Although the striker situation at Manchester United looks to be the pressing concern following the exit of loan flop Radamel Falcao, Louis van Gaal is facing another issue…. Michael Carrick.
The soon-to-be-34-year-old remains a key cog in the Red Devils’ midfield, and his absence over a period of the end of the season just gone coincided with a dip in performance quality from the club as they stumbled and fell over the top four line – very much assisted by a hapless Liverpool side.
Carrick cannot go on forever, and it seems, according to reports, a replacement is being lined up in the shape of Southampton’s Morgan Schneiderlin.
A combative and tenacious midfielder with a good range of passing and real composure, he seems to be the ideal heir, and here are FIVE reasons we think United should make a move…
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His numbers are impressive
With pass completion and assist numbers that run almost level with Carrick, Schneiderlin looks to be a good potential replacement for the ageing United man. His superior mobility and stamina also contribute to a far greater return in terms of tackles and interceptions, which could be of use to Louis van Gaal, who is known to favour open, attacking football.
Schneiderlin also ranks well among other potential candidates to replace Carrick, with the likes of Ilkay Gundogan, Bastian Schweinsteiger and Yohan Cabaye also unable to match his tenacity in the centre of the pitch – albeit the two Germans have registered more assists.
Knows the English game
Having joined the Saints in 2008, the Frenchman knows all about English football. He dipped as low as League One with the South Coast club, and in his 200+ outings in the red and white shirt he’s experienced away days at some of the Football League’s ‘less glamorous’ outfits, but has also taken part in matches against the biggest opponents and appeared at Wembley.
Proven in the Premier League
As mentioned, Schneiderlin as risen through divisions, earning his right to play in the Premier League. Since helping the Saints into the top tier back in 2012 the now 25-year-old has proven himself to be a capable player in the biggest division of the English game, with his composed passing and combative edge having helped his side to stay put, recover from the losses of big game players and qualify for European action.
£25m is within budget
Reports claim that Schneiderlin could cost £25m, and with United boasting a budget of £200m – according to Robin van Persie – such a sum would barely make a dent. While other candidates may boast more impressive CVs, greater levels of experience and, possibly, superior levels of talent, the 25-year-old Southampton man is reasonably priced for his quality.
Wants to move…
Schneiderlin: “Yes, I think my decision is made,” he told the French radio station RMC.
“I learned a lot last season. The goal is to stay in England. It is a championship that I like and where I have a lot of fun. If I leave Southampton, it is for a club that plays better than the Europa League.
“There are ongoing discussions but nothing is done. But of course the Champions League is my goal. If I leave Southampton it will be for a club in the Champions League.
“I have a two-year contract. If a club pays the right amount for me, it will be time to leave.
Pretty conclusive then… if a Champions League club comes in and pays the fee needed, Schneiderlin is ready to move on. Manchester United have the cash and are set to play in the biggest European club competition… Game on!