Originally Posted by MadDogg

But you can't say that his price will be falling away in 2 seasons, therefore we want to pay his lowered price now. You either pay the big price now, or you wait a season or two and get him for the lowered one. Which won't happen in Berbatov's case, because we will be buying this offseason.

Plus, because of the type of player Berbatov is, he will probably stay at his peak for longer than most strikers. Most top strikers are explosive, and burn out somewhat as they hit 30. Berbatov should go until at least 32 before he starts dropping a little. As such, it would be like signing an Eto'o or Henry at 25.

His age does come into it a little. If we pay over 25-27m then it's obviously a rip-off. But 15-17m would be laughed out of the building. It'll be another two seasons before his price comes down that much. And if Fergie thinks he'll help us win another few titles in those extra years, it's well worth it.