Manchester United have failed to win the Premier League title since Sir Alex Ferguson retired in 2013. In that time the Red Devils have sacked two managers, David Moyes and Louis Van Gaal, and are in the middle of a rebuilding process under Jose Mourinho. The Portuguese manager guided United to success in the Europa League, through which they secured Champions League football for next season. He also led them to the Community Shield and EFL Cup. But as any Red Devil fan knows, that is not enough. The Old Trafford club will need to challenge for the Premier League title next season. And for that they need some reinforcements to their squad. Here is a look at five possible transfer targets who could help Manchester United turn into Premier League title challengers.
James Rodriguez
The Real Madrid play-maker has also been heavily linked with United over the last six months. Rodriguez, who went to Los Blancos with such fanfare and hype, has failed to make his mark. There is no denying that he has the potential to be a world class player. Even in a season where he was either used as a sub or taken off the pitch during a match, Rodriguez managed 11 goals and 13 assists in just 33 games. Rodriguez will possibly cost United around £60-70 million, a steep hit. However, even at that price, the Colombian international could prove to be a quality signing for the Red Devils.
Alvaro Morata
The former Juventus striker is another one of Real Madrid’s abundant world-class players on the fringe. United are one of the clubs deeply interested in him and could make a move for him in an attempt to ease their woes in front of goal. The Spanish international is a known for his amazing stamina and work rate, and has the ability to beat defenders with his deft touch and moves. Despite being second choice last season for Los Blancos, Morata managed to score 23 goals for the club. The Red Devils are in the market for a prolific goalscorer, and Morata could well be the answer to United’s problems.
Victor Lindelof
The Swedish defender was linked with Manchester United in January, but a move never materialized. Now, there are rumors that the move is back on now and Lindelof could become United’s first major summer signing. The Red Devils have struggled defensively for the last few seasons. And while Eric Bailly and Marcos Rojo enjoyed successful seasons with the club, the need for another top-class defender still exists, in which Lindelof could be that top defender. He is a strong centre-back who has great composure and poise. Lindelof could possibly cost United about £30 million, which is relatively cheap in today’s market. The Red Devils have had some strong partnerships in defense over the years. A pairing of Lindelof and Bailly could help them return to the top once again.
Andrea Belotti
The Italian striker is on the radar of many of the big clubs across the globe, with United out front for his services. Belotti enjoyed an outstanding year for Serie A club Torino, notching 28 goals and eight assists across all competitions. United are crying out for more firepower, and for Belotti to enjoy such a prolific campaign in a team that only finished ninth in Serie A is a testament to his ability. Added creativity in the final third will never go unappreciated, either. The 23-year-old looks to be an outstanding prospect, and it’s unlikely United will be able to bring in attackers of the required level cheaply this summer, but the club will need to evaluate its options carefully if he can’t be acquired for lower than his enormous £100 million release clause.
Antoine Griezmann
Antoine Griezmann has been one of the top strikers in Europe for the past few years. Whether he is the best remains to be seen but that hasn’t stopped Manchester United from chasing him all summer. The Atletico Madrid forward has so far snubbed United’s advances, stating he is in it for the long haul for Atleti. However, if United decides to put its eggs in his basket, and offers £75-100 million, it may be tough to say no.