3-way battle: Man Utd, Liverpool & Arsenal eye up Malen…Who is the better fit?

Borussia Dortmund’s dynamic winger Donyell Malen has been making waves in European football, catching the eye of top clubs like Manchester United, Liverpool, and Arsenal. At 25 years old, Malen’s blend of skill, speed, and versatility makes him a coveted asset for any team. However, here are three compelling reasons why Manchester United might be the ideal destination for the Dutch sensation.

Firstly, Malen’s attacking prowess aligns perfectly with Manchester United’s style of play under manager Erik Ten Hag. Known for his high-pressing, fast-paced football, Ten Hag’s system thrives on quick transitions and decisive attacking movements. Malen’s stats showcase his ability to thrive in such a system, with an impressive average of 2.4 successful dribbles per game and a pass success rate of 77.9%, according to WhoScored.com. His flair and directness could add a new dimension to United’s forward line, complementing the likes of Rasmus Hojlund and Marcus Rashford.

Secondly, Manchester United’s current squad dynamics present a more seamless integration for Malen compared to Liverpool or Arsenal. While all three clubs possess quality attackers, United’s need for a dynamic winger with Malen’s skill set is more pronounced. With questions surrounding the long-term futures of some of United’s wide players and the need for depth to compete across multiple competitions, Malen could slot in seamlessly and make an immediate impact.

Lastly, the allure of playing for a club with Manchester United’s global stature and rich history could be a significant factor for Malen. The opportunity to compete for major honours and showcase his talent on one of football’s grandest stages could be a compelling proposition. Additionally, working under the guidance of experienced coaches like Ten Hag and the potential for growth within a club known for nurturing young talent could further sweeten the deal.

As reported by Bild, Manchester United is among the top clubs vying for Malen’s signature, and for good reason. With his skill set, adaptability, and growth potential, Donyell Malen could indeed be the missing piece in Manchester United’s pursuit of glory.

Manchester United’s Bold Move: Bid for Everton’s Branthwaite Despite Managerial Uncertainty

Manchester United’s relentless pursuit of defensive reinforcements has led them to set their sights on Jarrod Branthwaite, the talented young center-back currently plying his trade at Everton. Despite the uncertainty surrounding manager Erik ten Hag’s future at Old Trafford, the Red Devils are pressing ahead with their bid to secure Branthwaite’s services, undeterred by the hefty valuation placed on the player by Everton.

At just 21 years old, Branthwaite has emerged as one of the most promising defensive prospects in English football. With his towering presence, composure on the ball, and ability to read the game, he possesses all the attributes required to thrive at the highest level. Manchester United’s interest in Branthwaite underscores their commitment to strengthening their defensive ranks and building a squad capable of challenging for major honors once again.

Despite the managerial uncertainty surrounding the club, Manchester United’s pursuit of Branthwaite highlights the meticulous planning and foresight of their recruitment strategy. The Red Devils are determined to secure the signatures of their top targets, irrespective of any managerial changes that may occur in the near future. This proactive approach demonstrates the club’s ambition and determination to continue their upward trajectory, regardless of the external circumstances.

However, Everton’s valuation of Branthwaite presents a significant financial hurdle for Manchester United to overcome. With the transfer market becoming increasingly inflated, negotiating a deal for the talented defender will require shrewdness and pragmatism on the part of the Red Devils’ new hierarchy. Nevertheless, with their financial resources and global appeal, Manchester United are well-positioned to meet Everton’s demands and secure Branthwaite’s signature.

As the transfer saga unfolds, Manchester United fans will be eagerly anticipating the outcome, hopeful that Branthwaite’s arrival at Old Trafford will herald a new era of defensive solidity and success for their beloved club. Regardless of the managerial uncertainty looming over the club, the Red Devils’ pursuit of Branthwaite signals their unwavering commitment to building a squad capable of competing at the highest level.

Manchester United’s Pursuit of Mikel Merino: Reinventing Midfield Dynamics?

