Author Topic: Diego Forlan (Read 2725 times)

Juan Loco · « **on:** May 13, 2009, 07:11:23 PM »

Snigger if you want, but he may just be one of the best strikers in Europe. His two goals at the weekend took him to 27 in 30 games (29 starts) in La Liga this season, one goal behind Eto'o in the race for the Pichichi.

Yup, he was a figure of fun at the Mancs, but his record since moving to Spain has been incredible. 97 goals in a 169 games in La Liga, at Villarreal and Atletico, two good but hardly outstanding sides. Villa's record over the same period, just for comparison, is 99 in 164.

Will his failure at the Mancs always go against him when big clubs are on the look out for a striker? His record at United wasn't as bad as made out, once he actually got scoring. His record in the Premiership is actually 10 goals in 23 starts, which I must be honest surprised me. His goals per start record through-out his United career was 19 in 39.

I'm not sure how he's viewed in Spain, but will he ever get the respect his record deserves over here? He's more or less 1 in 2 across his whole career, he scores with either foot, and different types of goals, not just tap-ins or from inside the box. Oh, and he's started setting them up as well.

I dunno. Just seems worth pointing out that when good strikers are thin on the ground, this guy has rebuilt a career and should have forged a reputation as one of the best about. Would anyone take the chance though? Arsenal could use a goalscorer, Chelsea if Drogba leaves, Barcelona if Eto'o leaves, both Milanese clubs are forever being linked with strikers. Would (and should) Forlan get a look in?

Ryba · « **Reply #1 on:** May 13, 2009, 07:16:12 PM »

It's rumored that Barca want him to replace Etoo

abhred · « **Reply #2 on:** May 13, 2009, 07:37:23 PM »

He's awesome. Don't let the fact that Ferguson didn't know how to use him get in the way of the fact that he's been La Liga's best striker alongwith Eto and Villa (and Milito before he left) in the past few years. Yes, that's a fact.

Never know why Milito and Forlan never get the credit they deserve. They're world class IMO.

JoeK · « **Reply #3 on:** May 13, 2009, 07:38:07 PM »

Score's fucking rockets from outside the box too.

Not his fault the mancs are c*nts either.

pinky · « **Reply #4 on:** May 13, 2009, 07:38:33 PM »

He's easily the most underrated player considering those who mainly follow the Premier think of him. It's a pity he's seen like that, because he would be perfect for Liverpool.

thredworm · « **Reply #5 on:** May 13, 2009, 07:42:25 PM »

His time with the mancs WILL always go against him, without doubt.

That and the fact that he looks like Sally Gunnell.

Xxavi · « **Reply #6 on:** May 13, 2009, 07:43:32 PM »

He is a great player, arguably, better than Aguero. He is scorer of great goals, but sometimes easy chances are not converted. Probably this is true for many strikers anyways.

Dunno how people view him in England, but he is one of the best in Spain. Clearly better strikers are EtoO and Villa. There are number of strikers who are about as good as him, namely Aguero and Kanoute. IMO, others are step below.

Fanxxxxtastic · « **Reply #7 on:** May 13, 2009, 07:45:51 PM »

Had no time for him when he was at the Mancs, but even I can admit he's been in sparkling form for Atleti.

Ray K · « **Reply #8 on:** May 13, 2009, 07:48:12 PM »

Torres's record at Atletico was 75 in 174 (0.43 per game). Forlan's is 0.57 per game.
Granted Nando was young for most of that time, but any striker averaging over a goal every 2 games in a top league has to have something about him.

bigbear · « **Reply #9 on:** May 13, 2009, 07:50:07 PM »

He's possibly the most two footed striker in world football at the moment. Also got a great attitude and work ethic.

He's shown that when he's given the opportunity as the main man at decent clubs (Atleti/Villareal) then he can do the job. Whether he can do it as one of 3 strikers at a top club is another matter.

Would be a great siging for Spurs/Arsenal and maybe even Chelsea if they mixed their game up as they did at the start of the season because he could be number 1 there.

Would be no good for us as he'd be No 2 and put back in his place which may set him back again.

conman · « **Reply #10 on:** May 13, 2009, 07:53:48 PM »

id have him ..

rossipersiempre · « **Reply #11 on:** May 13, 2009, 08:02:05 PM »

Quote from: bigbear on May 13, 2009, 07:50:07 PM

He's shown that when he's given the opportunity as the main man at decent clubs (Atleti/Villareal) then he can do the job. Whether he can do it as one of 3 strikers at a top club is another matter.

