With Chris Smalling being pictured at Old Trafford, last night, happily signing autographs, it`s fair to say that Manchester United finally saw off any late challenge from Arsenal for his signature.
But, and this is interesting, it seems that a web of intrigue is being uncovered as to how the deal was finally settled.
According to a couple of news sources this morning, Fulham accepted a bid from United for £8 million but a proviso was attached whereby if a club exceeded that figure by a further £2 million then they too could enter into negotiations.
It`s believed that Arsenal did just that and that Sir Alex Ferguson was then forced to up his bid by a further £2 million, increasing the final bid to a mind-boggling £12 million, no wonder a sale was the only option.
But spare a thought for Maidstone United, apparently, there was no sell-on clause in the deal that saw him arrive at Fulham from the non-league club!
Also, in signing for United it`s also being reported that Chris has quadrupled his wages from a mere £5,000 a week to circa £20,000 a week, although we reckon it`s still small change compared to some of United` stars!
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