Rebuilding the Theatre

Woodward and Jin Taige sat across from Robert Lewandowski and his agent, the tension in the room was palpable. Woodward's earlier optimism had faded as the reality of the situation became clear.

"So, let me get this straight," Woodward said, his tone laced with frustration. "Bayern Munich had a deal in place for Robert, but they backed out to pursue Mario Götze instead?"

Lewandowski's agent nodded. "That's correct. Bayern had agreed to a €25 million transfer fee, but their focus shifted to Götze. Dortmund, unwilling to lose both their stars in one window, rejected Bayern's offer and are now pushing for a contract extension with Robert."

Woodward leaned back in his chair, exchanging a glance with Jin Taige. The Manchester United manager, however, remained calm. He turned to Lewandowski, his gaze steady.

"Robert," Jin Taige began, "if the renewal talks fall through, what are your plans?"

Lewandowski hesitated, his eyes meeting Jin Taige's. "If I can't reach an agreement with Dortmund, I'll consider my options. But I need to know—what can Manchester United offer me?"

Jin Taige didn't miss a beat. "A starting role, a contract that reflects your value, and the respect of a manager who believes in you."

Lewandowski's expression softened. The frustration of being Bayern's second choice still lingered, but Jin Taige's words struck a chord. "You really think I can be the core of your team?"

"I don't just think it," Jin Taige said firmly. "I know it. You're one of the best strikers in the world, Robert. At Manchester United, you'll have the platform to prove it."

The room fell silent as Lewandowski considered the offer. After a long moment, he spoke. "I need time to think about it."

Jin Taige nodded. "Take your time. But remember, Robert, Manchester United is ready to welcome you with open arms. Together, we can conquer Europe."

With the Lewandowski meeting concluded, Jin Taige and Woodward turned their attention to their next target: Leroy Sané, the young winger from Schalke 04. The negotiations with Schalke were straightforward, and within hours, they were standing on the training ground, face-to-face with the 17-year-old prodigy.

"Leroy," Jin Taige said, his tone warm but direct, "we want you to join Manchester United."

Sané's eyes widened. "Me? But I'm just a youth player."

"Not for long," Jin Taige replied. "You have the talent to become one of the best. And when you're ready, the number 7 shirt will be yours."

Sané's jaw dropped. The number 7 shirt at Manchester United was legendary, worn by icons like Eric Cantona, David Beckham, and Cristiano Ronaldo. "You're serious?"

"Dead serious," Jin Taige said with a smile. "So, what do you say?"

Sané didn't hesitate. "I'm in."

The next day, Sané signed a contract with Manchester United for a transfer fee of €800,000. Jin Taige couldn't help but feel a surge of satisfaction. Another piece of the puzzle was in place.

With Germany behind them, Jin Taige and Woodward set their sights on the Netherlands. Their target: a young central defender who was on the verge of signing with another club.

As they boarded the plane to Amsterdam, Woodward couldn't resist a joke. "You know, Amsterdam is famous for its… nightlife. Maybe we should take a break and enjoy the sights."

Jin Taige shot him a look. "We're here for business, Ed. But if you want to explore the city on your own time, be my guest."

Woodward chuckled. "Fair enough. So, who's this mystery defender we're after?"

"You'll see," Jin Taige said, a hint of a smile playing on his lips. "But trust me, he's worth it."

XXXX

On the way to Groningen in the northeast of the Netherlands, Woodward turned to Jin Taige with a question. "Tiger, you mentioned that the central defender is about to sign with another club. What's the situation?"

Jin Taige explained, "As far as I know, this young man is close to signing with Celtic. We need to act fast and secure him before they do."

Woodward frowned. "Won't this hurt our relationship with Celtic? Is this player really that important? Can't we find someone else?"

Jin Taige shook his head. "He's irreplaceable. He's a key part of my future plans. I see him as Ferdinand's successor."

"That important?" Woodward asked, raising an eyebrow.

"Absolutely," Jin Taige replied without hesitation.

Woodward sighed, then smiled slyly. "Alright, I'll see what I can do. I have a good relationship with the Dutch club. If we match the price, they might prioritize us. But the player's decision is crucial. You'll need to convince him."

