Many people have been admiring Clint Dempsey’s talents for a number of seasons now but is this the campaign where the American has finally earned a move to a top Premier League side?
Two goals against Bolton Wanderers on Saturday ensured his name will be written in Cottagers history (for now at least) after becoming Fulham’s highest ever Premier League goal scorer, overtaking Louis Saha’s record of 13.
Ever since he joined the club for what now is clearly a bargain £1.5 million from MLS side New England Revolution in 2007, Dempsey has scored progressively more goals every season with his tally now standing at 21 for the 2011/12 campaign if you include European and domestic cup matches.
So could Sir Alex Ferguson or one of the other top bosses come calling this summer? It is no secret that Manchester United are on the lookout for a creative, goal-scoring midfielder and Clint Dempsey certainly fits that bill. Good in the air, great stamina and explosive with both feet, the 29-year-old is a game changer. With Paul Scholes and Ryan Giggs nearing the end of their illustrious careers could Fulham’s star man be the answer to their problems?
Dempsey’s age and the fact that Arsenal have so many midfielders will probably put the Gunners off making a move whilst Man City’s billionaires will no doubt believe the American is not a big enough name to make a difference.
It remains to be seen who will be in charge of Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea come the summer but he would no doubt improve those squads also but the midfielder will want to make sure he goes somewhere he can enjoy his football and play regularly.
Liverpool may well be interested but will Dempsey see that as a big enough step up given the Reds’ struggles in the league in recent seasons?
There is every possibility he may stay at Craven Cottage to repay the faith shown in him by the fans and the club to give him his big break in Europe and make him a household name and leading Premier League star.
But if Martin Jol will let his man go in the summer then all roads could well lead to Old Trafford.
Do you think Dempsey could improve Man Utd? Let me know on Twitter! https://twitter.com/#!/TomCrocker93
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