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The Red Devils are doing a decent job under the philosophy of Dutch Boss Louis Van Gaal. Despite heavy criticism from former players and the media, United are still title contenders with a solid defense. The problem lies with the attacking quadrant. The lethargic buildup play, lack of creativity in the final third and the lack of attacking intent is raising some questions on the philosophy.It’s about substance along with style when it comes to the dominant Manchester United sides of yore. The post-Ferguson era is yet to taste silverware and the fans are hungry for it more than ever. Here are some Barclays Premier League names which United can sign in the January transfer window.
#1 Jamie Vardy
United are clearly short of options upfront. Rooney is going through a barren period in terms of performance. The young James Wilson is out on loan with Anthony Martial the only option as number 9.
Jamie Vardy is making all the headlines in the Premier League. The new poster boy of English football is a record breaker with goals in 11 consecutive games for the foxes. The Jamie Vardy story is indeed an inspiration for any person in any sport. The turnaround as an athlete but more as a human being describes the level of hard work.
Vardy is leading Leicester’s dream run in the League, a team who was no way near safety last season, is in the top 4 of this illustrious league.
Vardy can be the answer to United’s woes. The determination and willingness to get in opportunistic areas makes him a useful contributor. Being at the right place at the right time creates a good striker and Vardy surely knows how to tear defenses apart with his sharp running ability with and without the ball. Not just the Red Devils, but other teams would also be scouting Vardy who is living his dream at the moment.
#2 Sadio Mane
The Senegalese winger is a good future prospect for any team. With pace to burn, Mane knows the art of delivering deadly crosses into the penalty area. Mane has played a huge role in Southampton’s success in the Premier League as he is one of Ronald Koeman’s main men. Mane always looks threatening with his speed.
Even in his time at French club Metz, Mane showed the signs of becoming a valuable team player. Arriving at the scene of the English League back in 2014, the 23-year-old has contributed massively.
There are certain aspects that make him a perfect fit for Manchester United. Van Gaal recently showed his concern regarding his side’s inability in moving the ball quickly. He mentioned that the Old Trafford club is lacking pacey wingers who like to take on defenders.
United like the crossing game and this Southampton man could be the solution to United’s current frustration. Age is also a factor that will tempt the Red Devils in spite of a hefty price tag.
However, the Saints are in no mood what so ever to let their star man leave the club. Their Dutch boss has a history with United’s Louis Van Gaal and might snub offers for the in-demand winger. It will require a considerable fee to capture Mane’s signature.
#3 Yannick Bolasie
Crystal Palace are redefining the term speed with players like Wilfried Zaha and Yannick Bolasie. Bolasie, in particular, has impressed a lot under manager Alan Pardew. Answering the prayers of his manager, Bolasie stood up and helped the Eagles finish in the top half of the table last season. The former Bristol City midfielder has contributed heavily last season where Palace managed to score 47 goals.
This season the story is not much different. Pardew is banking a lot on the speedster and he is indeed delivering the goods. Away wins against the big boys, Liverpool and Chelsea shows the progress this team is making where the Congolese man is creating a huge impact.
As far as United are concerned, Louis Van Gaal is looking for pace at the wings. The 26 year old winger can be a surprise capture, a player who can use both feet to good effect along with comfort on both wings; Bolasie can just be the perfect fit in the United Squad. The fearless nature of his football along with his art of dribbling will suit United’s style of play.
However, Pardew will play a huge role here if United show any interest in Crystal’s talisman. The Palace boss rates him very highly and may demand a lot of money.
#4 Ross Barkley
One of the finest young talents in the Premier League is undoubtedly Ross Barkley. At a young age of 21, Barkley carries a good amount of Premier League and International experience. Many consider him as a successor of Wayne Rooney at both club and country.
The work this young football prodigy is doing in his Everton shirt makes him a hot property in the transfer market. From long range screamers to cheeky assists, the toffees are making very good use of his talent.
There were rumors in the transfer market regarding Barkley being on United’s radar, and why not? A player who has done so much justice to his skills at such a young age is beyond doubt astonishing. Old Trafford will surely welcome a talent of this magnitude.
Moreover, age is on Barkley’s side big time. Not only Man Utd, but he will draw interest from other clubs as well. However, to sign another central attacking midfield player may not suit United at the moment. There are many players in the United camp who play as number 10.
If United authorities feel that this midfield sensation is the answer to goal scoring problems, then we may see United making an effort to sign Barkley from Everton. Though, the Red Devils will need to offer a colossal amount in order to induce a move.
#5 Riyad Mahrez
The Algerian midfield genius is another reason why Leicester City are having a dream season. With 7 goals and 6 assists, Riyad Mahrez is a massive contributor in front of goal. The creative style of his play has got his name in the transfer targets of so many clubs.
To wear the red shirt and perform at the theatre of dreams is a big task. A player has to give his best in order to impress the biggest fan base in the world. The thing that favors this move is the age factor yet again. Mahrez is just 24 and seems to have a bright future in his hands. The Leicester man can fit into this United side in the attacking midfield.
No one in the United ranks seem settled as everyone are yet to prove their mettle. The left side of attack is still a question mark. Not just the injuries, but also a lack of inspiring performances has urged the United boss to look into the transfer market. Mahrez can play from the left as well as a lynchpin in the middle of the park. He sure will be a classic capture if United manage to get a player like him in their squad.
