Manchester United Summer Transfer Window 2015: What do we still need?

[Devil may care]

And the press have Chelsea offering low 20s for him they do make me chuckle. 50m is alot but he's 23 and I'm with you but I doubt you'll hear of any interest going public at least from us. We'll quietly sign someone not on that level I expect.

The UK journo's in particular are really bad for that kind of stuff, I mean it doesn't take a lot of checking to see he has a buyout clause. I honestly have no idea who we might end up with now LvG's obsession is a crock.

Exactly. I think workrate and good overall defensive attributes are a must for Van Gaals number 8, even more so than height. I could make the argument that if height was so important, why was Herrera on the bench for so many games, despite being 6ft?

Good point, people think Herrera is short because he's got a wiry frame, but as you say he has the height needed, I think positional discipline and strength are the key attributes he is looking for. I really would be surprised if LvG passed on Koke based on height, I really don't think it is that big of a factor in winning the midfield battle in the PL.

Well I assume Atletico also accepted Barcelona's offer (not sure), but Koke is happy at Atletico Madrid so I don't think he will want to leave. Not sure if he's interested in money.

I'm not against Koke, but I just think it's fairly unrealistic. Unless his friendship with de Gea is very good, which could be used as a bargaining tool.

They might not have accepted the offer as they'd already made their money that summer with the sales of Costa and Felipe Luis. I'm not sure what is realistic for United at this point but I'm still going to hope we are intending to make a play for one of the big 3 as opposed to going for the prior options that are now faded.

 

[Browniee]

Hummels
Depay
RB
Pogba?

The top 3 are a priority imo, Pogba would be a luxury signing but a class one.
Also the striker position is a concern but I reckon we'll be ok with Rooney, Van Persie and Wilson.
fecks knows what will happen, but def think we'll get Depay.

 

[RedorDead21]

The UK journo's in particular are really bad for that kind of stuff, I mean it doesn't take a lot of checking to see he has a buyout clause. I honestly have no idea who we might end up with now LvG's obsession is a crock.



Good point, people think Herrera is short because he's got a wiry frame, but as you say he has the height needed, I think positional discipline and strength are the key attributes he is looking for. I really would be surprised if LvG passed on Koke based on height, I really don't think it is that big of a factor in winning the midfield battle in the PL.



They might not have accepted the offer as they'd already made their money that summer with the sales of Costa and Felipe Luis. I'm not sure what is realistic for United at this point but I'm still going to hope we are intending to make a play for one of the big 3 as opposed to going for the prior options that are now faded.

Its quite something we can't get a player to leave Atletico for us I dont know whether to priase the individual player or consider what all our domination and great name adds up to.....

 

[Devil may care]

Its quite something we can't get a player to leave Atletico for us I dont know whether to priase the individual player or consider what all our domination and great name adds up to.....

Koke is Atleti born and bred though, I think that moves the goalposts as well, especially given how well the last 2 seasons have went for them.

 

[RedorDead21]

Koke is Atleti born and bred though, I think that moves the goalposts as well, especially given how well the last 2 seasons have went for them.

Dont mind me I'm just having a spoilt moan! Ultimately I see no benefit of a monster bid for a player who has no real interest in coming. I don't think thats worked out so far with Falcao and yet to be determined (Di Maria). Pogba may have more reason than most to return who knows. I can see Madrid getting him which may mean we have a chance with Isco, Bale or Modric.....I say Isco as according to that Hunter the return of James will mean Isco dropping to the bench which if true is insane given his recent form!

 

[Walters_19_MuFc]

Hummels
Depay
RB
Pogba?

The top 3 are a priority imo, Pogba would be a luxury signing but a class one.
Also the striker position is a concern but I reckon we'll be ok with Rooney, Van Persie and Wilson.
fecks knows what will happen, but def think we'll get Depay.

Van Gaal has already said a midfielder is his priority, so we definitely know we'll buy a centre mid.

 

[RedorDead21]

Van Gaal has already said a midfielder is his priority, so we definitely know we'll buy a centre mid.

If clubs always secured their priorities life would be very simple....

 

[Devil may care]

Dont mind me I'm just having a spoilt moan! Ultimately I see no benefit of a monster bid for a player who has no real interest in coming. I don't think thats worked out so far with Falcao and yet to be determined (Di Maria). Pogba may have more reason than most to return who knows. I can see Madrid getting him which may mean we have a chance with Isco, Bale or Modric.....I say Isco as according to that Hunter the return of James will mean Isco dropping to the bench which if true is insane given his recent form!

