Manchester United just scraped through to the Champions League last season and have now made some solid signings to propel themselves to the top of the Premier League table. But Jose Mourinho is still searching for some players who can add depth to his squad and the latest name he has stumbled upon is Barcelona star, Sergi Roberto.
Roberto ready to quit Camp Nou
Various sources are reporting that the versatile Spanish ace is looking for a way out of Camp Nou as he is yet to be assured of first team chances with Barcelona. The Spanish side is set to lose Neymar is a sensational deal this summer and might spend on some top class signings, which might push Roberto down the pecking order.
And it should not come as a surprise that Jose Mourinho is the first name to be linked with a move for the 25-year old. The report also claims that the player has been in contact with the Portuguese boss, and is happy with what Manchester United have to offer. So should United make a move for Roberto?
A complete player
Having joined Barcelona back in 2006 in his youth, Roberto was pushed into the B side in 2009 and spent four long years, establishing himself as the first choice in the midfield for the fringe side. He made his debut for the senior side back in 2010 but only started to feature in the first team regularly under previous Barcelona manager Luis Enrique.
Most popular for his winner against PSG in the recent miraculous game in the Champions League at Camp Nou when Barcelona knocked the French giants out, Roberto is a midfielder by trait but was used at right-back by Luis Enrique for most his time with the club.
A central midfielder with gifted technique on the ball, Roberto is a typical Spanish midfielder who loves to have the ball at his feet and find small passes between lines that can damage the opponents. His awareness and understanding of the game allowed him to excel at right back but he is more suited to a midfield role, where he is at his most confident. He is a utility player who can play in multiple roles and will walk into most top squads in Europe at the moment.
Chances at Manchester United:
Jose Mourinho recently spent on Nemanja Matic to strengthen his midfield while Paul Pogba and Ander Herrera are expected to complete the three man midfield for the Red Devils. Marouane Fellaini, who is not for sale, and Michael Carrick, who signed a contract extension are decent backups but Roberto could be the first choice to come off the bench for any of the roles in the middle of the field.
At 25, 95 La Liga appearances, 25 Champions League appearances and three appearances for the Spanish national side show that he is an established midfielder. Mourinho will want his side to compete on all four fronts and Roberto could be the key to making sure that they excel in every competition. Do you think Roberto is a decent option for Manchester United?
