ArfnipIsARoyal As much as I hate to say it, I can see Shorey leaving before tomorrow nights deadline. Bid has been declined, but it is only a matter of time before WHU or Newcastle (insert numerous other interested clubs) offer a sum that both the club and the Mad Man himself cant turn down. I believe around £8m would be the 'hand-bite-off' sum. West Ham have not spent too much in relation to what they have gained, so adding an extra £2m-£3m isnt really an issue to them. I hope I am wrong as this would be the first player I would be genuinely gutted had left in a long time. Unfotunately they have money to burn, can afford bigger wages, but we dont. Football is a money game now, loyalty isnt.
we might not be able to match the wages, but we can the transfer fees. SSC has said that Mr Mad will back him with whatever he wants - but finding the right player who then wants to come to us is the issue. If we want to keep Shorey, i can see us turning down loads of money. Playing for Reading hasnt stopped his England appearances, and if we are fair, even if he played for WHU, if Cole or Bridge are fit, they'll automatically be ahead of him. He needs to sign a new deal - better play for "tiny" reading in the fapl regularly than go to a "big" club and not get regular footie. I bet he recognises that and stays - especially if we go and make some interesting buys in the next 24 hrs