Marcos Rojo edges nearer Manchester United move…
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Manchester United have been handed a serious boost in their pursuit of Argentina World Cup star Marcos Rojo, with the defender handing in a transfer request, tweeted Sky Sports journalist Peter O’Rourke.
The South American currently plies his trade in Portugal with Sporting Lisbon, but is keen on forcing through a move to Louis van Gaal’s Premier League giants before the transfer window closes.
Sky Sources: Sporting Lisbon defender Marcos Rojo has handed in a transfer request and says he wants to join Manchester United. #MUFC
— Pete O’Rourke (@SkySportsPeteO) August 12, 2014
The 24-year-old defender played excellently during the World Cup with the beaten finalists, playing on the left of Alejandro Sabella’s back four.
For his club though, he’s predominantly used in central defence, and the fact he can be used in both positions has made him a viable option for United, who need to bolster their back-line quickly, especially with van Gaal intent on playing a 3-5-2 wing-back formation.
Having missed out on Thomas Vermaelen to Barcelona, the Red Devils have only Chris Smalling, Phil Jones and Jonny Evans competing for the three centre-back spots, and Rojo would add bite and tenacity to the squad.
Because of his natural left-footedness, he’d most likely be used on the left of the back through, although he could also deputise for £27m signing Luke Shaw in the wing-back spot.