Transfer rumours linking Manchester United with defensive recruits persist.
Here are three men who could improve United’s backline who have been suggested as summer targets.
Age: 20, Position: Centre-back, Club: Schalke
Only 20-years-old Papadopolous is already a full international. He became the youngest ever player to play in the Greek league when he was handed his debut for Olympiakos at just 15. He signed with Schalke in 2010 and has gone onto play nearly 50 games for the Germans. A central defender, he can also play in central midfield, an attribute which may appeal to Sir Alex Ferguson. He was outstanding against Russia in Greece’s 1-0 win at Euro 2012, adding to his burgeoning reputation. He likes a goal too, scoring twice for Greece in their qualifying campaign. His rapid progress has made him one of the very top defensive prospects in Europe and a big move could beckon. Just last week he declared he would love the challenge of playing for United, who have reportedly been watching him for a number of years.
Age: 27, Position: Right-back, Club: Olympiakos
Torosidis was linked with United in January and would add a good deal of experience to the club’s backline. United’s options at right-back consist of young Brazilian Rafael, Phil Jones and Chris Smalling, both of who are predominantly centre-backs, and adding a specialist international like Torosidis may just make sense. Torosidis helped Olympiakos win the Greek title again last season- his and their fifth in the last six years. Italian club Roma are also interested in signing him, while Newcastle United have been linked previously. He scored the winner at the 2010 World Cup for Greece against Nigeria, their first ever win in the tournament. He has made more than 120 appearances for his club and may now be ready for a fresh challenge after helping his country reach the knockout stages at Euro 2012.
Age: 18, Position: Left-back, Club: PSV
Holland had a dismal Euro 2012, losing every game, but one of the few reasons for encouragement for the Dutch were the showings from teenage left-back Jetro Willems. The defender was snapped by by PSV last summer from Sparta Rotterdam and made his Eredivisie debut this season. His performances were considered so outstanding he was picked as first choice left-back for his national side, making him the youngest ever player to play at the Euros. It would be tough for United to sign him as PSV won’t want to lose him, but the Red Devils are believed to be very keen with chief scout Martin Ferguson an admirer. The Metro say United would have to part with around £10 million for Willem, who would hope to become a long-term successor to Patrice Evra.
Which of these three would you like to see at Old Trafford next season?
image: © nikontino
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