Debate over Radamel Falcao's age has once again been raised as a hot topic after the allegation was made that Manchester United only signed the striker to a one-year loan because he's 30 years of age—not 28.
The Sun (h/t ESPN FC) claims to have uncovered paperwork from Falcao's youth, stating that he was born on February 10, 1984, which would make him two years older than has been reported throughout his professional career.
However, a Manchester United spokesperson has been quoted by the Daily Mail's Chris Wheeler, saying the club are satisfied with all documentation provided prior to his loan deal: "We were aware of the rumours but it was never an issue for us."
Similar accusations surfaced just over a year ago when a Colombian media outlet, per ESPN, raised concerns that Falcao was indeed two years older than he claimed.
However, the forward's family came forth with a birth certificate verifying Falcao's age, per ESPN, seemingly putting the story to bed once and for all.
Those same accusations appear to have followed Falcao to Old Trafford, however, The Sun alleging that as the reason United didn't want to agree a deal with longer terms.
The Monaco man is still recovering from the anterior cruciate ligament injury suffered last December, ruling him out of the 2014 World Cup, which was a cause for concern among his suitors this summer.
As Wheeler reports, Falcao passed a thorough medical with United before agreeing to a season-long switch, and the player insists he's back to full fitness.
After playing 13 minutes of a friendly against Brazil last Friday, he's quoted as saying to reporters:
"Physically, I feel spectacular...As I get into game shape, I believe I’ll show I’m still at the top level."
"Physically, I feel spectacular...As I get into game shape, I believe I’ll show I’m still at the top level."
Falcao is waiting to make his Red Devils debut after completing the move to England, speaking to The Observer (h/t official Manchester United website) of his excitement to prove himself:
I am very happy. I hope to give my team the best and help to bring a lot of goals and victories. I now leave in a very good condition to join my club and I hope to be available next week. I go to Manchester with lots of hopes to try to win a place in the team and then come back to play for Colombia. It's better to not overthink and let things happen normally instead.
New arrival @Falcao is eagerly anticipating the prospect of making his #mufc debut against QPR on 14 September. More: http://t.co/M0TXJ5VYOK
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) September 8, 2014
The English giants can pay for their loanee's permanent signature next summer, bringing the total value of the deal up to £52 million, including the £6 million paid for this season's loyalties.
The club will find out with time whether such an enormous investment is justified, with no real need to worry about his long-term potential just yet.
Source: Bleacher Report
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