Ask Manchester United fans to name a preferred signing at centre-back and Sergio Ramos will be well down the list.
This is because Ramos is now 35, and has missed time in 2021 with an injury, which cost him his place in the Spain squad.
The sensible call for United is to pursue a younger centre-back. Sven Botman and Cristian Romero are two credible alternatives, of many.
Ramos though offers something a little different, and the arguments against him sound a little familiar.
Cavani 2.0?
There were lots of logical arguments against signing Edinson Cavani last summer.
Was the striker just available because he wanted a payday? Were his best years behind him?
Why were PSG letting him leave? And were his injury issues in his last season a sign of things to come?
Cavani has answered all those questions and made the move look an inspired one, even though it is just a short term solution.
Aim for Champions League win
If the move works out and Ramos stays fit, this would be the type of deal which has Champions League winning upside.
Look at Chelsea’s free agent move for Thiago Silva last summer. He has been a class act, improving their defence and giving them an assurance they needed.
Silva was a key part of Chelsea’s Champions League winning run.
This should be what United are aiming for. Can you honestly see United winning the Champions League with Victor Lindelof at centre-back?
Even for one or two seasons, Ramos could make a big impact if he can stay fit. Alongside Harry Maguire the pair could form a top partnership with trophy winning potential.
Ramos has experience of winning four Champions Leagues, along with the World Cup. That is experience which could be invaluable to helping United get over the line and win silverware.
Free agent
Ramos’ fitness issues are understandably concerning as he played just five games for Real Madrid in 2021.
That’s why his omission from Spain’s Euro 2020 squad is a help, as it will allow him to recuperate and get fit for his next challenge.
Ramos is set to become a free agent and after several near-exits from Real, it appears this time he will actually depart. Spanish outlet ABC report Real have already prepared a farewell event for June 30 to say goodbye.
It is unclear what Ramos’ next move will be. But United are always mentioned, with The Sun this past week claiming the club are ‘on alert’ over a move. Take it with a pinch of salt, but there is certainly a case for a move.
Invest money in defensive midfield
A free agent move for Sergio Ramos would allow United to invest money elsewhere in the squad. At present Jadon Sancho seems the top priority, and then the rest of the money will have to be divided.
A move for a centre-back would place a defensive midfielder acquisition in doubt, when this may actually be a bigger need.
Sign Ramos as a free agent, and United could have money left to sign a defensive midfielder. Marcelo Brozovic or Joao Palhinha might both be sensible names to consider, with Declan Rice too expensive.
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