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Just 1 Defensive Error In Last 4 Games: Should Manchester United Splash Cash On This Barcelona’s Rising Star?

Manchester United Transfers 2021-22

Manchester United transfer opinion:

Prior to the start of the season, there was a lot of talk of United needing to strengthen their defence. A deal for Nicholas Otamendi seemed imminent until he signed for neighbours City. Van Gaal’s decision to not buy a centre-half has been vindicated by their performances this season. United currently have the best defensive record in the league conceding only 9 goals so far and keeping a league high, 8 clean sheets.

Recent transfer rumours have linked Barcelona’s Marc Bartra with a move to United even though the Barca man insisted he wanted to stay last summer. Bartra is young, confident and has already proven he has what it takes to play at this level. He did very well in the 2014-15 season however, he’s had to watch from the bench mainly this season so far. He’s fallen behind in the pecking order with Mathieu and Mascherano both doing a good job at centre-back. This season, he’s only made 5 appearances in the La Liga and he’s done a decent job. He’s only made one defensive error in those 5 games. He reads the game well and is decisive and has a physical presence. He’s also good on the ball having a pass accuracy of 87%.

Chris Smalling has been outstanding for United however, it seems LVG is undecided on who is partner should be switching between Phil Jones and Daley Blind. Bartra due to his physicality is a stronger presence and is much better in the air than Blind. His aerial ability is useful while attacking to and gives United another man to aim at from set pieces.  United like Barcelona tend to dominate possession in games and he knows what’s it like to defend in that kind of a system.

I think he would be a good addition to the squad however, his lack of game time this season is a problem. I definitely don’t think he would be able to walk into the side. However, with Jones being so injury prone and Rojo having to play left-back due to the injury to Luke Shaw, it would be a decent addition. It would also free Blind to play higher up or even left-back. The need of the hour however is a striker and that’s why I highly doubt Van Gaal will move for Bartra in the upcoming transfer window. Also, managers are often looking for short-term solutions in the January window.

Written by Pravir Singh

Manchester United

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