One of the biggest developments in world football this season has been the shake-up that’s occurred in La Liga. Both Real Madrid and Barcelona have had their dominance threatened by the emergence of Diego Simeone’s goal-hungry Atletico Madrid and it’s often been wonderful to behold.
Lionel Messi has been slightly less effective than usual. Which is to say that he’s only scored 40 goals (at the point of writing), rather than last season’s 60. Barca’s other mainstays have also been guilty of an occasional lacklustre performance. As a result, there’s been plenty of talk about Barcelona undergoing a major ‘summer overhaul’.
It wouldn’t surprise me if this is the case. Whilst Barcelona can still spend this summer, they may not be able to do so moving forward. They’re staring down the barrel of a 14 month transfer ban from FIFA. They need to get all their business done this summer and it needs to prepare them for a year and a half’s worth of success.
This grants some credence to The Star‘s claim that Manchester United are interested in Barca star Javier Mascherano, who could be a part of the Spanish powerhouse’s summer clear-out.
The former Liverpool star has been a major part of this Barcelona side for the last four years. Since he left Anfield in the summer of 2010, he’s made 182 appearances for Barca. During that time he’s won two La Liga titles, three Copa Del Reys and the Champions League. Not a bad return, eh?
At 29-years-old he’s got bags full of experience and would certainly provide Manchester United with plenty of pedigree.
It strikes me that The Red Devils would benefit from being able to call upon a player of this ilk. Their technical talents, players like Juan Mata and Adnan Junazaj could use additional protection and more time on the ball. Mascherano could provide him with that.
Mascherano is known for his diligent performances, the amount of ground he covers per game, his reading of the game and his ability to put in a tackle. He’s a top quality defensive midfielder who can also double up as a centre-back and that’s why he’d fit in nicely at Old Trafford.
So let’s hope whoever takes the reigns makes it happen!
What’s your take? Should The Red Devils move in for this Barcelona mainstay?
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Much prefer Vidal as he is younger and will also score a few whilst still protecting back 4