Unless you have been living under a rock for the past week, you will be well aware that the summer transfer window is open for buisness and crazy season is in full swing.
As usual Manchester United are being rumoured to be signing almost every half decent player in world football.
However, despite the relentless links to players all around the world, the general consensus surrounding the club is that their number one target is Borussia Dortmund’s Jadon Sancho with the side’s defence also identified as an area of weakness.
With reports suggesting that Sancho will cost the club in excessive of £100m, as per The Times, it may be fair to assume that United will have to study the market more carefully during this window, as such, we have highlighted three alternative Premier League targets who would benefit United.
Ismaila Sarr | 22 | Watford | Right Winger
Sarr joined the Hornets at the beginning of last season from French side Stade Rennaise, the youngster has endured an impressive debut season in England’s top-flight racking up 12 goal contributions in just 30 appearances in all competitions.
The youngster’s most memorable moment came back in February when he single handedly ended Liverpool’s invincible aspirations after scoring twice and assisting the other in his side’s 3-0 thumping over the eventual champions.
Watford’s young right winger could be a great alternative transfer to Sancho and would undeniably be available for far less than £100m.
Douglas Luiz | 22 | Aston Villa | Defensive Midfielder
United have been relentlessly linked with signing Luiz’s team-mate Jack Grealish this summer, with multiple reports suggesting the Reds could make a move for the £80m rated creative midfielder, as per Independent.
However, with United expected to seal the deal for Sancho, it is becoming increasingly unlikely that they’ll be able to land the highly valued Grealish from Premier League last-day survivors Villa.
One player United could look at would be Villa’s holding midfielder Luiz as a cheaper squad building option as the Reds look to bolster their defensive choices as the experienced Nemanja Matic reaches his twilight years.
Luiz has undoubtedly been a key figure in Villa’s midfield this season and has seen his efforts contribute to the Midlands’ side top-flight survival.
With the young midfielder effective both defensive and during transitions, it may not be a bad idea to consider the Brazilian as a much cheaper option to add depth to a sparse area of the United squad.
Wily Boly | 29 | Wolverhampton Wanderers | Centre-Back
Arguably one of the stand-out centre-backs this season, Wolves centre-back Boly’s efforts this campaign have very much gone under the radar.
The 29 year old experienced defender has been a figure head at the heart of the Wolves defence having started 33 matches in all competitions.
The commanding centre-back is most comfortable playing on the right side of a back-line and is also capable of slotting into a back five, therefore, the Frenchman could provide essential cover for the likes of the injury prone Eric Bailly and usual centre-back Victor Lindelof.
With Boly’s contract set to expire as early as next summer, United could perhaps look to turn their attentions to a Premier League proven centre-back who would be available at a far more viable fee than the likes of European stars Kalidou Koulibaly and Milan Skriniar.
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