With Paul Scholes possibly set for retirement (again), a look at ten players who could replace him at Manchester United.
10. Arturo Vidal (Juventus)
Manchester United have already been linked with a move for talented Chilean midfield man Arturo Vidal, who has been a star performer for Serie A champions Juventus since arriving from Bayer Leverkusen. Capable of driving forward and providing goals and assists, he looks an ideal player to take on the responsibility of Scholes if he retires.
9. Thiago Alcantara (Barcelona)
The talented young midfielder Thiago has struggled for games at Catalan giants Barcelona, though that is more down to the competition ahead of him than anything else. The skillful playmaker could certainly fill the Scholes void with the ability to pick out his team-mates and ball retention skills so highly valued and immaculately taught at the Nou Camp.
8. Isco (Malaga)
United would face fierce competition from rivals Chelsea and Manchester City for talented Spaniard Isco, but if they could land the Malaga man he would be an almost like-for-like replacement for Scholes. The 21-year-old has great technique and an eye for goal that could benefit the Red Devils for many years to come.
7. Claudio Marchisio (Juventus)
Another Juventus player that Sir Alex Ferguson is said to be keen on, Claudio Marchisio has been at Juve his whole career and has the experience and quality to make an immediate impact at Old Trafford. With an eye for a pass and a goal, he would certainly give United something a little extra than Michael Carrick currently provides from the middle of the park.
6. Nemanja Matic (Benfica)
Benfica have placed a massive £45million price tag on the head of Nemanja Matic after hearing of United’s interest. The talented Serbian playmaker has really come into his own at the Portuguese side, after failing to make the grade at Chelsea as a youngster. A pricey option, but one Ferguson is certainly considering as he looks to improve his midfield.
5. Marek Hamsik (Napoli)
Somewhat under-rated due to playing alongside super star Edinson Cavani at Napoli, Marek Hamsik is a crucial part of how the Italian side play, providing 9 goals and 17 assists in all competitions this season. The talented Slovakian is 25 now and approaching his peak, and looks like he could ease the loss of Scholes very quickly at Old Trafford.
4. Marouane Fellaini (Everton)
Although a slightly different player from Scholes, Fellaini’s physical presence would be of great benefit to United’s midfield, which occasionally looks lightweight against the bigger sides. The Everton man has had a great season and is widely tipped to leave the club this summer, and United would be wise to snap him up. The big Belgian is also capable of playing off the striker and can provide goals and assists with his aerial threat.
3. Hernanes (Lazio)
The last time United signed a midfield playmaker from Lazio it was a spectacular failure, with £28million Juan Sebastian Veron flopping massively at Old Trafford. However, they would have to consider the supremely talented Brazilian who has caught the eye of rivals Manchester City. The technically gifted midfielder can keep play ticking along and has the occasional long range rocket in his locker as well.
2. Jack Wilshere (Arsenal)
A controversial choice perhaps, but after signing Robin van Persie from rivals Arsenal last year, perhaps United could look to the Emirates again for Jack Wilshere. Very much the Scholes of his generation, the midfield playmaker has plenty to offer and would be a great long-term option for United. A lack of silverware with the Gunners could tempt the 21-year-old into a move to a bigger club, and it’s a signing well worth considering.
1. Tom Cleverley (Manchester United)
Perhaps the answer is right under Ferguson’s nose? Tom Cleverley has had his promising career halted by injuries, but there’s no doubt that the midfielder has plenty to offer. Very much in the Scholes mould, the England man may get more of a chance to play centrally when his predecessor finally retires. Ferguson has showed his faith in youth in the past, and may feel now is Cleverley’s time to shine and fulfill his potential.