Manchester United did a good job to strengthen the side this summer. One thing they needed to do was to sign a defensive-minded midfielder, and captured it by securing a move for Chelsea’s Nemanja Matic. And the Serbian has been nothing short of impressive so far, starting all three Premier League games and looking like a key player for Jose Mourinho.
However, United are always looking at alternatives to further bolster the squad. And one name that has come up as a potential arrival in 2018 is no other than Emre Can. The German did not sign a new contract with Liverpool, and will reportedly be available on a free transfer once the season ends. Which means clubs can start negotiations as early as January next year.
Stiff Competition For His Services
Manchester United are not the only team interested in the Germany international, though. Chelsea are keen to land him as well, and Juventus tried to acquire him all summer long but weren’t successful. Bayern Munich are also reportedly keen on a deal for the Germany international, who will be free to negotiate with teams outside of England in January.
Juventus seem to be the odds-on favourite to land the 23-year-old, though. Can is keen to play in Italy and that would give them an edge, but can anyone count United out? After all, they started the season on a strong note, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see them as one of the top teams in the Premier League once the campaign ends. And if Can wants a bigger challenge, what better than moving to United? Sure, Liverpool fans would hate him. But he could add several interesting things to Jose Mourinho’s team.
What Could Emre Can Add To The Team Right Now?
Emre Can thrives on the DM role, so he would actually allow more freedom to Matic and Pogba if they play together. But having him in front of the defensive line could enhance United’s tactical possibilities. For instance, Mourinho could field Can at DM with Pogba and Ander Herrera at CM. Or if he wants to play negative, he can put Matic, Can and Marouane Fellaini together. No team in the English Premier League – and possibly Europe – could match that kind of strength in the middle of the pitch.
He’s also a natural born leader. Despite the fact Can is only 23, he is mature beyond his years. And playing four years in Liverpool were enough to prove he is ready to join a bigger club. United seem like a perfect fit, because he is exactly the kind of player that can really flourish and thrive under Mourinho’s tutelage.
Can Would Be A Signing For The Future
Signing the German international could also be a move thinking towards the future. Can would easily become the long-term replacement for Michael Carrick, because he is only 23 and would need a few more years just to reach his peak. He could form a devastating trio with Matic and Paul Pogba. All three are quality players, but they could become the perfect mixture of grit and talent needed to thrive in the Premier League.
Think about it – a midfield of Pogba, Can, and Matic would have nothing to envy to Chelsea’s, Manchester City’s, or Tottenham’s ones. All three have potential to improve in the coming years as well.
It remains to be seen whether The Red Devils manage to sign the Germany star. But he is already on the team’s radar. And as we saw during the recent transfer window, United usually end up getting what they want. They did with Lukaku and Matic this past summer, but that’s only the beginning. And while the club will have to fight a lot to get him, adding Can if the chance arises would add another building block for United looking towards the future.
You obviously have no idea what his best position is if you think he’s a defensive midfielder
https://www.transfermarkt.es/emre-can/profil/spieler/119296 🙂
I realy need 2 see Can playing with Pogba & Matic; it’ll surely b very impresive…