Pranav Nair
Manchester United said to be interested in Malian international Aliou Dieng
According to African football journalist, Micky Jnr on Twitter, Manchester United is keeping tabs on Malian international midfielder Aliou Dieng.
The Al Ahly midfielder has garnered interest thanks to his solid performances in the Egyptian league. This has brought him to the attention of United, who are set to scout him during the upcoming CAF Champions League semi-final between Al Ahly and Esperance Tunis.
A defensive midfielder, Dieng began his career at Djoliba Athletic Club before moving to Algerian side MC Alger in 2018. He earned himself another move, this time to Al Ahly a year later and has impressed since.
A holding midfielder, Dieng has strong physical attributes that could help them compete in the English Premier League. Not only can he disrupt the opposition attack but also contribute to his own. In fact, he has garnered three goals and seven assists in 76 games for the Egyptian giants so far. (h/t Transfermarkt)
It is fair to say that Dieng’s abilities will give Ole Gunnar Solskajer a different option to that of Scott McTominay and Fred. The United duo are good in defence but lack the impetus going forward.
With Nemanja Matic getting old and Paul Pogba’s future unresolved, bringing in midfield reinforcements could be a priority this summer. With the likes of Jadon Sancho and potentially Kieran Trippier set to cost big money, Dieng could be considered as a cost-effective addition, at least for the short term.
Dieng is an offbeat choice who may not have the biggest reputation. In fact, it is fair to question if he is capable enough to make the step up to the level of football expected at Old Trafford. It remains to be seen if news of our interest in him holds weight.
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Dieng has enjoyed success at Al Ahly, winning the Egyptian League, CAF Champions League and the Egpyt Cup last season. He also was a part of the side that finished third in the 2020 Club World Cup.
