Links between Manchester United and Sergio Ramos seem right out of the ‘he’s about to sign a new contract’ playbook.

The Mirror claimed at the end of last month that Ramos is keen to leave Real Madrid and join United this summer, with his deal at Real Madrid running down.

Journalist Fabrizio Romano suggested there was nothing in the speculation last week, saying there has been no contact from United’s end.

If Ramos did make the unlikely headline-grabbing move to Manchester United, then Eric Bailly would probably be a happy man.

This would be despite the fact Ramos could spell trouble for his own chances of a first team spot.

Real Sociedad v Manchester United - UEFA Europa League Round Of 32 Leg One
(Photo by Jonathan Moscrop/Getty Images)

Speaking to Guillem Balague’s Pure Football Podcast, Bailly said he regards Sergio Ramos as his idol and one of the greatest players of all time.

He said: “I’ve admired him for a long time, because of what he does in football and how he keeps going at a high level.

“For me, he’s one of the best players in the history of football. Everyone has an opinion, but he is one of the best, the perfect reference point for me. 

“If you ask me Messi or Ronaldo, I’d say Ramos.”

 

Even with the added competition, Bailly’s words would suggest he would love to spend at least one season around Ramos to learn from him first hand.

It’s probably a moot point because the Ramos rumours sound overly speculative.

Bailly’s does serve to highlight what an esteemed player Ramos is, to have his fellow professionals talk about him in this way. The Spaniard has won the Champions League four times.

Eibar v Real Madrid - La Liga Santander
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Bailly is a player who loves the art of defending. Ramos is a player after his own heart, who puts his body on the line. So his comments are perhaps unsurprising.

Of course you can make a case that United don’t need Ramos, who turns 35 next month. A fully fit Eric Bailly who can play every game of the season would probably fix United’s defence, if he could manage it.

Last night was his 98th ever appearance for United. He’s finally closing in on 100. But for context, Harry Maguire is up to 92 already. Bailly’s durability hasn’t been there and it would be great if he could find a way to change that.

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