Nemanja Vidic's agent rules out Manchester United exit

For years now, Manchester United captain Nemanja Vidic has been linked with a move to Serie A side Juventus. Nearly every time this speculation pops up though, the possibility of the defender leaving is squelched. Once again it seems, there has been rumblings that Vida might soon be departing Old Trafford for the Italian champions or possibly even for FC Barcelona. Don't be alarmed though United fans, the agent for our steely defender -- Silvano Martina -- has recently denied these claims.

"Vidic is not playing at this time because he's had surgery, so he's only thinking about his recovery and not about the transfer market. Juventus are complete with their non-EU players for this season and it is highly unlikely they will make a bid for Vidic, therefore I can categorically rule out any interest from them. Vidic is already part of a top club and there are no negotiations with Juventus or Barcelona."

- Martina | Source: itasportpress.it

The first thing that jumps out to me from that statement is that his agent is calling him 'Vidic' rather than 'Nemanja'. I would think they would be on a first-name basis.

Anyway, a move to Juve would possibly make sense but a move to Barcelona certainly does not. The Catalan giants have been in need of another center-back for awhile now and continual injuries as of late to Carlos Puyol and Gerard Pique resulted in the dire situation of Adriano partnering Javier Mascherano in central-defense during the most recent El Clasico. However, with Barca's high-intensity pressing and with the high-line they play in the back, Vida's relative lack of pace and his propensity to being vulnerable on the turn does not make him an optimal choice for them.

Vidic continues to be unavailable for United due to a recent meniscus tear -- and this occurred in the same knee that was recently surgically repaired. If all goes well, the Serbian should return to action sometime in November. For most of the season, Sir Alex Ferguson has not had more than two central-defenders to choose from and at season's beginning, it was midfielder Michael Carrick that was partnering Vidic. Rio Ferdinand and Jonny Evans have been healthy though as of late and Chris Smalling is expected to be available when the current international break ends next weekend. Furthermore, Phil Jones is anticipated to return soon as well. It'll be nice to have some selection choices again.