Oh yeah, I am sure we'd make sure Koke wasn't simply doing his duty as an asset for Atleti in accepting being sold, at the very least he'd fit in quickly with our Spanish contingent. Pogba coming back to prove a point if why I hold out some hope we might get him, it's like he has unfinished business with us. Don't get me excited about the prospect of Isco!

 

[RedorDead21]

Oh yeah, I am sure we'd make sure Koke wasn't simply doing his duty as an asset for Atleti in accepting being sold, at the very least he'd fit in quickly with our Spanish contingent. Pogba coming back to prove a point if why I hold out some hope we might get him, it's like he has unfinished business with us. Don't get me excited about the prospect of Isco!

Isco and Pogba, Hummels and Carvajal.......might as well hand us all the trophies now

 

[Amadaeus]

Eh we need a powerful box to box player if it wasn't for Fellaini the trio you mention would get bossed like a trio of kids! They even look like kids as it goes!

Like @RedorDead21 says, we have no backup for Fellaini. Van Gaal always plays with a CDM+ another good defensive midfielder. Without Fellaini we'd probably see Rooney back in midfield.

We only have 5 midfielders, and that's if you count Mata. One will be 34 and one plays at leftback.

I would think United will be searching for a #8 to replace Fellaini in the first XI; someone with greater ability on the ball, while still retaining some measure of the Belgian's physicality (Pogba would probably be the ideal choice, Vidal, Nainggolan, Xhaka, A. Gomes, Parejo, L. Bender might also be among those considered I suppose. Perhaps Verratti or Koke for sheer quality).

Fellaini plays more as a 10(suffoco role) at United than a number 8. We use his aerial ability as a target man moreso than we utilize him for his defensive responsibility. Blind and Herrera can defend through pressing and cutting the passing lane of the opposition. As such, I can not see United consistently getting bossed around when we have players like Blind, Herrera, Mata and Di Maria who are either good at keeping the ball or gives us ton of energy in the midfield.

If we are getting bossed around we still have Fellaini and Carrick who can either add strength or composure to our midfield. As such, I still believe getting a midfield like Pogba, Verratti, etc., will not make any sense.

Since Fellaini plays in the suffoco role at United, I believe an ideal scenario would be to replace Fellaini position in our starting eleven with an attackers who is physically strong and/or quick. E.g., Benteke(move Rooney back to the second striker role) or Bale(play Rooney as a false nine and take up a direct counter attacking approach in a 4-3-3)

 

[tippex]

I have a sneaky suspicion that Nigel DeJong is nailed on during the summer. I would love to see varane sign also. Its looking like Hummel's too but as for the rest I'm not sure. I would also not be shocked to see Falcao staying possibly on another season loan But certainly not the reported 42mil.
oh and I think Wilson all go out on loan and Januzaj will be sold (the kid has talent but I don't believe he will reach his potential with us)

 

[Devil may care]

De Jong and Falcao would be like charity signings, neither are what we need, both are past their best days and De Jong's best days were never anything special to begin with.

 

[tippex]

De Jong and Falcao would be like charity signings, neither are what we need, both are past their best days and De Jong's best days were never anything special to begin with.

I totally agree but I think that DeJong will be brought in as backup to Carrick and a seriously cheap onre at that. And yes I am aware that they are not the same types of players but I think VanGaal trusts DeJong.

 

[Devil may care]

I totally agree but I think that DeJong will be brought in as backup to Carrick and a seriously cheap onre at that. And yes I am aware that they are not the same types of players but I think VanGaal trusts DeJong.

We have Blind as cover and we shouldn't have 3 DM's the squad, it would be overkill.

 

[El-Manos]

De Jong and Falcao would be like charity signings, neither are what we need, both are past their best days and De Jong's best days were never anything special to begin with.

This exactly for God sake. We aren't feckin Bristol City, what the hell is De Jong going to contribute?

 

[prarek]

Please stay away from De Jong. Id rather we signed Gundogan.

 

[The Stain]

Its quite something we can't get a player to leave Atletico for us I dont know whether to priase the individual player or consider what all our domination and great name adds up to.....

 

[tippex]

Its quite something we can't get a player to leave Atletico for us I dont know whether to priase the individual player or consider what all our domination and great name adds up to.....

