Manchester United have been heavily linked with Mats Hummels…
News stories continue to circle regarding the possibility of Manchester United making a move for Borussia Dortmund centre back Mats Hummels – with the Metro recently claiming the Red Devils were considering a big money offer.
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Those reports come despite the player openly stating his desire to stay put in Germany. Old Trafford boss Louis van Gaal is desperate for defensive reinforcements, and has also been linked with a more realistic move for Aston Villa’s Ron Vlaar in today’s papers.
With Hummels likely to set United back a minimum of £20m, CaughtOffside counts down ten cheaper alternatives:
10) Papy Mison Djilobodji (FC Nantes)
A 25-year-old Senegalese international who is highly experienced in Ligue 1, with almost 150 appearances to his name. The minnows will not be able to hold out for a huge fee.
9) Mateo Musacchio (Villareal)
Argentine international, 24, who has played in excess of 100 La Liga matches. Interested Tottenham during the summer, and could be holding out for a move to a club of United’s stature.
8) Inigo Martinez (Real Sociedad)
One-time Spanish international, who is still young at 23. Approaching 100 La Liga games for his club, for whom he has been vital in recent years.
7) Ryan Shawcross (Stoke City)
A former United academy player, now 27, who has developed into a Premier League quality centre back during his time with Stoke City. A one-time England international.
6) Simon Kjaer (Lille)
A 25-year-old Danish international who has been a regular for his country since 2009. Moved to Lille from Wolfsburg in 2013, and enjoyed a successful first season in France.
5) Sokratis Papastathopoulos (Borussia Dortmund)
Hummels Dortmund teammate, who will surely come at a better price. A 26-year-old Greek international who scored for his country at the 2014 World Cup.
4) Aymeric Laporte (Athletic Bilbao)
Arguably the most expensive name on this list, but offers good value for money considering his young age. The 20-year-old Frenchman is one of the most coveted defenders in world football.
3) Jan Vertonghen (Tottenham Hotspur)
Tottenham’s Belgian star could soon be surplus to requirements at White Hart Lane, following the arrival of Federico Fazio from Sevilla and the announcement of Younes Kaboul as captain.
2) Benedikt Howedes (Schalke)
The 26-year-old German international could be keen on a move following his club’s recent struggles, and is experienced at the very top level of world and European football.
1) Ron Vlaar (Aston Villa)
A player Louis van Gaal knows well from his time with the Dutch national team. The Daily Express believes that the 29-year-old is available for as little as £4m with his contract set to expire in the summer.
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