After a somewhat mixed campaign for Manchester United, Jose Mourinho is keen to build on and challenge Manchester City for the Premier League title. The Portuguese manager is expected to be backed to bring in sufficient reinforcements to take United to the next level.
Manchester United have already snapped up Fred from Shakhtar Donetsk with the aim to strengthen their midfield. Diogo Dalot is another signing the Red Devils have confirmed and United do not look finished yet.
Recent reports suggest that Marco Verratti could be offered to Manchester United after suggestions that new PSG manager Tomas Tuchel might be planning for next season without this diminutive midfielder.
It is rumoured that the Italian was instructed to lose weight by his German manager, a man stern with respect to perfection in nutrition and diet. Manchester United already possess Paul Pogba and Romelu Lukaku represented by Mino Raiola. Similarly, Marco Verratti’s arrival could come down to the relationship that Jose Mourinho and Raiola have.
Midfield changes with Verratti
With Carrick retiring, and Marouane Fellaini’s departure looking imminent, United are rightly in the market to make up for their loss in the central midfield area.
With Nemanja Matic deployed in a deeper role, Verratti and Pogba could create a formidable partnership, something the Old Trafford faithful have missed dearly.
A midfield consisting of three world-class midfielders with the option of Fred could make them one of the best midfield trios in the world.
Italian class
Marco Verratti epitomises the role of a central midfielder. His passing range to go with his vision are two of his best abilities. He possesses an average pass percentage close to 90% that proves why he is one of the best in the business.
Such high numbers show that he does not waste many passes and keeps his manager’s faith in him. Despite being knocked out by Real Madrid in the round of 16 of the Champions League, the Italian managed to register 2 goals and 2 assists.
Area of concern
If there is an area of concern for United in signing the PSG star, it could well be his lack of discipline. Verratti is known to commit fouls in unnecessary situations and doesn’t necessarily have the temperament.
In a crucial game against Real Madrid this past season, his dissent to the referee earned him a second yellow in the 66th minute. If Verratti can conduct himself better whilst also being disciplined in challenges, it eradicates one of the glaring weaknesses he has got.
With the Italian set to be duty-less due to their failure to qualify for the World Cup, United could be given a boost to hold talks with both the player and his club much easier.