It’s been yet another anomaly of Louis van Gaal’s Manchester United reign that he hasn’t bought in a world-class centre-back. There was intense speculation about Sergio Ramos in the summer which would suggest that the Dutchman wanted reinforcements in that area.
But when that link fizzled out, as we all surely suspected it would, LvG didn’t sign anyone else.
Manchester United have a decent goals against record this season but we feel that’s as much to do with an acutely defensive formation, with not one but two anchor men in front of the defence in most games, as it has with the quality of the defenders.
Chris Smalling has improved but he’s certainly no Rio Ferdinand. And Daley Blind is a lovely passer of the ball but perhaps not big or specialised enough to form the perfect partnership with the England man.
But perhaps, despite the current managerial chaos at Old Trafford, Manchester United will have a nibble on the market before February.
The Manchester Evening News stated last night:
United are reportedly lining up a last-minute bid to land PSG defender Marquinhos
However there is strong competition for the defender who looks likely to leave due to a lack of opportunities at the Paris club with Barcelona the other club reportedly interested.
The 21-year-old is a top drawer player already. He signed from Roma in 2013 at 19 years of age for huge money and started his PSG career well.
But he has slipped down the pecking order and only started half the games for his club this season.
This has sparked a media frenzy about clubs pursuing the player.
But the reasons why it most probably won’t happen in January are twofold.
– PSG are minted and don’t need to sell a player who could be vital if injuries hit the squad in the second half of the season.
– He’s reportedly got a ridiculous release clause of around £112m which even a cub as rich as Manchester United surely aren’t prepared to pay for defender.
Nevertheless he would be a super signing for the club.
Let’s see him in action. Manchester United fans: worth a nibble?
