Manchester United did not reinforce their midfield department in the summer transfer window and that is one area they should look to strengthen in winter.
The Red Devils offloaded Fellaini and Herrera in the last two transfer windows respectively and have not signed anyone to replace them. Therefore, Solskjaer should splash the cash in January.
Opinion: Man Utd should secure signing of £80million attacker in January
In an exclusive interview with Football insider, former Leeds United forward, Noel Whelan, told that Man United need a midfielder and they could splash the cash to sign West Ham starlet, Declan Rice. He said:
“West Ham have got a really special player on their hands. They will struggle to hold on to him, because the big clubs will be hot on his trail.”
“I think Declan Rice could be the next player who goes for a Premier League record fee. We have just seen Harry Maguire go for £80million and I wouldn’t be surprised if Rice goes for more than that, above £90million, even”
“He’s young, English, hugely talented and is such a long way from his peak. You look at a team like Man United, who need a midfield anchorman and you can see it happening.”
“They don’t mind paying over the odds for a player, as we saw in the summer. I could see them looking to get Rice in January.”
The 20-year-old England international is a defensive midfielder, who had an impressive campaign with the Hammers last term. He made his debut for the Three Lions in March and already, he has featured 4 times under the management of Gareth Southgate.
At Old Trafford, Matic was the first choice defensive midfielder in the last campaign but this season, so far, the experienced Serbian international has mainly warmed the bench and Solskajer has preferred young McTominay in his starting XI. The young midfielder has been average so far partnering Pogba in the center of the park.
So, United do need a specialist play breaker and Rice would be a quality addition. Not to forget, back in April, he was heavily linked with the Red Devils and at that time, he was only valued at around £50million (The Irish Independent).
Do you think United should splash over £90million to hire his services in winter?
Absolutely not! He is another Maguire in waiting; overpriced, over-hyped and of mediocre talent. Because he’s English, they value him incredibly highly. You could get 2 players better than him from the Continent or South America for that price. No-brainer.