Don't underestimate the power of a club a player has grown up with.Just look at our very own Giggs /Scholes /G.Nev

 

[Drifter]

Chelsea target Southampton’s Morgan Schneiderlin and Nathaniel Clyne

http://www.theguardian.com/football...uthampton-morgan-schneiderlin-nathaniel-clyne

 

[finneh]

To be fair Koke is powerful and strong, he's not some lightweight Iniesta type. The only thing he lacks from the Fellaini files is height.

He's stronger than Iniesta and holds his own physically in La Liga, but I think Van Gaal wants a real powerhouse. I really can't see Koke putting up too much of a physical battle with the likes of Matic for instance. I certainly don't think he's as strong or powerful as even the likes of Rooney (who I believe would stand out like a sore thumb physically in La Liga).

Obviously there's also the issue of height in midfield, which also helps defensively with set pieces. However I do take the point and just like I mentioned in the Rafael vs Valencia debate there is a chance that Van Gaal wants to build a World Class central defensive partnership before having a "riskier" set of player's ahead of them.

I certainly think a prime Rio/Vidic could (and did) comfortably deal with only Carrick as protection and full backs bombing forward; the question is could Smalling and Jones/Rojo? Probably not at the moment and maybe someone like Hummels could remedy this.

 

[JoaquinJoaquin]

I totally agree but I think that DeJong will be brought in as backup to Carrick and a seriously cheap onre at that. And yes I am aware that they are not the same types of players but I think VanGaal trusts DeJong.

That's what I think to. Not that I really agree with it but him being Free and a player LVG trusts that will battle will be the reason I won't be surprised.

 

[NJM78]

We have Blind as cover and we shouldn't have 3 DM's the squad, it would be overkill.

I don't think it is overkill especially as a back up player. Blind will more than likely stay at LB based on his performances there and given Shaw's seemingly consistent injuries and Carricks age it would make sense.
Most people still believe van Gaal wants Strootman despite his latest injury set back so maybe he is unwilling to spend big for a midfield general until then.
Personally I would not be too gutted if we get De Jong a player the manager seems to trust plus his tackling, interception and clearance stats are higher than Carricks and he is 3 years younger, also contrary to popular belief he doesn't commit a lot of fouls.
I know he played for City and almost killed Alonso in WC final but I believe for free he could be valuable for us especially in Europe next season.

 

[Devil may care]

I don't think it is overkill especially as a back up player. Blind will more than likely stay at LB based on his performances there and given Shaw's seemingly consistent injuries and Carricks age it would make sense.
Most people still believe van Gaal wants Strootman despite his latest injury set back so maybe he is unwilling to spend big for a midfield general until then.
Personally I would not be too gutted if we get De Jong a player the manager seems to trust plus his tackling, interception and clearance stats are higher than Carricks and he is 3 years younger, also contrary to popular belief he doesn't commit a lot of fouls.
I know he played for City and almost killed Alonso in WC final but I believe for free he could be valuable for us especially in Europe next season.

It would be a terrible piece of mismanagement to not commit to Shaw as LB and to wait for a crocked CM in Strootman who was never that great to begin with. We should be bringing in a proper CM #8 to add to Fellaini and Herrera with Blind and Carrick as the #6's. That is enough without resorting to a has been who's been tottering away in the OAP league, De Jong belongs somewhere slower and more suited to what he has left in the limited tank.

If LvG is so difficult to work for that he has to get players who aren't good enough for us just because he knows them then I question how he is fit for this job. Every season Ancelotti has managed to form a title and CL contending side built from players he didn't even choose. I am sure LvG can identify a young, talented CM to play in our system, he doesn't need to resort to a junk player who has only served to stunt the current Dutch side, they looked miles better with him out and Blind in during the last International break.

 

[Devil may care]

He's stronger than Iniesta and holds his own physically in La Liga, but I think Van Gaal wants a real powerhouse. I really can't see Koke putting up too much of a physical battle with the likes of Matic for instance. I certainly don't think he's as strong or powerful as even the likes of Rooney (who I believe would stand out like a sore thumb physically in La Liga).

Obviously there's also the issue of height in midfield, which also helps defensively with set pieces. However I do take the point and just like I mentioned in the Rafael vs Valencia debate there is a chance that Van Gaal wants to build a World Class central defensive partnership before having a "riskier" set of player's ahead of them.

I certainly think a prime Rio/Vidic could (and did) comfortably deal with only Carrick as protection and full backs bombing forward; the question is could Smalling and Jones/Rojo? Probably not at the moment and maybe someone like Hummels could remedy this.

I think Koke is stronger than you are giving him credit for here, he has that low center of gravity and stocky upper body, and I mean Verratti took Matic to the cleaners and he's a virtual midget lol.

