Diego Godin of Atletico Madrid has been linked with a move to Old Trafford.
There are a number of reports suggesting that Atletico Madrid centre half Diego Godin could be on his way to Old Trafford as Manchester United look to strengthen defensive following a string of injuries. Louis van Gaal has seen Chris Smalling, Jonny Evans, Luke Shaw, Rafael, Marcos Rojo and Phil Jones all pick up injuries in the first quarter of the season, which has forced the inclusion of youngsters Paddy McNair and Tyler Blackett, who did well when called up on the 2-1 victory over Arsenal.
So, can you see Diego Godin coming to United in January? Is he the right man?
Diego Godin helped Atletico Madrid to the Spanish title last season and was also part of the team that were seconds away from a dramatic Champions League win, only for Sergio Ramos to save city neighbours Real in the dying moments of the final. The Uruguayan signed for the Spanish club in 2010 and has been a pivotal part of Diego Simeone’s side. United lost out in the summer to Barcelona for the signature of Thomas Vermaelen, who has not played a single game for the Catalan club this season. The 28 year old is younger than the Belgian and has formed a great understanding with Brazilian Miranda at the heart of Atletico’s defence. His experience will be a welcome addition to a side that lost three leaders in the summer in the form of Rio Ferdinand, Patrice Evra and club captain Nemanja Vidic.
United were heavily linked in the summer to Borussia Dortmund’s Mats Hummels following Barcelona’s capture of Arsenal former captain. The German World Cup winner opted to stay with the Bundesliga’s runners up following a very impressive tournament in Brazil. Six months have past and Dortmund now lie bottom of the German league and many have suggested that Untied could move again for their apparent summer target. Jurgen Klopp hopes to keep onto the former Bayern Munich man, who was at the club when Louis van Gaal was in charge, who can still offer their captain Champions League football.
Whether it be Diego Godin or Mats Hummels, Manchester United need to strengthen at the back if the club is to challenge for the Premier League title next season. The win over Hull City was a big step in the right direction and reminiscent of how United used to walk over teams at Old Trafford, but in order to challenge for a top four finish this campaign, the club need to have a consistent backline in front of United’s star performer so far – David De Gea. Godin is apparently available for £28.5million, the cost of his release clause – which may deter United from bidding.
Leave a Reply