5 best signings made by Manchester United in the last decade

Leeds United v Manchester United - Premier League
Leeds United v Manchester United - Premier League

#3 Bruno Fernandes

Manchester United v AS Roma - UEFA Europa League Semi Final: Leg One
Manchester United v AS Roma - UEFA Europa League Semi Final: Leg One

It is rare for a player to have as big an impact as Bruno Fernandes has had at Manchester United in such a short period of time.

Fernandes joined Manchester United from Sporting CP in January 2020 for £56.7 million, and his impact was immediate. The Portugal international added much-needed creativity, drive and goals from midfield, and it did not take long for Fernandes to become a fan favourite among the Old Trafford faithful.

Fernandes' impact at Manchester United has often been compared to that of Eric Cantona. The 26-year old has made 80 appearances in all competitions for the club, scoring 40 goals and providing 25 assists. Fernandes has now won the Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year award twice.


#2 Robin van Persie

Manchester United v Liverpool - Premier League
Manchester United v Liverpool - Premier League

Sir Alex Ferguson made many smart signings during his tenure as Manchester United boss, and Robin van Persie was no different.

Van Persie was one of the best strikers in the Premier League during his time with Arsenal, but decided to join Manchester United in 2012 for £27.6 million. The Netherlands international was incredible during his first season at the club, scoring 26 goals in the Premier League as the Red Devils romped to the league title.

The striker was not as successful during his next two seasons at the club. However, Manchester United fans remember him fondly for his world-class 2012-13 season, when Van Persie was practically untouchable and led Manchester United to a league title.


#1 David de Gea

Manchester United v Newcastle United - Premier League
Manchester United v Newcastle United - Premier League

One of the best goalkeepers of the modern generation, David de Gea has to be one of Manchester United's best ever transfers.

De Gea joined Manchester United from Atletico Madrid in 2011 for £22.5 million, as the club sought to replace Edwin van der Sar. The Spain international endured a slow start to his Manchester United career, but slowly established himself as the first choice goalkeeper at the club.

The goalkeeper was sensational under Louis van Gaal and Jose Mourinho. During that time de Gea was the best goalkeeper in world football, and a prime reason why Manchester United did not finish lower down the league table. The 30-year old developed a habit of making miraculous saves, and attackers were often left frustrated due to his performances.

De Gea has won the Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year award four times. Recent seasons have seen a decline in the Spaniard's displays, with Dean Henderson now seemingly the preferred shot-stopper.


Also Read: 10 most valuable football players in the world - July 2021

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