Manchester United have made a few signings from La Liga in recent years, with the likes of Ander Herrera and Eric Bailly arriving at Old Trafford. And, in recent weeks, another Spanish-based star has been tipped to make the move.
According to AS, United are one of the clubs keeping a close eye on Mohammed Salisu. And that is no surprise given his form for Real Valladolid and his £10.45million release-clause.
But, if United’s alleged interest is real, what could that mean for Bailly?
The Ivorian signed for United in 2016 for £30million (BBC) but, despite an impressive debut campaign and some fine showings since, Bailly has been blighted by injury.
Now 26, Bailly should be approaching his peak at United. However, he already has a challenge breaking up the centre-back pairing of Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof. Then there is the emergence of Luke Shaw in a new role and the presence of Axel Tuanzebe, who will be desperate for a chance of his own.
If United move for Salisu, whose release-clauses could make him the bargain of the summer, Bailly will have to fight tooth-and nail to stay fit and perform at his very best when called upon. The alternative is that the former becomes the United star the latter was tipped to be.
Bailly proved in his masterclass against Chelsea earlier this season that he can still be a success at United. However, if Salisu arrives on the cheap, the Ivory Coast international will need to perform at that level every single week.
With Chris Smalling and Phil Jones likely to have played their last games for United, it will be interesting to see just how many centre-backs Ole Gunnar Solskjaer feels he needs next season and beyond.
Rest assured, if Salisu does arrive, he will be gunning for a starting position from the outset.
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