Sridhar Bhamidi
Manchester United are a surprise front-runners for the signature of Monaco winger Thomas Lemar. According to French sources, the Red Devils are about to jump the queue for the winger’s signature after all through the summer it was reported that Arsenal were close to a deal.
Jose Mourinho started the season with four positions in his mind, which he felt that needed strengthening in this summer transfer window. Having already signed three players of his choice, Mourinho knows that he is in a stronger position having achieved 75% of what he wanted.
He is still in the market for a winger and throughout the summer it was reported that we would be signing Ivan Perisic from Inter Milan. The Croatian winger is admired by Mourinho and we were locked in discussions with the San Siro club.
However, the reluctance of Inter to part with their best player coupled with the difference in valuations between the two clubs meant that we are still miles away from achieving his signature. In fact, I would stick my neck and say that it looks near-impossible to sign him this summer as reports have emerged claiming that Perisic would sign a new contract with Inter.
If we do sign Perisic, it would be more like a bonus. That means Mourinho could still be in the market for a wide man, although the improved form of Anthony Martial may see him abandoning those thoughts. Mourinho also has the option of playing Marcus Rashford on the wings, but having a natural winger is always better.
The French side has already sold nine players from their Ligue1 winning side from last term, with three players joining English Premier League. Two players – Benjamin Mendy and Bernardo Silva – joined Manchester City while Tiemoue Bakayoko joined Chelsea.
Lemar too was linked with Arsenal, although the Gunners were rebuffed in all their moves to sign him. It is understandable because anyone who saw Lemar leading Monaco to a 1-0 win against Metz on Friday will understand why he is rated so highly.
Will United have a better luck in snatching Lemar? I doubt it but if we do, it is going to be a great signing. What do you think?