Manchester United’s midfield has been a focal point of discussion among fans and pundits alike in recent times. Amidst this backdrop, rumours via Copa.es have emerged suggesting that the club is eyeing a move to bring former Newcastle United midfielder Mikel Merino back to England. The 27-year-old Spain international, currently plying his trade at Real Sociedad, presents an intriguing proposition for the Red Devils.

Merino’s potential arrival at Old Trafford could signify a significant shift in Manchester United’s midfield dynamics. Known for his composure on the ball, intelligent distribution, and astute positioning, Merino possesses the attributes that could inject a new dimension into United’s midfield setup.

At the heart of Manchester United’s midfield lies a blend of youth and experience, with the likes of Bruno Fernandes, Casemiro, and the impressive Kobe Mainoo offering different skill sets. However, Merino’s arrival could offer a fresh perspective, adding depth and tactical versatility to the squad.

Another avenue for Ten Hag

Analyzing Merino’s playing style reveals a midfielder who excels in both offensive and defensive phases of the game. His ability to dictate play from deep positions, coupled with his knack for breaking up opposition attacks, makes him a valuable asset in any midfield setup.

Furthermore, Merino’s adaptability allows him to thrive in various tactical systems. Whether deployed as a deep-lying playmaker, a box-to-box midfielder, or even in a more advanced role, his footballing intelligence and technical prowess enable him to excel in different scenarios.

In the context of Manchester United’s squad structure, Merino’s addition could provide manager Erik Ten Hag with greater flexibility in his tactical approach. Whether looking to dominate possession or adopt a more counter-attacking style, having a player of Merino’s calibre offers solutions to various tactical challenges.

As negotiations over a new contract are currently at a standstill with Real Sociedad due to uncertainty over European qualification, Manchester United fans will be eagerly awaiting news of Merino possible cheap availabilty. If the deal materializes, it could mark the beginning of a new chapter for the Red Devils’ midfield, with Mikel Merino poised to play a pivotal role in reshaping its dynamics.

Ronaldo Extends Solskjaer’s Man Utd Stay

An exquiste volley, a delightful chip and a confident strike saw Man Utd pick up three points from a 3-0 away win against Spurs yesterday.

Ronaldo had a hand in the first two goals, followed by a Rashford goal later on to seal the much needed win for the Red Devils.

A look across the Twitter universe sees a Man Utd fan base divided.

Has Ole been sacked yet? #OleOut no.8599

— OleOut (@OleOutNowNowNow) October 31, 2021

#oleout is the first major demand for a better united future.#Maguireout to newcastle could save Lots

— Abdullrahman Sawaf (@al3orre) October 31, 2021

https://twitter.com/RedLad_/status/1454770167095783435

Ole's arguably is a misunderstood genius! tbh, the guy is absolute a tactical masterclass! good things takes time and don't go by current result. There is definitely bright future ahead with Ole, trust the process United fans! without a doubt he's your next Sir Alex #OleIn 🙌 https://t.co/heieB3Xc8G

— THALOL (@nrhnsharol) October 31, 2021

I was definitely #OleIn last week. True fans don’t give up on their manager.

— Mark Yothers (@MarkRemarksMLFS) October 31, 2021

The result eases the pressure off OGS for a while, but with Atalanta in the Champions League and Man City ahead within the next week…it could be a different story come this time next Sunday.

What are your thoughts Reds? Ole in or Ole out?

Two Man Utd players that creep into our starting 11 ahead of West Ham United

Here in the Man Cave, the Man United fans are getting heated over team selections ahead of tonights FA Cup 5th round tie against West Ham United.

Manchester United have rocked a little in recent weeks, many say they have bottled the Premier League title race. It kind of goes in line with being labelled bottlers over a series of semi-final defeats under Ole Gunnar Solksjaer.

However, surely Solskjaer will be wanting to right that wrong and bring in the first trophy under his leadership. They’ll be facing former Man Utd boss David Moyes, who will always want to get one over on his ex-employers. West Ham are in good form as they lie in 6th place, a point behind Liverpool.

