Whilst many in the Transfer Tavern were hoping for their side to be more competitive this season, it’s clear that Man Utd are a team on the up.
Jose Mourinho’s side have faltered at points, but when you compare the team with the one that David Moyes, and even Louis van Gaal, had to manage – it’s an entirely different prospect.
Rated at £36 million by Transfer Markt, Fabinho certainly wouldn’t be cheap, but he’d provide exactly what Mourinho is wishing for in a transfer this summer.
But just how would he fit in? Many of Man Utd’s midfield spots have already been filled, but could his arrival demand a change in shape?
Given the success of the three-man defence in England as of late, a full-time switch to that formation could be best, allowing for two flanking wing-backs alongside a three-man central midfield trio – including Fabinho.
Take a look at this potential Man Utd midfield next season if Fabinho gets his wish…
LWB – Ashley Young
Ashley Young is, of course, naturally an attacking player, but he has excelled at left-wing back this season.
Making use of his offensive quality, whilst also improving on the defensive side of his game, the Englishman has looked very good indeed.
Next year he will, of course, be another year older, and whether he’ll be able to stay at the top of his game for another entire season remains to be seen, but in terms of current form, Young is good enough to control the left-hand side of this midfield for another year.
CDM – Fabinho
Mourinho is wishing for a midfielder this summer, and given Fabinho’s apparent interest, the Portuguese manager would be wise to move for the Brazilian.
He ticks all of the boxes for Mourinho.
Playing slightly deeper than many of those around him, Fabinho will become the focal point of the midfield, aiding to break up opposition attacks whilst also looking to move the ball forward with his brilliant passing.
CM – Paul Pogba
Paul Pogba has struggled this season, but as part of a three-man midfield, he could get even better.
With Fabinho in the team, the defensive side of the game will be taken care of, allowing Pogba to roam slightly further forward and do what he does best.
The Frenchman has shown glimpses of brilliance over the last few years, and the arrival of Fabinho could take him to the next level.
CDM – Nemanja Matic
Nemanja Matic has, arguably, been the star of the show at Man Utd this term.
He has transformed the midfield, and he has made the team so much better.
However, much like at Chelsea with Cesc Fabregas, he can’t handle the defensive responsibility on his own, and so just like with Pogba, the arrival of Fabinho could transform his game.
The Serbian will find life much easier with an extra hand in the heart of the midfield.
RWB – Antonio Valencia
Like Ashely Young, Antonio Valencia is more natural playing further forward, but at present, Jose Mourinho will have no complaints about what he can do.
The Ecuadorian is one of Man Utd’s most important players, and he’ll likely be their captain next season.
He’s as defensively solid as they come, and his passion is evident.
