Manchester United are reportedly targeting a move for Rennes midfield Eduardo Camavinga as a long term replacement for Paul Pogba.
Pogba has had a strange spell at Manchester United as his stay has been marred by injuries, and inconsistent form, but his ‘dream’ to play for Real Madrid could be the final nail in the coffin.
Speaking to the press during the international break, Pogba said, “Yes, every football player would like to play at Real Madrid. It may be a dream. It’s a dream for me, why not one day.”
Manchester United are expected to react, and as per Spanish publication AS (via SportWitness), they have put Camavinga on their radar, and will compete with Spanish champions Real Madrid for his signature next summer.
Camavinga’s contract with the Ligue 1 side ends in 2022, so he could be available for a reasonable price next summer.
Eduardo Camavinga to Manchester United – The quality their midfield needs
At just 17, Camavinga has already made a mark in the French league and the national team with his energetic displays in midfield.
His style is similar to Paul Pogba, but unlike the Frenchman, Camavinga shows the willingness to win the ball back in his own half and has defensive abilities that could potentially make him the complete midfielder in the future.
(Photo by DAMIEN MEYER/AFP via Getty Images)
Tackling is one if Camavinga’s strengths and his willingness to put in the dirty work has earned him rave reviews, as well as France manager Didier Deschamps’ faith as he has already made his full international debut. That’s something considering the talent France have at the moment.
Camavinga is ideal for the central midfield role as he can win the ball back and drive forward with pace. His ability to take on players and beat them with his agility and bag full of tricks in entertaining to watch, and if he can be managed well, he could well become a world-class player in the future. So far this season, he has managed 1.2 key passes and 1.8 dribbles per game in Ligue 1.
Manchester United are building a team full of talented youngsters, and someone like Camavinga would be a quality long-term addition. Considering his impact so far, he might not even have to wait for too many games to get into that Manchester United lineup which has looked insipid so far.
The Red Devils need more talented players, like Bruno Fernandes, and signing Camavinga would be a smashing piece of business.
Stats via Whoscored