Jamie Ireland
Louis van Gaal wants to impose his free flowing style at Old Trafford, but with such an emphasis on going forward, someone must shoulder the defensive responsibility.
The Daily Star reports that van Gaal wants Manchester United to chase former Manchester City midfielder Nigel de Jong, to add some steel to their weak midfield.
Both van Gaal and de Jong are currently working together in preparation for the Netherlands crunch match with Chile, which will decide who finishes top of Group B.
Although many have been captivated by the attacking performers in the Dutch side like Robin van Persie and Arjen Robben, it de Jong who allows for those two to have such impact.
It is the former City midfielder’s positional discipline and tactical awareness that gives the Netherland’s flair players the confidence to attack the way they do.
Last season for AC Milan, de Jong has had a similar effect. In his defensive midfield role, he looks to break up opposition possession and start attacks.
According to Squawka, de Jong made 91 interceptions for the Rossoneri but he also has the technical ability to keep the ball once he gets it, completing 91% of his passes.
As much as Louis van Gaal needs to inject flair and attack minded players into this United midfield, a player like de Jong or Busquets at Barcelona is needed to ensure the back four is covered.
It’s believed Milan would be willing to part with the player, as he has only one year remaining on his contract and they want to receive a transfer fee.
I think de Jong would be a smart buy. He is another former Ajax player and knows van Gaal’s system and most importantly his role in the team.
