Sexy Striker Sagas III: Mark Viduka
Mark Viduka formed part of a lethal partnership with Yakubu this season up front for the Boro. He had 19 goals in 37 total appearances for the Boro this season, 14 in the league. The hefty Aussie has also played for Leeds and Celtic and he captained the impressive Socceroos in the 2006 World Cup.
Keeping him was a priority for Gareth Southgate, but all signs point to him departing this summer. He reportedly rejected a 40k GBP per week offer from the Boro and will look to move on to bigger, and hopefully better, things in the summer.
Viduka is an attractive prospect for clubs. In a climate where goals are hard to come by, Mark is a clinical finisher. Age would normally be a concern, he is 31 years old, but since he relies on strength and technical ability over pace, he should be able to weather the aging process better than a more athletic player. Most importantly, he is available on a free transfer since he is currently out of contract.
The two front runners for his services appear to be Newcastle and Manchester Utd. Cynical Sam can lure him to Northeast with the prospect of big club money and guranteed 1st team football. However, though he might not play as much, he would be afforded the opportunity to play in the Champions League and to win medals.
He will also most likely draw interest from other Premier League clubs, West Ham and Spurs (If Man U or Chelsea can pry Berbatov out of their clutches). He also could interest second-tier Spanish and Italian sides looking to move up into Europe places.
This should be a difficult one to predict, but the opportunity to win titles and play in the Champions League doesn’t come around very often, particularly for a player of his age. If Man U are serious about signing the big lug, the taste of Manchester pies may be too much for him to turn down.
I believe that Viduka could be a great substitute partner for the “speedy” attacker that Fergie has said he wants to bring in. Imagine the options United could have for their two front runners if they do get the speed and Vikuka. They could create one of the most, if not the most, adaptable front lines in the game.