Manchester United have been far from shy to splash the cash this summer, with manager Jose Mourinho spending £146 million on three new additions to his squad, as the Red Devils prepare themselves for Champions League football next season.
After finishing 6th in the Premier League last campaign, the Europa League was prioritised by Mourinho, and a 2-0 victory over Dutch giants Ajax in the final confirmed United’s place in the Champions League for the 2017/18 season.
This achievement has sparked Mourinho to go on a spending spree, to improve the depth and quality of his current squad, as his sides future looks brighter. ‘The Special One’ has brought in Victor Lindelof from Benfica, Romelu Lukaku from Everton and Nemanja Matic from former club Chelsea. But does this mean that a new spine to the team could be introduced?
Victor Lindelof – £31m
On 10th June, United added Benfica centre-back Victor Lindelof to their ranks. The Swede signed a four-year-deal at Old Trafford, and will look to form a partnership in the Manchester United back-line with Eric Bailly.
At six foot two, Lindelof is a presence in the air, imposing upon opposition forwards. He is a strong tackler, with good positional awareness, which could make him one of Mourinho’s key assets at Old Trafford. With Lindelof at the heart of his defence, United will take a far more solid stance in the Premier League next season.
Nemanja Matic – £40m
Jose Mourinho raided former club Chelsea to sign defensive midfielder Nemanja Matic. The Serbian international played under Mourinho during his time at Stamford Bridge, with the ‘Special One’ seemingly influencing his move to the North West.
Mourinho needed someone to strengthen his midfield, and Matic will offer so much for the team. After Chelsea signed Tiemoue Bakayoko from AS Monaco, who will inevitably partner N’Golo Kante, United took advantage of Matic’s situation.
At six foot three, Matic is another very physical player who is strong in the air. He also has a wide range of passing, complemented by his vision. As a more defensive player, Matic could partner £89 million man Paul Pogba in the United midfield, allowing the Frenchman to express himself more, by being able to play in a slightly higher role, as Matic will be covering. This could work the other way around as well, with both players very competent at creating chances, and scoring from range.
Romelu Lukaku – £75m
United made Everton star Romelu Lukaku their second summer signing, bringing him in for £75m. After bagging 26 goals in 38 appearances for Everton last season, Lukaku was one of the most in-demand players in Europe, with his ability clearly showing he deserved to be playing at the very top level.
After United released Swedish talisman Zlatan Ibrahimovic, the main source of goals at Old Trafford, it was evident that a new strker was required. And who better than Lukaku?
The Belgian hot-shot has already netted two goals in three appearances for the Red Devils during their spell in America for the International Champions Cup, in which FC Barcelona came out victorious.
An already established prolific goalscorer, Lukaku will no doubt be the first name on the teamsheet next season for United.
These three signings may have the team built around them, as United could become serious title contenders by next May, but we will have to wait and see what the future holds.
Comments.
Loading comments…