Having height in the PL is important true, but if we had Koke and Herrera in midfield the way they pressure the ball would add it's own defensive strength to the team. You could be right about wanting a settled back 4 in place, I think that will be the first piece of business this summer, Hummels in to partner Smalling would be pretty ideal IMO.

 

[NJM78]

It would be a terrible piece of mismanagement to not commit to Shaw as LB and to wait for a crocked CM in Strootman who was never that great to begin with. We should be bringing in a proper CM #8 to add to Fellaini and Herrera with Blind and Carrick as the #6's. That is enough without resorting to a has been who's been tottering away in the OAP league, De Jong belongs somewhere slower and more suited to what he has left in the limited tank.

If LvG is so difficult to work for that he has to get players who aren't good enough for us just because he knows them then I question how he is fit for this job. Every season Ancelotti has managed to form a title and CL contending side built from players he didn't even choose. I am sure LvG can identify a young, talented CM to play in our system, he doesn't need to resort to a junk player who has only served to stunt the current Dutch side, they looked miles better with him out and Blind in during the last International break.

I do understand everything you are saying but I'm just going by what I think LvG will do as opposed to what I want him to do. He is renowned for being stubborn and doing things his way and on the field at least it looks like its starting to pay off. If he wants and trusts De Jong then I cant really argue with it and that's is why I said I wouldn't be too gutted...I never said I'd be over the moon or anything like that.
I personally wouldn't even start Carrick next season, use Fellaini as a back up and go all out for a top class 6 and another number 8 even with Herrera performing at a high level right now. Whether the funds and players are available, considering we also need a top class CB and winger/Forward remains to be seen.

 

[Devil may care]

I do understand everything you are saying but I'm just going by what I think LvG will do as opposed to what I want him to do. He is renowned for being stubborn and doing things his way and on the field at least it looks like its starting to pay off. If he wants and trusts De Jong then I cant really argue with it and that's is why I said I wouldn't be too gutted...I never said I'd be over the moon or anything like that.
I personally wouldn't even start Carrick next season, use Fellaini as a back up and go all out for a top class 6 and another number 8 even with Herrera performing at a high level right now. Whether the funds and players are available, considering we also need a top class CB and winger/Forward remains to be seen.

The thing is we also know that LvG has said numerous times that he favours young players over old, he seems to have a tremendous amount of respect for Carrick and Blind is his guy, that is the 2 #6 requirements met for next season IMO with Shaw and Rojo covering LB as I also expect a new CB in. As far as buying a new world class #6 and #8 I hear ya, but I think LvG will give Blind a chance to make the #6 spot his over the course of next season and concentrate on the #8, that way we can avoid bringing in so many players in one go again.

 

[NJM78]

The thing is we also know that LvG has said numerous times that he favours young players over old, he seems to have a tremendous amount of respect for Carrick and Blind is his guy, that is the 2 #6 requirements met for next season IMO with Shaw and Rojo covering LB as I also expect a new CB in. As far as buying a new world class #6 and #8 I hear ya, but I think LvG will give Blind a chance to make the #6 spot his over the course of next season and concentrate on the #8, that way we can avoid bringing in so many players in one go again.

Yes that is the confusing issue with regards to the strongly rumoured interest in signing De Jong. Depay seems the right sort of player for van Gaal age and talent wise, Dutch being a bonus so I'm pretty sure he has thoughts on others we don't know about. For me Hummels or Otamendi, Depay and another top class CM and we'll be sorted.
I hope Blind gets a chance too, he has had a lot more good games than bad in that position already however he does look accomplished at LB right now so I wouldn't change anything right now. Shaw is the future and I really hope he kicks on next season and stays injury free but overall he has been very disappointing so far. Rojo could play there also but I actually think he will become a top class CB with an accomplished partner, I do prefer him to Jones, Smalling and I really hope Evans is sold.
Lets just see what he does but it will be an interesting window especially if we can cement this CL spot.

 

[finneh]

I think Koke is stronger than you are giving him credit for here, he has that low center of gravity and stocky upper body, and I mean Verratti took Matic to the cleaners and he's a virtual midget lol.

Having height in the PL is important true, but if we had Koke and Herrera in midfield the way they pressure the ball would add it's own defensive strength to the team. You could be right about wanting a settled back 4 in place, I think that will be the first piece of business this summer, Hummels in to partner Smalling would be pretty ideal IMO.

Don't get me wrong, the best team I've ever seen was a team full of midgets (Barcelona a few years ago). They dominated every team without any need for physicality and wouldn't have struggled in the Premier League either.

