Jose Mourinho is interested in bringing Atletico Madrid defender Diego Godin to Manchester United as he has recognized the need for a leader for the side. Godin, who is regarded as one of the best defenders in the world, could be lured by the English giants with a much-improved contract.
The 30-yer-old Uruguayan’s leadership qualities are much required in United’s setup. Godin came close to winning the UEFA Champions League twice and Mourinho has earmarked the Atletico Madrid vice-captain as a top target as he looks to kickstart the second stage of the squad overhaul over the winter transfer window.
According to reports in the Sun, Manchester United are ready to splash out £30m for the central-defender. Furthermore, they are prepared to offer Godin a much-improved deal than his current £70,000-a-week wage packet to secure his services.
Also read: Manchester United transfer rumour: Memphis Depay angling towards Old Trafford exit in January
Godin’s current contract has a release clause that is fractionally higher than what United are willing to spend and keeping him at the Vicente Calderon might turn out to be a difficult job for the Atletico hierarchy.
Being a natural organizer and a born leader, Godin would help turn United’s back-line into a fortress – a feature prominent in Mourinho’s style of play. At 30, the Uruguayan is at his peak and there might be a good four years of competitive football left in him.
The Portuguese manager, who brought in four new players in the summer, is still looking to transform his side into world beaters. However, it has also been reported that several players could be on their way out in January after a dismal start to the season.
Also read: Manchester United transfer rumour: Jose Mourinho plots a £50m bid for Atletico Madrid star Jose Maria Gimenez
Marcos Rojo, Ashley Young, Bastian Schweinsteiger, Phil Jones, Matteo Darmian, Michael Carrick, Memphis Depay and Morgan Schneiderlin may all be offloaded to other clubs in the coming 12 months thus creating room for Godin and other new arrivals.
United suffered a slump after a promising start to the season and are currently eight points behind the table toppers. They visit Swansea on Sunday as Mourinho looks to avoid United’s worst ever start to a Premier League campaign.
Godin, who turned down a move to Chelsea in the summer, is reportedly happy in Madrid. However, keeping United’s financial prowess in mind, a deal cannot be ruled out as of yet.
(Video courtesy: Mathews Football YouTube channel)
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