Manchester United Transfers: Fact or Fiction on Latest United Transfer Rumours

To the relief of some Manchester United fans, and disappointment of others, "silly season" is drawing to a close.

And as such, following the early summer purchases of Shinji Kagawa and Nick Powell, Sir Alex is yet to make another eagerly expected signing.

Presented are five transfer rumours currently making the rounds, and I'll try to spot the fact from the fiction.

A task that may prove more difficult that it seems!

Sir Alex Considering Neil Taylor Instead of Leighton Baines

This one's via the old reliable Daily Mirror, which claims that now Sir Alex Ferguson has been priced out of a move for Everton full-back Leighton Baines, Swansea City's Neil Taylor is being lined up for a transfer instead.

The deal would potentially cost United £5 million, much less than Everton's £20 million valuation of Baines.

The Mirror is almost laughably cautious in the wording of its report, stating that "Manchester United could switch their attention to Swansea's Neil Taylor."

Nevertheless, I'm inclined to believe this one, due to the club's genuine need for a replacement of Patrice Evra and Baines' ridiculous price.

FACT

City Try to Hijack United's £4 Million Deal for Angelo Henriquez

You've got to love the Daily Mirror, don't you?

The British tabloid is also trying to provoke inter-Manchester relations by claiming that City are about to hijack United's £4 million deal for Chilean striker Angelo Henriquez.

The player has reportedly been a long-term target for the Red Devils, but now City have stepped in in a bid to steal the 18-year-old phenom.

Whilst United's interest is genuine, the only basis for the article is the fact that one of City's scouts has supposedly been to watch the player in action—hardly reason for an imminent move.

FICTION

Sir Alex Contacts Arsene Wenger over Van Persie Deal

Tricky one this.

Whilst it is well known that Manchester United are in hot pursuit of Arsenal's want-away striker Robin van Persie, details of any potential negotiations are, understandably, in short supply.

However numerous tabloids are currently reporting that Sir Alex has made direct contact with Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger in a bid to speed the process, while adding his own "personal touch."

Both the Daily Mail and The Mirror are claiming "exclusive" rights on this one, and for some reason it seems to make perfect sense.

I may come to regret it, but I call...

FACT

Fernando Llorente to United?

Athletic Bilbao's highly-rated striker Fernando Llorente has refused to put pen to paper, and is seeking a move to new pastures.

According to some reports, this news may interest United, who are known admirers of the player (via Inside Futbol).

As much as it pains me to say it, unfortunately this one's complete bogus.

Sir Alex doesn't seem to be considering any alternatives to Robin van Persie at the moment, and consequently may be missing out on a potential bargain.

FICTION

United Have Made €30 Million Bid for Robert Lewandowski

I really don't need to sport with your intelligence on this one, do I?

According to Polish website Onet.pl, United have made a bid of €30 million for Borussia Dortmund striker Robert Lewandowski (h/t Manutd.com).

This rumour borders on the ridiculous, and should be taken with an over-sized pinch of salt.

Come on Onet.pl, I expected more from you!

FICTION