Manchester United Transfer News: Red Devils Will Come Up Short with Luka Modric

Manchester United are in dire need of a legitimate playmaker and have been pursuing Luka Modric. While the window on Modric is still open, the Red Devils will come up short in bringing him to Old Trafford.

Tottenham has a deal in place to send the Croatian to Real Madrid. However, recent reports have stated Modric would like to keep the communication lines open with Manchester United.

The likelihood of Modric earning a starting role with Tottenham is in question. However, Spanish journalist Guillem Balague has reported that the Reds are willing to guarantee the in-demand midfielder a first-team spot.

The barrier at this point is the asking price to acquire the 26-year-old Modric.

The Spurs are asking for £40 million, a number United is a bit unhappy with. They seem prepared to dig in their heels on a lower offer, which will leave them looking for another option.

Real Madrid is also receiving competition from Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain for Modric. It seems Tottenham will receive their asking price. The only question remaining is from which suitor.

United is also still in the running for Porto winger James Rodriguez. However, there are numerous reports an offer of £30 million has been rejected, as Porto believes they can secure their £40 million asking price.

With Manchester United balking at that figure for Modric, it is unlikely they will pay that for Rodriguez.  

One potential target for Manchester United is revisiting last summer's failed quest for Wesley Sneijder.

Even though Sneijder had a disappointing season with Inter Milan, United should still be interested. His style of play would be a good transition from Paul Scholes.

Inter Milan is ready to sell Sneijder, should he wish to move on. He is interested in playing in the 2012-13 Champions League season, and landing at Old Trafford could be just the change he needs to get his play back on track.