Nemanja Vidic's agent has sensationally ruled out a contract extension at Old Trafford this summer, increasing speculation he'll leave for nothing this summer. In an interview with Radio Crc in Napoli, Silvano Martina said he doesn't expect the defender to renew, and hinted that there had already been strong interest in his signature.
Vidic, given his contract situation, has several teams looking at him .... Vidic is a very good player and will have no trouble finding a new club. For the time being we are remaining calm. However, at the moment, I would rule out an extension with Manchester United.
The 32-year-old club captain has been at the heart of United's defence this season once more. However, early-season sciatica has been among a couple of niggling injuries that have curtailed his playing time somewhat. AC Milan and Juventus are believed to be among the clubs interested in Vidic, the latter of which would see the centre-back re-unite with former team-mate Carlos Tevez. With 35-year-old injury-afflicted Rio Ferdinand expected to retire at the end of the season when his contract also runs out, United will be keen to fast-track attempts to change the mind of the influential Serbian. Whatever the outcome of such talks, expect some sweeping defensive changes at Old Trafford over the next 12 months.
Diarmuid is a freelance student and studious sports journalist operating out of the wilds of Dublin, Ireland. His specialist subjects include the English Premier League, the GAA, and track and field athletics.