15 Jul 2014 12:03:13
I have heard a strong rumour that Southampton are very interested in Benteke. A mate who has strong links with Villa (he knew Senderos, Cole and Richardson were joining before any rumours or news) has said Southampton have made an approach to sign him. Apparently an initial bid of 15mill, Villa are either thinking about it or waiting to see if any bigger offers come in. He said they need the money and need to strengthen the squad quickly, cashing in on Benteke now will mean they can get 3 or 4 players in before the season starts

1.) 15 Jul 2014
I just can't see us spending that much on a player who is still recovering from a serious injury. I think he's a great player but too much of a risk at the moment in my opinion.

2.) 15 Jul 2014
He will be fit by September, apparently training already at Bodymoor Heath. He is at the same stage in recovery as Jay Rod

3.) 15 Jul 2014
If he's at the same stage as J-Rod, there's no way he'd pass a fitness test

4.) 15 Jul 2014
I can assure you he would pass a fitness test. All he needs to do is have the injury passed off as being ok within a certain time scale and we get him at a discounted price due to it. I know a few physios and one that works with AVFC U21. If a physio and a doctor know a player will get over an injury, within a certain time, with no long lasting damage, then the club will buy

5.) 15 Jul 2014
Players with injuries, therefore, not fit, do not pass fitness tests.

6.) 16 Jul 2014
So a team wants to sign a top player, let's call him Messi for now. The selling club is happy to sell him due to the massive amount on offer and the buying club really want him and know this is their only chance to agree the deal. Buying club realises he has an injury that will take a couple months to sort out but its ok because its not during the season and he should be fine by the start of the season. Does the buying club say the deal is off knowing that they will never get this chance again or does the buying club take advice from medical staff and sign him in the knowledge he will fully recover at the start of the season.

7.) 16 Jul 2014
BadgerGK1's scenario reminds me of the Charlie George scenario back in 78, signed him anyway

8.) 16 Jul 2014
Absolutely not.

Because the selling club will have their own medical staff telling the club that the player will recover. Therefore, there is no need for a discounted price.

What you might get is an injury prone player sold at a reduced price.

Don't forget that insurance companies will block the transfer of an injured player