It is not often that Manchester United fail to sign their top transfer target but over the last couple of seasons, the Red Devils have not been the same kind of super-power in the transfer market, that they once used to be.
Jose Mourinho will not like missing out on such names but that trend seems to be continuing as Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool are close to hijacking yet another transfer target from under the noses of their arch-rivals.
Borussia Dortmund star Christian Pulisic has been on the radar of the Manchester club for over a year now but the German outfit have been adamant that he is not for sale. He has currently cemented a place in the first team at the Signal Iduna Park but reports claim that he could be on his way out, not this month, but at the end of the season.
But to Mourinho’s frustration, the report suggests that Liverpool are favourites to sign Pulisic, come the end of the season. But do you think a move to Anfield is the best for the youngster? Or is Old Trafford a better destination for him? Let’s try to analyze his chances at both clubs:
Manchester United:
The Red Devils are not blessed with too many natural wingers right now, with in-form Jesse Lingard the only one. The likes of Anthony Martial, Juan Mata and Marcus Rashford are all make-shift players in this role and Pulisic will give the club a different dimension in attack.
He is adept at creating chances from the wing, adding width to the attack of his side and if he can prove himself to Mourinho, a place in the first team is not too far away.
Liverpool:
The Reds have just lost their talisman in Philippe Coutinho and are desperate for a player who can replace his creativity and quality in the first team. A number of star players are constantly linked with a move to Anfield but reports suggest that Jurgen Klopp is ready to wait for the signature of the USA international.
At Liverpool, Pulisic might have to play a slightly deeper role but is expected to walk into the first team straight away. And with Jurgen Klopp at the helm, he is sure to improve as a player and can start a legacy in England.
Better Fit?
If we take a look at the systems used at both clubs, Pulisic has racked up the numbers at a club that plays a system that closely resembles what Klopp is using at Liverpool. The high-intensity football that Liverpool play is what makes Pulisic, that much more effective. He is smart in transition play and can be a part of the 3-man midfield or play on the wings and can easily turn into one of the most important players at the club.
At Old Trafford, the Portuguese manager is building a team full of youngsters, who can go on to rule Europe in years to come. The likes of Paul Pogba, Victor Lindelof, Anthony Martial, Marcus Rashford and even Romelu Lukaku, are all relatively young and will make Pulisic feel at home. However, Mourinho’s system at the club might not be able to get the best out of the 19-year old.
Liverpool may be a better destination for him but he cannot replace Philippe Coutinho, in his exact position so it will be interesting to see what role he picks up, if he does move to Anfield.
But where do you think he will be a bigger hit?