Rumour Mongering: Emre Can to Manchester United?

It has been less than a week since the international break started. And yet the rumor mill, spinning wildly at the best of times, has kicked into overdrive as we enter the second week of international break.

The rumor that popped up this morning is that Emre Can is interested in a move to Manchester United. This particular gem came courtesy of Italian publication Corriere dello Sport, which until now has been adamant that the German international was headed to Juventus. Now, they are reporting that Mourinho is looking to Can as a long-term replacement for Michael Carrick.

The last player to directly transfer between the two biggest English clubs was Phil Chisnall in 1964. Of course, due to Can being in the final year of his contract, he could go to United and Liverpool could do nothing to stop him. However, unlike foreign clubs that could sign him up to a pre-contract in January, the Mancs would have to wait until the end of the season before pouncing.

If Liverpool cannot sort Can’s contract situation, Juventus still seems the most likely destination because of the heavy links and their ability to wrap up the deal early. That this rumor popped up a week before the clash with United, only raises the suspicion that this might not be the most accurate reporting. It could be Can’s agent creating the appearance of greater demand. Or it could just be boredom and a dart board from the folks who make this stuff up.