This summer, Manchester United have been linked to a lot of Dutch players and a lot of defensive players. The reasons behind this are clear.
Firstly, Louis Van Gaal has just taken charge at Old Trafford. The Dutchman left his role as Holland manager for this new post. Rather predictably, the papers have been linking him to all his former charges.
Secondly, Manchester United have just lost both Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic. In other words, they’re dangerously short of centre-back options. They lack leadership and experience at the back. Going into the new season with this set-up could prove to be a big mistake.
So how about a rumour that ticks both the ‘Dutch’ and the ‘Defender’ boxes? According to The Mirror, Louis Van Gaal is now in the market for Feyenoord star, Stefan de Vrij. De Vrij is a 22-year-old Dutchman, who plays as a centre-back for his club and his international side.
He also happens to have only 12 months left on his Feyenoord contract. As a result, he could be available at a bargain price – around £8m, if The Mirror are to be believed.
Unfortunately, Manchester United won’t have everything their way. The source also suggests that Southampton boss, Ronald Koeman, is a big fan of the Dutch youngster. Given the money that The Saints now have to work with (having sold all their best players), there’s every reason to believe they can go head-to-head with Manchester United.
But Manchester United are able to offer De Vrij something that Southampton can’t: Louis Van Gaal. The two Dutchmen have a history together and this could help De Vrij to arrive at his decision.
I’m sure that the Dutch youngster will also look at the two club’s reputations and potential for winning silverware before he arrives at his decision. In that case, Manchester United should come out on top.
In other words, this deal should be Manchester United’s to lose. Let’s just hope that Van Gaal is ready for a scrap.
What’s your take? Should The Red Devils compete for Stefan De Vriij?
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