Manchester United fans in the Transfer Tavern often have plenty to discuss with the high-profile of their club but the debates have taken an entirely different turn this afternoon.
The Daily Mail have published United’s four-man shortlist to improve their ranks on the wings in January, with supporters playing a round of pool now arguing over which target would prove to be the most useful to Louis Van Gaal’s squad.
United remain firmly in the title race, two-points behind Manchester City and Arsenal, but have been let down on numerous occasions this season by their faltering attacking line.
Van Gaal has identified the need for a pacy winger in the New Year to add a new dimension to the Red Devils attack, which could prove crucial in the forthcoming months in the Premier League season.
Each of the targets offers something different, and their price-tags vary, so there is plenty for United fans to debate about as we enter a crucial stage of the season.
Hit Van Gaal below to see FOUR wingers targeted by Manchester United!
[ffc-gallery]
[/ffc-gallery]
Riyad Mahrez
The reported prime-target for Manchester United in the January transfer window is Leicester City ace Riyad Mahrez, though the pursuit could prove difficult with the Foxes determined not to sell, whilst Arsenal and Barcelona are rivals for the Algerian ace’s signature.
Mahrez has taken the Premier League by storm this season, with eye-catching performances and his deadly partnership with England international Jamie Vardy helping Claudio Ranieri’s side to a sensational position of third in the table- ahead of United!
Their form is expected to curtail off at some stage but Ranieri’s side have a strong chance of securing European football, which would be a landmark for the club, and he will be determined to keep his best players to improve the chances of this happening.
Felipe Anderson
A long-term target from the continent for Louis Van Gaal and Manchester United is Lazio’s Brazilian star Felipe Anderson, with United sending scouts regularly to assess the talents of the 22-year-old South American; most recently in last Thursday’s Europa League clash with Rosenberg, where the player did not feature.
Underperforming for the start of the season, Anderson has started to find his feet again with the Italian outfit but he could be tempted by a move to the Premier League and Lazio will not stand in his way if they receive a lucrative offer.
Sadio Mane
Another Premier League target for Manchester United, and one that could prove to be expensive, is Southampton ace Sadio Mane; a player who United have experienced first-hand but the Saints are remaining firm on their intentions not to sell.
With the exits of stars like Adam Lallana, Luke Shaw and Nathaniel Clyne still fresh in the minds of the South Coast club, they are adamant similar sales will not take place in January as they chase their own targets in the season.
That scenario could change depending on United’s offer but it would take a big lump of cash. Although Van Gaal has that at his disposal, he may want to save funds to pursue a top-target in another position.
Anwar El Ghazi
A final target, and perhaps the most risky, is a move for Ajax’s highly-rated youngster Anwar El Ghazi. The talented winger has impressed a number of scouts from Europe’s top sides this season but his lack of experience at the highest level may be a concern for United.
With Memphis Depay recently making an expensive switch from Holland to England, and failing to shine, United may be worried that El Ghazi may suffer a similar fate. Whilst he presents an exciting option for the future, Van Gaal needs a player for now if he is to win the league title.
