I've no idea whether this is true or not, but I think I can explain why the timing isn't too surprising. It's just possible that the owners have a replacement for MH lined up, who can't (or would prefer not to) start until the summer. It therefore stands to reason that any new signings in this transfer window would have to be approved by the new man, who wouldn't want to be saddled with a load of players he didn't want or rate.
Wayne Bridge was signed with the blessing of the new manager. However, the owners have mentioned, for the sake of argument, a 20 million pound combined fee for Bellamy and Parker, and the new manager has told them to fuck right off! This would bring about a situation where the owners would have to act now by appointing a caretaker or putting pressure on the new manager to take over the reins straight away.
Just a theory folks, but it would explain the timing.
