Manchester United‘s midfield search has already taken plenty of twists and turns, but Juventus may have just provided a solution. Rather than splashing the cash on the likes of Alex Scott in an expensive Premier League market, the Red Devils could land Khephren Thuram.
The Italian giants have made a decision regarding the Frenchman’s future, leaving the door wide open for Old Trafford chiefs to swoop in this summer.
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Football FanCast’s Verdict |
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Credibility |
It’s a ruthless move from Juventus, who are making room for additions of their own. That ruthlessness looks set to benefit Man United, however, as they become more and more desperate for another midfielder. |
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Finances |
Although the Italians were intially looking to sell Thuram for as much as €50m (£43m), a change in stance now means that they’re willing to accept a lower price of just €40m (£34m). |
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Insight |
The Frenchman is at the peak of his powers and already experienced at the top level. Next to someone like Ederson, he could provide that missing technical ability. |
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Impact |
Signing Thuram would end Man United’s midfield search at a bargain price and could allow Arsenal to have a free run at someone like Alex Scott. |
Whilst absurd transfer fees fly around the Premier League’s midfield market, Man United have a bargain opportunity.
As reported by TuttoSport, Juventus are now working to send Thuram to Man United as all parties prioritise a swift exit to the Premier League.
The Red Devils aren’t the only side interested, but they have made contact. Whether they turn that contact into an offer which matches Juventus’ €40m (£34m) asking price is now the big question. It would certainly be a bargain deal.
£34m Thuram is better than Ederson
Thuram’s arrival would already provide problems for Ederson. Before he’s even arrived, the Brazilian would be competing against an upgraded, less one-dimensional player in his position. Whilst the latter excels out of possession, Thuram tends to do that and works well on the ball.
Combined with Kobbie Mainoo, Thuram’s tenacity and technical ability would help form an impressive partnership without spending an absurd fee this summer. And that’s something that INEOS could prefer.
The problem they have with Ederson is his work in possession. Whilst he stole the headlines at Atalanta, he was never asked to dictate the tempo. That will change at Old Trafford and 0.64 dribbles per game suggests that he is easily pressed at the heart of the action.
Thuram, meanwhile, maintained an impressive 0.84 per game.
