Manchester United are now linked with a £30 million move for Atletico Madrid defender Diego Godin, according to the Sun, as the manager desperately seeks new players who would bring some stability and leadership to the squad.
Jose Mourinho lashed out at his players following Manchester United’s 2-1 loss against Fenerbahce in the Europa League and it is not unusual of the Portuguese, as he has been critical of his players before. However, it becomes clear that there are major problems in the squad when Jose questions the commitment and desire of his players.
Exactly a year ago, Mourinho was asking the same questions to his Chelsea team. Mourinho was out of his job by December. However, it is looking highly unlikely a similar situation may unfold as United continue to be linked with some of the best players in the world.
It is certainly not the first time Godin is being linked with a move to the Premier League. He was seen as a transfer target for Mourinho when the manager was at Chelsea. Atletico Madrid have been very keen on retaining Godin even though they have sold several of their stars like Sergio Aguero and Diego Costa. At 30 years of age, the time may have finally come for Atletico Madrid to consider an offer. Any club will find it hard to turn down a £30 million offer for the 30-year-old.
Godin has a contract until the summer of 2019, and his weekly wages are reported to be in the region of £70,000. These figures are unlikely to be a major worry for United, who are desperate to end the club’s disappointing form in the league since the departure of Sir Alex Ferguson. The club may have won the first major title – in the form of the FA Cup – since the departure of the Scot, but they remain woeful in the league.
One of the standout defenders in Europe over the last five years, Godin will provide experience, stability, and the leadership. He may just be the perfect partner for Eric Bailly, who maybe one of the best signings made by United in the last five years. In the absence of the Ivory Coast international and Chris Smalling, Mourinho elected to use Daley Blind and Marcos Rojo – two left footed defenders who may not be considered as natural replacements – against Fenerbahce.
Up until now, scoring goals was one of the major problems for United. After conceding eight goals in the last five games of all competitions, it may be time for the Red Devils to start thinking about improving their defence.
United face Swansea City, who are likewise struggling for any kind of form.
