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Transfer News: Man United legend advises club against moving to sign Premier League duo

Youri Tielemans is a man in demand.
Manchester United could 'make a move' for Leicester City midfielder Youri Tielemans in January or next summer.

Rio Ferdinand advises Manchester United against signing Ruben Neves and Youri Tielemans

Speaking on his Youtube show Vibe with Five, Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has advised the club against securing the signatures of Leicester City star Youri Tielemans and Wolverhampton Wanderers ace, Ruben Neves.

The Red Devils need to strengthen their midfield and the two Premier League giants are among those linked with a move to Old Trafford. Ferdinand however does not believe signing either of them is the solution to the club’s problems.

Ferdinand clearly rates the players but just doesn’t feel they are the right fit for the Red Devils. It makes little sense for us to go for a player who does not suit the system at Old Trafford.

“I like them, good players, but if you think that midfield is getting you any closer to the other teams I’d argue against it.”

A major reason for Ferdinand’s stance is the lack of mobility both players would bring to the Man United squad. Movement is key in the modern game and bringing in a player who is more static could prove to be counterproductive

“Mobility-wise we’d be lacking.”

Signing a midfielder is a priority for Man United next summer, especially given the situation surrounding Paul Pogba. The Frenchman’s contract expires at the end of the season, meaning he is free to move elsewhere for free. As of yet, he has shown little inclination to stay put at the Theatre of Dreams.

Rio Ferdinand advises Manchester United against signing Ruben Neves and Youri Tielemans.
Rio Ferdinand advises Manchester United against signing Ruben Neves.

The Man United midfield is not short of options but lacks in dynamism. Fred and Scott McTominay have upped their game under Ralf Rangnick but still lack the x-factor to turn a game on its head. More so, Nemanja Matic, our lone senior defensive midfielder is not getting any younger and will need to be replaced.

Both Neves and Tielemans are proven talents in the Premier League and possess excellent passing ranges and dynamism to make a difference. The former has been a lynchpin for Wolves while the latter led Leicester to last season’s FA Cup win. On paper, signing them would be a no brainer.

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Ferdinand clearly has the club’s interests at heart but it remains to be seen if Man United shares the same thought process. At the end of the day, it could come down to what the new manager wants and the style of play he might want to employ.

Written by Pranav Nair

An Engineering postgraduate with a keen interest in statistics, pop culture and football.

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