Manchester United Opinion: Why United must sign the Crystal Palace duo?
According to a report from The Sun, Manchester United are lining up a £50million double swoop for Crystal Palace duo Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Patrick van Aanholt.
Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has made it one of his priorities to strengthen his defence this summer after a miserable end to the 2018/19 campaign. Aaron Wan-Bissaka has been linked with the Red Devils for some time now, while interest in Patrick van Aanholt might raise a few eyebrows.
Now that the summer transfer window is open, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer should revamp his backline first with the signing of the Crystal Palace duo.
Antonio Valencia has left Old Trafford following the expiry of his contract, leaving United with Ashley Young and Diogo Dalot at right-back. Young came under immense criticism following his dismal performances since the turn of the year. He is at the wrong side of 30 and the 2019/20 season is likely to be his last one in United colours.
Diogo Dalot, signed by former United boss Jose Mourinho from FC Porto, had a decent debut season in the Premier League. The Portuguese full-back showed a lot of promise under Solskjaer, but the Norwegian tactician used him more in an advanced role on the right. That clearly tells Solskjaer still has reservations using Dalot at right-back, with the 20-year-old not yet defensively astute to play in that position.
That’s why a player like Wan-Bissaka will be perfect to succeed Young at right-back. He is regarded as one of the best full-backs in the Premier League having broken into the Palace first-team under Roy Hodgson this past campaign. For his impressive displays, he was awarded the Crystal Palace Player of the Year for 2018/19 season.
As far as Van Aanholt is concerned, the Dutchman also had a successful campaign with the Eagles. He scored three goals and bagged two assists in 36 league games, helping Hodgson’s team finish in 12th position. The 28-year-old is a high-flying left-back, renowned for his explosive pace, direct approach and crossing abilities.
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Aanholt is an experienced player and will bring a much-needed competition for Luke Shaw at left-back.
And whilst the Netherlands international’s attacking prowess has never really been in doubt, he has been suspect defensively at times. Nevertheless, he absolutely fits Solskjaer’s expansive, exciting style of play at United.
Verdict
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is desperate to rebuild his squad after ending a forgettable trophyless season. It’s why a double swoop for Wan-Bissaka and Van Aanholt makes a lot of sense, especially with the Red Devils’ defensive problems.
