CALL me cynical, but is it not slightly suspicuous that Manchester United have signed three players in the space of 48 hours, just days before the deadline for season ticket renewal?
Extortionate isn't the word. Robbery would be more appropriate for the outrageous price hike for season tickets next season at Old Trafford.
On the face of it, a jump from £570 to £627 is not too bad. But then comes the sting in the tail. It is compulsory for all season ticket holders to buy home cup tickets.
So, to cut a long story short, if we are successful in the European Cup, which is possible, and have good runs in the FA and Carling Cup, and get drawn at home - also a possibility - I am looking at a bill of £1,200.
Don't get me wrong, I would like to go to every United game home and away, but I'm afraid it is just not financially possible for me, and I doubt it is for most fans.
Much as I love United, I don't want to be bankrupt because of them.
So the signing of three potentially world-class players - Hargreaves, Nani and Anderson - is convenient in its timing.
We are renowned for leaving it late in the transfer market - see Carrick, Rooney, Keane etc etc - so why the sudden splash of somewhere in the region of £50 million?
If you were to ask me, I think it is down to business.
Whether the Glazers will be good for the squad and performance remains to be seen, but they have not been good for the fans.