United’s humiliating 6-1 to Manchester City defeat could be a catalyst for change. Could the Newcastle United and Inter Milan stars be on their way?
Sunday’s headline grabbing defeat should have taught Manchester United two things:
1) They do not have enough creativity to unlock the best defences with regularity.
2) Their midfield has too soft a centre, and a ‘destroyer’ is needed.
After Xavi and Iniesta picked apart United at Wembley in May, it was obvious to most that United needed investment in central midfield.
Names like Sneijder, Modric and Nasri were touted, with Paul Scholes retiring and Giggs only ever a temporary option.
They never arrived. United beat City 3-2 in the Community Shield because of one man, Tom Cleverley.
With Cleverley injured United’s midfield has again looked too static. But to rely on an untested youngster is surely too big a gamble for Ferguson, and too much pressure to put on the prospect after City inflicted his heaviest ever defeat.
The common theme this season has been United’s soft underbelly. Each visiting side with the exception of Norwich (17) has had 20 shots this season, and a team as talented as City were only going to exploit that.
Two men can reinvent United’s midfield, correcting its two fundamental flaws. Will they arrive in January?
Wesley Sneijder?
Transfer talk went into overdrive this summer, with United rumoured to have been considering a £30 million bid.
Ferguson balked at the price, but surely more poignantly he cannot afford to be left in the wake of his City rivals.
Sneijder has had a torrid season so far at Inter.
He has been attempting to win back the fans who were unhappy at his flirtatious behaviour with United.
A change in manager has led to further upheaval, with Inter struggling for form, losing to newly promoted sides.
If United put in a bid of around £25 million in January, they could tempt Inter to sell.
Yes he would be cup-tied for the Champions League, but surely it is most crucial he helps United retain the Premier League.
Cheik Tiote?
The Newcastle man is a bona fide midfield destroyer, and exactly what United need.
He would give United’s midfield a physicality they lack, and protect the defence.
His shielding of the back-four has been instrumental in Newcastle’s defensive success so far this season.
The powerhouse is full of energy and would allow Man United to play a 4-4-2.
Newcastle would be loathe to sell, especially the fans.
But if the reds come in with a bid of around £15 million Mike Ashley would surely accept.
If the price is a sticking point Michael Carrick could also be thrown into the deal.
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