Manchester United can decide their fate for the next half a decade with a successful transfer window in the summer and one of their targets has been given the ultimate seal of approval.
The goalkeeping situation at Man Utd has deteriorated so quickly that other priorities in the transfer market have taken a backseat.
The reality remains that United need reinforcements in at least four positions next season to be competitive, with attacking midfield one of those.
They’ve been told now that their target for that position is ‘one of the best in every statistic’ in Europe.
Man Utd target is ‘really special’
With the departures of Christian Eriksen, potentially Casemiro, as well as Alejandro Garnacho, United’s attacking ranks in midfield will be thinned.
There is interest in long-term projects like Ian Subiabre or Rodrigo Mora, but neither will step into the first team immediately and make an impact.
That is where United’s links to Olympique Lyonnais’ Rayan Cherki arrive, who was recently reported as somewhat of an Eric Cantona figure, potentially.
United are already well aware of Cherki’s qualities from their Europa League tie against Lyon, and he could well be playing in the club’s colours next season.
Amidst United’s interest in Cherki, his former manager at Lyon, Pierre Sage, has given Cherki a big compliment.
Speaking to The Athletic, Sage said: “We see the player he is now. I’m happy because every player can be at their best for three games, but Rayan is one of the best in every statistic in Europe. He has something really special.”
Rayan Cherki’s style of play screams Manchester United
In the past, Cherki’s attitude and application have been questioned, which is why teams have been reluctant to approach him for his services.
However, this season looks like he’s finally put it all together, and the worst parts of his game have become a strength.
He has a certain swagger and confidence about him that screams Manchester United, a throwback to the kind of free-spirited talisman that has been coached out of the modern game.
If a manager can get the best out of him with smart man-management, he’ll have a player who can just pick up the ball and win matches on his own.
Cherki seems like a player who will relish the spotlight that comes with playing for Man Utd instead of cowering under it.
Everything from his personality to his playing style makes him an ideal fit for the club that has seen the likes of mercurial talents like Ryan Giggs, George Best, and Cristiano Ronaldo flourish, to name a few.
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