Stephen Ireland is believed to have requested a transfer out of Manchester City earlier in May this year. The Telegraph reported that the current Citizen was disappointed by his irregular appearances in the club’s starting XI during the 2009/2010 season.
Despite being only one year into his five-year contract with Manchester City, Stephen Ireland is keen to quit Eastlands for a new adventure and the Sky Blues are reportedly not upset about his decision to quit. Although Coach Roberto Mancini avowed his desire to maintaining the services of the 23-year-old midfielder, the Italian boss also showed respect towards Stephen Ireland’s personal wish.
As the Sky Blues are looking to replace the player’s position, an interesting player-plus-cash deal between Manchester City and Aston Villa is set to be finalized soon. It will see Aston Villa’s James Milner move to the blue side of Manchester in exchange of cash plus Stephen Ireland’s pair of legs. The Guardian reported that Manchester City and Aston Villa could agree on a £27.5m fee for the transfer.
However, with Martin O’Neil’s shocking resignation as an Aston Villa manager, rumors suggest that Stephen Ireland is even more reluctant to join the Birmingham side. Tottenham Hotspur therefore appear as serious contenders to land the player after failing to secure the signature of West Ham United’s Scott Parker.
Manchester City are reportedly keen to let Stephen Ireland go as they aim to acquire the services of James Milner as soon as possible. In this case, a good deal between Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City could be ideal for all parties.
Stephen Ireland will not only fulfill his wish of quitting Eastlands but also have the opportunity of playing Champions League football with Tottenham Hotspur. Besides, Manchester City should have enough cash to meet Aston Villa’s £30m requested fee for the transfer of James Milner.
For related details, check the Tottenham Hotspur vs Manchester City live streaming and TV schedule and Aston Villa vs West Ham live streaming and TV schedule pages or visit the English Premier League TV Schedules and Live Streaming page for further info.
