Chilean’s move to Old Trafford is on the rocks…
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If rumours are to be believed, Manchester United’s supposed pursuit of Juventus midfielder Arturo Vidal could be off, with new manager Louis van Gaal deciding against splashing out £32m on the 27-year-old Chilean, the Daily Mail reported this week.
The Red Devils though undeniably need a new battling midfielder before the start of the 2014/15 campaign, and could do plenty worse than these five combative stars.
5) Kevin Strootman – AS Roma
The Dutch midfielder is admired hugely by Louis van Gaal, and if proves his fitness during the first half of the season, United could possibly go in for Strootman in January regardless of the Vidal deal. His tall, powerful physique makes him the perfect for the Premier League, and his technical ability will help him become a key part of a free-flowing footballing side.
4) Ilkay Gundogan – Borussia Dortmund
The German did sign a contract extension on April, but after recovering well from his injury, United were again linked with a move for his services just before the World Cup. When fit, Gundogan provides an exceptional box-to-box influence for both his club and country, and fits the bill perfectly of what United need in the middle of the park. Like with Strootman though, they could wait until he proves he’s recovered from long-standing injury concerns.
3) Marco Parolo – Parma
The Italian, who was part of his country’s World Cup squad, is by no means a household name – but he actually made more tackles in Serie A last season (130) than any other player – including Vidal. His industry and work-rate in the middle is combined with composure on the ball – and the fact he’s developed late (he’s already 29-years-old) should not perhaps discourage United from picking him up for a probably small fee.
2) William Carvalho – Sporting Lisbon
Carvalho has all the traits and talent to develop into a player of Vidal’s ilk. He’s very powerful, enjoys driving through the middle with the ball at his feet, and can win possession back from the opposition. However, his club are demanding £37m for his services, which seems like very poor value for money if Vidal can be picked up for less.
1) Blaise Matuidi – PSG
Paul Pogba is a target for PSG, and now Antonio Conte has resigned from Juventus, rumours are increasing that the young Frenchman will be allowed to leave the Serie A champions. If this occurs, PSG’s Blaise Matuidi would no longer be guaranteed a spot in the side, and United could do plenty worse than tempting the 27-year-old to Old Trafford.
