By Football Talk.
Sir Alex Ferguson could be about to add two further ageing stars to his squad with Michael Ballack and Raul being linked with free transfer moves to Old Trafford. Ferguson is known to appreciate players in the twilight of their careers with Edwin Van Der Saar, Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes, Gary Neville and Michael Owen all well over 30 and an the United books, and according to the Mail both Ballack and Raul could be set to join them.
Raul To United?
Real Madrid president Florentino Perez is to allow Raul to leave on a free transfer after serving for the club for over 16 years. Raul ensured legendary status at the Benabeau after scoring 228 goals in 550 appearances for Madrid but at 32-years-old has seen his first team opportunities diminish after falling behind Ronaldo, Higuain and Benzema in the pecking order. Now United manager Ferguson is set to offer Raul a one-year deal as he looks to add to his striking options for next season.
Fergie After Ballack
Fergie is also said to be interested in signing Michael Ballack after the German international was released by premier league champions Chelsea. The 33-year-old will be offered a one-year contract, with the option of a further year. However, United will have to do battle with the likes of Real Madrid, Tottenham, Wolfsburg, Werder Bremen and former club Bayer Leverkusen for his signature, although wages may prove to be a sticking point for the German outfits.
With United’s American owners in £1.1billion debt, Ferguson may find transfer funds hard to come by this summer and has been forced to look for free transfers. As well as Ballack and Raul, United have been heavily linked with a move for England’s Joe Cole who is also set to be released by Chelsea after failing to agree a contract extension.
