Manchester United just ended a season to forget as Jose Mourinho failed to land even a single trophy. And the fact that they are way behind Manchester City in the bid to the league title might see the Red Devils spend big yet again this summer.
They need to improve on a couple of positions in the squad and have been linked with some of the finest stars in Europe. One such name now doing the rounds is Brazilian ace, Douglas Costa.
United Ready To Make Costa Bid
Standing as one of the best wingers in Serie A, if not in Europe, Costa spent the recent season on loan with Italian champions Juventus, who have an option to buy him on a permanent deal this summer. Bayern will allow Costa to sign for Juve for £33m but reports now claim that Juventus are yet to activate that clause and might take their time.
It is understood that the Serie A giants are desperate to improve other areas of the squad and are yet to decide on Costa’s future. And United want to take advantage of his situation and are readying a £79m bid for his services. The German giants will allow him to join Old Trafford if Juve decide not to purchase him, so what will Costa bring to England?
Douglas Costa And His Numbers
Arguably one of the quickest and skilled wingers in world football at the moment, the Brazilian international, who is a crucial part of his national side travelling to Russia, registered four goals and an assist in just 18 Serie A starts and was also effective in the Champions League, starting 8 games for the club.
Capable of playing on either flank, Costa is a hard man to mark, thanks to his speed and skill. But what makes him much more dangerous is his vision and the ability to make the right decision more often than not. He is at times lose in possession but is always trying to make things happen and is a genuine match winner on his day.
He is also strong in hold up play and at just 27, is yet to hit his prime as a footballer. He can still improve as a winger and the fact that his attributes are perfect for the English game, make him a superb acquisition for Manchester United.
Where Does He Fi In
Mourinho is expected to clear out players who are not in his plans for the next season. Anthony Martial might be the high-profile exit in the attacking unit at Old Trafford while Juan Mata are also in danger of losing his place. Both players have been used on the wings more often and Costa is a definite upgrade in that role.
Martial is better as a striker while Mata as a playmaker so bringing Costa will allow Mourinho to use the Brazilian on the right flank and Alexis Sanchez on the left, adding a different dimension to their attack. Costa will be the only outright winger in the side and if he can hit the ground running, United are definitely challenging for the title next season.
