Last summer we saw the resolution to one of the most tiresome transfer battles of all time. John Obi Mikel, who had signed a contract with Manchester United only later to change his mind and try to get a deal with Chelsea, was allowed to go to the blues. The unproven teenager cost Chelsea £16 million, with £12 million going to Manchester United. Unfortunately for Mikel, it was United who won the league this year, and the teenager had to make do with the domestic cups.
Mikel was not the only player the two clubs were tracking and prepared to fight over though. Anderson, the nineteen year old wonder from Brazil, is a player Chelsea have been particularly keen on for the past two years. Back in May 2005, Anderson was playing for Gremio, and his agent, Baidek, reported the blues interest.
“The assistant coach of Chelsea has asked me for some videos of Anderson so they can see him in action and then make an offer to Gremio,” said Baidek.
Manchester United confirmed the signing of the player last night, despite Chelsea’s continued interest. This player is nicknamed the “new Ronaldinho”, and only time will tell which team signed the better of the youngsters available.