Benfica have rejected Manchester United's bid to sign Angel di Maria. United wanted to sign the prized Argentine who is being chased by several clubs and had offered Nani plus €10 million, which Benfica turned down.
Di Maria has caught the attention of several clubs after his fabulous displays for Benfica. He had signed a new deal with Benfica in October 2009, which will keep him at Estadio da Luz until 30 June 2015. He has been backed by Argentina's national coach and football legend Diego Maradona to become Argentina's next superstar.
Portuguese radio station TSF reported that Benfica have rejected an offer from Manchester United for Di Maria because they did not want to lose one of their key players half way through the season. They are ready to listen to offers only in the summer.
I think United made a suitable bid for the Argentine winger who has got real pace and great feet. Sending Nani back to his homeland may have revived his career after his failure to become the next Cristiano Ronaldo. Also, Nani's collision with Fergie must have made the dressing room a bit uncomfortable for the Portuguese winger.
Though Benfica says they would entertain offers for Di Maria in summer, I think they are hungry for money. His deal does have a €40 million minimum fee release and United's bid for €10 million seems too less for them. Benfica are rumored to want €30 million for their star player.
