Premier League Opinion: 2 PL destinations for Antonio Valencia
According to a recent report by the Daily Mail, Premier League newcomers Sheffield United are said to be eyeing up a move for Manchester United captain Antonio Valencia, as they look to add top-flight experience to the ranks.
The Blades boast a very young side and although they did extremely well to overcome the Championship last season, the Premier League is a totally different ballgame. Like Fulham last season, promotion to the top can have extremely scarring effects on some sides unless they tread carefully.
It was also suggested in a report by Sky Sports recently that last season’s Europa League finalists Arsenal are keen on bringing the United skipper to the Emirates, as Unai Emery looks to fill the gaping holes in his back-line.
The Gunners defence was in absolute shambles for many of the important league games this season and when it mattered most, they seemed to simply capitulate under the pressure. The addition of Valencia would go a long way in reinforcing a position that’s given the Gunners a lot of problems over the last couple of seasons.
Antonio Valencia is an Ecuadorean international full-back, who’s been a fantastic servant at Old Trafford since 2009. Out of contract this summer, a move away from United is imminent, with just his destination yet to be revealed.
He certainly still has a lot to offer to any side because of the sheer experience and quality that he possesses. His exploits for United over the years have become the stuff of Premier League legend and his leadership skills will be a massive boost as well.
Here are the two clubs keen on his signature:
Arsenal
The Gunners’ alarming need for a defensive revamp is quite clear to see now and if all the errors and individual mistakes were removed from their game last season, Unai Emery might’ve been able to take home a trophy at the end of it.
The right-back role has been a headache for Gunners fans over the years and despite the presence of injured star Hector Bellerin, there is a need for immediate reinforcements. Valencia has the composure to slot into a back-line and do a job for them and that’s why this move actually makes a lot of sense.
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Sheffield United
The Blades will have to be extremely careful as they try to manoeuvre the treacherous Premier League waters after a long absence away.
Although they did enough to make it here without having to go through the playoffs, their squad certainly doesn’t look the best-suited to overcome the action-packed nature of top-flight football.
Valencia’s brilliant ability to get things going down the flank with strong forward runs will help their cause next season and they must sign him up before the other suitors get to him.
