Yanks Soccer

Since the European transfer window opened on July 1st, there has been increasing speculation about Michael Bradley’s potential transfer to a number of places.  Hamburg in Germany, Blackburn, and Middlesborough in England, and now, AS Monaco in France.  When the dust settles and Bradley chooses a place, we will presumably know his reasons, but for now all we can do is way the pros and cons of each team.  So, with that said, here is my attempt to discern which team would be the best fit for Bradley.  

Hamburg

Hamburg is the “Biggest club” going after Michael Bradley.  New boss Martin Jol is looking to revamp the team and re-energize with some new blood and that could be beneficial if Bradley does decide he would like to play for Hamburg.  Another encouraging sign is the impending departure of Rafael Van Der Vaart.  Van Der Vaart has received interest from teams such as Chelsea, Manchester United, Liverpool, and Atletico Madrid.  His departure is no guarantee after he said that he would be happy staying, but if he does leave, it opens a hole in the middle of the park which Bradley could step into.  If Van Der Vaart leaves, Hamburg could be a enticing offer for Michael Bradley.  If not, I don’t see Bradley giving it as serious a look.

Blackburn

Michael Bradley was a target for Blackburn when Mark Hughes was still the manager, but it seems as if new boss Paul Ince has carried Hughes’ desire to have Bradley.  Bradley would most likely replace Brett Emerton or Johann Vogel in the central midfield.  Blackburn is a good squad and competes for European places.  I think it’s a good jumping spot for Bradley, and if he can prove himself at Blackburn, there are some big clubs that might be interested in his services.  I think Bradley will give Blackburn a legitimate look and I think it is a good place for him.  My only reservation is Paul Ince’s limited track record, but if Bradley can live with that, Blackburn is a great place for him.

Middlesborough

Gareth Southgate’s pursuit of Michael Bradley has been the most publicized.  Southgate needs a replacement for George Boateng who appears headed to Hull, Twente, or Celtic.  Southgate has been scouting Bradley since the US National team’s game against Argentina and he apparently likes what he sees.  Since there is a spot available for Bradley to fill, I think Bradley will give Middlesborough a serious look.  At this stage in the race, Middlesbot rough seems like Bradley’s first choice.

AS Monaco

The newest team to join the hunt is AS Monaco.  They also are interested in acquiring Freddy Adu, and a Michael Bradley-Freddy Adu partnership could do wonders not only for Monaco, but for their chemistry on the US National Team.  Monaco has deep pockets and seems very interested in acquiring Bradley.  I’m a little concerned about Bradley moving to Ligue 1.  Ligue 1 is just as competitive as the Eredivisie and Bradley needs to play at a higher level to improve his game.  I don’t think Bradley is legitimately interested in joining Monaco, but if reports are true, Monaco is willing to pay far more than any other club so Heerenveen will be enticed by Monaco’s offer.  Bradley needs strong competition and he won’t find the level of play he’s looking for in France.

At this point, I think we are probably a week from learning Bradley’s next destination.  Where ever he ends up though, he needs to be playing regularly and against top competition.  Also because I’m selfish, I hope he joins the Premiership or Bundesliga because I’ll be able to see him on a weekly basis.  It’s an exciting time for Bradley and as long as he’s playing regularly, he will do great things.  

Where do you think Bradley will end up?  Let your voice be heard below.