I'd agree with that. Found his level. Very decent player but can't ever see him returning to the PL and being a success. Why would he want to anyway?

gamble · « **Reply #12 on:** May 13, 2009, 08:05:58 PM »

spoke to some utd fans a while back about him, the problem with their team a few years ago was van nistelrooy - he totally took over the show. all the shots and chances, he would take, all the final balls were played to him. no other players really had a fair crack because van nistelrooy used to hog all the chances so never really saw the best of forlan here

lachesis · « **Reply #13 on:** May 13, 2009, 08:53:07 PM »

Always thought he was the type of player we missed at the time he was at the mancs despite his lack of goals. Someone who would just get the ball and fire it at goal from all angles.

-Paddy- · « **Reply #14 on:** May 13, 2009, 08:56:09 PM »

I like the guy, regardless of what he did against us. Not as if he was one of the diving moaning twats they're full of anyway.

I think his biggest asset is the fact he's so fucking good on both feet. Honestly, watch him for 90 minutes without taking any set pieces, it's almost impossible to tell.

fivein05 · « **Reply #15 on:** May 13, 2009, 09:06:26 PM »

It wasn't his fault it was the club he played for and unfortunately Jerzy.......I probably wouldn't give him a go because I think that he would carry psycological baggage in the prem and also he played for the biggest bunch of hookin punts this side of christendom.
Yes I am Bigoted........Very......and do I forgive....do I fook(sic)

Ecuared · « **Reply #16 on:** May 13, 2009, 09:08:33 PM »

And this pops up today in some random barcelona rag.

http://www.sport.es/default.asp?idpublicacio_PK=44&idioma=CAS&idnoticia_PK=611817&idseccio_PK=805

Here's a quick translation. If it's true this would be very interesting indeed. It looks to me like the source is a Catalan tabloid, although I've never heard of it before.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

FORLAN VERY CLOSE TO SIGNING FOR LIVERPOOL

The Uruguayan striker will return to the Premier League 5 years later, as Rafa's Liverpool believes he will form a partnership with Fernando Torres.

The future of Atletico's Uruguayan striker is almost decided. Diego Forlan will return to the Premier League 5 years after his stint with Manchester United. The deal is very close to being finalized.

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has decided to go in for the Atletico superstar in order to form an offensive partnership with Torres. The descision has already been made, despite the fact it represents a heavy investment, but Forlans Premier League experience outweighs the fee.

The forward has already come to terms with Liverpool, after deciding for a more ambitious project in his search to win titles. He will be the first exit for Atletico, who will be selling their star players.

Kun Aguero could be next. The two clubs now must come to an agreement on the fee (edit: I think this means for Forlan, not Aguero, but the article is a bit poorly written). At the moment Madrid will not budge from their valuation of Forlan at 36 million Euros. However, the deal could be finalized for 24 million, plus the Brazilian Lucas Leiva. The young Liverpool midfielder, 22, was a Atletico target before his transfer to liverpool.

Diego Forlan is having an impeccable season for Atletico. With three games remaining he has scored 27 goals his best output so far in La Liga since his first season with Villareal. That campaign he finished Pichichi with 25 goals, beating out Samuel Ett'o. This season he could repeat that feat, although the Cameroon striker holds a one goal advantage in the battle to be crowned this seasons Pichichi.

Bugsy Siegel · « **Reply #17 on:** May 13, 2009, 09:12:47 PM »

Just don't think he'll cut it in the Prem

Game is a bit different here ya know

Not doubting his quality, it's just the way things are sometimes.

Ste08 · « **Reply #18 on:** May 13, 2009, 09:17:02 PM »

I really rate him. Terrific work ethic, properly two footed and scores so many different types of goals.

slickman · « **Reply #19 on:** May 13, 2009, 11:03:23 PM »

Aguerro gets all the praise and plaudits but right now forlan is better and more effective im sure in the future aguerro will go on to big things and become a star player 2-3 years from now but forlan is a cheaper and better option right now for any clubs.

buchigo! · « **Reply #20 on:** May 14, 2009, 12:05:47 AM »

Quote from: Ste08 on May 13, 2009, 09:17:02 PM

I really rate him. Terrific work ethic, properly two footed and scores so many different types of goals.

Agree with you there. My only concern though is that would the money be better spent towards someone who can give us a few more years (ie kun, tevez, etc) but then again, we have Ngog (he's not rated that much here but he impresses me with his movement and I wouldn't want to sell him immediately- would be nice if we signed a better backup, loaned David and promote Nemeth or Pacheco). At any rate, it would be great if we signed Forlan, Barry, Silva and a right wing back (whoever between the usual suspects of Johnson or Kuba would be good)- it addresses our issues regarding depth and would offer us better options over the long season.

ps. I think Rafa has a thing for blondes.

Garstonite · « **Reply #21 on:** May 14, 2009, 12:07:07 AM »

I'd have him in a shot.

bryanod · « **Reply #22 on:** May 14, 2009, 12:07:56 AM »

Quote from: Garstonite on May 14, 2009, 12:07:07 AM

I'd have him in a shot.

Not now, 29 and would cost far too much. Plus if he's not playing regularly, how would his confidence hold up?

