Manchester United's Missed Opportunity With Ruud van Nistelrooy in 2000

In the year 2000, Premier League giant Manchester United was all set to sign the coveted Dutch attacker, Ruud van Nistelrooy, for a record-breaking fee. Ironically, the deal fell through due to an unforeseen medical issue, mirroring United's current summer transfer tribulations.

Between 1998 and 2000, Van Nistelrooy was the star player of PSV in the Eredivisie, with a remarkable 77 goals in just 90 league appearances. His exceptional performances saw him recognized as the Dutch Player of the Year for three consecutive seasons and led the league’s scoring charts twice.

His exploits did not go unnoticed by Europe’s elite clubs, and Manchester United were quick to pursue the striker. They agreed to a £18.5m transfer fee, which would have been a British record at the time.

The deal, however, fell to pieces due to concerns about Van Nistelrooy's problematic knee. Additional tests were required, but PSV and Van Nistelrooy declined, fearing it could hinder his recovery process. Shortly after, the player suffered a severe knee injury, sidelining him for a year and providing relief to the United camp.

A year later, Ruud van Nistelrooy joined Manchester United for a record £19m, a price increase from the initially agreed fee. He played over 200 matches for the club, scored a noteworthy 150 goals, and helped the team secure a league title and an FA Cup victory, making United the ultimate winner in the end.