It’s always going to be a tough match against the Hammers. However, OGS has to start resting a few players, especially if he wants a strong finish to the season.

Here are two players that must come in to the side tonight…

DEAN HENDERSON

The Man Utd goalkeeper is itching for first-team minutes, and in the wake of David De Gea’s blunders at weekend, it could be the perfect time to step in and show what he is all about. He’s already replaced Sergio Romero as the back-up and cup ‘keeper, and faired well in his minutes. We all know he is Man United’s future number one. A clean sheet and a solid performance may just edge that future a little closer.

DONNY VAN DE BEEK

Ahhhh, DVB. Man Utd fans are screaming out for the Dutchman to be given the minutes on the pitch. It averagely takes a player 6-8 months to bed into to a new league and country (unless you’re Bruno Fernandes). Van De Beek is on the back end of his probational period and has not really set alight any fires…but how could he?

There seems to be an unknown reason why DVB doesn’t get the nod more often or quicker in a game that is screaming out for his vision and passing guile. However, tonight the former Ajax man should be given the chance especially with Paul Pogba being out injured; It could be his time!

Do you agree with this Man Utd starting 11?

Two GK Alternatives Man United Could Look at Should PSG Attract De Gea This Summer

Paris St Germain have been linked with Man United’s David De Gea this summer, following a very un-De Gea season between the sticks.

The Spaniard has been the only player to come out with credit in the post-Fergie years. Without him United would be in even more of a sorry state than they currently are, with him single-handedly pulling them out of trouble on several occasions.

Every player has a rocky period within his career, unfortunately for a goalkeeper when this happens, it usually results in a goal. There’s no hiding for a GK, and it seems its De Gea’s time to be in the unwanted spotlight.

A ‘Keeper of his class and level would be very hard to replace. United found it hard to replace Peter Schmeichel for years until Edwin Van Der Sar turned up at Old Trafford. They got lucky going from Van Der Sar to De Gea, albeit taking the Spanish international time to adjust to the physicality of the Premier League.

However, De Gea turned into one of the world’s best, and no player goes from that level to a bad ‘keeper overnight.

PSG are sniffing around, much like Real Madrid have been doing for years. The difference is PSG have money and are willing to offer De Gea 450,000 a week, and with United in a transitional period once again – he may think it’s a good time to jump ship. Many of United’s fans will be hoping not of course.

Nevertheless, should he move on, Solskjaer should look to these goalkeepers as replacements…

Alessio Cragno

At 24-years-old the Italian shot-stopper is still young in the goalkeeper world, however being Cagliari’s number one in Serie A has given Cragno a lot of experience.

Cragno has great close-range reactions, brilliant passer of the ball be it short or long, his concentration levels are up there also. There’s rumored interested from Roma for the 13.50m man, but a little thinking outside the box for the Red Devils may yield another David De Gea.

Jan Oblak

Atletico Madrid’s number one has been touted as a direct replacement for De Gea, should he leave. Oblak possesses similar qualities to De Gea, and has been a mainstay in the Madrid side since his move in 2014.

He would be a sound investment, with the 72m rated star having a wealth of experience behind him under Diego Simeone.

It depends on which way United want to go with this, Red Devils – Which one do you prefer?

Man United Ending Up In Sixth Would Not Be a Bad Thing

Much as been made over the need for Champions League football at Old Trafford next season.

Granted last time the Red Devils qualified for the Europa League, they went big in the transfer market and massively overspent on players to lure them to Manchester, eventually winning the competition.

However, this time around is a completely different feel to back then. Solskjaer needs to rebuild a squad that has lacked any sort of consistency over the years, there’s deadwood in there that should have gone a long time ago and a need to bring in players to suit the style and history of Old Trafford.