Has been immense last few years no doubt about it.

-Paddy- · « **Reply #23 on:** May 14, 2009, 12:09:18 AM »

Would rather Aguero if I'm being honest.

Not that I want the Lucas rumour to be true, but I think Atletico's the ideal club for him, should he leave.

Tom_B · « **Reply #24 on:** May 14, 2009, 12:10:12 AM »

Quote from: Paddee on May 14, 2009, 12:09:18 AM

Would rather Aguero if I'm being honest.

x ∞.

Forlan is good though.

Bob Loblaw · « **Reply #25 on:** May 14, 2009, 12:16:57 AM »

Quote from: Paddee on May 14, 2009, 12:09:18 AM

Would rather Aguero if I'm being honest.

Well thats like asking someone if they'd rather have good aids or bad aids. They're going to choose good aids everytime.

Sid7 · « **Reply #26 on:** May 14, 2009, 12:22:11 AM »

Why would he come back to a league in which he couldn't make it? He had his time here and he couldn't adjust....and the fact he is a top striker in another league should tell you he's best suited for it. Plus, it's not like he's a spring chicken anymore.

What's next? Bring Kanoute back to the premier league?

How bout Horseface? He still scores for fun in La liga doesn't he? (when he's not crocked up that is)

b_joseph · « **Reply #27 on:** May 14, 2009, 12:23:55 AM »

Quote from: Bob Loblaw on May 14, 2009, 12:16:57 AM

Well thats like asking someone if they'd rather have good aids or bad aids. They're going to choose good aids everytime.

What in the world.....

Anyways, Stay in Spain Diego. I actually like watching him play in Spain and really dont wnat to see his English league performances again.

RigBon1892 · « **Reply #28 on:** May 14, 2009, 12:29:37 AM »

Are we sure Rafa doesnt only want him cos Lucas had the cheek to cut his hair?

4pool · « **Reply #29 on:** May 14, 2009, 02:40:22 AM »

Been mentioned on ESPN desportes radio over here Forlan "may" be on his way to us.

Mr Rossi · « **Reply #30 on:** May 14, 2009, 06:13:27 AM »

Quote from: Bugsy Siegel on May 13, 2009, 09:12:47 PM

Just don't think he'll cut it in the Prem

Game is a bit different here ya know

Not doubting his quality, it's just the way things are sometimes.

Agreed, I think the prem league might be just a bit too fast and furious for him. He looks so good in spain because he gets a lot more time on the ball. He wouldn't get that amount of space over here.

Anyway I think(hope) its a smokescreen coz the last time we where linked with Forlan we ended up signing Torres instead.

CHOPPER · « **Reply #31 on:** May 14, 2009, 06:57:07 AM »

He's damaged goods in my eyes, we'd have to boil him in TCP for about 8 hours to get the smell of them of him.
A big fat no in my book Juan *sniggers*

GBF · « **Reply #32 on:** May 14, 2009, 06:58:10 AM »

you got to be nuts to have him...he cant play in PL...spanish league suits him

Red_Isle_Chap · « **Reply #33 on:** May 14, 2009, 07:00:40 AM »

24 million euro's PLUS Lucas? Fuck off with that. I don't give a shit how good he's been, that's not good business in my eyes.

jooneyisdagod · « **Reply #34 on:** May 14, 2009, 07:22:08 AM »

Don't mind him as a player. In fact, he is very good. The only concern is his relative lack of pace, a reason which was stated as a prime factor behind Rafa opting for Torres over Forlan a couple of summers back. Now, it is funny to hear that we may be breaking bank to sign the same player. He is very good no doubt but I would much rather we spent the 24 million on a wide player.

JohnnyDrama · « **Reply #35 on:** May 14, 2009, 07:25:33 AM »

Not for me, although Maxi or Sergio I wouldn't mind.

whats the deal with maxi's contract wasn't he coming out of contract soon? or has he resigned.

Mackeroo · « **Reply #36 on:** May 14, 2009, 08:16:55 AM »

Decent player, in many ways an ideal Rafa type player. He's a great workrate and he's also two footed.

He wasn't suited to the mancs when he was there and he's done really well in Spain.

Don't think I'd take him though, at 29 he wouldn't really represent value for money unless he was available for about 5/6 million.

Would much rather Kun for the kind of money being mentioned. Just hope Kun doesn't end up at the kunts.

rocco · « **Reply #37 on:** May 14, 2009, 08:27:01 AM »

A fee of about £10-13m for a 29 year old Forlan would be about right .. but £24m and Lucas ...

gollne · « **Reply #38 on:** May 14, 2009, 08:30:27 AM »

Smokescreen

rocco · « **Reply #39 on:** May 14, 2009, 08:34:16 AM »

Quote from: gollne on May 14, 2009, 08:30:27 AM

Smokescreen

Wont be able to see a thing all over Europe with all this smoke