I'd take Koke in a heartbeat if he were available, but I really can't see it happening. The combination of cost, availability and what Van Gaal has said he's looking for just doesn't point to Koke. I think if Strootman were fit he'd have signed in January for that role and if Pogba were available we'd go all out for him.

I can genuinely see Van Gaal not signing any central midfielder this Summer, or if he does making it an underwhelming one (a young player for the future or an older player as a stop gap).

 

[Devil may care]

Yes that is the confusing issue with regards to the strongly rumoured interest in signing De Jong. Depay seems the right sort of player for van Gaal age and talent wise, Dutch being a bonus so I'm pretty sure he has thoughts on others we don't know about. For me Hummels or Otamendi, Depay and another top class CM and we'll be sorted.
I hope Blind gets a chance too, he has had a lot more good games than bad in that position already however he does look accomplished at LB right now so I wouldn't change anything right now. Shaw is the future and I really hope he kicks on next season and stays injury free but overall he has been very disappointing so far. Rojo could play there also but I actually think he will become a top class CB with an accomplished partner, I do prefer him to Jones, Smalling and I really hope Evans is sold.
Lets just see what he does but it will be an interesting window especially if we can cement this CL spot.

I think the thing with De Jong and Depay is that the media are a simple bunch and they figure because they are Dutch and were in his world Cup squad that he must want to bring them to United, however at United he is not constrained by where a player was born in selecting who he wants in his team. The Hummels interest has been going on since before he joined and LvG has a relationship with his father going back to his Bayern days so I think there is truth in that one, but many of the others could well be media guesses, Firmino is the only one with anything concrete due to our scout sitting with someone from his management company. I agree that Blind should stay as LB for the remainder if this season but going into next I think Shaw at LB and Blind as the #6 is how we have to start out and use Carrick more sparingly as we need to know if Blind can be his successor.

 

[Devil may care]

Don't get me wrong, the best team I've ever seen was a team full of midgets (Barcelona a few years ago). They dominated every team without any need for physicality and wouldn't have struggled in the Premier League either.

I'd take Koke in a heartbeat if he were available, but I really can't see it happening. The combination of cost, availability and what Van Gaal has said he's looking for just doesn't point to Koke. I think if Strootman were fit he'd have signed in January for that role and if Pogba were available we'd go all out for him.

I can genuinely see Van Gaal not signing any central midfielder this Summer, or if he does making it an underwhelming one (a young player for the future or an older player as a stop gap).

I don't think the cost is an issue for us but availability might well be, I also think LvG said he wanted to bring defensive balance to midfield and that was why Rooney was there, it was never merely about size, and since then Herrera has adapted and become the CM that LvG wanted him to be I feel and Koke is very much a true box to box like Strootman and Vidal who was LvG's choice back in the summer if his knee was not dodgy. I do agree that all things being even Pogba would probably be LvG's #1 pick given his age and plethora of attributes.

I hope that you're wrong on that last part, Fellaini has done a decent job but if we are to push on next season we need to upgrade him IMO, and the notion of waiting for Strootman would be infuriating.

 

[finneh]

I hope that you're wrong on that last part, Fellaini has done a decent job but if we are to push on next season we need to upgrade him IMO, and the notion of waiting for Strootman would be infuriating.

I don't think it'll be for any other reason that availability. I can't see many top level midfielders being available and I'm not sure we'll enter into a bidding war and offer £30m+ for someone like Schneiderlin, who isn't enough better than Fellaini to warrant splashing out a huge fee.

The only way it'll happen in my opinion is if Pogba becomes available. We'll be in the market for him but even if he moves to Madrid, someone like Modric will then become available and will be the Ozil/Di Maria of this Summer.

 

[JPRouve]

I don't think the cost is an issue for us but availability might well be, I also think LvG said he wanted to bring defensive balance to midfield and that was why Rooney was there, it was never merely about size, and since then Herrera has adapted and become the CM that LvG wanted him to be I feel and Koke is very much a true box to box like Strootman and Vidal who was LvG's choice back in the summer if his knee was not dodgy. I do agree that all things being even Pogba would probably be LvG's #1 pick given his age and plethora of attributes.

I hope that you're wrong on that last part, Fellaini has done a decent job but if we are to push on next season we need to upgrade him IMO, and the notion of waiting for Strootman would be infuriating.

