With Nemanja Vidic looking increasingly likely to leave Old Trafford, Manchester United will be seeking a replacement for the Serbian.
The 32-year-old has been a key part of the Manchester United defence since his move from Spartak Moscow eight years ago, but with his contract set to expire and injuries becoming more and more of a problem for the Captain, it seems manager David Moyes is ready to part with his towering centre back.
Galatasaray and Barcelona have both been linked with moves for Vidic, as respective managers Roberto Mancini and Gerardo Martino look to strengthen their defences, and a free transfer for the Serbia international Vidic could be a shrewd move for either manager.
But whilst many Manchester United fans will be sad to see a pillar of their recent success leave the club, the attention must turn to how Manchester United will replace such an integral part of their defence – notwithstanding his injury problems – and who will take his place in the back four.
Former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson signed Chris Smalling from Fulham in 2010, and Phil Jones from Blackburn Rovers in 2011, in a bid to ensure that the Red Devils had long term replacements for bot Vidic and Rio Ferdinand, but neither have had the chance to really cement themselves as a first choice central defender.
Manchester United have subsequently been linked with a number of centre backs, including Ezequiel Garay of Benfica and FC Porto’s Eliaquim Mangala, but Manchester City target Mateo Musacchio has emerged as a potential target for Moyes after the player’s impressive season for La Liga side Villarreal.
Musacchio, 23, has also attracted the interest of Spanish rivals Barcelona, but Villarreal have told any interested parties – now including Manchester United – that the Argentine central defender will cost them €50m, which is scaring most sides off.
‘Musacchio has a contract until 2018, therefore he will be here for four more years. If someone wants to come and pay what he is worth, then we will talk’, said president Fernando Roig.
‘For the player to leave, it depends on three parties, not just one or two – he has a contract. If he is wanted, then for Villarreal it is fine, but only if the money is paid up front’.
Beating their city rivals to a highly rated defender would certainly be a boost to Manchester United fans who are mostly disgruntled with the direction of the club under the stewardship of Moyes, new chief executive Ed Woodward, and obviously owners the Glazer Family. But with Manchester City having a lot more money to spend – and ultimately much more appeal on the playing front at the moment – it may be hard for Manchester United to compete with their noisy neighbours on this one.
image: © Blogsession
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
