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Complacent negotiations see Ramsey join Arsenal
By Chris, June 11 2008
Cardiff City midfielder Aaron Ramsey has snubbed a move to Old Trafford in favour of Arsenal. The press had labelled the Red Devils as firm favourites to land the 17-year-old starlet – but Ramsey has plumped for a move to North London after meeting Gooners boss Arsene Wenger in Switzerland. Did the Reds get complacent during negotiations?


United, Everton and Arsenal all had bids in the region of £5million accepted for the youngster - but press reports in the North West, South Wales and London all predicted that the Caerphilly-born youngster would sign on the dotted line for United.

In addition to this, Cardiff chairman Peter Ridsdale publicly told the youngster to sign for the Red Devils - mainly because Sir Alex Ferguson was prepared to immediately loan the teenager back to the Championship outfit for a twelve-month period.

However, United seemingly got complacent in the negotiation process. Whilst Wenger booked Ramsey and his family first-class flights to Switzerland, Sir Alex Ferguson left it up to Gary Neville to show the starlet around Old Trafford and the club's Carrington training ground complex.

Ramsey rejected moves from United and Everton and is now on the verge of completing a move to Arsenal. Wenger has reportedly promised the youngster some first-team chances next season and an international debut for Wales now looks certain to follow.

Ramsey's only started twelve league games at Championship level - and certainly has a long way to go if he is to settle down in the Premier League. However, the club's complacent attitude in negotiations is disappointing. Was this a missed opportunity for the European champions?

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