Being in the Europa League may not be what the financial people want at the club. However, what United must learn from the last time they were in this position is not splash the cash to hunt for instant success. United now need to rebuild over two, three transfer windows, time has to be given and recruitment needs to be on point.

United are competing in the market with Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Man City, Chelsea, Arsenal and Spurs and going toe-to-toe in a bidding war is not what the board want to get involved in.

Looking outside the box, using their vast scouting network and most of all being shrewd. Man United is still a big attraction for the majority of players around the world, and throwing cash at players shouldn’t have to be the answer. The Norwegian needs to convince players to be apart of the rebuild – one that could see some further bad times for the United faithful.

However, if they now and understand that the club is restructuring from top to bottom, they’ll be a little more forgiving: as long as they don’t go into mid-table mediocrity of course.

United could attract the type of player that is up for the battle over the salary, players with prospect. So maybe, just maybe finishing in the Europa League spots could be a blessing and drive United into going a different direction. They can’t afford to throw more money at flops and underperforming players anymore.

This is a crucial time in United’s recent history, and one they can’t afford to get wrong.

Solskjaer Reportedly Looking To Eriksen, But What About Two Goalscoring Alternatives

Transfer rumours will be rife in the coming months, as speculation mounts over the incomings and outgoings at Old Trafford.

This week alone we’ve seen rumours of Real Madrid feeling confident of securing Paul Pogba, and Solskjaer wanting Tottenham’s Christian Eriksen to build his new team around.

The latter would be a great signing for the Red Devils, however dealing with Daniel Levy is never an easy task. If Solskjaer is wanting to bring in a creative midfielder like Eriksen, the easier option maybe to look for alternatives.

The Danish international has been a pivotal figure at Spurs for a number of seasons now, and this year he seems to have stepped his game up immensely. Not only playing a key part in key passes and assists, but wading in with a few goals himself.

Unlike Pogba, Eriksen has been consistent, and Pochettino can rely on the midfield to produce nine out of ten weeks. With United youth and pace in Martial, Lingard and Rashford, United’s man in charge needs an experienced head to pop off the key passes needed to tie it all together.

Here’s two alternatives to Eriksen, United should cast their eye over this summer…

Nabil Fekir

The Lyon midfielder brought much attention last season after a fantastic season in Ligue 1. So far this year he has started 27 times for Lyon, scoring 12 and assisting 9, albeit not has impressive as last season but still an important figure in the team.

With reported interested from Juventus, the 70m rated star may be a little out of the price range of the Red Devils. However, he could come cheaper then the 85m Eriksen and the added bonus of not dealing with Levy.

Marco Reus

Marco Reus has had a great season so far this year with Borussia Dortmund. He’s been used in a wide variety of positions across the midfield, but when used in his natural attacking midfield role, in which he’s featured 24 times this campaign – Reus has scored 16 goals and assisted nine for his team, who currently sit second in the Bundesliga, one point behind leaders Bayern.

At 29-year-old, the 50m rated star may seem too old, in footballing terms anyway, to invest in. Especially if Solskjaer is looking to rebuild the team. However, a wise, experienced head would be a great asset to have when surrounded by the youth United have in the side.

Two Centre-Backs Man United Should Be Looking at This Summer

There has been much made over Man United’s need to revamp the backline, with reports suggesting Ed Woodward is going to allow a turnstile of transfers this summer. It very much seems the Red Devils are going to have to be transfer savvy in the market, which will no doubt fluctuate again in high prices.

Alongside Real Madrid and Bayern Munich who are looking to rebuild their teams, and inevitably the likes of the top six – the competition for players is going to be high, and the highest bidder will probably get their man.

Woodward and Solskjaer need to think outside the box a little, furthermore, after some poor recruitment in recent years, the need to get it right is unparalleled. United will be looking to find the likes of Vidic, Evra, Irwin, Stam, the type of players that won’t break the bank but will deliver on the pitch on a consistent basis.

