zlatanov

Alex's realistic price is more like twice that (even in this case I would consider him something close to a bargain, though). I read somewhere that Chelski value him at 10-12 but I am not sure if even that won't be an underestimate.
For Gallas, I guess we would have to pay some money, not his full market value but still not exactly for free - ~5 mil is what I have read being mentioned.
Diarra's asking price is 23 mil POUNDS or around 30-35 mil euros. that's why Galliani came out and said that he was too expensive. Your projected 16 mil for him would be like a dream come true. I personally believe that should it be possible to get him for 20 mil, that would be a great deal for us ... players like him you don't find any other day, and he's like 24-25 with a great deal of experience. Problem is Lyon are NOT forced to sell him, so they can protract the deal and milk the buyer as much as they wish. My guess is he will end up either at Real M, Man U or Chelski, when they decide to replace Makelele. Unless, Pirlo or/and gattuso leave, I just don't see us going for such an expensive player.
Ajax is asking for 12 mil for Sneijder and I doubt they would agree for anything less than ~10mil
As you see that's an extra 20 mil on those 39-40mil you suggested ... and that's without any jaw-dropping transfers like that of Gerrard or Adriano or Henry. Business aint that simple as it seems from the fan's point of view. The club's gotta be run and run smart as we don't have any extra money to splash around and spending a lot has never been a sure recipe for success too.