David Villa: Barcelona, Real, United, or Liverpool?

Published by William | Filed under Football (aka soccer), La Liga, Premier League, Transfer Rumors

David Villa will likely be donning a new kit come next year but the question is where?

Annnnnnnd it’s begun. The summer is upon us, league seasons are almost over, and what does that mean? Transfer gossip. And I think it’s officially begun with the latest story breaking about David Villa’s apparent “agreement” to transfer to Barcelona. I’ve written a few posts about the gossip surrounding the Spanish striker’s transfer rumors mainly because I think his relocation is imminent and frankly, am surprised it hasn’t happened much sooner. This hasn’t even become official yet but I think it may be for real this time. His value can really only decrease from here and at 28 years old, he’s not getting younger which means it is time for the veteran to move to a contender so he can hopefully win some trophies before his time is over. However, I truly applaud his loyalty to Los Che. He’s maintained day in and day out that he is dedicated to Valencia and not once has it effort been in doubt so for that, I commend you Senor Villa.


Ok, as for the debate on why, if, and where he will go, the possibilities are endless. Here is my take on his potential destinations:


Barcelona:


Likelihood (1 – 10): 9


Why It Works: Despite scoring 21 goals in 38 appearances, it seems as if Zlatan Ibrahimovic just didn’t quite make the cut and is likely on the way out this offseason which means Barcelona will be in the market for someone to replace him. With that being said, David Villa may be the perfect candidate to join the likes of Iniesta, Xavi, and Puyol, all of which are very good friends of his from the Spanish National Team.


Why It Won’t: According to the ESPN Soccernet Article, Valencia reportedly wants Alexander Helb, Bojan Krkic, AND €40 million in exchange for Villa. May be a bit more than they bargained for. As far as on the pitch, I literally can’t think of anything that would prevent this from being a positive thing for both Villa and Barca.


Liverpool:


Likelihood: 6


Why It Works: It’s no secret that Fernando Torres and David Villa are quite an attacking duo when paired together on Spain. To be reunited at Anfield with his favorite fellow striker would be nothing less than an utter joy to watch. Furthermore, Villa has always expressed his admiration for the English Premiership and I think deep down, he wants to see if he can succeed in the UK. But……


Why It Won’t: He has also definitely made it clear that his heart lies in Spain and that it would take something truly special to move from his home country. If that means the right situation, the right amount of money, we will have to wait and see. I’ll assume it means the latter of the two and to be honest, I’m not sure anyone will be shelling out Ronaldo type numbers for Villa if that’s what he is looking for.


Chelsea:


Likelihood: 4


Why It Works: If what he truly wants is to move to a contender, then Chelsea may be a great fit. Although they fell to Inter, they still were clearly one of the best teams in Europe and David Villa may be the missing piece to the puzzle. Besides, Drogba and Anelka could probably use someone like David Villa to help carry the load.


Why It Won’t: It seems to pretty much be a done deal that Chelsea has agreed to purchase Argentine international Sergio Aguero from Atletico Madrid for £40 million so if that is true, it is doubtful that they will be going for another La Liga striker. Then again, rumor is that they are looking to shake things up this offseason with a little spending spree so we will have to wait and see.


Manchester United:


Likelihood: 4


Why It Works: Simply because Wayne Rooney is only one man and he cannot score everyone goal for Manchester United himself. Furthermore, I don’t think he can endure another season like this without a tad more rest. He needs help and David Villa would be a perfect compliment to the Wonderboy. I think it is a system where he could truly thrive. Also, United, despite having financial troubles of their own, still hasn’t really dipped into their offshore Cayman Island Ronaldo bank account so I think they could muster up the cash to afford him. Whether Sir Alex pulls the trigger remains to be seen.


Why It Won’t: Perhaps United’s financial woes are worse than they thought and they aren’t really going to be looking to make a blockbuster signing this summer.


Real Madrid:


Likelihood: 5


Why It Works: Like Barcelona, David Villa has expressed his utmost admiration for Real Madrid and would most likely fancy a move to El Bernabeu if they were willing to offer the right price.


Why It Won’t: After last season’s spending spree, are they really going to buy another forward? THEY NEED DEFENDERS!! Scoring goals wasn’t the problem this season. Stopping them was. Let’s hope they save themselves the embarrassment and put their money towards something they could use.