With limited football over the summer, players who do play well in the few games available to the viewing public end up filling a great deal of column inches. All of sudden they pick up links to clubs who have never shown any interest in them before.
Maybe that’s just the way it is. Maybe it’s just because it’s easier to write a story about footballers who are already in the public eye?
This makes the veracity of these stories a little difficult to judge. Still, it’s hard not to get excited when a top talent gets linked to a Premier League club.
That’s the case with Antonio Candreva, who The Mirror claims has become a target for both Manchester United and Napoli.
The Italian midfielder has picked up 11 caps for his national side and played for big Serie A sides like Juventus, Lazio, Parma and Udinese (his parent club).
He’s also been on a series of loans since 2008, swapping from club-to-club on a yearly basis. The midfielder/winger has enjoyed limited success over the last few years. Whilst he made an impact at Livorno, his chances at Juve were limited. He enjoyed a successful spell at Parma, but it’s since joining Lazio in 2011 (on loan) that he’s truly excelled.
Last season he made 47 appearances for the club and grabbed 7 goals in the process. It’s the season in which he truly announced himself.
He also enjoyed a successful Confederations Cup this summer, scoring his penalty in the shoot-out against Spain in a manner reminiscent of Francesco Totti back in Euro 2000.
Lazio have the option to buy Candreva this summer, but United’s interest could stop them in their tracks. United are thought to be on the hunt for a midfielder and the Italian’s versatility, class and technical ability could make him a prime target.
He’s known for his cautious, deliberate style of play. He’s a play-maker who rarely misplaces the ball, makes smart decisions and can deliver a killer pass. He’s also a great athlete who is capable of getting into goal-scoring positions and finding the back of the net.
Without a price-tag attached to him, it’s hard to say whether United should be interested. As things stand, however, I do hope Moyes makes some enquiries. He could be just what the Red Devils need to secure further success next season.
What’s your take? Should Manchester United scrap it out with Napoli for Antonio Candreva this summer?
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