Yeah I agree with you, Pogba isn't defensive per se but he knows how to defend and he is an upgrade going forward, he is a powerhouse and is brilliant technically. I also think that Blind can play #8 even if he isn't our first choice, he will provide defensive solidity.

 

[Devil may care]

I don't think it'll be for any other reason that availability. I can't see many top level midfielders being available and I'm not sure we'll enter into a bidding war and offer £30m+ for someone like Schneiderlin, who isn't enough better than Fellaini to warrant splashing out a huge fee.

The only way it'll happen in my opinion is if Pogba becomes available. We'll be in the market for him but even if he moves to Madrid, someone like Modric will then become available and will be the Ozil/Di Maria of this Summer.

I think Schneiderlin is enough of an upgrade on Fellaini to warrant paying £30M for him, he has power, technique, a good passing range and excellent defensive quality, plus he can cover the #8 and #6 roles. Then there are players like Xhaka and Saul Niguez that could easily come in and compete for that #8 spot. I don't think a big name is the sole option personally.

Yeah I agree with you, Pogba isn't defensive per se but he knows how to defend and he is an upgrade going forward, he is a powerhouse and is brilliant technically. I also think that Blind can play #8 even if he isn't our first choice, he will provide defensive solidity.

Pogba is a special talent without a doubt, pace, power, technique, dribbling and passing range, plus he scores goals and has improved defensively enough to play in the role we currently use Fellaini in, I imagine he'll be the transfer darling of this summer. Agreed on Blind, he's not ideal as a #8 but I think he could fill in there if required to do so and link the LB and LF positions together nicely with his intelligence and passing.

 

[finneh]

I think Schneiderlin is enough of an upgrade on Fellaini to warrant paying £30M for him, he has power, technique, a good passing range and excellent defensive quality, plus he can cover the #8 and #6 roles. Then there are players like Xhaka and Saul Niguez that could easily come in and compete for that #8 spot. I don't think a big name is the sole option personally.

To be honest I'm sure there are player's that we're looking at that no-one on this forum has been following. I personally think if we aren't going for a truly top class player in the Pogba mould, then a younger player with potential would be a good bet. We currently have 4 player's that can play either as a 6 or an 8 or both which doesn't leave us particularly short. It's the first time since Anderson that we could look for a younger central midfielder that could grow into the role.

We're a wealthy club but I certainly wouldn't want to spend £30m on Schneiderlin and then miss out on a much better player because we're fully stocked in their position (imagine if the Pogba/Modric scenario occurred late August and we'd already bought Schneiderlin, Hummels, Coleman & Depay for nearly £120m in July). Likewise I wouldn't want a complete reshuffling of our whole midfield just as it is starting to take shape. It should more be a question of getting the right player, rather than settling for 5th choice because we're desperate to replace a man who's been very good for us this year (not to mention that I still think a Carrick/Blind/Herrera midfield could be very successful, albeit not very physical).

 

[pierrethesnack]

It's the first time since Anderson that we could look for a younger central midfielder that could grow into the role.

Don't you dear write him off yet. Any day now, the news will be in:

Manchester United have confirmed a new three-year deal with Brazilian midfielder Anderson, keeping him at the club until 2018. The talented wonderboy, who over the last few year have been written off by both fans and pundits, says that he is 'happy to feel wanted at the club', and also used the opportunity to assure the Manchester Untied fans that he will 'continue to work hard to earn a place in the starting XI'

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal was clearly in a good mood and stated that Anderson has 'the right philosophical mindset' and that he 'shall improve the processual speed of the process, because he is a good person'

You heard it here first.

 

[Devil may care]

To be honest I'm sure there are player's that we're looking at that no-one on this forum has been following. I personally think if we aren't going for a truly top class player in the Pogba mould, then a younger player with potential would be a good bet. We currently have 4 player's that can play either as a 6 or an 8 or both which doesn't leave us particularly short. It's the first time since Anderson that we could look for a younger central midfielder that could grow into the role.

We're a wealthy club but I certainly wouldn't want to spend £30m on Schneiderlin and then miss out on a much better player because we're fully stocked in their position (imagine if the Pogba/Modric scenario occurred late August and we'd already bought Schneiderlin, Hummels, Coleman & Depay for nearly £120m in July). Likewise I wouldn't want a complete reshuffling of our whole midfield just as it is starting to take shape. It should more be a question of getting the right player, rather than settling for 5th choice because we're desperate to replace a man who's been very good for us this year (not to mention that I still think a Carrick/Blind/Herrera midfield could be very successful, albeit not very physical).