Below is a two-man shortlist of centre backs who have performed very well this season and mainly kept under the radar…

Marc Bartra

The Real Betis defender has played 34 times this season in La Liga and the Europa League, although his one goal proves he is not going to be the aerial threat in the oppositions box.

He has a very strong passing game, with an overall accuracy this season of 88.6%. His strengths are tackling, ball interception and high concentration levels. He also likes to dribble out of defence, however, he can hold on to the ball a little to long at times.

The former Barcelona and Borussia Dortmund player has a host of trophies under his belt, and with his 22m price tag – could be a steal!

Willi Orban

The RB Leipzig defender has starred in the Bundesliga this season, helping his side up to third in the table.

Orban is very strong in the air and likes to play the ball out of defence, with no visible weaknesses, this 24-year-old Hungarian international could be a gem of a defender for the Red Devils.

Having scored four goals in his 20 appearances for RB Leipzig, he seems a nuisance in and around the box. Alongside his 13.50m price tag, here is another defender that could be a snip of a signing with a bright future ahead of him.

What do you think of the above two Man United fans?

Solskjaer Needs a Good Clear Out This Summer, and These 8 Are In The Firing Line

Another loss last night as further shown up the task Ole Gunnar Solskjaer will be dealing with in the summer transfer window. United have gone through four permanent managers since Sir Alex Ferguson retired in 2013.

Poor recruitment and a reluctance to ship out much needed deadwood over the years, has seen United battling for a top four finish each season. Under Fergie, United won 13 titles in his 21 years in the Premier League, however the Red Devils are now entering their sixth season without a title, nevermind coming close.

We’re at a stage now where it’s the players that need changing and wholesale changes will happen this summer.

We take a look at EIGHT potential players that should be out of the Old Trafford exit door, as Solskjaer starts the biggest job of his career…

Lee Grant

Having signed for United under the previous manager in the last summer transfer window, it left everybody scratching their heads. A great move for Grant in the twilight years of his career, but a player who offers nothing to the team and rarely makes the bench.

Phil Jones

Having been at United since 2011, he came with great expectation – a future England Captain, Fergie mentioned. Regardless of his potential back then, through injury and poor form he has never risen to the heights many thought of him. Furthermore, after eight years with the club Jones still doesn’t feel like an assured United defender.

Chris Smalling

Chris Smalling arrived from Fulham the season before Jones in 2010, since then he hasn’t convinced many that he can be a United stalwart in the centre of defence. Smalling has the odd good game here and there but on the whole he makes United fans nervous and never seems fully in control.

Marcos Rojo

While i’m a fan of Rojo, he imply hasn’t been given the playing time under Solskjaer. He isn’t a first team defender and more of a squad player. He’s your typical Argentinian defender, tough and fearless – It’s something United need but he is also very reckless and always a shoe-in for a yellow card.

Matteo Darmian

How the Italian is still at United is beyond me, he has nearly been shipped out in the past few transfer windows but still remains on the books. He got his first start last night in three months, and that was only due to injuries. His contract is up in the summer and would be an easy one to let walk away.

Alexis Sanchez

The Chilean has failed miserably since the move up north from Arsenal. He’s never really got going, and with his huge wages has come in for some flack. With his contract still having three years left to run, it would cost United a fair whack to offload him, they’ll have to take a loss and hope someone will be willing to take a chance on the former Barcelona forward.

Romelu Lukaku

The forward seems to be getting worse since, the Belgian is struggling to hold a place down and when he does get on the pitch it seems he’s forgot how to control a ball never mind find the back of the net. With the emergence of the more consistent Rashford, Lukaku will not be wanting to wait around on the bench to make numbers up, a move to Serie A looks likely.

Paul Pogba

On his day he is one of the best players to watch, however, when United need him he tends to go missing and United fans never know what Pogba is going to turn up. If Pogba wants to be one of the best players in the world and be up there with Messi, Ronaldo and even Hazard, he needs to be more consistent and stop letting his ego take over. Stop worrying over social media followers, and start concentrating on the pitch.