Sven Bender is one of a selection of midfielders said to be on Sir Alex Ferguson’s radar and as with other Borussia Dortmund talent’s there is a big question mark over the club’s ability to keep hold of their prized assets.
Ferguson could well feel the need to freshen up his midfield this summer. Paul Scholes is expected to retire from the game this summer, having returned to Old Trafford having quit the game a year ago. Anderson continues to struggle to consistently impress and Darren Fletcher is still recovering from long term illness.
The club’s most accomplished midfielder is Michael Carrick, who has had an excellent campaign, but at 31 he too is clearly in the latter stages of his career.
23 year old box to box performer Bender is into his fourth season at Borussia Dortmund having previously plied his trade with TSV 1860 Munich.
Considered one of the hottest young prospects in European football Christian Eriksen is another player Sir Alex Ferguson has taken a shine to.
The 21 year old Danish international has been in superb form at the Amsterdam Arena club over the past three seasons and is on course to help his Ajax side to a third successive Eredivisie crown. The goal-scoring midfielder’s stock rose further during the current campaign due to some solid displays in the Champions League.
A move for Eriksen would adhere to Ferguson’s youthful transfer policy, the capture of Robin Van Persie being the exception to the rule.
Despite his tender years, Eriksen has already racked up 34 caps for his country and made over 100 league appearances for Ajax, scoring 22 times.
The young playmaker, who can operate in the hole or even as a central striker, has netted ten goals in 42 appearances for the Amsterdam club this season.