Manchester United gained a dangerous attacking midfielder when they signed Japanese international Shinji Kagawa, but could they be losing another in the same summer?
Rumors of Nani leaving Old Trafford began circulating last week when negotiations regarding a new contract hit an impasse. Nani went on to tell a local television station, "I have had five seasons at Manchester United and have won all the titles," he said. "Now I am really happy but I don't know about my future. Now I will study opportunities. Football is not only about England or Spain. It is possible to enjoy success in other countries. My agent is waiting on news about United. We have presented a counter-offer and now we are waiting on an offer from the club."
While Nani says he will continue to keep his options open, and won't rule out a move from United, it is likely his remarks are simply an attempt to get United to up their offer.
The Red Devils acquired Kagawa away from Bundesliga champion Borussia Dortmund. Even with his arrival, Man U surely would like to keep Nani, who has two years remaining on his current contract. The Portuguese native came to United from Sporting Lisbon in 2007. Since then, he has scored 37 goals in 195 matches. He also recorded more assists than any other player in the English Premier League last season.
Nani is currently with the Portugal national team as they prepare to open the 2012 European Championships.