Manchester United are reportedly “stepping up” their interest in Aston Villa attacker Jack Grealish, who has had a stellar 2019-20 season.
According to Manchester Evening News, the Red Devils want to finalise deals soon and have “expressed interest” in signing the playmaker.
Grealish has been Aston Villa’s best player this season, scoring 9 goals and making 8 assists in 29 games in all competitions. The 24-year-old has helped Villa to reach the Carabao Cup final, where they will face holders Manchester City, this Sunday.
If Manchester United do secure the signing of the Englishman, how would he fit into the side?
Let’s take a look at the possible Manchester United lineup with Jack Grealish in the starting XI:
How Manchester United could line up with Jack Grealish
Defence
Despite shaky performances in the last two seasons, David de Gea should start between the sticks for United next season.
Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof are manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s preferred centre-back pairing, and they should start next season. But, a fit Eric Bailly could give Lindelof a run for his money and it could be a toss-up between the two.
The same could be said in the left-back position, with Luke Shaw and youngster Brandon Williams competing for that spot. On the other side, though, it’s an easier decision as Aaron Wan-Bissaka is likely going to start in the right-back position, and for the considerable future as he looks solid at the back and is improving going forward.
Midfield
Jack Grealish’s creativity and versatility are his biggest strengths as the Englishman is capable of playing in a central midfield role, No. 10 role, or out wide on the left as an inside winger.
With the signing of Bruno Fernandes in the January transfer window, the No. 10 spot is not an option for Grealish. He could play as a creative midfielder alongside Fred or Scott McTominay in midfield.
Nemanja Matic’s contract expires in the summer and his United future is still up in the air, so he may not be a starter. McTominay, Fernandes and Fred are the ones that Grealish will have to compete with for a midfield spot.
Attack
Marcus Rashford has locked down the left-side attacking role, but he could move to the striker’s role and replace Anthony Martial to accommodate Grealish on the left side.
If United sign Jadon Sancho, he could start on the right, but if not, Daniel James could feature in that role next season as he is developing pretty well.
