest in James Rodrigues, the French side Monaco may be looking to spend their funds raised from the possible transfer. The club based from the Principality would only be satisfied with a star singing to replace Rodrigues should he leave. Therefore, Monaco has been given odds of 20/1 (21.00) for sealing the transfer of Vidal.

Liverpool is also another popular destination following their success last season and their participation in this year’s Champions League. That gives them increased chances of getting Vidal with odds of 20/1 (21.00) from the online sportsbook in the UK, although sources close to him say that arch rivals United is his preferred destination.

Despite not playing in the Champions League this upcoming season, players are still drawn to Old Trafford. The vast prestige associated with playing for a club with such an illustrious history is something ambitious players cannot neglect, regardless of how much money is thrown at them from other clubs.