Transfer News:
Ever since Gareth Bale scored two sumptuous goals after coming off the bench in the UEFA Champions League final, the Welshman’s stocks have risen considerably. Manchester United are reportedly keen to lure him to Old Trafford but there seems to be a sudden twist in this transfer rumour now.
A recent report states that Real Madrid will be willing to part ways with their star player only if United include Romelu Lukaku in a swap deal. Cristiano Ronaldo has moved to Juventus and hence the Champions League winners have the task of filling a huge void in their squad. Ronaldo’s goal-scoring prowess is second to none and hence it is unsurprising for Real to ask for a number 9, out-and-out striker in exchange for Bale.
Bale & Lukaku: Profiles
Bale was clearly unhappy over the lack of adequate playing time last season and hence he capped off his brilliant performance against Liverpool by raising questions over his future at the Bernabeu. Despite the Welshman possessing an insane amount of talent, Real’s own set of fans have booed and lambasted Bale on numerous occasions and are yet to have fully embraced him.
On the field, his dazzling pace and brilliant finishing make him a genuine threat whilst playing in an attacking position. Bale has a mean left foot and can send in some sumptuous crosses inside the box along with his piledrivers. He is always ready to track back whenever required and his versatility ensures that he can settle in more than one playing role.
Coming to Lukaku, there were many doubts regarding him prior to the Belgian’s arrival at United last season. However, over the course of one year, his playing style has improved by leaps and bounds and the striker keeps on adding an extra dimension to his overall set of attributes. Lukaku has pace, strength and a calm head on his shoulders.
He thrives on getting on the end of crosses and passes and more often than not he finds the back of the net. Lukaku’s aerial prowess is exemplary and he has developed into one of the best strikers in the world currently. Real are looking to somewhat replace Ronaldo with a genuine goal-scorer and though Lukaku still needs to refine his game, there is no doubt or apprehension regarding his commitment and tendency to constantly improve himself.
Should United agree with the swap deal?
Although United need a right-winger in their setup, including Lukaku in this deal should and probably will be avoided. Over the course of the year, the Belgian forward has developed into Jose Mourinho’s go-to player. Lukaku’s on-field attitude and work ethic is a great example for any young striker and there is little chance that Mourinho would let one of his favourites leave in favour of a 29-year-old Bale.