Much has been written about Morgan Schneiderlin this summer with the French midfielder linked with moves to Arsenal and Manchester United.
StrettyNews.com spoke to Simon Peach of Press Association Sport to gain insight on a potential Manchester United signing this summer.
Tell us about Morgan Schneiderlin’s relationship with the Southampton fans, team-mates and Ronald Koeman?
Clubs like Southampton expect players to come and go. That does not mean it does not hurt fans, but it is part and parcel of being a side outside the elite.
Morgan Schneiderlin is someone who could have gone six years ago after his first season at Saints ended in relegation from the Championship and the club going into administration. Yet here we are, with Schneiderlin a France regular and established as one of the best midfielder in the Premier League.
Last summer’s spat with the club left a sour taste, but was soon forgotten by supporters due to his on-field performances. Ronald Koeman – someone one knows a thing or two about playing for the best – appreciates that and, if he goes, would exit St Mary’s as a popular figure.
Will Champions League football be the main lure away from St. Mary’s?
Yes, it is only natural for a 25-year-old playing for a country like France to want to test himself at the highest level. At Southampton he has regularly shown his capabilities to impress against the best and he himself has said he would only leave for Champions League football.
Schneiderlin has previously been linked with a move to Arsenal. Do you see him staying at Southampton and if not, where do you think he will go?
I do not see Schneiderlin staying at Southampton this summer, no. I was told last year he was keen on joining Tottenham to link up with Mauricio Pochettino, but now his focus appears to be Champions League football. Arsenal would make sense as remaining in England is his preference, but so too would United. I cannot see Man City or Chelsea making a move for him.
If you had to compare Schneiderlin to one current and one former player, who would they be and why?
It would be too easy to mention the likes of Claude Makelele for his tackling and reading of the game, especially as that would overlook his passing ability and vision. He would certainly add to United’s current midfield.
Does Schneiderlin have what it takes to thrive in Europe’s top competition?
Undoubtedly. He has come a long way since being an unused substitute on a cold Tuesday night in Hartlepool and his rise shows no sign of abating. Morgan is a fantastic player and a great personality around the dressing room, so there is no reason why he would not flourish.
We have done a similar piece with a Borussia Dortmund fan on Ilkay Gundogan.