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Manchester United defender Nemanja Vidic’s departure looks more probable than ever, as agent Silvano Martina hinted his 32-year-old agent is not likely to extend his stay at Old Trafford after his contract expiry date this summer. Nevertheless it is not only the Serb, whose deal with the Red Devils might not be extended, whereas defenders Rio Ferdinand and French Patrice Evra are also set on missing out on the renewal with United. Vidic, despite being the club‘s captain (since 2011), after 8 years of service at Manchester United, might sign for a new side. It would be a huge blow for the Red Devils, now that they will be lacking their key leader in the line-up, as a result David Moyes should start his searches for a rational replacement for Vidic. Here are the top candidates to be signed by the English giants:
1. Andersol Vital ‘Dede’ da Silva | Cruzeiro
The Brazilian, who is already a target for many top clubs like Liverpool, could step into Vidic’s shoes aswell. The central back has been playing regularly for Cruzeiro since this season’s start, however a move away to a top club may increase his chances of making it to the World cup squad. The 26-year-old’s height of 192cm enables the player to not only be a great aerial defender, but also a goal-scorer, who is a threat for the opponents in the set pieces. Just like Vidic.
2. Chris Smalling, Phil Jones and Jonny Evans | Manchester United
The defending trio, already playing for the Red Devils will now have to replace the great centre-back pair, Ferdinand and Vidic. While Smalling, aged 24, is a taller player and has more similarities with the experienced Englishman, he has often replaced Vidic when the Serbian international was sidelined due to injuries. Despite being named Rio Ferdinand’s permanent successor at Old Trafford, Smalling is always a second-plan option to change Nemanja.
Phil Jones is the youngest centre-back in Moyes’s first team and the absence of the often-played veterans will be a perfect chance to ingratiate oneself. Jones is also a versatile player, as he can play also as a holding midfielder or as a right-back. However the 21-year-old might not be prepared for 90-minute football due to his lack of experience and could be used as a good back-up.
Jonny Evans who is set to change the baton for Vidic and unlike his younger teammates is calm when under pressure. His career dotted by several injuries seems to now have straightened out and the future looks good for the Irish international if David Moyes decided him to take over Vidic’s role in the squad.
3. Ezequiel Garay
The Benfica centre back has been linked with Manchester United for quite some time now. David Moyes is believed to be a keen admirer of the player and rumours are popping up that United are very close to signing him. Garay has all the required attributes like headers, strength and tackles to be a successful replacement for Vidic. He would definitely add much needed depth to this struggling United defence.
