It's Been A Slow Start For United On The Market

This time last season United's transfer businesses were almost finished. The club announced at the end of May 2007 that Anderson and Nani agreed in principle to sign for the Reds and a few days later Hargreaves' arrival was also announced.

These quick, smooth dealings impressed the fans as, to be honest, we were not used to it after the previous years' dragging sagas. Of course last summer offered one of those, too but it eventually ended in success, with Carlos Tevez secured and he went on to play a huge part in winning the Double.

This time it is Ronaldo's future that's dominating the headlines. Done deals are nowhere to be seen as even rumours are few and far between. It looks like Fergie is still not certain who he should go after.

Obviously, the European Championships delayed things as usually most of the transfer activities are on hold during a major tournament. But you'd expect more rumours and more convincing ones as well. So far there are too many reports in the papers about Fergie's perceived doubts about his supposed targets.

A year ago United were clearly keen on signing Hargreaves, Anderson and Nani, with Fergie being absolutely convinced that they would propel the side to a next level. This time it looks like the gaffer has not committed himself to go all out to sign someone: he's yet to be totally convinced.

Hopefully he'll get it right in the end, again. It won't be easy, seeing that he has to content with the Ronaldo-saga, too which of course is key to any future business: if he goes than we need to be much more active in the transfer market than Fergie had probably planned. Until his future is in limbo, United will remain cautious about their own targets.

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