For such a small nation, Belgium really do know how to cultivate impressive footballers. You only need to look at players like Eden Hazard, Marouane Fellaini, Thomas Vermaelen, Christian Benteke and many others for evidence of that.
One of the best midfielders that particular nation has to offer is Axel Witsel, a 23-year-old who’s currently plying his trade for Zenit St. Petersburg.
When Witsel was asked if he was hearing any voices (or rumours) relating to his future, beckoning from the transfer window, he responded as follows:
‘The voices of the market? I know nothing. Sure, I love the Premier League and United ever since I was little. Sooner or later I want to play in one of the best clubs in Europe. I’m still young, I’ll see what the future holds.’ (Source: The Metro)
Based on these comments, I’d say that Witsel is on the hunt for a way out of his current club. I can’t say I blame him. Russian football pays well, but it can’t be the most exciting experience. Surely a player of his stature should be playing in one of the world’s top Leagues?
Maybe Manchester United can provide him with that opportunity? He does name check The Red Devils in his comments after all. That strikes me as a pretty major come-and-get-me plea.
Unfortunately for Louis Van Gaal and co., Witsel isn’t going to come cheap. He moved to Russia back in 2012 as part of a £32.5m deal. Zenit are financially solid, so there’s no reason why they’d accept a cut-price deal. Manchester United are going to have to cough up a healthy chunk of cash.
But it could well be worth it. Witsel’s an all-action midfielder: he’s technically gifted, he can pass the ball about neatly and he’s not afraid to get stuck in. In that regard, he’s not too dissimilar to Marouane Fellaini (who is also a Manchester United player), but I’d argue that he’s slightly better.
United’s summer plans are fairly unclear at the moment. Perhaps Axel Witsel can provide them with some direction?
What’s your take? Should Manchester United make a move for this Belgian battler?
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