Jin Taige nodded confidently. "Don't worry. This isn't a battle against Real Madrid or Barcelona. I'm sure I can win him over."

When they arrived at Groningen's offices, Woodward and Jin Taige were greeted by the club's chairman, Middel. After some initial pleasantries, the conversation turned to business.

"So, who are you interested in?" Middel asked.

"Virgil van Dijk," Woodward replied.

Middel's expression shifted slightly. "Ah, Van Dijk. I'm afraid you're a bit late. We've already agreed to a deal with Celtic for €4 million. He's likely finalizing his contract with them as we speak."

Woodward tried to salvage the situation. "Middel, my friend, surely there's room for negotiation. No contract has been signed yet, right?"

Middel hesitated. "Well, no, but we've given our word. It's a matter of principle."

Before Woodward could respond, Jin Taige interjected. "We'll offer €5 million."

Middel's eyes widened. "What?"

"You heard me," Jin Taige said firmly. "€5 million for Van Dijk."

Middel glanced at Woodward, who shrugged. "Mr. Tiger has the final say on transfers. If he says €5 million, then it's €5 million."

Jin Taige leaned forward, his gaze steady. "Sir, breaking an unsigned contract for an extra million euros and gaining the friendship of Manchester United's manager seems like a good deal to me."

Middel hesitated, then picked up the phone. "Let me make a call."

After a brief conversation, Middel hung up and turned to Jin Taige with a smile. "Mr. Tiger, it seems you've got yourself a deal. Van Dijk's agent is on his way. We'll finalize the transfer shortly."

Woodward chuckled. "Middel, you've outdone yourself. You've earned an extra million, kept Van Dijk happy, and gained Manchester United's friendship. Well played."

Middel laughed. "A win-win for everyone. Now, let's celebrate tonight. Drinks are on me—courtesy of that extra million."

An hour later, Virgil van Dijk and his agent arrived at Middel's office. The towering defender, standing at 6'4", exuded confidence and strength. Jin Taige couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement. This was the player he had been waiting for.

After introductions, Jin Taige got straight to the point. "Virgil, we want you to join Manchester United. You'll be the cornerstone of our defense, the successor to Rio Ferdinand."

Van Dijk's eyes widened. "Ferdinand's successor? That's… a big responsibility."

"You're ready for it," Jin Taige said firmly. "And at Manchester United, you'll have the platform to prove it."

Van Dijk exchanged a glance with his agent, then nodded. "I'm in."

The deal was finalized quickly. For €5 million, Manchester United had secured one of the most promising defenders in Europe.

As they left Groningen the next morning, Woodward couldn't help but reflect on the whirlwind trip. "Tiger, I have to admit, I underestimated you. The way you handle these negotiations—it's impressive."

Jin Taige smiled. "It's not about me, Ed. It's about the club. Manchester United deserves the best, and I'm here to make sure we get it."

Woodward nodded, a newfound respect in his eyes. "You've got a vision, Tiger. And I'm starting to believe in it."

With Van Dijk secured, Jin Taige felt a sense of accomplishment. But he knew the real work was just beginning. The upcoming season would be a test of his vision, his leadership, and his ability to unite a team of young talents and seasoned veterans.

As they prepared to leave the Netherlands, Middel came to see them off. "Dear friends, I hope you'll have the opportunity to come back to the Netherlands next time. When you do, I'll take you to Amsterdam. I'm sure Mr. Tiger, a young and strong guy, will enjoy it there."

Everyone exchanged farewells. As Middel watched them leave, his smile faded, replaced by a serious expression. "This young coach named Tiger is not simple. England will be interesting next season."

On the way out of the Netherlands, Woodward turned to Jin Taige. "Tiger, how did you know that adding €1 million would convince Middel to sell?"

Jin Taige shook his head gently. "I didn't. But if he hadn't agreed, I would have kept increasing the price until he did."

Woodward chuckled. "You're something else, Tiger."

Jin Taige laughed.

Van Dijk's transfer was complete. The fee was €5 million, leaving Jin Taige with €43.2 million in transfer funds. The mission continued..