On Saturday morning, Brendan McLoughlin of The Daily Star reported that supposed long-term Manchester United target Ron Vlaar could swap Villa Park for Old Trafford before the start of the 2015/16 Premier League season this August.
Vlaar was signed from Feyenoord three years ago and has played over 75 league games for The Villains since then. The Dutchman has 31 international caps and has managed one goal for Die Oranje in that time.
He is an incredibly strong centre-back who is comfortable under pressure and adept to an aerial challenge as well. Suggestion that Louis van Gaal may bring him to the Theatre of Dreams increased heavily following an impressive World Cup in 2014, where he played with the likes of Stefan De Vrij, Bruno Martins Indi and current United player Daley Blind.
Nothing materialised last summer, nor in January, despite more links to a transfer away. However, the defender has fuelled speculation almost inadvertently.
“I have often heard about and read the rumours”, said Vlaar, talking to Dutch publication ELF Voetball – “But there has never been contact”, he continued.
“I think he [Van Gaal] knows what he wants and what he does not want; whether I am part of his plans I dare not say. I have no idea.”
Whilst he may not be the most renowned centre-back in the world and is 30 years old at the moment, he could be a good option to provide strength in depth at the back as United look to battle on four fronts for silverware in the upcoming season.
