[X-Offender]

... is quite puzzling. I just can't seem to grasp the logic here. We're the 7th highest valued club in the world, with a value estimated at €659 million. We're owned by one of the richest man not only in Italy, but in the world, with an estimated net worth of $9 billion. Yet we can't seem to spend a penny in signing players.

I understand that we can never compete with the European powerhouses and spend €35 million on this guy, €40 million on that guy. But not even €12-15 million? I swear, we are so cheap it's absolutely bewildering. Asking Rami to pay €500k out of his pocket to Valencia, acting as if €5 million for Dzemaili is €50 million, considering Taarabt's €4 million price tag as too high. And these are just a few rushed examples that come to mind.

There must be a reason we only go after free agents and rejects, but for the love of god I just can't figure it out. The FFP argument does not hold water cos everyone is spending nowadays, sometimes considerable amounts, even clubs that don't take part in the Champions League. We've even reduced our wage bill and our roster, yet nothing seems to be changing. The theory that we would follow Arsenal's example has proven to be another lie fed to the fans.

The only reason I can think of is that the owners (i.e. the Berlusconi family) simply DO NOT want to spend because they DO NOT care anymore. But then again we always face the usual "Milan is not for sale" every time there seems to be an offer in the air.

I just... I just don't get it. Any thoughts?

[kurtsimonw]

But Jack, sponsorships are included in revenue. These clubs are making massive losses after doing what you have outlined above.

I do think it's purely a money making exercise for UEFA and they pick and choose stuff. PSG had a sponsor that wasn't allowed to go through by UEFA as it wasn't deemed "fair value", I believe it was less than £170m. United and Barca have both been allowed deals that make PSGs looks like pennies. Funny that.

[Jack Sparrow]

But Jack, sponsorships are included in revenue. These clubs are making massive losses after doing what you have outlined above.

I do think it's purely a money making exercise for UEFA and they pick and choose stuff. PSG had a sponsor that wasn't allowed to go through by UEFA as it wasn't deemed "fair value", I believe it was less than £170m. United and Barca have both been allowed deals that make PSGs looks like pennies. Funny that.

Yes. Actually only PSG and Man City have really flouted norms. None of the other clubs have. And both of them have been given some harsh slaps on the wrist. With the warning to shape up or things get worse. So it's not as bad as you think. Monaco are shipping people out like anything. Chelsea are well within norms. Man Utd are doing swell financially and will need to go at least two more seasons without CL to be in trouble. Real and Barca are also comfortable.

So who else ? Which big club do you actually feel is spending more than it can earn?