Bharath Rammr
Manchester United paid an incredible £36 million for striker Anthony Martial, with the fee even rising to above £40 million, hoping that the Frenchman would become the next Thierry Henry. However, the former Monaco forward has been a major disappointment. Just like many other players under Louis van Gaal’s era who have struggled to establish themselves in the Jose Mourinho, Martial has also been used on a limited scale by the Portuguese boss. He has also not been helped by the goals.
Even though he plays on the wings, Martial would have been hoping for much more than one late goal in more than 500 minutes of football. Of course, he has also contributed three assists but these are figures not expected from a £40 million signing. Still only 21, there is a lot of time ahead of the youngster to develop his game. It remains to be seen if he will receive this time at Old Trafford, as transfer rumours surrounding Martial have surfaced just before the start of the January transfer window.
Martial is linked with Sevilla according to Radio Montecarlo. The Spanish outfit are aiming to be a regular top three contender in the La Liga by taking advantage of Atletico Madrid’s drop in form. The signing of Martial’s calibre would be a major statement of intent, although it remains to be seen if United would be willing to let the player leave. Martial has a contract with the club until the summer of 2019.
Meanwhile, Manchester United’s aim to complete the signing of Victor Lindelof before the start of the New Year has been hit by a small glitch. Lindelof’s former club Vasteras appear to have agreed to a clause with Benfica to receive around £212,000 based on the number of Champions League appearances made by the Swedish defender, according to a report from the Sun. Benfica are not willing to pay this figure and this has resulted in a small hold-up. Lindelof is on the verge of moving to United for £38 million with the transfer fee potentially rising beyond £42 million if the player becomes successful at Old Trafford.
United are also in the market for Southampton defender Virgil van Dijk, who has emerged as a property in the Premier League right now. A number of clubs like Manchester City, Chelsea, Tottenham are after the Dutchman. Hence, United will have to significantly step up the interest in the player if they are to sign the 25-year-old. Even Everton are looking to take advantage of Ronald Koeman’s excellent relationship with the player, from his time at Southampton, in order to sign him for around £30 million, reports Sun.
Yet, the question for the need of a player like Virgil van Dijk at United does arise.