I agree, I think we definitely need a CM as we are playing a midfield 3 and only have 4 options with Rooney as a last resort, so one must come in to give depth, but if the elite are not attainable then we should definitely go for young talent but not a teenager IMO, players like the two I mentioned or maybe even Andre Gomes would be the kind of options I'd hope we were interested in.

Well a lot of that depends on how highly LvG rates Schneiderlin in truth, we are not linked to him a lot but that doesn't mean much. The fact he can play as a #8 and a #6 as well as the fact he would add a second powerful option to our midfield may see him favoured but somehow I feel he'll be off to Arsenal.

 

[finneh]

Don't you dear write him off yet. Any day now, the news will be in:

You heard it here first.

We've already had the Cleverley April Fools contract signing!

I agree, I think we definitely need a CM as we are playing a midfield 3 and only have 4 options with Rooney as a last resort, so one must come in to give depth, but if the elite are not attainable then we should definitely go for young talent but not a teenager IMO, players like the two I mentioned or maybe even Andre Gomes would be the kind of options I'd hope we were interested in.

Well a lot of that depends on how highly LvG rates Schneiderlin in truth, we are not linked to him a lot but that doesn't mean much. The fact he can play as a #8 and a #6 as well as the fact he would add a second powerful option to our midfield may see him favoured but somehow I feel he'll be off to Arsenal.

To be honest I've not really seen the three you mention, but given that they are young and are consistent starters for their respective well performing teams I'd tend to agree that they would be of the type I refer to.

Bear in mind also that Mata, Januzaj, Di Maria & Rooney can play as a number 10 in front of a midfield 2 (4-2-3-1 type formation). It doesn't seem to be Van Gaal's ideal formation but certainly would be an option for the easier games.

Again I think with a more solid back four we'll be more adventurous at times in terms of our selection. I certainly wouldn't be surprised to see someone like Depay playing on the left (or Nani if he returns and is given a chance), Di Maria in Fellaini's role, with Herrera dropping deeper and Mata on the right. I think in 90% of games having a Carrick-Herrera midfield wouldn't be much different to the Matic-Fabregas midfield that Chelsea had great success with earlier in the season; obviously Blind could be a consideration for either of those roles also.

I've been bleating on for a few months that this transfer window should be about quality, not quantity. I've seen people say we need a RB, 2 CB's, 2 CM's, a winger and a striker and I couldn't think that they're more wrong. Any squad player's brought in should be young (not Ashley) and with great potential, whilst anyone brought in as a first team regular should be proven.

 

[Devil may care]

To be honest I've not really seen the three you mention, but given that they are young and are consistent starters for their respective well performing teams I'd tend to agree that they would be of the type I refer to.

Bear in mind also that Mata, Januzaj, Di Maria & Rooney can play as a number 10 in front of a midfield 2 (4-2-3-1 type formation). It doesn't seem to be Van Gaal's ideal formation but certainly would be an option for the easier games.

Again I think with a more solid back four we'll be more adventurous at times in terms of our selection. I certainly wouldn't be surprised to see someone like Depay playing on the left (or Nani if he returns and is given a chance), Di Maria in Fellaini's role, with Herrera dropping deeper and Mata on the right. I think in 90% of games having a Carrick-Herrera midfield wouldn't be much different to the Matic-Fabregas midfield that Chelsea had great success with earlier in the season; obviously Blind could be a consideration for either of those roles also.

I've been bleating on for a few months that this transfer window should be about quality, not quantity. I've seen people say we need a RB, 2 CB's, 2 CM's, a winger and a striker and I couldn't think that they're more wrong. Any squad player's brought in should be young (not Ashley) and with great potential, whilst anyone brought in as a first team regular should be proven.

I spend way too much time watching football which is why I've seen them heh, @Invictus could add more to the Saul Niguez part than me as he's followed him for some time.

LvG I think likes the balance of the 4-3-3 and how it integrates with the two players on both flanks, I also think Mata's lack of strength & pace, and Di Maria's sloppy passing will see LvG avoid playing either centrally. Adnan is an interesting one though, many think he'll end up as a #10 and it's possible he might get some chances in the midfield 3.

I think Matic is a huge factor in why Chelsea can play that formation with Fabregas as part of a 2 man midfield, he's such a big, powerfully mobile unit, a 34 year old Carrick needs the two proper #8's in there with him like Pirlo has at Juve IMO.

1 CB, 1#8 and 1 fast and versatile forward have always been the priority for me, if we can get real top quality in those additions I'd be thrilled. I confess I'd love to see us bring John Stones in as well as he can play CB and RB and I don't see much in the RB options out there right now unless Real decide to flog Carvajal.

