Was just thinking, with the Juventus interest seemingly cooling a little and the arrival of Barry surely iminent. If it's the case that we need a few quid, if it's the case that we would have too many central midfielders who aren't going to play? What if my "opening day of the season" team is correct?
Reina
Arbeloa Carragher Agger Dossena
Kuyt Gerrard Masherano Barry
Keane
Torres
Who would people want off the bench, first change, first option if someone got injured? If a team came in and gave us back what we paid for Lucas plus a mill or two (which I believe is possible) then would it be an option, or even a possibility?
Alonso strikes me as the sort of lad who is a top pro and could accept not being picked for the first two months but still give 110% in training. Lucas has been here a year now, who's to say he won't improve next season, put in a performance or two and then say "feck this I want to play every week"?
I like the little Brazillian a lot and disagree with Stu on him. He's got all the ability to become a top player. There is though the lingering doubt that he won't do it in the Premiership.
If we aren't going to sell Xabi, are we missing a trick by holding onto Lucas?