Manchester United Transfer Rumours: Why Leighton Baines Can Make Reds Kings

Sir Alex Ferguson expressed his desire to sign Leighton Baines for Manchester United before the friendly matches in Africa and Asia this summer. (h/t The Mirror)

The response from David Moyes of Everton FC (h/t The Daily Star) is that they will not release their left back/defender. Everton priced Baines at $31 million while Manchester United will pay $23 million (as per The Mirror).

Why is Baines the center of a transfer battle between Everton and Manchester United?

What is the reason Baines can make Manchester United kings of the Premier League and other tournaments?

According to the Everton FC webpage, Baines played for Wigan before joining the club in 2008. Baines was one of the performers who was consistent during the 2010-2011 Premier League (EPL) season.

He was active in Everton's victory over Manchester City and impressed Fabio Capello who was manager of the England at the time. During the 2011 match between England and Denmark, Baines participated in the match which resulted in a victory over the latter.

During the 2011-2012 EPL season, Baines was one of the players named in the PFA Team of the Year Award. Baines' consistency in Everton resulted in fellow teammates awarding him the Players' Player of the Year Award.

Baines was also the recipient of the Everton Player of the Season and Goal of the Season award. According to an article in Squarefootball, Baines possesses the ability to free kick and cross with consistency which few left back/defenders possess.

According to Goal, Baines receives high marks when it comes to loyalty to club, passing the ball, shooting the ball, speed in match, as well as stamina. He scored two goals within nine matches in friendly matches and the FA Cup.

Baines (during the 2011-2012 season) was able to score five goals, start 43 matches and serve as a substitute for three of them. He also had three assists, 31 shots, and eight shots on goal.

It is hoped that if Everton and Manchester United could reach an agreement concerning Baines—if there is a decision. The difference could be between the possibility of retaining a strong left back or paying the consequences of playing without one in the 2012-2013 EPL season.