From the Back Pages: Manchester United related transfer rumors and news

Over the holiday weekend here in the United States, I was not able to spend much time around a computer, therefore, I was not privy to some of the happenings of Manchester United during the time. However, I did spend some time today catching up on news and transfer rumors - Here are some links to check out to get caught up on the recent happenings of the club:

Transfer News & Rumors

* The On The Move blog does a nice job tracking transfer rumors from various media outlets and also in providing their own. The latest United related update includes quotes from Sunderland manager Steve Bruce about his interest in defenders John O'Shea and Wes Brown. There is also news that Nicky Ajose has joined Petersborough on a 4-year deal. {ESPNSoccernet}

* Sunderland chairman Niall Quinn admits to be being hopeful about signing O'Shea. He also reveals that there is still some ways to go in their pursuit of Darron Gibson. {ESPN Soccernet}

* Inter Milan manager Gian Pero Gasperini reveals that the future of Wesley Sneijder is uncertain. The Dutch playmaker has continually been linked to United and it is no secret that manager Sir Alex Ferguson is looking for reinforcements in the center of the pitch {Manchester Evening News}

* It was reported by some media outlets that Luka Modric was to meet with Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy to discuss his future. However, the Croatian is still on holiday and such reports appear to be false. Modric has been a hot topic of discussion - both United and Chelsea FC seem keen on signing the midfielder. {M.E.N}

* Reported United target Samir Nasri reveals his desire for trophies. The Frechman has only a year left on his contract and rumors have been rampant that he seeks a move from Arsenal FC. {ESPNSoccernet}

General News

* Gary Neville offers up his thoughts on United's new signings, on catching FC Barcelona, Paul Scholes, last season's title, his toughest opponents, not shaking hands in the tunnel, and Manchester City. {M.E.N.} 

* Scholes wonders what is the point of playing pretty football like Arsenal if it doesn't produce trophies? He too discusses United's summer signings, the midfielders being linked to the club, and Chelsea's appointment of Andre Villas-Boas. {Guardian}

* Chelsea goalkeeper Peter Cech believes the signing of David De Gea is a "huge gamble." Like so many others have already pointed out, he remembers the difficulties that United had in replacing Peter Schmeichel. {ESPNSoccernet}

* Javier 'Chicharito' Hernandez discusses the hard work he is putting in in order to round out his game. The young Mexican striker is attempting to improve his technique and strength and he goes on further about his appreciation for his manager. {M.E.N.}

Random Reads

* Owen Hargreaves attempts to prove his fitness by launching a series of YouTube videos that show him working out. This is not a joke. I don't think. Irony... {M.E.N.}

* Jonathan Wilson is doing a four-part series of an imaginary tournament between 16 of the all-time greatest football clubs. The side that he uses to represent United is the 1998-99 treble winning side. Here is Part 1, Part 2, and Part 3. I found these to be fascinating reads. {Sports Illustrated}

* Michael Cox offers up his European Team of the Season. Only one Premier League player makes the starting XI ; and it's a United player. Another makes the list as a substitute. {Zonal Marking}