Two missed targets Manchester United should sign in January
Manchester United were linked to several players in the summer transfer window, with Jose Mourinho primarily looking for defensive reinforcements to bolster the team’s porous backline. The list of centre-backs included Diego Godin (Independent), Harry Maguire (Telegraph), Toby Alderweireld (Metro) and Jerome Boateng (Guardian).
However, United failed to land any of their defensive targets in the summer and the club has suffered as a result. The Red Devils have made a poor start to the season, having already conceded seven goals from their first four games. Hence, it is high time for Mourinho to enhance his squad depth in the winter transfer window and he should revive interest in some of his previous targets.
Here are two missed players United should look to sign in January.
1. Justin Kluivert
Justin Kluivert, the son of Dutch legend Patrick Kluivert, was linked with a move to Manchester United in the summer but the youngster chose to play for AS Roma instead. (h/t Guardian)
The Dutchman is just 19 but he has already shown signs of becoming one of the best winger-cum-forwards in the coming years.
A product of the Ajax youth academy, Kluivert made his professional debut for the club in 2016 and rose to prominence in the previous season, where he scored 10 goals in the Eredivisie.
Primarily a left-winger by trade, the 20-year-old is equally capable of playing on the right and at the centre of the attacking third. A player defined by electric pace and mesmerizing dribbling skills, Kluivert has an extremely cool head on his shoulders for his age and seldom loses his composure at critical moments.
With his pace, flair and athleticism, he is a counter-attacking threat. Given that the youngster joined Roma this summer, United must make a big offer to sign the Dutch prodigy. However, with his talent, Kluivert could make difference to the team.
2. Diego Godin
When Diego Godin’s move to Manchester United did not materialize within deadline day, there were rumours that the Uruguayan had used United’s interest in him to extend his contract at Atletico Madrid (h/t Independent). However, the 32-year-old has clearly stated that he stayed at Atletico Madrid because of personal reasons and did not sign any new contract with his current club (h/t Independent).
Given that Godin has not signed any new contract, United should revive their interest in the 32-year-old veteran. Manchester United need a leader at the back and his mere presence should boost the confidence of Phil Jones and Chris Smalling. Apart from his charismatic leadership, Godin’s composure, aerial ability and positional sense are comparable to the best in the world. The Uruguayan is also good at reading the game.
Read More: Go for it Mourinho: Why Man United must splash £72million to sign this La Liga sensation
Even at the age of 32, Godin has lost none of his sharpness and physicality and still continues to be one of the best in the world in his position.