 

[RedMachine03]

By Steve Bates-

Reds are prepared to throw likes of Robin van Persie, Javier Hernandez, Rafael and Nani into any deal that will land the Uruguay striker and Brazil centre-back

Manchester United are ready to launch a £57million double bid for Paris Saint-Germain duo Edinson Cavani and Thiago Silva, writes Steve Bates in the Sunday People.

The Old Trafford giants have been on striker Cavani’s trail for over a year - he was a target during the short-lived David Moyes era - and they are after the Uruguay international once more, but boss Louis van Gaal is just as keen to land team-mate and centre-back Silva.

With United also linked to a £95million move for Real Madrid’s Gareth Bale, the Dutch chief is confident they will land more big names this summer after splashing the cash to buy Angel Di Maria for a British-record £59.7m last year.

Asked whether United could compete with Manchester City and Chelsea for the world’s top players against this summer, Van Gaal smiled: “I don’t have any doubt that players are coming to Manchester United.”

Van Gaal sees 30-year-old Brazil international Silva as the perfect defender to recruit if he can’t persuade Borussia Dortmund’s German international Mats Hummel to join his Old Trafford revolution.

Silva is the type of tough, ball-playing centre-half Van Gaal is seeking and he’s hoping United’s chief transfer negotiator Ed Woodward can strike a deal for the defensive star.

PSG paid AC Milan £35m for Silva in 2012 and he has emerged as a key pillar of their bid to be a Champions League force.

Silva scored the decisive extra-time header at Stamford Bridge last month to sink Chelsea and send PSG into the quarter-finals of the Champions League.

Prising him away from Paris will be tough but Van Gaal is hopeful United can convince Silva to join them, - especially if they are in the Champions League themselves next season.

Woodward would be prepared to throw several players into any deal with PSG – including Robin van Persie, Javier Hernandez, Rafael and Nani.

The Old Trafford wheeler-dealer will also use the foursome as bait in United's bid to land top target Memphis Depay.

PSV Eindhoven winger Depay is high on van Gaal’s wanted list and he’s ordered Woodward to pull out all the stops to grab the Holland international.

http://mirr.im/1FyCwUj

 

[DomesticTadpole]

By Steve Bates-

Reds are prepared to throw likes of Robin van Persie, Javier Hernandez, Rafael and Nani into any deal that will land the Uruguay striker and Brazil centre-back

Manchester United are ready to launch a £57million double bid for Paris Saint-Germain duo Edinson Cavani and Thiago Silva, writes Steve Bates in the Sunday People.

The Old Trafford giants have been on striker Cavani’s trail for over a year - he was a target during the short-lived David Moyes era - and they are after the Uruguay international once more, but boss Louis van Gaal is just as keen to land team-mate and centre-back Silva.

With United also linked to a £95million move for Real Madrid’s Gareth Bale, the Dutch chief is confident they will land more big names this summer after splashing the cash to buy Angel Di Maria for a British-record £59.7m last year.

Asked whether United could compete with Manchester City and Chelsea for the world’s top players against this summer, Van Gaal smiled: “I don’t have any doubt that players are coming to Manchester United.”

Van Gaal sees 30-year-old Brazil international Silva as the perfect defender to recruit if he can’t persuade Borussia Dortmund’s German international Mats Hummel to join his Old Trafford revolution.

Silva is the type of tough, ball-playing centre-half Van Gaal is seeking and he’s hoping United’s chief transfer negotiator Ed Woodward can strike a deal for the defensive star.

PSG paid AC Milan £35m for Silva in 2012 and he has emerged as a key pillar of their bid to be a Champions League force.

Silva scored the decisive extra-time header at Stamford Bridge last month to sink Chelsea and send PSG into the quarter-finals of the Champions League.

Prising him away from Paris will be tough but Van Gaal is hopeful United can convince Silva to join them, - especially if they are in the Champions League themselves next season.

Woodward would be prepared to throw several players into any deal with PSG – including Robin van Persie, Javier Hernandez, Rafael and Nani.

The Old Trafford wheeler-dealer will also use the foursome as bait in United's bid to land top target Memphis Depay.

PSV Eindhoven winger Depay is high on van Gaal’s wanted list and he’s ordered Woodward to pull out all the stops to grab the Holland international.

http://mirr.im/1FyCwUj

Why would we throw these players in the get Memphis Depay, wouldn't we just buy him?