Cole is still a great LB and whoever signs him will be getting a quality player and a solid pro, who's got another couple of good years left in the tank imo. He's better than anything you currently have and you could do far, far worse than offering him a 2 year deal
Why would you move a player from a position when they are considered the best in the league in that current position? Makes no sense.
Martinez says he thinks Baines will be a very good holding midfielder. He says he has all the right attributes. Phillip Lahm has played DM for Bayern Munich this season. Martinez took Baines to watch Lahm play the role.
Lahm is world class in a number of positions - both flanks as full back and as a DM. Baines doesn't even compare and he's actually not the best defensively (as most would think). Excellent going forward though.
Its a bit like when managers tried player Beckham in the middle rather than on the right. Sure, you got the benefit of his endless energy but you lost his crosses which was the best attribute he had. Baines' crossing and attacking from the left is what sets him apart, put him at DM and lot only do you lose his crossing, you lose his attacking intent too. can't recall too many praising him so highly because of his defensive or passing abilities (not that they're bad)
