Manchester City fans have advised their supporters to prepare for some surprises when the January transfer window opens.
City chief exec Garry Cook insists the world’s richest club would not be held to ransom by either clubs or players and would be prepared to walk away from deals if they felt they were not getting value for money.
”Making any predictions would not only be unfair to the game and the people in it but also to the fans because we want to make sure their expectations are in place,” said Cook.
”But I won’t allow this football club to be used by anyone seeking a fortune. I’d rather just make sure we have got the right characters who can give the fans value for money.
”There will be some surprises but we should also expect in this window if some players or clubs see this club as a gravy train then we are quite prepared to walk away.”
City have been linked with a host of big-name players since the summer’s takeover, including Milan’s Brazilian playmaker Kaka and Real Madrid goalkeeper Casillas, Bayern Munich’s Franck Ribery and Blackburn Rovers striker Roque Santa Cruz.
”The speculation that you hear and see is about a player-driven process but, like any business, we have a budget-driven process,” he said.
”The challenge with regards to price is what is the true value of the individual and what is the perceived value – sometimes they don’t meet. People think there is limitless funds available for players and they accordingly put a price tag on individuals but it is clear we will not be dragged into that type of discussion.
”They, first and foremost, have to be of the right character to move the football club forward. We have targets, we know the areas we want to focus on and it is really to meet Mark’s needs. He needs the tools to bring success to the football club.
”While he has got a good portion of that we are looking to add to that so we will be active.”
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