United and Chelsea Neck and Neck for Premier League Glory

While the silly season is now upon us and outlandish transfer stories, as opposed to actual matches and results, are now dominating the back pages of the newspapers. Since there is no World Cup or Euro to be enjoyed this summer (yes we're aware that the women's world cup is on but... well, you know) you can expect even more transfer scrutiny in the next few weeks.

Several big names are being bandied about and we've got a few old reliable stories like Cesc Fabregas maybe or maybe not going to Barcelona in the off-season (the fact that we're into our fourth iteration of this ridiculous charade speaks volumes). We also have Real Madrid seemingly in hot pursuit of the latest breakout star from Manchester United. The more things change...

It is highly unlikely that Javier Hernandez will wind up in white next year but it certainly appears that several potential world-record transfers could go through this year. A number of powerhouses are looking to add further firepower with Manchester United and Chelsea chief among them.

United have their eyes firmly-fixed on another Champions League title after getting thoroughly routed by Barcelona this year. It was such a complete victory that you now expect Sir Alex Ferguson to stick around for another few years just to try to get the better of the Catalan club. Wesley Sneijder remains a possibility along with David De Gea and perhaps Luka Modric. A few younger defenders are also being closely linked with United.

Chelsea will likely have a bit of a firesale this off-season as they look to build a new team along with a new manager. Guus Hiddink now looks likely to take the reigns full-time and you reckon he'll be keen to add Brazilian upstart Neymar to the squad. Some new defenders and more attacking options are paramount if Roman Abramovich's side want to offer up a tough test for the Red Devils next year.

As it currently stands, the bookmakers have both United and Chelsea priced at 2/1 odds to win the English Premier League in 2011/12. Manchester City look to have really solidified their credentials and they are a clear third favourite with a 4/1 price. Arsenal are listed at 7/1 to win the league while Liverpool are 10/1 it to finally be “their year”.