Who Do You think will win the race to Sign David Villa?

The whole world pretty much expects Villa along with compatriot David Silva to leave the Mestalla this summer with the club trying to rid themselves of huge debts, but who is going to win the battle to sign this hugely talented striker? His goal record
speaks for itself:

Valencia Spain
06/07- Games: 47 Goals 21 Since 2005- Games:43 Goals: 25
07/08- Games: 39 Goals: 23
08/09- Games: 40 Goals: 30

Clearly, he is one of the most coveted strikers in Europe, so here's an assesment of the contenders for his signature...

Manchester United: United were interested in his signature before he signed for Valencia in 2005, but since then interest has been quiet. United would probably be interested once more knowing his situation, however have been put off by his price tag- hes quoted at 40million! Even more, Fergie already has Berbatov and Rooney at his disposal, and summer signings largely depend on Carlos Tevez's situation.

Likelihood? 1/5

Chelsea: Money bags Chelsea seem to have shown a keen interest in Villa since Ancelotti took over. With Didier Drogba and Nicolas Anelka in their 30s, Ancelotti has been told to youthen up his ageing squad, and he looks ready to start with his front line.Price should be no issue for Chelsea, and they are constantly being linked with the star striker, apparently weighing up a £42.5million bid in the coming days/weeks. The only issue is whether Abramovich is prepared to blow so much money on just one player, ever since the infamous Shevchenko scenario.

Likelihood?- 4/5- Expect more news in coming days!

Arsenal: Arsenal were extremely interested in David Villa last summer, and has been followed by Wenger ever since his exploits at World Cup 2006. But Wenger has a shed load of strikers at the club, and regardless of whether Adebayor goes and brings in big money, he wont be prepared to pay the asking price.

Likelihood?: 0/5.


Liverpool: Due to the Spanish contingent Rafa Benitez has put together at Liverpool, the Spanish International has been tipped to settle just fine at Anfield. Liverpool have been strongly linked with the player, however Rafa is a quiet operator in the market and will not like the big prices and huge media surrounding the deal. Add Liverpools recent money problems into the equation and the fact that Villa coming would force Pool to play 4-4-2 changes everything. Don't expect a deal, but don't count them out.

Likelihood?: 2/5


Real Madrid: It appears that Madrid seems Villa's most likely destination. Florentino Perez seems to covet every player in the world but Villa has been on Madrid's shopping list for some time now. With Van Nistelrooy and Raul ageing, and Higuain not considerered a 'Galactico', Madrid are prepared to splash the cash on the Valencia hitman.

Likelihood?: 5/5

Manchester City: Cash rich Manchester City have also emerged as front-runners for Villa signature, and would no doubt pay the fee. But David Villa's loyalty thus far to Valencia has shown he is not one to be swayed by millions, and has explicitly said he would like to stay in Spain should he ever leave Valencia. Furthemore, City are linked with every striker under the sun these days, and we dont actually know if they REALLY want him. But they do have the money...

Likelihood?: 3/5

Barcelona: Many of the 606 users feel Barcelona have valid claim to be favourites for his signature. They are based in Spain-a preferable choice for Villa, and more poignantly they are the best side in the world. With Samuel Eto'o future seemingly in the balance, Villa would be the perfect replacement. However, rumours are surfacing that a deal to take Zlatan Ibrahimovic to Barcelona is already on the cards, and these rumous have substance.

Likelihood? 3/5

Outsiders:Inter Milan, AC Milan, Valencia (stay)

What will they be getting?: Possibly the most talented striker in Europe.

Where do you think he'll end up and where do you think he'll most succeed?