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From the start of the season, Manchester United has been leaking goals. Going a goal down in the first twenty minutes of the game seems to be a routine for them. Nemanja Vidic, Chris Smalling and Phil Jones being out injured has been a real blow to Sir Alex Ferguson and Manchester United. The lack of pace of Ferdinand, and Patrice Evra’s growing negligence of his defensive duties has been another reason of headache for the manager.
With Rafael’s superb showing since the start of the season, he has become the one bright spot in United’s defense; and with Chris Smalling now back into the squad and Phil Jones nearing his return, the state of the United defence has suddenly started to seem a bit more brighter than what it was a month back. As Nemanja Vidic is also slated to return into the fray of things by the end of this year, Sir Alex might not slash his money for any more defenders. Instead, he is reported to have his eyes set upon a 21 year-old starlet from Celtic- Victor Wanyama.
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – NOVEMBER 07: Victor Wanyama of Celtic celebrates after scoring during the UEFA Champions League Group G match between Celtic and Barcelona.
At 21 years of age, this kid might be all that Manchester United requires in their midfield. His age is a very big advantage as his best years are yet to come.
He is strong, plays in the defensive midfield position and also can be used as a central defender. He might just be the missing pawn in the United squad- that strong defensive presence in midfield that United have missed since the days of the great Roy Keane. The Celtic powerhouse might just be the star that United need to reduce the leakage of goals, get their hands on that Premiership trophy again and maybe even make a good run for the Champions League Trophy that has eluded them since 2008.
But United are not alone in their pursuits. Other clubs have started showing their interest at this Kenyan star. Celtic might not want to let go of him, but a strong offer for him might well change their minds and this Kenyan could well be packing his bags to the club of the highest bidder. Celtic are reportedly asking in the region of £20-25 million for their wonderkid. But for a guy who they bought for less than a million pounds 18 months back, they might be asking too much. Manchester United might not offer as huge a sum- especially considering van Persie cost them the same amount!
His performance against Barcelona might have increased the number of clubs who are trying to acquire his services. If Manchester United do not make a quick pounce for this kid, they might again end up disappointed as we have seen in the case of Eden Hazard and Lucas Muora. Lets hope Sir Alex pulls up his socks and gets Vanyama down to the Theatre of Dreams before someone else pounces.
