Manchester United are pressing ahead with the 3-4-1-2 formation for the coming season, but Louis van Gaal still has an awful lot to do before he can make this “lopsided” team into a Premier League contender.
The systematic change allows him to play three or four attacking options in a top-heavy squad, but it also places a strain on the back three/five that’s currently unmanageable.
Van Gaal needs options—fresh recruits—in defence before the opening ball is kicked, and here are five attainable defensive options that make too much sense to ignore.
Daley Blind, Ajax
Caught Offside
The links between Blind and Manchester United have been copious, no doubt, but there’s a simple reason as to why it’s stuck around: It fits.
Blind’s a fantastic stabiliser from left-wing-back, plays even better in a flat back-four (should LVG switch around) and can even play in defensive midfield or as a left-centre-back.
Such versatility, all on display during the FIFA World Cup 2014, is crucial to top teams. If Blind signs, the Red Devils have a top-class talent capable of playing almost anywhere in the defensive half.
2014 Value: £15 Million
Thomas Vermaelen, Arsenal
With 12 months left on his contract and a captain’s armband worth nothing in practical terms, Vermaelen would be wise to push through a transfer away from the Emirates.
Arsenal fans won’t want him to go—they see him as ideal back-up for Laurent Koscielny and Per Mertesacker—but for the Belgian that “role” isn’t enough.
He’s had injury troubles, certainly, but many of the niggles and knocks come from over-exertion when given the rare chance to impress. Fresh start needed.
2014 Value: £8 Million
Doria, Botafogo
Doria is a prodigious young Brazilian central defender who, at 19 years of age, already looks a near-complete player.
His movement and positional sense is incredible, his marking tight and his aerial dominance obvious. He’s already grabbed a cap for Brazil despite fierce competition in his area, and rather than look at the £30 million-rated Marquinhos and Co., Manchester United should be checking a Botafogo tape.
For anything up to £16 million, Doria’s worth a close look.
2014 Value: £12 Million
Kwadwo Asamoah, Juventus
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Kwadwo Asamoah would be a big-ticket signing for Manchester United, no doubt, but Juventus are prone to a sale and the Ghanaian’s versatility and power are big draws.
He has a huge fanbase across world football thanks to his direct, vertical running style and willingness to work his socks off from any position.
Antonio Conte converted him to left-wing-back and after a year he took to the role, capable of destroying right-siders and slamming in low crosses.
He’s exciting, humble, fun and can also do plenty of damage from central midfield.
2014 Value: £20 Million
Miguel Layun, Club America
Layun would be something of a gamble given the fact that he’s only experienced in three-man defensive systems, but his comfort on either side and his performances for Mexico at the FIFA World Cup 2014 suggest there’s potential to be tapped.
He dominated the left flank in Miguel Herrera’s formation at the finals this summer, ripping his opponents—and in particular poor Cameroon right-back Cedric Djeugoue—to shreds.
He’s quick, incisive, a fast thinker and a strong technician.
2014 Value: £5 Million
I like Blind…get blind soon as please.