Manchester United have completed a stunning deadline-day deal for Radamel Falcao after Arsenal and Manchester City pulled out.
The Colombian striker arrived on a private jet to tie-up a season-long loan to Old Trafford for a fee of £6million, with an option to make the deal permanent. It is also understood that should United decided to keep him, the initial £6m paid will be deducted from the transfer fee, which means the club will pay £46m next summer.
Falcao told the club website: ‘I am delighted to be joining Manchester United on loan this season. Manchester United is the biggest club in the world and is clearly determined to get back to the top.
‘I am looking forward to working with Louis van Gaal and contributing to the team’s success at this very exciting period in the club’s history.’
Manager Van Gaal added: ‘I am delighted Radamel has joined us on loan this season. He is one of the most prolific goalscorers in the game. His appearance-to-goal ratio speaks for itself and, when a player of this calibre becomes available, it is an opportunity not to be missed.’
Despite being just a loan deal, United had to pay big to get Falcao; reports claim that Manchester City and Arsenal were discouraged by the player’s enormous wages and decided not to pursue him further. The Colombian was enjoying a tax haven in France, reportedly earning €350,000 per week. United had to pay the 28 year old £280,000 per week to persuade him to choose Old Trafford.
In other news, Arsenal have completed the signing of Manchester United’s Danny Welbeck for a fee of £16million. The 23-year-old penned a 5- year deal with the London club, the player is currently with the England squad preparing for their upcoming game against Norway and Switzerland.
Wenger had several times claimed he wasn’t in the market for a new striker, despite losing last season’s top scorer Olivier Giroud until after Christmas through injury.
But that emerged as a smokescreen as he made failed overtures for first Loic Remy then Radamel Falcao, before turning his attention to Welbeck.
And with Tottenham put off by the size of the numbers involved, Arsenal officials worked late into the night to complete the formalities
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