David De Gea’s departure to Real Madrid appears to be edging closer by the day, in this feature we look at the ways Manchester United could use the income from the keeper’s sale.
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The stopper appeared to say his farewells to the Old Trafford faithful ahead of the Premier League draw with Arsenal—when he applauded all four corners of the stadium. After the match, Louis van Gaal admitted that it would be difficult for the Red Devils to keep hold of the player in light of interest from his homeland.
While replacing De Gea will naturally be a concern in itself, the club will be boosted by a potentially considerable windfall from his sale.
In this feature, we look at five ways that van Gaal could use the income from De Gea’s departure as well as his reported £150 million transfer war chest [via the Express].
A new goalkeeper?
One argument says that after the departure of David De Gea, the last thing United will need is a replacement stopper.
This is because the club already have Victor Valdes—World Cup and three-time Champions League winner—who is under contract until summer 2016.
Admittedly, Valdes—at 33—may not be a long-term option, but he could certainly tide the club over for the coming campaign.
However, conversely, with the likes of Samir Handanovic, Hugo Lloris, Iker Casillas and Petr Cech all either looking to move, on the market or potentially struggling for first-team football next season, don’t be surprised if United reinvest some of their income between the sticks. Valdes, after all, won’t go on forever…
Carlos Bacca
It’s no secret that Radamel Falcao won’t be kept on at Old Trafford beyond the summer.
The AS Monaco loanee has been a major flop this term—managing only four goals in 26 Premier League appearances—and it would be a shock if he were re-signed by the club.
His compatriot Carlos Bacca has been rumoured as a replacement [via the Metro], and having bagged 20 goals in only 31 La Liga starts this term, it’s a safe bet that he will at least be an improvement on his international teammate.
AS Roma may well provide competition for the Red Devils should they move for Bacca.
Edinson Cavani
An even more high-profile South American linked to Old Trafford this summer is Edinson Cavani.
The Uruguay striker reportedly submitted a transfer request at Paris Saint-Germain at the beginning of the month [via the Express], and is growing increasingly frustrated at playing second-fiddle to Zlatan Ibrahimovic and is unhappy at being played out of position on the right flank.
Liverpool and Arsenal are also keen on the former Napoli man, while Juventus are believed to want to see the striker return to Serie A.
Will United look to beat their rivals and swoop for the £55 million-rated hitman?
Miralem Pjanic and Radja Nainggolan
Reports in Italy suggest that United are looking to splurge their hefty transfer kitty in Italy this summer, with AS Roma pair Radja Nainggolan and Miralem Pjanic being targeted.
It is believed that the Giallorossi are open to selling the duo in order to comply with financial fair-play, and have already earmarked Yohan Cabaye as a central midfield replacement.
Nainggolan is an energetic, tenacious midfield general, while Bosnia and Herzegovina international Pjanic is a creative and efficient playmaker.
Liverpool are also believed to be keen on the duo, via the Express.
Georginio Wijnaldum
Manchester United have already signed one talented Dutch striker this summer, agreeing a fee to bring Memphis Depay to Old Trafford.
The Netherlands international may soon by joined by one of his PSV Eindhoven teammates, with the Express [via the Mirror] reporting that club captain Georginio Wijnaldum is also being eyed by van Gaal.
The midfielder, like winger Depay and potential new teammate Daley Blind, was a member of van Gaal’s Dutch side at the 2014 World Cup.