Manchester United reportedly willing to pay £52m for Serie A star: A good move in the offing?

Premier League giants Manchester United are reportedly willing to trigger the release clause of defender Faouzi Ghoulam as they look to sign an established left-back within the remaining days of the January transfer window.

The Napoli ace has been a long-term target for the Red Devils and is currently one of the most highly sought after fullbacks in world football. According to reports from Rai Sport, United head coach Jose Mourinho is keen on signing the Algerian in the January transfer window in order to boost his defensive options.

Lack of a prominent left-back has always been one of Manchester United’s main issues for the past few years now. Luke Shaw has remained injured for the most part of his United career, while Daley Blind and Marcos Rojo are better suited to the more central defensive role rather than playing as a left-back.

This season, veteran midfielder turned defender Ashley Young has been Jose’s first choice left back, making 18 appearances in the Premier League. And even though the Englishman has somewhat impressed in his new role, earning himself a new contract in the process, Ashley Young is by no means a reliable option, especially for the long term and that’s where Faouzi Ghoulam comes into the play.

Earlier last week, he was voted the Algerian footballer of the year and last month, the defender also signed a new five-year contract with the Italian outfit, which, however, doesn’t affect his chances of leaving the club in any way.

Blessed with immense talent and potential, Faouzi Ghoulam, 26, is regarded as Africa’s finest fullback. His rare qualities going forward is what makes him such a sought-after talent in European football.

Considering the importance of technically adept fullbacks these days, Faouzi Ghoulam will fit right in at Manchester United, largely thanks to his ability to act as an auxiliary left midfielder, who can not only pump in a plethora of crosses but also take part in the build-up play, something he’s very good at. He can also act as a very good defensive outlet while his pace often becomes the x-factor of his overall gameplay.

Therefore, Faouzi Ghoulam is a name Manchester United should not miss out. The Red Devils have already struggled to impose themselves in the Premier League this season but the additions of Ghoulam and Alexis Sanchez will definitely revitalize their chances of hitting the jackpot in this year’s Champions League.