Jose Mourinho has not enjoyed the best of starts to life in the Manchester United dugout and after signing a wealth of talent in the summer his side sit in a disappointing sixth place in the Premier League at present.
The die-hard United supporters here in the Transfer Tavern have been bitterly disappointed with his team’s performances so far, whilst some of our other regular Red Devils supporting punters have been appalled by his antics away from the pitch.
Mourinho’s side did manage to go into the international break on a high, as United defeated hapless Swansea City 3-1 but improvements are clearly needed at Old Trafford.
Our knowledgeable landlord here in the Tavern has called on the ex-Chelsea boss to open the chequebook in January and given their form so far it could well be necessary.
After plunging a fortune on players during the summer transfer window, money will inevitably be tight for the Premier League giants and Tavern writer Lee Clarke looks at three players valued under £20 million that United should look to sign.
Michael Keane
As of 1st August, Burnley defender Keane was valued at £6.2 million by transfermarkt.co.uk, although his form so far this season for the Clarets is likely to have bumped up that fee.
Despite earning an England call-up this season, it is unlikely that Burnley will be able to refute any bids in the region of £15 million and United could certainly do with some reinforcements at the back.
Keane used to play for United as a youngster and his return to Old Trafford would be met with glee by the Red Devils here in the Tavern.
Branislav Ivanovic
The Serbian defender has played just seven times for Chelsea this season, falling foul to Antonio Conte’s desire to play with three central defenders, rather than a flat back four.
The 32-year-old is valued at £8.5 million, according to transfermarkt.co.uk, and if signed he could be a solid replacement for the injured right-back Antonio Valencia at Manchester United.
The pool team captain here at the Transfer Tavern is a devout United supporter and he thinks the uncompromising defender is exactly what Mourinho’s team needs at the moment.
Reece Oxford
Oxford was expected to take the Premier League by storm after an incredible debut in the opening game of last season against Arsenal, although things haven’t quite gone to plan since then.
The 17-year-old is valued at just £3.4 million, according to transfermarkt.co.uk, and if that is the case United should definitely consider a move for the youngster.
He would aid with United’s home-grown quota and the club could also tie him down ahead of his very best years in the game.
One United supporter is over by the cocktail bar here in the Tavern and he thinks United would be wise to push ahead with a move for Oxford.
Manchester United fans, would you welcome these three? Who else under £20 million should you sign? Let us know in the comments below!!!
