Our Manchester United fans here in the Transfer Tavern will be hoping that Jose Mourinho has a huge clear out this summer, to rid of some players that are not cutting the mustard at Old Trafford.
Reports are breaking around the pub through our regulars that Phil Jones could be a potential target for Everton this summer, with Sam Allardyce keen on the centre-back should he stay on in charge. Jones came to United with a big future ahead of him, even to the point there was the talk of him being an England captain down the line.
However, mainly through injuries, he’s never quite hit the heights many of the punters believed he would, he has shown glimpses but not enough to warrant a regular start at United under Mourinho.
If the Portuguese coach wants to deliver the Red Devil fans a title next season, then Jones could be the start of a mass exodus of players that has needed to happen for some time and our landlord takes a look at what other two players could follow the English defender out of the door…
Chris Smalling
United have a few casualties at the back who should be moved on, and Chris Smalling is one of them that has been less than impressive during his many years at Old Trafford. He creates a sense of nervousness amongst the fans that often channels into the team.
United need a strong defender to accompany Eric Bailly in the centre of the defence, however, Smalling isn’t up to the standard required.
Matteo Darmian
The Italian full-back hasn’t set Old Trafford alight since his move to Manchester under former manager Louis Van Gaal. Darmian has seen his playtime dramatically reduced over the seasons and, the obvious choice left for him is to leave in order to find regular first-team action.
United need to bring a right-sided fullback in to start the replacement of Antonio Valencia, as the quality right-back is only a season or so from age catching up with him.
