With Paul Scholes nearing the end of his trophy laden career and not as good as he used to be and Owen Hargreaves not certain to make a permanent comeback any more, Sir Alex Ferguson might have no option other than using some cash
in the transfer market to get one or even two midfielders who can fill the deficiencies that Manchester United’s midfield has shown this season. When the January transfer window opens up, Manchester United will definitely be looking to get their hands on a
midfielder who can replace Paul Scholes in a bid to strengthen the squad to win the Premier League and even get their hands on some European silverware.
During the summer window, Manchester United was linked with a lot of exciting midfielders but they never came. Let’s have a look at few players who just might make an instant impact at Old Trafford.
Bastian Schweinsteiger
The German international has been at Bayern Munich since 1998 and joined the club when he was only 14 years old. The 26 year old is in his prime and has a great resume that apart from winning the Bundesliga, has a great international
career that includes a runners up medal in the European Cup and the World Cup (2002). The German has already made 363 appearances for the Bavarians and would be the most ideal replacement for the ageing Paul Scholes. At 26 years old, Bastian Schweinsteiger
is in his prime and now is the time for the German to move to a new place and stamp his authority as one of the most talented players Germany has ever produced.
Jeremy Menez
The 23 year old Frenchman is one of the most exciting young players in Europe right now but his immense potential has not yet been realized. The promising midfielder was spotted by Roma and was bought in 2009 for €12 million. The
Frenchman has so far played 80 games for the Roman club and has scored 10 times. The youngster has great dribbling skills and has a good eye for goals. After getting a call-up for France by Coach Laurent Blanc, Menez is starting to get international exposure
as well which might be vital if Manchester United decide to sign him up.
Steven Defour
The star man of the Belgian outfit Standard Liege is one of the best players in Belgium and in the coming years, will undoubtedly move on to a bigger club. The central midfielder has got great vision and is a good leader on the
field. He has already been under the Manchester United scouting radar and it is believed that he is highly thought of among the Manchester United hierarchy. He is another midfielder who should be able to fill the void that will eventually be left when Paul
Scholes retires.
Marek Hamsik
The Slovakian international is already sought by many top European clubs and the 23 year old has been an influential figure in helping Napoli push for Europe and then contending for the Serie A title. The youngster has already
made 134 appearances for the Neapolitans and has scored 38 goals since moving from Brescia in 2007. The Slovak has explosive pace and can play anywhere in the midfield. Apart from being a great offensive player, Hamsik is also renowned for performing defensive
duties when required and will surely settle down well at Old Trafford.
Eden Hazard
The 19 year old Belgian star is hailed as the next ‘Ronaldo’ and at 6 feet, the Belgian is one of the hottest prospects in European football. The youngster is currently playing in the Ligue 1 with French side Lille as the team
is mounting a brave and audacious title challenge in France.
Lille fully understand that eventually top clubs will come knocking sooner rather than later but will be very reluctant to let go of their prized asset. This means that the Red Devils will have to pay somewhere around 10 to 15
million Euros to get the services of the midfielder.
Tags: